ELECTION OF CP RADHAKRISHNAN AS VICE-PRESIDENT
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Maharashtra Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan has been elected as the 17th Vice-President of India in the 2025 elections.
How the Vice-President is Elected
- Nominated by MPs through signed proposals and seconders.
- Elected by all MPs of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha together.
- Presiding officer: Rajya Sabha Secretary-General acts as Returning Officer.
- Term: 5 years, eligible for re-election.
Key Highlights of the Election
Result:
- Radhakrishnan (NDA nominee) – 452 first-preference votes.
- Justice Reddy (Opposition candidate) – 300 votes.
- 15 votes invalid, 14 MPs abstained.
Electoral College Strength:
- Originally 788 (both Houses of Parliament).
- Reduced to 781 due to vacancies.
- 767 MPs cast their votes (turnout 98.2%).
Cross-voting:
- NDA gained more votes than expected, suggesting some Opposition MPs voted for NDA.
- Ruling side claims support from nearly 40 Opposition MPs.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS FOR VICE-PRESIDENT ELECTION
- Article 63: There shall be a Vice-President of India.
- Article 66: Election of Vice-President.
- Electoral College:
- Comprises members of both Houses of Parliament (Lok Sabha + Rajya Sabha).
- Unlike the President’s election, State Legislative Assemblies do not participate.
- Voting System:Conducted by proportional representation using a single transferable vote system and secret ballot.
Conclusion
The 2025 Vice-Presidential election reflects both political equations and ideological battles in Parliament. The post is crucial as the Vice-President is also the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, ensuring balance in parliamentary debates.
ROLE OF GOVERNORS IN STATE GOVERNANCE
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court, while hearing a Presidential Reference, observed that Governors must act as “true guides and philosophers” to States, ensuring cooperation instead of confrontation.
Background of the Issue
- Several State governments complained that their Governors were holding Bills for months or even years without action.
- Kerala highlighted that eight of its Bills were pending with the Governor for 7–23 months.
- The Court is examining if a clear time frame (e.g., three months) can be imposed on Governors and the President for deciding on Bills under Articles 200 and 201.
Governor as Friend, Philosopher, and Guide
- Originally conceived as a neutral link between the Union and the State.
- Expected to act above politics and ensure constitutional functioning.
- The Supreme Court has repeatedly emphasized the need for Governors to act in harmony with elected governments.
Key Judicial Observations
- Shamsher Singh v. State of Punjab (1974) – Governor must act on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in situations where discretion is permitted.
- Nabam Rebia v. Deputy Speaker (2016) – Governor cannot interfere in legislative functioning; his discretion is limited.
- Rameshwar Prasad v. Union of India (2006) – Governor’s discretionary powers are subject to judicial review if misused.
Situations Where Governor Can Act Independently (Discretionary Powers)
- Without aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, Governor can act in limited situations:
- Reserving a Bill for President’s consideration (Article 200).
- Appointment of a Chief Minister when no party has a clear majority.
- Dismissal of a government if it loses majority and refuses to resign.
- Sending a report to the President under Article 356 (President’s Rule).
- Decisions related to special responsibilities in some States (e.g., Sixth Schedule areas).
TIMELINE FOR BILLS
The Supreme Court’s April 8, 2025, landmark judgment clarified constitutional limits on Governors, prescribing timelines for acting on state legislation.
- Following this, the President invoked Article 143 in May, referring vital questions back to a five-judge Constitution Bench, which began hearing them in August 2025
State of Tamil Nadu v. Governor of Tamil Nadu (8 April 2025)
- Governors were found to be unlawfully delaying assent to Bills passed by the legislature, highlighted by a 17-month pendency of a university law Bill.
- The Court held Governors cannot exercise absolute or pocket vetoes, and must act within a “constitutionally reasonable period”.
- Timelines prescribed:
- Within 1 month: When acting on advice — assent, withhold, or reserve.
- Within 3 months: When acting contrary to advice—for withhold or reserve actions.
- Within 1 month: Once a Bill is re-passed after reconsideration—assent must be granted.
Role of Governors in a Parliamentary Democracy
- Must ensure smooth functioning of State governments.
- Should not be seen as adversaries to the elected legislature.
