GROUNDWATER CONTAMINATION AND ITS IMPACT ON PUBLIC HEALTH IN INDIA
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The 2024 Annual Groundwater Quality Report by the Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) has revealed alarming levels of contamination — including fluoride, arsenic, nitrates, and heavy metals — in India’s groundwater, posing a severe public health crisis.
Background
- Groundwater provides over 85% of rural drinking water and 65% of irrigation in India.
- Once considered safe, groundwater is now being polluted by industrial waste, excessive fertilizer use, and sewage leaks.
Key Contaminants and Health Impacts
Fluoride
- Found in 230 districts across 20 states.
- Causes skeletal and dental fluorosis, especially in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Telangana.
- High levels recorded in Sonebhadra (UP) and Shivpuri (MP).
Arsenic
- Concentrated in the Gangetic belt — Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Assam.
- Leads to cancers, skin diseases, and organ failure.
- In Ballia (UP), arsenic reached 200 µg/L, 20 times WHO’s limit.
Nitrates
- Caused by fertilizer overuse and leaking septic tanks.
- Dangerous for infants — can cause “blue baby syndrome”.
- 56% of districts have unsafe nitrate levels.
Uranium
- Found increasingly due to over-extraction and fertilizers.
- Affects kidney and organ health, especially in Punjab’s Malwa region.
Heavy Metals (Lead, Cadmium, Mercury)
- Enter groundwater through industrial discharge.
- Lead to developmental delays, anemia, and nerve damage, especially in industrial towns like Kanpur and Vapi.
Why the Crisis Persists
- Weak regulation: The Water Act, 1974 barely covers groundwater.
- Lack of authority: CGWB has no legal enforcement powers.
- Underfunded state bodies: State Pollution Control Boards lack resources and staff.
- No real-time monitoring: Data is scattered and not publicly available.
- Over-extraction: Low water tables concentrate toxins.
Notable Incidents
- Baghpat (UP): 13 deaths linked to industrial waste in borewells.
- Jalaun (UP): Petrol-like fluids from hand pumps.
- Bhubaneswar: Over 500 fell ill due to sewage-contaminated groundwater.
Way Forward
- Create a National Groundwater Pollution Framework.
- Install modern monitoring tools for real-time alerts.
- Enforce legal penalties for polluters.
- Remediate toxic zones and provide safe drinking alternatives.
- Promote citizen awareness and local water governance.
Conclusion
India’s groundwater problem is no longer just about shortage — it’s about safety. The contamination crisis is invisible but deadly. Without swift action, the damage may soon become irreversible, costing lives, health, and future generations.
IS THE INDIAN ECONOMY PERFECTLY BALANCED?
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
Recently, the Finance Ministry declared India to be in a “Goldilocks” phase marked by steady growth, controlled inflation, and stable monetary conditions. However, deeper economic indicators reveal that this ideal scenario might not reflect the ground reality for most Indians.
What is a “Goldilocks” Economy?
- A situation where the economy is “just right” not too hot (high inflation) or too cold (low growth).
- Ideally features moderate inflation, steady GDP growth, and favourable policy support.
Contradictions in the Goldilocks Narrative
Food Inflation vs General Inflation
- While CPI fell from 4.8% (May 2024) to 2.82% (May 2025), food inflation remained much higher.
- In Oct 2024, food inflation hit 10.87%, even as general inflation was 6.21%.
- Food forms nearly 50% of spending for poor households. Volatile food prices hurt savings and diet quality.
Stagnant Real Wages
- Nominal salary hikes seem decent (e.g. 9.2% in 2023), but real wage growth was only 2.5% due to inflation.
- In 2020, real wage growth was negative (-0.4%).
- This erodes purchasing power, reduces discretionary spending, and increases debt.
Rising Income Inequality
- The Gini coefficient (measuring income inequality) fell from 0.489 (AY13) to 0.402 (AY23) but only reflects formal sector incomes.
- Most low-income, informal workers are not captured in this data.
- K-shaped recovery: High earners thrive post-COVID; lower earners struggle with stagnant incomes.
Government’s Fiscal Position
High Fiscal and Revenue Deficits
- Fiscal deficit expected to drop from 6.4% (2022-23) to 4.4% (2025-26).
- Yet, public debt is 81% of GDP — well above the FRBM Act’s 60% target.
- High borrowing may reduce funds for private sector and increase future taxes.
Limited Room for Welfare Spending
- A large share of revenue is spent on interest payments.
- Less funding is available for health, education, and infrastructure — affecting long-term growth.
