The Study IAS

Month: June 2025

  • Species in News: Dhole

    Dhole spotted again in Assam’s Kaziranga

    Context: In a major conservation breakthrough, dholes (Asiatic wild dogs), once thought locally extinct in parts of Assam, have been rediscovered in the Kaziranga-Karbi Anglong Landscape. 

    About Dhole

      • Scientific Name: Cuon alpinus
      • Also known as: Asiatic wild dog, Indian wild dog, whistling dog, mountain wolf, red dog, red wolf (not to be confused with Canis rufus).
      • Conservation Status: 
        • Endangered by the IUCN.
        • The Wildlife Protection Act 1972: Schedule II
        • CITES: Appendix II

    • Physical Appearance: It is  is often described as a mix between a grey wolf and a red fox, with subtle cat-like features:

      • Size: Body length ~90 cm (3 ft), shoulder height 43–56 cm (17–22 in), weight up to 18 kg (40 lbs), with females being smaller
      • Fur: Rusty red to brown with a lighter underside; tail is bushy with a dark brown tip
      • Ears: Rounded rather than pointed
      • Teats: 6–8 pairs (more than most canids), supporting large litters
      • Summer coat: Shorter, darker, and coarser

    • Distribution: The dhole’s native range spans Central and Eastern Asia, beginning from the Altai Mountains in Manchuria, extending southwards through India, Burma, and into the Malayan Archipelago. 

      • In India alone, three distinct subspecies (or races) of dholes have been identified: Trans-Himalayan Dhole, Himalayan Dhole, Peninsular Dhole.

    • Habitats: Prefer mixed forest and open spaces, where they are frequently spotted on jungle roads, riverbeds, forest clearings, and trails. 

    • Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on: Berries, insects, lizards (occasionally), Rodents, hares, wild pigs, deer, goats, and monkeys.
    • Dholes typically breed once a year, with a gestation period of 60–63 days. 
    • Dholes are extremely social animals, living in large clans that are flexible in composition and lack strict dominance hierarchies. Clans typically number around 12 individuals, but groups of 40 or more have been observed.

  • Kharai Camel & Mangrove Crisis

    Despite NGT orders, illegal salt pans and encroachment of creeks continue to threaten Kachchh’s Kharai camels

    Context: The rare indigenous Kharai camel of Kachchh, Gujarat, is under serious threat despite repeated interventions by the National Green Tribunal (NGT).

     

     

    About Kharai Camel

    • Scientific Name: Camelus dromedarius. 
    • The Kharai camel, indigenous to Gujarat, derives its name from the local word “Khara”—meaning saline—a nod to its rare ability to thrive in both arid deserts and coastal ecosystems. 
    • The Kharai, also known as the “Swimming Camel,” is a unique camel breed adapted to wade and swim over 3 kilometres in seawater to forage on mangroves. 
    • Recognised as an ecotonal species, it thrives in arid grasslands and swims to mangrove islands (locally called bets), a trait that distinguishes it from all other camel breeds.
    • Additionally, Kharai camel milk, known for its high nutritional value and therapeutic properties, is drawing increasing interest in health and wellness markets, offering new livelihood opportunities.
    • This unique camel has been preserved by the Rabari and Fakirani Jat pastoralist tribes for over 400 years, forming a vital part of their cultural identity and pastoral economy. 
    • Listed as endangered, these species face severe threats from industrial expansion, illegal salt pan encroachment, and climate change, which have degraded their grazing grounds and impacted herder livelihoods.

    NGT’s Directives and Ongoing Violations

    • In 2020, the NGT issued clear directives to halt the destruction of mangroves and to investigate illegal salt pan expansion within Coastal Regulation Zone-I (CRZ-I)—a highly sensitive ecological zone. The court instructed state authorities to:
      • Joint inspection of the affected areas
      • Identification and action against those responsible for creek obstruction and illegal salt pan expansion
      • Recovery and restoration of damaged mangrove areas, including cost assessment for restoration
    • Despite these clear orders, enforcement has been lacking. Violations have continued and even intensified.

  • Adamya Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV)

    ICG inducts ‘Adamya’ the first FPV out of the eight being built by GSL  

    Context: ‘Adamya’, the first Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) under the eight-FPV, was inducted into the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on June 26, 2025, in Goa.

    What is Adamya FPV?

    • The vessel is the first FPV of the 08-FPV project, designed and built entirely by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL).
    • ‘Adamya’ is a state-of-the-art Fast Patrol Vessel, purpose-built to perform a wide range of missions including coastal and offshore patrols, search and rescue (SAR), maritime law enforcement, and anti-smuggling operations. 
    • Designed for speed and agility, it is a critical addition to the ICG’s efforts in securing India’s extensive maritime domain.

