CONSTITUTION (130TH AMENDMENT) BILL, 2025
TOPIC: (GS2) GOVERNANCE: THE HINDU
The Constitution (130th Amendment) Bill, 2025 was introduced in Lok Sabha on 20 August 2025. It seeks to make it mandatory for Ministers, Chief Ministers, and even the Prime Minister to resign or face automatic removal if they remain in custody beyond 30 consecutive days in cases punishable with five years or more imprisonment.
Key Features of the Bill
- Applicability: Covers Union, States, and Delhi (Articles 75, 164, and 239AA).
- Mechanism:
- Ministers may be removed on the advice of the PM/CM.
- Automatic removal after 30 days in custody, if advice is not given.
- Objective: Ensure cleaner politics and restore public trust in governance.
Constitutional & Judicial Background
- Articles 75(1), 164(1), 239AA(5): Ministers hold office at the “pleasure” of President/Governor, subject to constitutional propriety.
- Important Judgments:
- S.R. Bommai (1994): Stressed constitutional morality in governance.
- Manoj Narula (2014): Warned against appointing persons with serious criminal charges as Ministers.
- Lily Thomas (2013): Lawmakers are disqualified immediately on conviction, not on arrest.
Issues & Concerns
- Violation of Presumption of Innocence: Removal on arrest undermines Article 21 (Right to life & liberty).
- Unequal Standards: Legislators face disqualification only on conviction, but Ministers under this Bill can be ousted merely on detention.
- Executive Discretion: Political misuse possible — PM/CM may shield allies or target rivals.
- Revolving Door Problem: Resignation and reappointment after release could cause instability.
- Broad Scope: Applies to all offences with 5+ years punishment, including relatively minor ones.
Need for Reform
- Rising Criminalisation in Politics: 46% of MPs elected in 2024 had declared criminal cases (ADR data), up from 30% in 2009.
- Growing public demand for accountability and ethical governance.
Way Forward
- Link Removal to Judicial Stage: Base disqualification on framing of charges, not just arrest.
- Independent Oversight: Set up a judicial/independent tribunal to review cases.
- Provisional Suspension: Ministers may be suspended during trial instead of outright removal.
- Restrict Scope: Apply only to serious offences like corruption and crimes of moral turpitude.
Conclusion
The Bill reflects a strong stand against corruption and criminal politics. However, without checks, due process, and consistency, it risks weakening fairness and stability in governance. A nuanced framework is essential to balance clean politics with constitutional safeguards.
GST STRUCTURE SIMPLIFICATION
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
The Group of Ministers (GoM) on GST rate rationalisation has endorsed the Union government’s proposal to simplify the tax structure by reducing the number of slabs. The issue will be discussed in detail at the upcoming GST Council meeting on September 3-4, 2025.
Background
- GST currently has seven slabs: 0.25%, 3%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28% plus a compensation cess on luxury/sin goods.
- Since 2017, experts have pointed out that the multiple-slab structure creates confusion, litigation, and higher compliance costs.
Proposed Changes by the Union Government
- Fewer Slabs: Reduce from 7 to 4 main categories.
- New Rates:
- <1% for precious metals, diamonds, jewellery (items currently at 0.25% & 3%).
- 5% for essential/common goods.
- 18% for majority of goods and services.
- 40% for “sin goods” (tobacco, cigarettes, online gaming, etc.).
- Key Shifts:
- 99% of items in 12% slab → move to 5%.
- 90% of items in 28% slab → move to 18%.
Rationale for Simplification
- Reduce complexity: Easier for businesses and consumers.
- Lower average tax burden: From ~14.4% (2017) → 9.5% by 2026-27.
- Boost consumption: Cheaper daily-use items = higher demand.
- Curb disputes: Less room for classification disputes.
Impact on Consumers
- Positive:
- Essentials like soap, toothpaste, tea, coffee, spices → taxed at 5% instead of 18%.
- Non-luxury cars, ACs, refrigerators → reduced from 28% + cess to 18%.
- Life-saving drugs and affordable apparel (<₹1,000) remain at 5%.
- Net result: Lower prices, more disposable income for households.
Revenue Implications
- Estimated Loss: ₹1.1–1.8 lakh crore annually.
- Centre’s Position: Loss manageable, as RBI surplus transfers and buoyant direct taxes can offset.
- States’ Concern: Dependence on GST revenues; fear of reduced fiscal space.
- Suggested Remedy: Compensation mechanism for states facing revenue shortfall.
Way Forward
- Balance simplicity with fiscal needs: Rationalisation should not destabilise state finances.
- Compensation Framework: Revive or redesign mechanism to safeguard states.
- Broaden Tax Base: Bring more sectors into GST, plug leakages.
- Digital Compliance: Use AI-driven audits to boost revenue efficiency.
