REMOVING CASTE-BASED PLACE NAMES IN TAMIL NADU
TOPIC: (GS1) INDIAN SOCIETY: THE HINDU
On April 29, 2025, the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister announced that village names ending with “colony” or containing derogatory caste references (e.g., Pallappatti, Paraiyappatti, Naavidhan Kulam, Sakkilippatti) will be removed from State records. The move aims to eliminate caste-based stigma linked to place names in rural areas.
Background of the Issue
- In rural Tamil Nadu, words like colony and chery have historically been linked to Dalit settlements, carrying a social stigma and reinforcing untouchability.
- Segregation of lower castes into separate habitations emerged around the 12th century CE and continued through various political regimes.
- Over time, terms like Cheri Street, Harijan Colony, and Adi Dravidar Colony became derogatory identifiers.
Historical Context of the Words
- Ancient Usage of ‘Chery’: In early Tamil literature (e.g., Tolkappiyam, Kurunthokai), chery meant a common settlement with no caste connotation.
- By the medieval period, theendachery (“untouchable settlement”) emerged, reflecting caste segregation.
- Evolution of ‘Colony’: Originally referred to elite European residential areas during colonial times.
- In rural Tamil Nadu, the meaning shifted to describe Dalit habitations, creating a symbolic marker of exclusion.
Caste Segregation Through History
- Bhakti Movement & Chola Period (12th century): Temple-centric settlements deepened social divisions.
- Vijayanagar & Nayakka Rule (14th–17th centuries): Varnashrama segregation enforced harshly.
- British Period: Official records preserved derogatory caste-linked names.
Social Impact of Stigmatized Place Names
- Address details on documents (Aadhaar, voter ID, passports) reveal caste identity.
- Leads to discrimination in social interactions and official dealings.
- Causes psychological distress among marginalized communities.
Past Efforts to Address Caste Stigma in Names
- Mahatma Gandhi: Used “Harijan” for dignity, but the term became a label for ghettoisation (Harijan Colony).
- Iyothee Thass & M.C. Rajah: Promoted “Adi-Dravidar” as a neutral identity, but it too became socially loaded.
Government’s Current Approach
- Rename rural areas with caste-linked names after flowers, poets, or scientists.
- Avoid naming after political leaders.
- Urban colonies (e.g., Railway Colony, Saibaba Colony) not targeted, as they lack caste bias.
Significance of the Move
- Symbolic yet historic step toward social integration.
- Reduces everyday reminders of caste hierarchy.
- Supports the vision of a socially cohesive and progressive society.
WHAT IS SOCIAL STIGMA?
- Definition: Social stigma is a negative perception or label society attaches to individuals or groups based on certain characteristics — such as caste, disease, gender, occupation, or religion.
- Effect: Leads to exclusion, prejudice, and discrimination, which limits access to opportunities and social mobility.
Example: Dalits being denied entry into temples, manual scavengers facing social boycott, HIV-positive persons being ostracized.
WHAT IS ELIMINATION OF SOCIAL STIGMA?
- The process of removing prejudices, stereotypes, and discriminatory practices so that all individuals are treated with dignity and equality.
- Requires legal measures, social reforms, awareness campaigns, and economic empowerment.
Tackling Caste Inequality and Discrimination in India
Constitutional & Legal Measures
- Articles 14, 15, 16, 17 – Equality before law, prohibition of discrimination, abolition of untouchability, reservation in jobs and education.
- Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 – Punishes caste-based violence and discrimination.
- Protection of Civil Rights Act, 1955 – Penalises acts of untouchability.
Educational & Awareness Initiatives
- School curriculum reforms to promote constitutional values, empathy, and social harmony.
- Nationwide campaigns like ‘Samajik Samrasta Abhiyan’ to counter caste-based prejudice.
- Encouraging inter-caste dialogue and youth engagement for mindset change.
Economic Empowerment
- Skill training & entrepreneurship support for marginalised communities.