    What are the key capabilities of FPV Adamya?

    • The vessel is equipped with an array of advanced navigation, communication, and control systems, enabling high-precision maritime operations even under challenging conditions. 
    • Its hull and propulsion design allow it to operate efficiently at high speeds in shallow waters, making it ideal for near-shore patrols and rapid deployment.

    Key onboard technologies and features include:

    • Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPPs) for superior manoeuvrability
    • Indigenously developed gearboxes
    • 30mm CRN-91 gun and two 12.7mm stabilised remote-control guns with fire control systems
    • Integrated Bridge System (IBS)
    • Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS)
    • Automated Power Management System (APMS)

    What is the operational role and strategic significance of Adamya?

    • The FPV’s capability to respond swiftly and operate flexibly makes it a force multiplier in maintaining vigilance across India’s 7,500-km coastline and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
    • A milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence manufacturing, reinforcing the goals of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
    • The vessel includes over 60% indigenous content, demonstrating India’s growing capability in designing and building advanced maritime platforms. 

    What is the future outlook for the 08-FPV project?

    • The remaining seven FPVs under the 08-FPV project will be delivered in phases, further strengthening India’s coastal defence infrastructure.
    • The project is expected to generate employment and skill development opportunities, bolstering the domestic defence ecosystem.

  • Practising equality in constitutional courts

    Practising Equality in Constitutional Courts: Rethinking the Senior Advocate Designation System in India

    Context: Recently, the Supreme Court of India decided to refix the methodology and the criteria for designating lawyers as senior lawyers. 

    What is the issue surrounding the designation of senior advocates in India?

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    When and how did this controversy gain judicial attention?

    The controversy was addressed notably in three judgments:

    • Indira Jaising v. Supreme Court of India (2017) – Supreme Court laid down guidelines for designating senior advocates.
    • National Lawyers’ Campaign v. Supreme Court (2017) – Challenged Section 16 as unconstitutional.
    • Jitender @ Kalla v. State (2025) – Revisited the issue and criticised the subjectivity of the existing point-based system but upheld the classification.

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    • The issue revolves around the systemic inequality within the legal profession, particularly regarding the designation of ‘senior advocates’ under Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961. 
    • This provision allows constitutional courts to designate lawyers as senior advocates based on ability, standing, or special knowledge.
    • While intended to recognise merit, it has resulted in hierarchical divisions within the Bar and perpetuated elitism, marginalising many deserving lawyers.

    Why is this issue significant for constitutional democracy in India?

    • Public Character of the Legal Profession: The legal profession plays a vital public role, and internal disparities affect judicial access and the fairness of democratic processes.
    • Concentration of Legal Power: The dominance of a few ‘star lawyers’ leads to a legal plutocracy, limiting access to justice for the majority and creating an uneven playing field in the courts.
    • Constitutional Erosion and Intellectual Exclusion: Such inequality undermines the egalitarian principles enshrined in Articles 14 (Right to Equality) and 39A (Equal Justice and Free Legal Aid) of the Constitution, fostering intellectual apartheid within legal discourse.

    Who is affected by the current system of senior advocate designation?

    • Marginalised and underrepresented lawyers: Including those from non-metropolitan areas, lower socio-economic backgrounds, women, and Dalits.
    • Young and first-generation advocates: Often lacking elite mentorship or visibility.
    • General public and litigants: Whose cases are sometimes filtered through the lens of a few “elite” lawyers, skewing access to judicial representation.

    How has the Supreme Court responded to criticisms of inequality in this system?

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    Where does this practice come from and how does it compare globally?

    Section 16 of the Advocates Act, 1961 is the statutory origin of this classification. 

    Globally:

    • U.S.: While there’s no formal senior designation, elite lawyers dominate Supreme Court access.
    • Other countries: such as Nigeria, Ireland, Australia, and Singapore have similar systems of classification.

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    • Legality Upheld: The Court has upheld the constitutionality of classification under Section 16, rejecting claims that the dual class system of advocates is unconstitutional.
    • Limited Reforms Suggested: While recognising flaws in transparency and criteria, the Court only recommended peripheral reforms like revising High Court rules.
    • Subjectivity Overlooked: In the Jitender Case (2025), the Court admitted the point-based system is “highly subjective” but paradoxically allowed its continuation without referring broader constitutional issues to a Constitution Bench.

