ETHANOL BLENDING IN INDIA: IMPACT AND CONCERNS
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
India has reached 20% ethanol blending (E20) in petrol by 2025, five years ahead of schedule. While the government hails it as a success in reducing emissions and saving foreign exchange, debates continue on its impact on consumers, agriculture, environment, and the electric vehicle (EV) transition.
Background
- Ethanol blending in petrol rose from 1.5% in 2014 to 20% in 2025, driven by government incentives.
- Vehicles manufactured from 2023 are E20 compliant, while older vehicles may face issues.
- The policy aims at cutting oil imports, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting farmers.
Reactions from Vehicle Owners
- 66% of petrol vehicle owners oppose E20 due to higher maintenance costs and mileage drop. Only 12% supported the move.
- NITI Aayog has suggested tax rebates to offset efficiency loss.
- The government acknowledges minor drop in fuel efficiency, but argues tuning and compatible parts can reduce it.
Economic and Fiscal Impact
- India saved ₹1.4 lakh crore in foreign exchange since 2014-15 by reducing crude imports.
- However, PSU oil firms (IOC, BPCL, ONGC) increased dividend payouts to government while passing only marginal price cuts (2%) to consumers, despite falling crude oil prices.
Agricultural and Environmental Concerns
- Ethanol output grew from 40 crore litres (2014) to ~670 crore litres (2024), mostly from sugarcane.
- Water stress: 1 tonne sugarcane requires 60–70 tonnes of water. Regions like Maharashtra see severe groundwater depletion.
- Land degradation: Nearly 30% of India’s land is degraded; sugarcane-driven irrigation stress adds to the crisis.
- Diversification: Rice and maize also diverted for ethanol. 2024–25: 34% of corn output used for ethanol → led to six-fold rise in maize imports.
- Despite diversification, sugarcane acreage remains high due to assured pricing and payments.
Global Dimension
- U.S. has criticized India’s import restrictions on ethanol, calling them trade barriers.
- Indian industry fears import relaxation could hurt domestic ethanol investments.
Ethanol vs. EV Transition
- Ethanol blending cut 700 lakh tonnes of CO₂, but EVs offer deeper decarbonisation.
- India lags in EV adoption: 7.6% of vehicle sales in 2024, compared to much higher rates in China, U.S., EU.
Challenges:
- Rare Earth Element (REE) dependence (China dominates supply).
- Car manufacturers already face supply bottlenecks in magnets and components.
Way Forward
- Ensure balanced ethanol sourcing to avoid groundwater and food security risks.
- Provide consumer incentives to offset efficiency drop.
- Continue EV adoption push, reduce REE dependence through domestic exploration and international partnerships.
- Frame a long-term fuel mix strategy: ethanol blending + EVs + renewables.
E20 ETHANOL BLENDING PROGRAM
E20 means petrol blended with 20% ethanol and 80% petrol. Ethanol is an alcohol-based fuel made mainly from sugarcane, maize, rice, and other biomass.
- Why Introduced:
- To reduce oil imports and save foreign exchange.
- To cut down carbon emissions and pollution.
- To support farmers by giving market for surplus crops like sugarcane and maize.
- Targets:
- India initially planned 20% ethanol blending by 2030, but now advanced to 2025-26.
- Presently, India has achieved around 12% blending.
Conclusion
Ethanol blending has reduced oil imports and aided farmers, but its water-intensive sugarcane dependence and consumer costs raise sustainability questions. For true decarbonisation, India must treat ethanol as a bridge fuel, while accelerating the shift towards electric mobility powered by clean energy.
A CASE FOR JUDICIAL INTROSPECTION
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Debates have resurfaced over the independence of the Election Commission of India (ECI) after the enactment of the Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Appointment, Conditions of Service and Term of Office) Act, 2023.
Background
- In Anoop Baranwal case (2023), the Supreme Court held that appointments to the ECI must not remain in the exclusive control of the executive.
- The Court prescribed a Selection Committee including the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition, and the Chief Justice of India (CJI).
- However, the 2023 Act removed the CJI and added a Cabinet Minister nominated by the PM, tilting the balance towards the ruling government.