- Land reforms and better access to credit for SC/ST farmers and entrepreneurs.
- Prioritising SC/ST-owned businesses in government procurement.
TRANSPARENCY CONCERNS IN ECI’S SPECIAL INTENSIVE REVISION OF ELECTORAL ROLLS
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY AND GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
The Election Commission of India (ECI) began a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of voter lists starting from Bihar, covering nearly 8 crore voters, and plans to expand it nationwide. The secrecy, large-scale deletions, and lack of data disclosure have raised concerns over transparency and electoral integrity.
What is Transparency?
- In governance, transparency means open decision-making where citizens have access to information about policies, procedures, and actions, enabling public scrutiny and accountability.
- Ensures trust in institutions, prevents misuse of power, and safeguards democratic processes.
Concerns Over the SIR Process
Large-Scale Deletions in Bihar
- Draft list after Phase 1 shows 65 lakh names deleted (≈ 27,000 per constituency).
- Number exceeds winning margin in most constituencies (2020 polls).
- No public access to full deleted names with reasons — making verification impossible.
Lack of Data Disclosure
- ECI claims sharing booth-level deletions with political parties but without reasons.
- Without granular data, there is a risk of wrongful disenfranchisement, especially among marginalized groups.
Unclear Rationale for Nationwide SIR
- ECI affidavit cites political concerns about inaccuracies but omits details of its “independent appraisal.”
- No explanation for starting from Bihar during monsoons, when verification is difficult.
Citizenship Verification Controversy
- All voters except those in Bihar’s 2003 rolls must now show documents (passport/birth certificate) to prove citizenship.
- Sparks fears of a backdoor National Register of Citizens (NRC).
- Records of 2003 revision not available in public domain.
Risks of Opaqueness
- Wrongful deletion = disenfranchisement.
- Loss of voting rights can lead to more severe consequences under the Citizenship Act, 1955.
- Weakens trust in elections and institutions meant to protect democracy.
Ensuring Transparency in ECI’s Work
- Publish full voter deletion/addition lists with reasons.
- Release independent appraisal reports before nationwide roll revisions.
- Maintain and digitize past electoral revision records.
- Provide public notice and stakeholder consultation before major exercises.
IMPORTANT CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS ENSURING INDEPENDENCE AND TRANSPARENCY OF THE ELECTION COMMISSION OF INDIA (ECI)
Article 324 – Superintendence, Direction, and Control of Elections
- Vests superintendence, direction, and control of elections to Parliament, State Legislatures, President, and Vice-President in the ECI.
- Ensures an autonomous constitutional authority for conducting free and fair elections.
Appointment of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) & Election Commissioners (ECs)
- Appointed by the President (Art. 324(2)) based on law or executive decision.
- 2023 Supreme Court ruling (Anoop Baranwal case) mandated appointment via a committee of PM, Leader of Opposition, and CJI till Parliament enacts a law, enhancing transparency.
Security of Tenure – Article 324(5)
- CEC can only be removed in the same manner and grounds as a Supreme Court Judge (by Parliament with a special majority).
- ECs can be removed only on the recommendation of the CEC, preventing arbitrary dismissal.
Conditions of Service
- Salaries, allowances, and other conditions of service of CEC/ECs are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India — cannot be reduced during their term.
- Financial independence reduces executive influence.
Constitutional Safeguards & Judicial Oversight
- Judicial review acts as a check on arbitrary decisions, ensuring transparency and accountability.
Conclusion:
A transparent, accountable ECI is vital for free and fair elections. Large-scale voter verification without openness risks disenfranchisement, erodes democratic trust, and undermines the credibility of electoral outcomes.
KALESHWARAM LIFT IRRIGATION PROJECT (KLIP)
TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project, touted as the world’s largest multi-stage lift irrigation scheme, has come under scrutiny after structural damages to barrages and allegations of poor planning.
What is Lift Irrigation?
- Definition: A method where water is lifted from a lower level to a higher elevation using pumps, instead of relying on gravity flow.