Conclusion:
The “Goldilocks” term may suit macro indicators, but not the lived experiences of most citizens. The real economy struggles with price shocks, low wage growth, and income gaps.
SUPREME COURT VERDICT ON ENVIRONMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT (EIA)
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court of India has ruled that projects with a built-up area over 20,000 sq. meters cannot be exempt from the EIA 2006 rules. The judgment reinforces the authority of State EIA bodies in granting environmental clearances.
What is Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)?
- EIA is a process used to predict the impact of proposed projects on the environment before they begin.
- It looks at both positive and negative effects and suggests ways to reduce harm.
- EIA aims to ensure sustainable development by integrating environmental concerns into decision-making.
Background: EIA in India
Initial Framework (1994)
- Made Environmental Clearance (EC) compulsory under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
- Required several types of projects (like power plants, industries) to get approval based on environmental checks.
EIA Notification, 2006
- It is the current legal framework guiding environmental clearance.
- Divided projects into categories (A & B) based on their size and impact.
- Category A: Cleared by Central Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC).
- Category B: Cleared by State SEIAA and SEAC.
Supreme Court Verdict Highlights
- All projects above 20,000 sq. meters, including educational and industrial, must undergo environmental review under EIA 2006.
- State-level bodies (SEIAA and SEAC) remain responsible for examining and clearing such projects.
- The verdict prevents misuse of exemptions and ensures that large-scale projects do not bypass environmental checks.
Issues with EIA 2006
- Too many amendments: Over 110 changes in just 5 years, mostly without public consultation.
- Many changes allowed easier clearances for polluting industries.
- The flexibility of the law is often exploited to weaken environmental protection.
Suggestions for Reform
- Create an independent EIA authority to ensure transparency and avoid conflict of interest.
- Improve public participation, especially by involving communities in local languages.
- Make baseline environmental data more scientific and publicly accessible.
- Update the exemption list regularly to reflect ecological priorities.
Conclusion
This judgment strengthens India’s environmental governance by reasserting the role of EIA and ensuring that large projects cannot avoid scrutiny. It is a key step toward balancing development with ecological sustainability.
80 YEARS OF HIROSHIMA
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
August 6, 2025, marked 80 years since the U.S. dropped the world’s first atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. The event triggered the nuclear age and still reminds the world of the dangers of nuclear weapons.
The Hiroshima Bombing
- On August 6, 1945, the U.S. dropped the bomb “Little Boy” on Hiroshima during World War II.
- It killed over 140,000 people and devastated the city.
- Three days later, another bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, prompting Japan’s surrender and ending the war.
Aftermath: Rise of the Nuclear Age
Beginning of Arms Race
- In 1949, the Soviet Union tested its first nuclear weapon, starting the Cold War arms race.
- Countries began developing more powerful weapons like hydrogen bombs and ICBMs (Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles).
- The idea of Mutual Assured Destruction (MAD) was accepted—if one country used nukes, both sides would be destroyed.
Formation of the IAEA (1957)
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was created to promote peaceful nuclear energy and stop misuse.
Cuban Missile Crisis (1962)
- A near-nuclear war between the U.S. and USSR proved how close the world could come to disaster.
More Nuclear Nations
- New members of the “nuclear club” include: UK (1952), France (1960), China (1964) , India (1974), Pakistan (1998), North Korea (2006)
- India’s stand: No First Use (NFU) policy and credible minimum deterrence. India refuses to sign NPT, calling it unfair.
MAJOR TREATIES ON NUCLEAR DISARMAMENT
- NPT (1968) – Aims to stop the spread of nuclear weapons. Criticized as unfair to non-nuclear countries.
- CTBT (1996) – Bans all nuclear testing. Not in effect as key countries like India, U.S., China haven’t ratified it.
- TPNW (2017) – Completely bans nuclear weapons. Not signed by nuclear powers.
- START & New START – U.S.-Russia treaties to reduce deployed nukes. New START ends in 2026, with future uncertain.
Why Disarmament Still Matters Today
- Countries are upgrading nukes, not reducing them.
- Terrorist threats raise fears of nuclear weapons falling into the wrong hands.
- Nuclear war can cause climate disasters like nuclear winter.
- Global norms weakening as talks on disarmament stall and rivalry increases.
RESERVE BANK OF INDIA (RBI) - MONETARY POLICY REVIEW
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to pause further interest rate cuts during its recent monetary policy review. This move comes amid ongoing global trade uncertainties, including new tariffs by the U.S. on Indian imports.
Background:
- Since February 2025, the RBI has cut the repo rate by 100 basis points (bps).
- However, in the latest Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meeting, RBI chose to pause and observe the impact of those cuts.