- Multiple petitions challenged the Act, but the Court refused to stay it before the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.
Issues with the Current ECI Framework
- Loss of independence: With the CJI removed, the executive dominates the appointment process.
- Risk of bias: A pliable ECI may favour the ruling party, undermining free and fair elections.
- Judicial restraint: The Court justified not staying the Act citing “presumption of validity of laws,” but this allowed elections to proceed under a less independent ECI.
- Global concerns: Studies (e.g., Landau & Dixon, 2020) show how courts in some countries enabled authoritarian regimes by legitimising electoral manipulations.
Fourth Branch Institutions – The Missing Element
- Modern democracies create independent constitutional bodies beyond the executive, legislature, and judiciary, to protect democracy.
- Example: South Africa’s Chapter Nine institutions, including an independent electoral commission, support constitutional democracy.
- In India, Article 324 did not create such a strong framework, prompting the Supreme Court’s intervention in Baranwal.
- But the 2023 law diluted this effort, reducing the ECI’s independence.
Way Forward
- Restore the Baranwal framework: Reinstate the CJI in the selection panel for credibility.
- Reform appointments: Ensure that future Election Commissioners are selected through a transparent and impartial process.
- Strengthen ECI autonomy: Safeguard it as a “fourth branch institution” free from executive dominance.
- Investigate electoral integrity: A reconstituted ECI could function as a Truth Commission to probe alleged electoral malpractices.
CHIEF ELECTION COMMISSIONER (CEC)
Present CEC (2025): Rajiv Kumar (since May 2022).
The CEC heads the Election Commission of India (ECI), which conducts free and fair elections for Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice-President.
How the Office of the CEC is Independent
Constitutional Body
- The ECI is established under Article 324 of the Constitution, ensuring its authority and independence.
Security of Tenure
- CEC has a fixed tenure of 6 years or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier.
- He cannot be removed easily like ordinary officials.
Removal Process
- The CEC can be removed only through a process similar to that of a Supreme Court judge (by Parliament, on grounds of proven misbehavior or incapacity, with a special majority).
- This prevents arbitrary removal by the government.
Financial Independence
- The salaries and allowances of the CEC and other Election Commissioners are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India, not subject to Parliamentary vote.
Equal Powers with Other ECs
- Though the CEC is the head, all decisions in the Commission are taken collectively with other Election Commissioners, ensuring neutrality.
Conclusion
The health of Indian democracy depends on an independent Election Commission. Judicial hesitation to act against the 2023 law has weakened the institution, but corrective measures—through restoring impartial appointments and strengthening autonomy—are essential to protect the integrity of elections and public trust.
INDIA’S PATENT LANDSCAPE: ROLE OF UNIVERSITIES AS CHANGEMAKERS
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
At the Quantum India Bengaluru Summit 2025, Nobel laureate David Gross highlighted the importance of discovery and innovation for India’s growth. Recent data also shows that for the first time in 2023, Indian-origin patent filings surpassed those from any single foreign country, marking a shift in India’s innovation journey.
India’s Progress in Innovation
- India is moving from being only a consumer of global technologies to becoming a creator of new technologies.
- In 2023, Indian applicants filed 57% of all patents domestically, showing a major transformation.
- India has also overtaken the U.S. in granted patents, becoming the second-largest recipient in 2021.
Government Support for Innovation
- National IPR Policy and Atal Innovation Mission encouraged startups, researchers, and students.
- Amendments in patent rules introduced:
- Fast-track examinations for select groups.
- 80% fee reduction for educational institutions, MSMEs, and startups.
- Fully digital filing system for faster processing.
- KAPILA (2020) promotes awareness of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) in higher education.
- Awards and recognition for outstanding patents encourage inventors.
Changing Face of Patent Filers
- In 2000, companies filed 43% of patents; by 2023, this dropped to under 17%.
- Filings by individuals rose from 10% to 32% in the same period.
- Universities emerged as major contributors, filing nearly 43% of patents in recent years.
- Example: IIT Madras doubled patents from 156 (2022) to 300 (2023); IIT Bombay led with 421 patents in 2023-24.