- Why Used: For regions with uneven terrain or when the source is at a lower altitude.
- Key Components: Pumping stations, pipelines, canals, and storage reservoirs.
- Advantage: Enables irrigation in areas where canal or gravity systems are not feasible.
About the Kaleshwaram Project
- Location: On the Godavari river at Kaleshwaram in Bhupalpally district, Telangana.
- Purpose: Multipurpose project for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial needs.
- Capacity & Reach:
- Irrigation for over 16 lakh acres in 13 districts.
- Storage and distribution of 240 TMC ft water (169 TMC ft irrigation, 30 TMC ft Hyderabad drinking water, 10 TMC ft village supply, 16 TMC ft industrial use).
- Infrastructure:
- Canal network of ~1,800 km.
- Barrages at Medigadda, Annaram, Sundilla, and Ramadugu.
- Cost: Initially ₹71,000 crore; escalated to over ₹1 lakh crore.
Controversies and Issues
Change in Project Site
- Original site: Tummidihatti (with CWC clearance, water availability >200 TMC ft).
- Shifted to Medigadda citing low water availability — later contested.
- ~30% of earlier works at Tummidihatti (costing ₹11,000 crore) went waste.
Poor Foundation and Technical Flaws
- Barrages allegedly built on permeable foundations instead of solid rock.
- Sundilla piers sank; Annaram and Sundilla barrages developed cracks.
- Government stored excessive water against technical advice.
Decision-Making Concerns
- Allegations that former CM took unilateral decisions without full Cabinet approval.
- BRS claims project had statutory and legislative approvals.
Judicial Commission Findings
- Headed by Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose.
- Examined 110+ witnesses including former CM and ministers.
- Probed funding approvals, technical lapses, and site selection changes.
- Report submitted on 31 July 2024; discussion planned in Assembly.
Political Responses
- Congress Govt: Plans to make lapses public and seek consensus on future steps.
- BRS: Defends project citing statutory clearances and Assembly ratification.
CENTRAL WATER COMMISSION (CWC)
- Nodal Agency:
- The CWC is a premier technical organization under the Ministry of Jal Shakti responsible for initiating, coordinating, and furthering schemes for control, conservation, and utilization of water resources in India.
- Establishment:
- Originated in 1945 as the Central Waterways, Irrigation, and Navigation Commission; renamed Central Water Commission in 1951.
- Functions:
- Deals with flood forecasting, hydrological observations, water storage monitoring, irrigation & hydropower projects, and inter-state water disputes (technical input).
- Structure:
- Headed by a Chairman, assisted by three Members—each in charge of Designs & Research, Water Planning & Projects, and River Management wings.
- Key Role in Flood Management:
- Operates a flood forecasting network across major river basins, issues timely flood alerts, and supports dam safety & reservoir operations.
Conclusion:
The KLIP illustrates how mega water projects, if not planned and executed with transparency and sound engineering, can lead to massive cost overruns, structural failures, and political controversy — undermining public trust in infrastructure spending.
ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION (MANAGEMENT OF CONTAMINATED SITES) RULES, 2025
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
The Environment Ministry has issued new rules under the Environment Protection Act to manage sites contaminated by chemicals. This is the first legal framework in India to systematically identify, assess, and clean such sites, which were previously dealt with in an ad-hoc manner.
What are Contaminated Sites?
- Definition (CPCB): Locations where hazardous and other wastes were dumped in the past, leading to likely contamination of soil, surface water, and groundwater.
- Sources:
- Old industrial sites without hazardous waste regulation.
- Closed or abandoned factories unable to bear cleanup costs.
- Landfills, waste storage facilities, spill areas, and chemical handling zones.
- Current Status: 103 sites identified in India. Only 7 have ongoing clean-up (remediation).
Why These Rules Were Needed
- In 2010, the Capacity Building Program for Industrial Pollution Management Project aimed to create the National Program for Remediation of Polluted Sites with three key tasks:
- Create an inventory of suspected contaminated sites.