- Gradual Rollout: Implement changes in phases to avoid sudden fiscal shock.
Conclusion
The GST rationalisation plan aims to create a simpler, consumer-friendly tax regime with just two dominant slabs — 5% and 18%. While this promises relief for citizens and efficiency for businesses, ensuring revenue stability for states remains the biggest challenge.
IS INDIA UNDERESTIMATING THE COST OF DEALING WITH INVASIVE SPECIES?
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
A new global study published in Nature Ecology & Evolution reveals that India has massively underreported costs of managing invasive species, with the highest percentage discrepancy worldwide (1.16 billion%). The report highlights that invasive alien plants and animals have caused over $2.2 trillion in global economic losses (1960–2022).
What are Invasive Species?
- Invasive Alien Species (IAS): Plants, animals, or organisms introduced (intentionally/unintentionally) outside their native range, where they spread rapidly and harm local ecosystems, economy, or human health.
- Example: Lantana camara (chokes forests, fire-prone), Water hyacinth (blocks waterways), and Prosopis juliflora (outcompetes native flora).
Key Findings of the Study
- Global Costs (1960–2022):
- Non-native plants – $926 billion.
- Arthropods – $830 billion.
- Mammals – $263 billion.
- Regional Impact: Europe ($1.5 trillion) > North America ($226 billion) > Asia ($182 billion) > Africa ($127 billion).
- India’s Discrepancy: Highest underreporting in the world (1.16 billion%), implying hidden costs of invasive species management are far greater than recorded.
- Drivers of Spread: Trade, travel, and globalisation introduce species into new ecosystems.
Why India is Vulnerable
- Ecological diversity: India has varied ecosystems prone to invasion.
- Documentation gap: Poor record-keeping, lack of centralised data, and underreporting of expenditure.
- Limited resources: Low funding and competing conservation priorities.
- High human dependence on natural resources: Invasives threaten agriculture, forestry, and water systems.
Challenges in Management
- Underreported Costs: True economic burden is hidden.
- Eradication Risks: Complete removal may harm crops and species that are economically valuable but non-native.
- Weak Coordination: Multiple agencies with limited collaboration.
- Globalisation vs. Conservation: Trade fuels invasions, yet economies depend on it.
Way Forward
- Prevention First: Strong quarantine and import regulations to stop new invasions.
- Early Detection & Rapid Response (EDRR): Quick control of newly established invasives.
- Data & Monitoring: Centralised database for reporting and tracking management costs.
- Awareness & Community Role: Local participation in removal drives and ecosystem restoration.
- International Cooperation: Strengthen compliance with CBD guidelines and Ballast Water Management Convention.
- Research & Innovation: Use biological control methods, habitat restoration, and technology-driven monitoring.
Conclusion
India faces a hidden economic and ecological burden from invasive alien species due to poor documentation and weak management. Strengthening prevention, monitoring, and coordinated action is essential to protect biodiversity, livelihoods, and reduce long-term costs.
NCERT TEXTBOOKS INTRODUCE INDIAN ART FORMS
TOPIC: (GS1) INDIAN ART AND CULTURE: THE HINDU
NCERT has introduced new arts education textbooks for Classes 3–8, including Indian classical music, dance, theatre, and visual arts, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This marks the first time that Indian classical art forms are part of the regular school curriculum.
Recent Changes
- New Books Introduced: Bansuri (for Classes 3–5). Kriti (for Classes 6–8, launched from 2025–26 session).
- Music Education: Focus on swar (notes), laya (rhythm), ragas (melodic frameworks), and taal (beats). Students learn Sanskrit shlokas through rhythmic recitations, folk songs in regional languages, and basic patterns of seven notes.
- Dance Education: Exposure to all eight classical dances – Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Sattriya. Texts explain hasta mudras (hand gestures), leaps, jumps, and expressions (abhinaya).
- Sources Used: Inspired by ancient texts such as Natyashastra, Brihaddeshi, Sangita Damodara, and Abhinaya Darpanam.
- Practical Approach: Content designed for appreciation, not mastery. Simple exercises, storytelling, theatre, and music exposure encourage creativity.
Need for These Changes
- Cultural Roots: NEP stresses education rooted in Indian ethos and knowledge systems.
- Equal Access: Earlier, learning classical art forms required private training. Now, school exposure democratizes access.
- Holistic Development: Arts improve memory, expression, creativity, and emotional growth in children.
- Cultural Continuity: Helps preserve India’s intangible cultural heritage for future generations.
- Student Interest: Children naturally enjoy cultural activities like dance, theatre, and music, making learning joyful.
Significance
- Promotes awareness and appreciation of Indian art traditions.
- Aligns with the vision of integrated, experiential, and value-based learning.