- Their role is to safeguard the Constitution, not to act as political rivals.
- Need for cooperative federalism and respect for people’s mandate.
Broader Significance of the Case
- The Reference Bench under Article 143 (Presidential Reference power) allows the Supreme Court to clarify constitutional ambiguities.
- The issue reflects the friction between Union-appointed Governors and opposition-ruled State governments.
- Any clarity on timelines for Bill assent will strengthen the democratic process and reduce constitutional deadlocks.
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS RELATED TO GOVERNORS
- Article 153 – Every State shall have a Governor.
- Article 154 – Executive power of the State is vested in the Governor.
- Article 163 – Governor acts on the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers, except in matters requiring discretion.
- Article 174 – Governor can summon, prorogue, and dissolve the State Legislature.
- Article 200 – Governor’s options regarding State Bills:
- Assent to the Bill.
- Withhold assent.
- Return for reconsideration (except money Bills).
- Reserve the Bill for President’s consideration.
- Article 201 – When a Bill is reserved, the President may assent, withhold assent, or direct reconsideration.
Conclusion
The Governor’s office was envisioned as a bridge between the Union and the State, not as a hurdle in law-making.
THE LONG MARCH TO TECHNOLOGICAL INDEPENDENCE
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
On India’s 79th Independence Day (August 15, 2025), experts highlighted that true freedom today requires technological sovereignty, not just political independence.
Technology as the New Arena of Power
- Modern conflicts are fought in cyberspace with drones and software, not just traditional weapons.
- Critical services like banks, trains, and power grids rely on digital platforms controlled largely by a few global corporations.
- Dependence on foreign cloud or AI services creates the risk of disruption if services are withdrawn due to political or commercial reasons.
Building Software Sovereignty
- Current Gap: India lacks its own operating system, database, or foundational software.
- Solution Path:
- Use open-source models to develop secure Indian versions of Linux, Android, and other critical software.
- Create both client-side applications (email, calendar, database) and server-side systems (web server, cloud server).
- Focus on long-term maintenance and updates, not just initial development.
- Challenge: Requires a large user base, dedicated IT professionals, and a sustainable business model beyond government aid.
Hardware Sovereignty – A Bigger Challenge
- Semiconductor Fabs: Building high-tech chip manufacturing requires huge investments and long-term patience.
- Practical Step: Prioritise chip design and assembly expertise. Use partnerships for fabrication while gradually building local capacity.
- Strategic investment is necessary to reduce dependence on global supply chains.
Role of Open-Source Movement
- Open-source software like Linux, Android, Hadoop forms the backbone of global digital systems.
- However, control lies with large corporations managing data and cloud services.
- India needs a social movement for digital autonomy, where engineers, academia, and industry collaborate to build secure systems.
Mission for Technological Independence
- Establish a national mission for development and support, not just research.
- Core requirements: Teams of skilled engineers, strong project management, and self-sustaining financial models.
- Government should play a facilitating role but avoid total dependence on state funding.
- A shift in mindset is happening — individuals and businesses now realise the risks of foreign dependence, making this mission more feasible.
Conclusion
India’s next stage of independence lies in technological sovereignty. With talent, open-source resources, and collective will, India can reduce external dependence and build secure digital infrastructure for the future.
CHINA’S GRIP ON RARE EARTHS
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
China has issued interim rules to tighten control over rare earth minerals mining, refining, and exports amid U.S.-China trade tensions about reliance on its supply.
What are Rare Earth Elements (REEs)?
- Group of 17 metals important for modern industries.
- Light Rare Earths (LREEs): lanthanum, cerium, neodymium, praseodymium, samarium, europium.
- Heavy Rare Earths (HREEs): gadolinium, terbium, dysprosium, holmium, erbium, thulium, ytterbium, lutetium, yttrium, scandium.
Uses:
- Clean energy (EVs, wind turbines).
- Defence systems (radars, missiles).
- High-tech devices (smartphones, hard drives, optical glass, displays).
China’s Dominance in Rare Earths
- Reserves: Holds ~49% of global deposits (Chart 1).
- Production: Accounts for ~66% of world mining in the last five years (Chart 2).
- Refining: Controls ~92% of global refining capacity.
- Exports: Supplied nearly 30% of global exports between 2020–24 (Chart 3).