- Prepare guidance on site assessment and cleanup.
- Develop a legal, institutional, and funding framework for remediation.
- The first two tasks were completed, but legal codification was pending — the 2025 rules now fill this gap.
Key Provisions of the 2025 Rules
- Identification & Reporting: District administration to send half-yearly reports of suspected sites. State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or a reference organisation to do a preliminary check within 90 days.
- Detailed Assessment: Within 3 more months, the agency must conduct a survey to confirm contamination. Tests will compare pollutant levels against standards for 189 hazardous chemicals listed under Hazardous Waste Rules, 2016.
- Public Notification & Restrictions: Confirmed contaminated sites will be publicly listed. Access restrictions to prevent public exposure.
- Remediation Plan: Expert bodies to design a site-specific cleanup strategy. SPCB to identify responsible polluters within 90 days.
- Funding & Liability: Polluters to bear cleanup costs; if unable, Centre/State will fund. Criminal liability under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, if contamination causes death or harm.
Exemptions from Rules
- Radioactive waste (covered under Atomic Energy Act).
- Mining-related contamination.
- Marine oil pollution.
- Municipal solid waste dumps (covered under Solid Waste Management Rules).
Limitations
- No fixed remediation timeline once a site is declared contaminated.
Significance
- First structured process for chemical contamination cleanup in India.
- Strengthens environmental governance and public health safeguards.
Conclusion:
The 2025 Rules mark a milestone in India’s environmental regulation, introducing a transparent and enforceable process for cleaning contaminated sites. They bridge a long-standing legal gap, though timelines for remediation remain a concern.
INDIA’S SUCCESS IN ASIATIC LION CONSERVATION
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
As per the 2025 Asiatic lion census, the population has risen to 891 from 674 in 2020.N Union Environment Minister highlighted this as a global example of wildlife conservation on World Lion Day celebrations in Gujarat.
Key Highlights of the 2025 Census
- Current Population: 891 Asiatic lions.
- Habitat: Exclusively found in Gir and surrounding areas of Gujarat.
- Growth Pattern: Significant increase in last five years due to sustained conservation efforts.
Government Initiatives for Lion Conservation
- Project Lion – Focused on habitat improvement, prey base expansion, and conflict mitigation.
- Barda Wildlife Sanctuary Development – Declared as an additional habitat for lions.
- Community Involvement : Pastoralist Maldhari community praised for coexisting with lions.
- Considered a global model for human–wildlife harmony.
Other Big Cat Conservation Measures
- International Big Cat Alliance – Covers conservation of five big cat species in India.
- Tiger Reserves: Increased from 47 to 58; India holds 70% of global tiger population.
- Snow Leopard Conservation: 714 individuals recorded in India.
- Cheetah Reintroduction: African cheetahs successfully rehabilitated in Indian habitats.
Global Cooperation
- PM Modi’s call for collaboration among 97 countries hosting big cats, including jaguar and puma, using knowledge sharing, AI, and technology.
State-Level Developments
- Gujarat CM launched ₹189 crore eco-development projects at Barda, including:
- Safari park.
- Interpretation centre.
- Breeding centre.
Significance
- Demonstrates India’s leadership in species-specific conservation projects like Project Lion, Project Tiger, and Project Elephant.
- Shows how community participation and scientific management can ensure long-term survival of endangered species.
LION CENSUS (ASIATIC LIONS IN GIR)
- Conducted every 5 years by the Gujarat Forest Department to count Asiatic lions, mostly found in Gir National Park and surrounding areas.
- The latest estimates show a steady increase in population, reflecting successful conservation.
- Uses direct sighting, camera traps, and GPS tracking for accuracy.
- Helps in planning habitat protection, reducing human–lion conflict, and monitoring health.
MALDHARI TRIBE
- Pastoral nomadic community living inside and around Gir forest in Gujarat.