- Dedicated IP cells and legal support units in universities now guide patent filing, tech transfer, and monetisation.
Challenges Ahead
- Nearly 80% of filings are still awaiting decision, due to rising volumes and legal complexities.
- Although approval timelines improved (from 8–10 years earlier to 2–3 years now), delays remain a challenge.
- India’s R&D spending is only 0.67% of GDP, much lower than the U.S. (3.5%) and China (2.5%).
Way Forward
- Increase R&D investment to at least 2% of GDP to strengthen global competitiveness.
- Ensure linkage between patents and commercial value through industry collaboration.
- Support professors and researchers with better funding, resources, and global exposure.
- Encourage knowledge-based sectors like AI, biotech, and clean energy for future leadership.
WHAT ARE PATENTS?
- A patent is a legal right granted by the government to an inventor.
- It allows the inventor to exclude others from making, using, selling, or distributing the invention without permission.
- Patents encourage innovation by protecting inventors’ ideas.
- Generally valid for 20 years from the filing date.
Conclusion
India’s patent ecosystem reflects a positive shift towards innovation-driven growth, with universities leading as key changemakers. However, for India to emerge as a global knowledge leader, sustained funding, faster processing, and strong industry-academia linkages are essential.
INDIA–NAMIBIA RELATIONS: A NEW MODEL FOR AFRICA ENGAGEMENT
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Namibia in July 2024, the first such visit in nearly three decades. The trip highlighted India’s attempt to build deeper ties with Namibia and Africa through cultural connection, development cooperation, and technology-driven partnerships.
India’s Approach to Engagement
Cultural and Historical Connect
- India draws on shared anti-colonial struggles to build solidarity.
- New Delhi had hosted the South West Africa People’s Organization’s first diplomatic office during Namibia’s freedom movement.
- An Indian officer, Lt. Gen. Diwan Prem Chand, led UN peacekeeping forces during Namibia’s transition to independence.
- Such references highlight India’s long-standing support, unlike the short-term involvement of many Western powers.
Present-Day Cooperation
- Bilateral trade between India and Namibia is about $800 million, with room for expansion.
- India’s wider development partnership with Africa stands at $12 billion.
- Key initiatives in Namibia: India–Namibia Centre of Excellence in IT at Namibia University of Science and Technology.
- These projects focus on capacity-building for Namibia’s young, tech-savvy population.
Future-Oriented Collaboration
- Namibia became the first African country to adopt India’s UPI system, marking a milestone in digital diplomacy.
- This model transfers not only technology but also regulatory and institutional frameworks tested in India.
- Expands cooperation into knowledge and digital innovation, moving beyond traditional aid-driven ties.
Strategic Importance of Namibia
- Politically stable with rich mineral reserves (especially uranium).
- Strong potential for low-carbon supply chains, aligning with India’s energy transition goals.
- Shares India’s call for reforms in global economic and financial systems, supporting Global South solidarity.
Gaps and Challenges
- The visit produced only modest outcomes — two MoUs (entrepreneurship, health), Namibia’s entry into the Global Biofuels Alliance and Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
- No concrete agreements on critical minerals, missing an opportunity for deeper strategic cooperation.
- India’s engagement in Africa has often suffered from uneven implementation and long gaps.
Way Forward
- Use the upcoming India–Africa Forum Summit to institutionalise partnerships.
- Move beyond symbolism to ensure consistent follow-through and investment.
- Focus on resource security, digital cooperation, and capacity-building with clear frameworks.
Conclusion
India’s approach in Namibia reflects a shift from transactional aid to trust-based, inclusive partnerships. While gaps remain, especially in critical mineral engagement, sustained efforts can position India as a reliable Global South partner and strengthen its long-term role in Africa’s growth journey.
ROLL RECALL, SUPREME COURT ON BIHAR ELECTORAL ROLL EXCLUSIONS
TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
The Supreme Court has directed the Election Commission of India (ECI) to publish the names of around 65 lakh voters excluded from Bihar’s draft electoral roll and specify the reasons for their removal. The case highlights serious flaws in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise conducted by the ECI.