- Strengthens national identity and pride in heritage while also supporting creative thinking.
Way Forward
- Teacher Training: Regular workshops to help teachers effectively deliver arts education.
- Technology Integration: Use digital tools and audio-visual resources to make classical arts engaging.
- Evaluation Reform: Assess through projects, performances, and creativity rather than rote learning.
- Collaboration: Partnerships with institutions like Sangeet Natak Akademi for quality content and exposure.
Conclusion
By embedding Indian classical music, dance, and theatre into textbooks, NCERT has taken a historic step to integrate culture with education. This not only fulfills the spirit of the NEP but also ensures that future generations grow with cultural pride, aesthetic sensibility, and holistic development.
A SHIFT TOWARDS U.S. STATE CAPITALISM
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The U.S. government has acquired a nearly 10% stake in Intel, one of its oldest semiconductor firms. This marks a major departure from America’s traditional free-market approach, resembling state capitalism models once seen in Europe.
Background
- Intel, once the leader in semiconductors, is now facing heavy losses and technological delays, losing ground to TSMC and Samsung.
- To support Intel, Washington converted funds from the 2022 CHIPS and Science Act into equity investment worth around $10 billion.
Key Features of the Deal
- Passive Investment: U.S. government holds a non-voting, minority stake.
- No Board Seat: No direct interference in company decisions.
- Risk Sharing: Taxpayers stand to gain if Intel recovers but also risk losses if it fails.
- Part of Larger Strategy: Other deals include revenue-sharing arrangements with Nvidia and AMD for AI chip sales to China.
Historical Parallels
- 1960s Europe: France and the UK invested heavily in “national champions” (aerospace, computing) to close the technology gap with the U.S.
- Outcome: Many of these ventures became inefficient, state-dependent firms.
- Difference Today: U.S. intervention is more subtle — providing capital without day-to-day control.
Why Intel?
- Intel is strategically vital for the U.S. semiconductor supply chain.
- Foreign players like TSMC and Samsung are financially stronger and unlikely to offer equity stakes to Washington.
- Intel’s weak performance made it more open to government backing.
Significance
- Shift in Economic Policy: Reflects U.S. movement away from pure free-market capitalism toward pragmatic state intervention.
- Geopolitical Rivalry: Aimed at reducing dependence on Asian chipmakers and countering China’s tech rise.
- Industrial Policy Experiment: A test of whether the state can support strategic industries without stifling innovation.
- Risk of Precedent: If Intel struggles, future administrations may increase interference, raising concerns of politicisation of industry.
Conclusion
The U.S. stake in Intel is both a rescue measure and a strategic experiment. It symbolizes a new era where America, once the strongest advocate of free markets, is cautiously adopting elements of state capitalism to secure its technological future. The outcome will determine whether such intervention strengthens competitiveness or burdens taxpayers with failing corporate giants.
NOURISH TO FLOURISH
TOPIC: (GS4) ETHICS IN PUBLIC HEALTH: THE HINDU
Experts highlight that the first 1,000 days of life (from conception to 2 years) are a critical window for brain growth and nutrition. India, despite progress, is still struggling with high stunting and malnutrition rates, which risk limiting children’s cognitive and social development.
Importance of the First 1,000 Days
- Brain Growth: By age two, the brain reaches 80% of adult size. Synaptic development peaks in this period.
- Frontal Lobe Growth: Controls planning, memory, sequencing, and self-regulation — develops rapidly in first two years.
- Irreversible Damage: Nutritional deficits before age three may cause permanent cognitive impairment.
Science Behind Nutrition & Cognition
- Nutrition = Brain Function: Inadequate food and micronutrients harm cognitive capacity.
- Research Evidence:
- Tamil Nadu study: Iron deficiency in early childhood slowed language skills and reduced processing speed.
- Stand-alone nutrition programmes had limited success, but nutrition + cognitive stimulation showed stronger impact.
- Neuroplasticity Advantage: Young children learn languages, songs, and skills quickly and retain them for life.
Indian Programmes on Early Childhood Development
- Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS): One of the world’s largest schemes; provides nutrition + early learning. Anganwadi centres serve as frontline delivery points.
- Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi: Government initiative linking nutrition with early cognitive stimulation.
- Navchetana (Early Childhood Stimulation Framework): Provides 140 play-based activities in a 36-month calendar. Aimed at parents, Anganwadi workers, and caregivers.
Gaps & Challenges
- Coverage: 14 lakh Anganwadis exist but quality, reach, and consistency remain uneven.
- Urban Areas: Services less developed compared to rural regions.
- Technology Use: Needs better digital tools for training, monitoring and service delivery.
- Pre-Primary Education: Still weak in terms of access and quality.
- Women’s Participation: Limited crèche facilities restrict women from joining the workforce.