- Traditionally rear cattle, buffaloes, sheep, and goats for milk and livelihood.
- Have coexisted with lions for centuries, but face challenges due to restrictions on grazing inside protected areas.
- Government offers rehabilitation schemes to relocate willing families outside the forest for better access to education, healthcare, and jobs.
INDIA–RUSSIA: INDUSTRIAL COOPERATION & RARE EARTH MINERALS
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
India and Russia have strengthened their strategic partnership by focusing on industrial cooperation and joint extraction of rare earth minerals, crucial for modern industries. The development comes amid US pressure on India’s oil imports from Russia and China’s export restrictions on critical minerals.
Background
- Rare Earth Elements (REEs) are vital for sectors like EVs, wind energy, semiconductors, and defence systems.
- China dominates 85–95% of global REE supply, creating dependency risks.
- Export restrictions by China have already affected India’s automobile manufacturing.
US–India Trade Friction
- US tariffs could cut India’s exports by 40–50% in certain categories.
- Countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy lower tariffs, making Indian goods less competitive.
- Despite pressure, India imported $52.7 billion worth of Russian oil in 2024 (second to China’s $62.6 billion).
India–Russia Cooperation in Critical Minerals
Key Focus Areas:
- Joint Ventures – Extraction of rare earths and other critical minerals.
- Technology Transfer – Mining equipment, exploration techniques, and processing technologies.
- Underground Coal Gasification – For cleaner energy production.
- Industrial Infrastructure – Building advanced facilities to support mining and processing.
11th Session of India–Russia Working Group (New Delhi)
Sectoral Cooperation:
- Aerospace & Technology: Modern wind tunnel, piston engines for small aircraft, carbon fibre production, additive manufacturing, 3D printing.
- Aluminium & Fertilizers: Enhanced collaboration in production and technology.
- Railway Transport: Technology sharing for modernisation.
- Waste Management: Solutions for both industrial and domestic waste.
Outcome:
- Protocol signed reaffirming strategic partnership and economic deepening.
Scientific Collaboration
- CSIR-IMMT (India) with Giredmet & Rosatom (Russia) signed declarations to:
- Advance critical mineral processing.
- Develop sustainable mining practices.
- Support India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat goals.
Significance of the Partnership
- Strategic Security: Reduces dependency on Chinese REE supply.
- Economic Growth: Opens avenues for industrial modernisation.
- Technological Advancement: Facilitates high-tech manufacturing and R&D.
- Energy Transition: Supports renewable energy and electric mobility sectors.
RARE EARTH MINERALS
- What They Are – Rare earth minerals are a group of 17 metallic elements used in making high-tech products like smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence equipment.
Example: Neodymium (used in strong magnets). - Why Important – They are essential for clean energy, electronics, and military technology, making them strategically important for any country’s economy and security.
Example: Dysprosium (used in EV motors and wind turbines). - Global Supply Issue – China controls 85–95% of global rare earth production, creating dependency risks for other nations.
Example: Lanthanum (used in camera lenses and batteries).
Conclusion:
The India Russia collaboration in rare earth minerals strengthens strategic autonomy and industrial capacity while reducing dependence on China. It also accelerates India’s technological growth and clean energy transition.
PM MODI ON PROTECTING INTERESTS OF FARMERS, LIVESTOCK REARERS & FISHERFOLK
TOPIC: (GS3) AGRICULTURE: INDIAN EXPRESS
PM Modi asserted that India will not compromise on the livelihoods of its farmers, dairy producers, and fisherfolk during trade talks with the US. This comes amid stalled negotiations and US tariff hikes that could hurt India’s agricultural and seafood exports.
Background
- India–US trade talks have slowed due to US demands for greater access to Indian markets in agriculture and allied sectors.
- India is resisting moves that could undermine rural livelihoods and breach food safety standards.
Key Concerns in Trade Talks
Agriculture Sector
- US seeks access for genetically modified (GM) soybean and maize.