Background
- The ECI undertook a Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Bihar after already holding a summary revision in January.
- Around 65 lakh names were struck off the draft roll, citing reasons like death, migration, duplication, or being untraceable.
- However, the process lacked transparency, and many voters were wrongly excluded despite having valid identity documents.
Key Concerns in the Process
- Lack of consolidated data: No full list of excluded voters or reasons was publicly provided.
- Gender imbalance: Nearly 32 lakh women were removed compared to 25 lakh men, despite migration and death rates being higher among men.
- Erroneous exclusions: Reports showed voters wrongly marked as dead or absent even with valid voter IDs and residence proof.
- Restricted documents: ECI allowed only 11 documents for verification, excluding widely used IDs such as Aadhaar and ration cards.
Supreme Court’s Observations
- Directed the ECI to publish the excluded names with reasons to ensure natural justice.
- Allowed citizens to file objections using Aadhaar cards for inclusion, nudging the ECI to recognize it as a valid proof.
- Questioned the legality of conducting SIR after the earlier summary revision.
- Emphasized greater transparency in handling electoral rolls.
Significance
- The judgment upholds universal adult franchise, a cornerstone of Indian democracy.
- Ensures that eligible citizens are not disenfranchised due to procedural lapses.
- Strengthens public trust in the fairness of the electoral process.
Conclusion:
The Supreme Court’s intervention has compelled the ECI to act transparently and protect voters’ rights. The upcoming hearings will be critical in ensuring accountability in India’s voter enrolment process.
US–RUSSIA ALASKA SUMMIT: IMPLICATIONS FOR INDIA AND GLOBAL POLITICS
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The US–Russia Alaska Summit between former U.S. President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on ways to end the Ukraine war. The talks, though called “productive,” yielded no final deal but raised key questions on global security, NATO’s role, and India’s energy-security dilemma.
Key Outcomes of the Summit
- Trump termed the meeting “10/10” and said talks were warm and constructive.
- Both leaders acknowledged progress on several fronts, though specifics remain undisclosed.
- A possible trilateral meeting (US–Russia–Ukraine) is under discussion.
- Trump argued that the war could have been avoided if he was in office post-2020.
- Putin echoed this view and expressed willingness for dialogue and cooperation in areas like Arctic exploration, space, and high technology.
Geopolitical Context
- The summit highlighted the significance of engagement between the two largest nuclear powers.
- It represents an attempt to reduce hostility and move toward a comprehensive peace framework beyond just a ceasefire.
- Uncertainty persists over NATO’s alignment and Europe’s stance on any U.S.–Russia understanding.
India’s Strategic Dilemma
Tariffs and Sanctions
- The U.S. has threatened 25% tariffs on Indian exports, linking them to Moscow’s war economy.
- A proposed U.S. Bill suggests tariffs up to 500% on states indirectly aiding Russia.
- Trump claimed India has reduced oil purchases from Russia, though Indian refiners deny this impact.
Energy Security vs. Geopolitics
- Since 2022, Russia supplies 35–40% of India’s crude imports, offering discounted oil.
- This ensures energy affordability, but draws criticism from the West.
- If tariffs are enforced, India could face a trade-off between cheap energy and market access in the U.S. and Europe.
Strategic Importance for India
- Highlights how middle powers like India are affected by great power negotiations.
- Brings out India’s balancing act between Russia (defence, energy ties) and the U.S. (strategic partner in Indo-Pacific).
- Reflects the challenge of maintaining foreign policy autonomy amid Western pressure.
Global Significance
- Reinforces the centrality of great power bargaining in conflict resolution.
- Could reshape NATO strategy and Europe’s security architecture.
- Signals a possible reset in US–Russia ties, with ripple effects for China and India.
Way Forward for India
- Continue diplomatic balancing between Washington and Moscow.
- Diversify energy sources while safeguarding affordable crude supplies.
- Strengthen trade and technology links with the U.S. and Europe.
- Hope for tariff flexibility, depending on the progress of peace talks.