Reasons for the Pause:
Uncertainty in Global Trade:
- U.S. President Trump announced an additional 25% tariff on Indian imports.
- India is still negotiating a bilateral trade deal with the U.S.
- Future tariffs may be imposed due to India’s oil purchases from Russia, affecting India’s global trade position.
Room for Future Action:
- RBI wants to wait for more clarity before taking further monetary action.
- This pause gives time to assess how previous rate cuts are working in the economy.
WHAT IS MONETARY POLICY?
Monetary policy is the process by which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) controls the money supply and interest rates. Its main aim is to control inflation, ensure economic growth, and maintain financial stability.
- The RBI uses tools like the repo rate, reverse repo rate, CRR, SLR, etc., to manage this.
Key Terms:
- Repo Rate – Rate at which RBI lends money to banks.
- Reverse Repo Rate – Rate at which RBI borrows money from banks.
- CRR (Cash Reserve Ratio) – Portion of banks’ money kept with RBI.
- SLR (Statutory Liquidity Ratio) – Minimum amount banks must invest in government securities.
When Does RBI Increase Rates?
RBI increases repo rate when:
- Inflation is high (prices are rising fast).
- RBI wants to reduce money flow in the economy.
- It wants to control excessive spending.
Impact of Rate Hike:
- Loans become costlier (higher EMIs).
- People and businesses spend less.
- Inflation may reduce.
- Economic growth slows down.
When Does RBI Decrease Rates?
RBI cuts repo rate when:
- Inflation is low or under control.
- Economy needs a push or recovery.
- It wants to encourage borrowing and investment.
Impact of Rate Cut:
- Loans become cheaper.
- People and businesses borrow and spend more.
- Helps in boosting economic activity.
- May increase inflation if overdone.
Is Monetary Policy Working?
Liquidity is Not a Problem: RBI confirmed that there is sufficient liquidity with banks for lending.
Borrowing is Slowing Down:
- Consumer loans (e.g., for durables) fell 3%.
- Home loan growth dropped to 9.6% from 36% last year.
- Vehicle loans also saw a significant slowdown.
- Corporate loans grew by only 5.5%, down from 8.1% a year ago.
Role of the Government:
- RBI Governor stressed the need for stronger policies beyond monetary steps.
- Suggested fiscal actions: GST rationalisation – long overdue. Lower fuel prices – would boost public spending and confidence.
Conclusion:
The RBI is wisely waiting to see the effects of earlier rate cuts.
However, the government must act fast with targeted fiscal policies to revive demand and maintain economic momentum.
SC VERDICT ON IN-HOUSE INQUIRY AGAINST HIGH COURT JUDGE
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court has upheld the legality of the in-house inquiry procedure used to recommend removal of Justice Yashwant Varma of the Allahabad High Court, after burnt currency was found at his residence post a fire. It ruled that such procedures are constitutionally valid and do not interfere with Parliament’s powers.
Background:
- Justice Yashwant Varma of Allahabad High Court faced an internal inquiry after burnt currency sacks were discovered at his house following a fire.
- The in-house inquiry report, initiated by then Chief Justice of India Sanjiv Khanna, recommended his removal.
- Justice Varma challenged this in the Supreme Court, arguing that such a procedure was “extra-constitutional” and violated Parliament’s exclusive role in removing judges.
Key Points from Supreme Court Judgment:
Legal Validity of In-House Procedure:
- The Court ruled that the in-house procedure has legal backing from earlier SC judgments.
- It is considered “law of the land” under Article 141 of the Constitution (SC judgments are binding).
Parliament’s Power Intact:
- SC clarified that the in-house inquiry does not override Parliament’s authority to remove a judge.
- Even if the report suggests removal, MPs can choose to accept or reject it during impeachment proceedings.
Purpose of In-House Mechanism:
- The procedure acts as a “stitch in time” to uphold the integrity of the judiciary.
- It allows internal checks before triggering formal removal through Parliament.
ABOUT SPECIAL LEAVE PETITION (SLP)
- SLP (Article 136) allows a person to appeal to the Supreme Court against any judgment of a lower court or tribunal.
- It is not a matter of right, but a discretionary power of the SC.
- SC can refuse to entertain the petition without giving any reason.
- Often used in cases involving grave injustice or constitutional matters.
WHAT IS A REVIEW PETITION?
- A Review Petition (Article 137) is filed to request the Supreme Court to review its own judgment.
- Can be filed only when there’s an apparent error or new evidence.
- Heard by the same Bench that passed the original judgment.
- It is not a re-hearing but a limited review of the decision.