- Research: Leads in publications, with ~30% of global rare-earth research papers, while India contributes ~6%.
China’s Recent Moves
- April 2025: Imposed export restrictions on seven REEs, including those used in NdFeB magnets vital for green tech.
- These elements are also crucial for ceramics, phosphors, steel, aerospace and optical glass
- Past measures: Ban on export of extraction and separation technologies (2023). Quotas for production and trade approvals.
- These steps strengthen China’s monopoly across the value chain.
Impact on Global Trade
- Major importers of China’s rare earths: Japan (~28% of China’s exports). U.S. (~25%). Netherlands (~12%). (Chart 5)
- India: Imports over 75% of its REEs from China since 2021, showing heavy dependence.
- Export restrictions threaten clean energy supply chains and defence preparedness of other nations.
Strategic Implications
- China’s control gives it economic and geopolitical leverage.
- The U.S., India, and others are now exploring alternative suppliers like Australia, Brazil, and Vietnam.
- Global agencies stress the need for investment in exploration, refining, and recycling technologies to reduce dependency.
Conclusion
China’s monopoly over rare earths rests not just on reserves but also on research strength, refining capacity, and state investment. For countries like India, reducing dependence on China is vital to ensure energy security, defence preparedness, and technological resilience.
INDIA’S DIAMOND AND JEWELLERY EXPORTERS SHIFT FOCUS TO WEST ASIA
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
Indian diamond and jewellery exporters, facing U.S. tariffs, are turning towards West Asia to reduce dependence on traditional markets.
Background of the Issue
- The U.S. has traditionally been India’s largest jewellery export market (about 30% share).
- Recent tariffs imposed by the U.S. have disrupted exports, creating uncertainty for Indian traders.
- To counter this, exporters are exploring Saudi Arabia, UAE, Lebanon, and other Gulf nations.
Significance of Saudi Market
- Jewellery market in Saudi Arabia valued at $4.56 billion in 2024, expected to grow to $8.34 billion by 2030.
- Young and high-spending consumers. Demand for a mix of modern and traditional designs. Business-friendly policies under new leadership.
- India already holds global dominance – 14 out of 15 diamonds polished worldwide are cut in India.
Challenges in Entering Saudi Market
- Jewellery designed for U.S. markets may not suit Saudi design preferences.
- Existing competitors already supply to Gulf customers.
- Building brand identity and local partnerships will take time.
Impact on U.S. and Global Trade
- Diversification Strategy: By expanding into Saudi and Gulf markets, India reduces over-reliance on the U.S., cushioning against tariff shocks.
- Pressure on the U.S.: If India successfully builds new trade ties, it may reduce U.S. bargaining power and push it to reconsider tariffs.
- Shift in Global Trade Flows: West Asia could emerge as a jewellery hub, reducing the dominance of Western markets.
Conclusion
The pivot towards West Asia through SAJEX reflects India’s attempt to safeguard its jewellery exports from U.S. tariff pressures. While challenges remain in adapting to new markets, long-term gains could strengthen India’s role as a global jewellery hub and reduce vulnerability to policy shifts in the West.
KERALA’S APPROACH TO RAPID URBANISATION
TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
Kerala became the first State in India to form a State-level Urban Policy Commission (KUPC) to prepare a 25-year roadmap for urbanisation.
Why KUPC Was Needed
- Kerala’s urbanisation is advancing faster than the national average; projections show over 80% urban population by 2050.
- The State faces high climate risks — floods, landslides, sea-level rise, and coastal erosion.
- By 2023, the gap between rapid urban growth and limited governance/planning became evident.
- In December 2023, Kerala set up KUPC as India’s first State-level urban commission — breaking away from centralised, project-based models
Key Recommendations of the KUPC
- Climate-aware Zoning: Urban planning must integrate hazard maps for floods, landslides, and coastal risks. Promotes preventive and proactive planning instead of reactive responses.
- Digital Data Observatory: Establish a real-time data hub at Kerala Institute of Local Administration. Uses satellite, weather, LIDAR, and tide-level data to help municipalities make informed decisions.
- Green Finance Tools: Introduce green fees for projects in fragile zones to fund resilience. Adopt climate insurance models for quick payouts in disaster-prone regions.