Conclusion
The Alaska Summit is a tentative step toward peace in Ukraine, but without concrete outcomes. For India, it brings both risks (tariffs, sanctions) and opportunities (strategic engagement). New Delhi must carefully balance energy security and foreign policy autonomy in an evolving global order shaped by U.S.–Russia rivalry.
HEALTH HAZARDS OF PLASTIC POLLUTION: HUMAN & ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
Recent negotiations in Geneva involving 180 nations failed to agree on a legally binding treaty on plastic pollution. The key disagreements relate to whether the treaty should cover only waste management or also regulate plastic production, and whether the health risks of plastics should be formally recognised.
Rising Use of Plastic
- Plastic is widely used because of its low cost, strength, and adaptability.
- It is derived mostly from fossil fuels and is cheaper than alternatives like glass or aluminium.
- Applications range from essential goods (medical devices, transport equipment) to disposable packaging and cosmetics.
Problems with Plastic
- Persistent in the environment – plastics do not biodegrade easily.
- Contain over 16,000 chemicals, of which more than 10,000 have unclear impacts on health or nature.
- Studies show 4,000+ hazardous chemicals in major plastic types such as PVC, PET, and polyethylene.
- Plastic waste contaminates rivers, oceans, soil, eventually entering human food chains.
- Debate often focuses only on waste management, ignoring the toxic chemical risks plastics carry.
Evidence of Health Impacts
- Plastics are made using substances like bisphenols, phthalates, PFAS, PCBs, and PBDEs.
- Common items with these include food containers, water bottles, polyester clothing, toys, paints, adhesives, cosmetics, and electronics.
- Studies link plastic-related chemicals to: Hormonal and thyroid disruption, Hypertension and gestational diabetes
- Most research is from developed nations; more global studies are needed.
Microplastics and Human Body
- Microplastics (<5 mm) form from breakdown of larger plastic items or as industrial additives.
- Found in blood, placenta, breast milk, and bone marrow, proving they can circulate within human systems.
- Health effects are still under study but early findings suggest long-term risks during pregnancy and early childhood development.
India’s Response
- Ban on single-use plastics in nearly 20 States.
- Companies are mandated to collect back a portion of their plastic waste.
- Enforcement has been weak, leading to limited success.
- India views plastic mainly as a waste issue, not a public health hazard.
- In global talks, India opposed including health risks in the treaty, arguing this is the WHO’s responsibility.
Conclusion
Plastic pollution is not just an environmental crisis but also a public health challenge. The presence of toxic chemicals and microplastics in the human body indicates serious risks for future generations. For India, moving beyond waste management to recognising health hazards, strengthening enforcement, and supporting global cooperation is essential.
GOLDEN DOME MISSILE DEFENCE SHIELD
TOPIC: (GS3) DEFENCE: THE HINDU
The US President recently announced the launch of a $175 billion Golden Dome missile defence programme, aimed at creating a multi-layered shield against advanced missile threats. The project has sparked debate due to its high cost and its implications for global security and the arms race.
Key Features
- Space-Based Interceptors: Plan to deploy interceptors in orbit to strike down hostile missiles during different phases of flight.
- Satellite Surveillance: A large constellation of satellites would monitor, detect, and track missile launches in real time.
- Laser Technology: Development of directed-energy weapons to destroy missiles mid-air, enhancing precision and response speed.
- Integrated Defence: Will work in coordination with existing US missile defence assets like Patriot missiles, THAAD, Aegis BMD, and GMD.
Strategic Significance
- Provides protection from intercontinental and space-launched missiles.
- Strengthens US homeland defence in the face of rising threats from adversaries.
- Enhances global deterrence capability of the US against nuclear and hypersonic weapons.
Challenges & Concerns
- Cost burden: At $175 billion, it may face domestic criticism over spending priorities.
- Global tensions: Could trigger a new arms race with countries like China and Russia.
- Technical hurdles: Effectiveness of space-based interceptors and lasers is still uncertain.
Conclusion:
The Golden Dome marks a major step in US defence strategy, combining space, ground, and advanced weapon technologies. However, its success will depend on technological feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and managing international security concerns.