Conclusion:
This judgment strengthens the accountability of judges while maintaining Parliament’s authority in judicial removal. The in-house procedure ensures that serious allegations are promptly examined, upholding judicial integrity and public trust.
FIRST-EVER AUCTION FOR GREEN AMMONIA PROCUREMENT UNDER THE NATIONAL GREEN HYDROGEN MISSION
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has conducted the first-ever auction for purchasing Green Ammonia under the National Green Hydrogen Mission. This auction took place via the SIGHT Scheme (Mode-2A) to promote cleaner alternatives in the energy and fertilizer sectors.
What is Hydrogen?
- Hydrogen is the lightest and most common element but doesn’t naturally exist in pure form. It must be extracted from other substances.
Types of Hydrogen:
- Grey Hydrogen: Produced using fossil fuels (like coal or natural gas). High carbon emissions.
- Blue Hydrogen: Similar to grey hydrogen but with carbon capture technology to reduce pollution.
- Green Hydrogen: Made by splitting water (electrolysis) using renewable electricity (solar, wind, etc.). Almost zero carbon footprint.
National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM)
- Launched: January 2023
- Budget: ₹19,744 crore (till FY 2029-30)
- Aim: To make India self-reliant in clean energy and become a global leader in green hydrogen production.
Key Components of the Mission
- SIGHT Programme: Provides financial support for setting up electrolyser manufacturing and green hydrogen production units.
- Pilot Projects: Tests use of hydrogen in new sectors and identifies areas for green hydrogen hubs.
- R&D (SHIP): Encourages innovation through public-private partnerships.
- Skill Development: Plans to train manpower for jobs across the green hydrogen ecosystem.
Why Green Ammonia?
- Ammonia is widely used in fertilizers.
- Green ammonia is produced using green hydrogen, helping decarbonize the agriculture and industrial sectors.
Benefits of the Mission
- Cuts Carbon Emissions: Reduces CO₂ in power, transport, and industry.
- Energy Independence: Lowers import of fossil fuels.
- Export Potential: Opens avenues for exporting green hydrogen and derivatives.
- Domestic Manufacturing: Boosts local industry in clean energy tech.
- Job Creation: Expected to create over 6 lakh jobs.
- Technological Growth: Promotes innovation and advanced technology development.
Conclusion
India’s first green ammonia auction marks a big step toward a carbon-neutral future. Through initiatives like the National Green Hydrogen Mission, India is set to transform its energy landscape while leading the world in clean fuel innovation.
ISSUE OF SALARY DISPARITY AND LAYOFFS IN INDIA’S IT SECTOR
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
TCS recently announced the layoff of 12,000 employees, sparking a debate over the huge salary gap between top executives and average workers. This has led to calls by employee groups and the AIPC for policy-level interventions, including a possible ceiling on executive pay.
Background:
- TCS is one of India’s largest employers.
- Despite being profitable, it announced large-scale layoffs of senior employees.
- This came at a time when AI and automation are reshaping the job market, especially in tech.
Salary Disparity in Focus:
- CEOs in Indian IT firms earn 300 to 850 times more than the average employee. Example: CEO of Infosys earns 850x the median employee. In the 1960s–70s, the ratio was 40–50x.
- AIPC and employee unions are now pushing for a policy to cap the executive-to-employee pay ratio, especially in publicly listed companies.
Automation, AI & Job Loss:
- AI is not replacing blue-collar jobs, but is automating high-end skills (e.g., data analysts, even CEOs).
- The concept of “skill enhancement” is being questioned, as many high-skilled roles are being replaced by AI.
- There’s a shift in understanding which jobs are truly essential and future-proof.
Policy Suggestions Discussed:
- Introduce a pay ratio cap (e.g., 50x median salary) in listed companies.
- Learn from sports leagues (like IPL, NFL) that already use salary caps effectively.
- Explore ideas like “robot tax” to fund basic welfare or retraining for laid-off workers.
- Encourage collective bargaining and unionisation in the IT sector.
- Focus on self-employment support for displaced tech workers, as they can’t be absorbed into agriculture or manual work schemes like MGNREGA.
Government Role:
- Labour is a State Subject, but the Centre can push policy models.
- Telangana and Karnataka CMs are being approached, especially due to their large IT workforce.
- Discussions ongoing with SEBI and the IT Ministry to bring wage equity policies in tech.
Conclusion:
While layoffs may be inevitable in changing industries, fairness and equity in pay structures must be addressed. A balanced policy approach — not extreme regulation, but reasonable limits — can help protect workers without harming innovation or competitiveness