- India grows these crops on 13–12 million hectares each and fears:
- Price crash from cheaper imports.
- Violation of India’s ban on GM crop cultivation.
- Threat to seed sovereignty and biosafety norms.
Ethanol Imports
- US wants to export ethanol for biofuel blending.
- India currently uses ethanol from domestically grown sugarcane, maize, and rice (20% petrol blending target).
- US imports could: Lower demand for Indian ethanol. Hurt sugarcane and maize farmers.
Dairy Industry
- US pushing for entry of milk powder, butter oil, and cheese under trade deals.
- India maintains: High import duties – 30% (cheese), 40% (butter), 60% (milk powder). Ban on dairy products from animals fed on animal-derived feeds (cultural & religious basis).
- US views the restrictions as non-scientific trade barriers.
Fisheries Sector
- US is India’s top seafood buyer ($2.48 billion in 2024).
- New 50% tariff hits aqua farmers in Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Odisha, and Tamil Nadu.
- Competitors like Vietnam, Chile, and Ecuador face lower tariffs (10–20%), reducing India’s price competitiveness.
India’s Position
- Protect livelihoods from cheaper imports and market volatility.
- Maintain ban on GM crops and uphold food safety norms.
- Keep cultural safeguards on dairy imports.
- Support domestic ethanol production to aid rural economy.
- Avoid tariff concessions in sensitive sectors.
Way Forward
- Balanced trade approach – open less-sensitive sectors while safeguarding agriculture, dairy, and fisheries.
- Market diversification – reduce dependence on US seafood exports by tapping East Asia, Middle East, Africa.
- Policy shields – retain high tariffs and non-tariff barriers until domestic industries become competitive.
Conclusion
India–US trade differences centre on protecting rural livelihoods vs. expanding market access.
India’s cautious stance seeks to defend farmers, dairy producers, and fisherfolk while still exploring mutually beneficial trade avenues.
BHARAT FORECAST SYSTEM (BHARATFS)
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: PIB
Why in News
- India has launched BharatFS, an advanced weather prediction system that improves extreme rainfall forecast accuracy by 30% over older models.
- It represents a major leap in real-time, high-resolution global weather forecasting.
About BharatFS
- Full Form: Bharat Forecast System.
- Developed by:
- IITM-Pune (Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology)
- NCMRWF-Noida (National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting)
- India Meteorological Department (IMD)
- Initiative: Part of Make in India & supports Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Key Features
- Global Model: Operates in real time for global weather predictions.
- Highest Resolution:
- Uses Triangular Cubic Octahedral (TCo) dynamical grid.
- Horizontal resolution of 6 km – highest in the world for operational forecasting.
- Previous GFS T1534 model had 12 km resolution.
- Comparison with Global Models: Surpasses most global systems (generally 9–14 km resolution).
- Localized Forecasting: Enables predictions at panchayat/cluster level, supporting disaster management and agriculture.
- Improved Accuracy: Up to 30% more accurate in extreme rainfall forecasts. Significant improvements in short- and medium-range predictions.
Significance
- Scientific Achievement: Puts India among the top countries with cutting-edge numerical weather prediction systems. Only nation currently running a global operational model at 6 km resolution.
- Disaster Preparedness: Accurate, localized warnings can save lives during floods, cyclones, and heavy rainfall events.
- Agricultural Planning: Farmers get precise rainfall and temperature forecasts, aiding sowing, irrigation, and harvest decisions.
- Self-Reliance in Technology: Developed fully in India, reducing dependence on foreign forecasting models.
Impact on Policy & Governance
- Disaster Management Authorities can plan evacuations and relief better.
- Rural Development Programs can integrate weather advisories into village planning.
- Infrastructure Protection – timely alerts help safeguard roads, railways, and dams.
Conclusion
BharatFS is not just a technological upgrade—it’s a strategic asset for India’s climate resilience, food security, and disaster preparedness. Its world-leading 6 km resolution places India at the forefront of global weather forecasting capabilities.