- Urban Financin: Large cities (Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi, Kozhikode) may issue municipal bonds. Smaller towns could use pooled bonds to attract investment.
- Governance Overhaul: Replace bureaucratic delays with city cabinets led by mayors. Create specialist municipal cells (climate, waste, mobility, law).
What Makes the Report Unique
- Citizen-driven data system: Local stories and community knowledge were integrated into planning.
- Example: Fisherfolk’s accounts of coastal recession and vendors’ transport struggles fed into LIDAR maps, dashboards, and city reports.
- Policies were co-created with citizens, making urban governance adaptive and inclusive.
Way Forward for India’s Urbanisation
- Decentralised Planning: States should tailor urban strategies to local geography, culture, and climate rather than copy centralised models.
- Climate-Resilient Cities: Urban master plans must integrate hazard mapping, water conservation, and green infrastructure.
- Smart Financing: Municipal bonds, pooled financing, and green levies can make urban bodies financially sustainable.
- Technology Integration: Use AI, GIS, satellite, and real-time data for efficient service delivery and disaster preparedness.
Conclusion:
Kerala’s model shows that urbanisation must blend data, climate sensitivity, and citizen participation. For India, replicating such inclusive and proactive governance is key to making cities sustainable, resilient, and equitable.
AVALANCHE IN SIACHEN GLACIER
TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU
Three Indian Army personnel, including two Agniveers, lost their lives after an avalanche struck a base camp in the Siachen sector of Ladakh.
About Siachen Glacier
- Located in the eastern Karakoram range of the Himalayas.
- Known as the world’s highest battlefield, with troop deployment at altitudes up to 20,000 feet.
- India controls the Saltoro Ridge (west of the glacier), giving it strategic dominance over Pakistan and China.
- Extreme weather: temperatures drop to –50°C; oxygen levels are very low.
- Soldiers face frostbite, pulmonary issues, and constant avalanche threats.
Avalanches
- An avalanche is a sudden flow of snow, ice, and debris down a slope.
- Causes include: heavy snowfall, steep slopes, vibrations (earthquakes, blasts), and climate change impacts.
- In high-altitude regions, avalanches pose major risks to both civilians and the armed forces.
Avalanche Vulnerability in India
- Himalayan Belt: States like Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are highly prone.
- North-East: Parts of Arunachal Pradesh also face risks.
- Siachen Sector: One of the most vulnerable zones, with repeated incidents claiming lives of soldiers.
- NIDM (National Institute of Disaster Management) identifies avalanche-prone areas and works on early warning systems.
- NDMA (National Disaster Management Authority) issues guidelines on avalanche preparedness and mitigation.
Conclusion
Siachen symbolizes both strategic importance and human sacrifice. The recent tragedy underlines the urgent need for advanced avalanche prediction, improved rescue technologies, and stronger safety protocols for troops serving in extreme conditions.
NILGIRI TEA
TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: THE HINDU
Nilgiri tea farmers are facing a price crisis for green tea leaves, which has become a persistent problem for small growers in the region.
About Nilgiri Tea
- Nilgiri Tea is known for being aromatic, fragrant, and delicately flavored.
- It is cultivated in the Nilgiris (Blue Mountains), mainly in Tamil Nadu, with small cultivation areas in Kerala and Karnataka.
- The tea is valued for its floral and citrus notes, making it popular for iced teas and blends.
- It received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2008.
Climatic Conditions Needed
- Altitude: Cultivated at 1,000–2,500 m above sea level.
- Rainfall: Requires 150–230 cm annually.
- Soil: Best suited for well-drained laterite soil.
- Grown throughout the year, as Nilgiris experience two monsoons annually.
Issues Faced
- Falling Prices: Green tea leaves (raw material) are facing a prolonged price decline, hitting small growers hardest.
- Export Dependence: Heavy reliance on the Russian market makes it vulnerable to trade disruptions.
- Quality Concerns: Problems of poor quality control and adulteration reduce competitiveness.
- Domestic Neglect: Weak branding and lack of attention to the local market.
Conclusion
Nilgiri tea, a GI-tagged product with global recognition, needs better price support, marketing strategies, and quality improvements to protect small farmers and sustain its reputation.