Way Forward
- Strengthen ICDS: Ensure universal access, high-quality health, nutrition, and learning services.
- Leverage Technology: Digital tools for growth monitoring, training Anganwadi workers, and parent engagement.
- Expand Crèche Models: Public, community-led, and PPP models to support working mothers.
- Measure Outcomes: Regular evaluation of children’s nutrition, psychosocial well-being, and learning.
- Policy Focus: Link nutrition to future productivity — healthier, smarter children mean stronger human capital.
Conclusion
Nutrition and cognition are inseparable. Missing the first 1,000 days means losing a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to build a healthier, skilled generation. For India to meet its 2047 development goals in a world driven by technology and innovation, investment in early childhood nutrition and cognitive stimulation is not optional — it is a necessity.
MAN-MADE FAMINE IN GAZA
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), a UN-backed body, has confirmed that a “man-made famine” is unfolding in Gaza — the first officially declared famine in West Asia. Reports show rising malnutrition, deaths due to starvation, and restrictions on humanitarian aid.
Background
- Gaza has been under Israeli blockade since 2007, restricting goods and essential supplies.
- After Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack, restrictions tightened further.
- In March 2025, following a ceasefire breakdown, Israel imposed a three-month complete blockade on all goods.
Current Situation in Gaza
- Famine Declared: At least 1 in 5 households face extreme food shortages.
- Children at Risk: Over one-third of Gaza’s children are severely malnourished.
- Daily Starvation Deaths: 2 out of every 10,000 people die each day from hunger or malnutrition-linked diseases.
- Food Distribution Crisis:
- Israel allowed limited food supplies but shifted distribution from UN-led system to the U.S.-Israel backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation (GHF).
- GHF centres became sites of violence, with over 1,300 Palestinians killed since May during food aid chaos.
International Response
- Human Rights Groups & NGOs: Repeatedly warned of famine risk and called the crisis man-made.
- UN & Aid Agencies: Condemned Israel’s blockade and urged unrestricted aid.
- Western Powers: Expressed only limited concern, continuing to back Israel militarily and diplomatically.
- Ceasefire Efforts: Though Hamas accepted mediation proposals by Qatar & Egypt, Israel intensified military operations instead.
Key Concerns
- Humanitarian Catastrophe: 2.3 million people face survival threats.
- Violation of International Law: Targeting civilians through starvation is a war crime under international humanitarian law.
- Geopolitical Implications: Growing anger in West Asia could destabilize the region further.
- Moral Question for the World: Indifference risks legitimising the use of famine as a weapon of war.
Way Forward
- Immediate Ceasefire: Essential to ensure unhindered aid flow.
- Restoration of UN-led Aid System: Neutral and transparent food distribution needed.
- Global Pressure: International community must push Israel to end blockade and comply with humanitarian norms.
- Accountability Mechanisms: Investigation into alleged war crimes through UN and International Criminal Court (ICC).
Conclusion
The Gaza famine is not a natural disaster but a deliberate outcome of conflict and blockade. Unless urgent global action is taken, starvation may become a weapon of war — eroding both humanitarian values and international peace.
DRDO SUCCESSFULLY TESTS INTEGRATED AIR DEFENCE WEAPON SYSTEM (IADWS)
TOPIC: (GS3) DWFENCE TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out the first flight tests of the Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) off the coast of Odisha. The system aims to provide multi-layered protection against aerial threats.
Key Features of IADWS
- Indigenous Development: Designed and developed by DRDO with support from Indian industry.
- Multi-layered Defence:
- QRSAM (Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles): For medium-range targets.
- VSHORADS (Very Short-Range Air Defence System): To tackle close-range low-altitude threats.
- Directed Energy Weapon (DEW): High-power laser-based system for precision destruction of drones/UAVs.
- Simultaneous Target Engagement: Destroyed three different targets — two high-speed fixed-wing UAVs and one multi-copter drone — at varying altitudes and ranges.
- Integrated Systems: Command and control, radars, communication links, and detection systems worked seamlessly during trials.
Significance
- Boosts Self-Reliance: Enhances India’s indigenous defence manufacturing under Aatmanirbhar Bharat.
- Modern Threat Response: Capable of neutralising drones, UAVs, and hostile aircraft — reflecting changing nature of aerial warfare.
- Operational Readiness: Strengthens India’s layered air defence architecture to secure critical infrastructure and borders.
- Strategic Milestone: Positions India among select nations with advanced multi-tiered and laser-based air defence systems.
Conclusion
The successful test of IADWS marks a major leap in India’s defence capability, combining missile systems and directed energy weapons into an integrated shield. It strengthens preparedness against next-generation aerial threats, showcasing DRDO’s growing role in cutting-edge military technology.