    What are the core constitutional and democratic concerns?

    • Violation of Article 14: Arbitrary classification creates unequal treatment among equals.
    • Lack of transparency and accountability: Designation often depends on subjective perception and elite networking, not merit.
    • Erosion of diversity and representative character of the Bar: Women, minorities, and rural lawyers are often overlooked.
    • Risk of commercialisation: Legal practice veers toward a corporatised model, similar to the U.S., undermining public interest litigation.

  • India’s Foreign Policy Dilemma: An Avoidable Risk in Israel-Palestine Ties

    India’s Foreign Policy Choices in West Asia: A Costly Balancing Act

    Context:  Recently, India abstained from  UN ceasefire resolution in the context of the Israel-Hamas conflict. 

    What is the core issue with India’s current foreign policy stance on the Israel-Palestine conflict?

    • India’s foreign policy has evolved from a historically principled and pro-Palestinian approach rooted in anti-colonial solidarity to a more strategically balanced engagement that includes closer ties with Israel. 
    • This shift reflects India’s efforts to pursue its national interests in defence, technology, and geopolitics, especially in the context of changing dynamics in West Asia where several Arab countries have also normalised relations with Israel.

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    What are the legal and humanitarian implications of India’s recent abstentions?

    India’s abstentions from ceasefire resolutions:

    • Undermine international humanitarian law.
    • Contradict India’s support for multilateralism and rules-based order.
    • Risk portraying India as indifferent to war crimes, civilian deaths, and humanitarian crises.

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    When did India’s position begin to shift, and what are recent indicators of this trend?

    India’s policy shift began to crystallise in the last decade, especially with increasing defence, tech, and intelligence cooperation with Israel post-2014.

    • Recent indicators: On June 12, 2025, India abstained from a UN resolution titled “Protection of Civilians and Upholding Legal and Humanitarian Obligations” in the context of the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
      • Earlier abstentions and muted responses during key escalations (e.g., 2021 Gaza conflict) have raised similar concerns.

    Where does this diplomatic shift impact India’s global and regional position?

    • Regionally, it strains ties with Iran, Arab countries, and parts of the Muslim world, affecting strategic projects like Chabahar Port and International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC).
    • Globally, India risks eroding its soft power and moral capital in the Global South, where solidarity with Palestine remains a litmus test of ethical foreign policy.
    • Domestically, the moral and humanitarian concerns resonate with civil society, undermining the image of India as a bastion of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.”

    What is the disadvantage in this foreign policy?

    • Strategically, closer ties with Israel have not yielded significant breakthroughs in defence independence, innovation, or diplomatic support.
    • Morally, India’s abandonment of the Palestinian cause undermines its historical identity and reputation as a voice for justice and self-determination.
    • Additionally, India’s abstention on resolutions critical of Israeli aggression makes it appear complicit in violations of international law, further tarnishing its global image.

    How does India’s past position contrast with its current approach?

    • Historical Position:

      • Strong support for Palestinian self-determination.
      • Early recognition of the State of Palestine in 1988.
      • Leaders like Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru voiced opposition to Zionism and the forceful occupation of Palestinian lands.
      • India consistently voted in favour of Palestinian resolutions at the UN.

    • Current Approach:

      • Increasingly abstaining from key UN resolutions condemning Israel.
      • Greater focus on defence ties, surveillance technology, and counter-terrorism cooperation with Israel.
      • Silence or neutral language during humanitarian crises in Gaza.

    How does this policy shift affect India’s soft power and moral capital?

    • India’s historical moral authority—built on the Gandhian legacy of non-violence and support for the oppressed—is being compromised. This weakens:
      • Its soft power among developing nations.Its ability to influence global debates on justice and equity.
      • Its position as a potential leader of the Global South.

    What are the risks to India-Iran relations from this realignment?

    • Iran sees Palestine as central to its foreign policy and ideological identity.
    • India’s growing alignment with Israel may alienate Iran, affecting:
      • Energy security (India imports significant oil from Iran when sanctions permit).
      • Chabahar Port and regional trade routes bypassing Pakistan.
      • Counterbalance to Pakistan-Afghanistan-China axis in Central Asia.

  • India vs China in the Indian Ocean

    India’s China Challenge in the Indian Ocean

    Context: The Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has rapidly emerged as a central battleground for geopolitical competition between India and China. 

    More on News

    • While India’s strategic interests in the region are rooted in its geography and regional identity, China’s growing ambitions in the broader Indo-Pacific have begun reshaping the maritime balance of power. 
    • With the rise of competing visions and expanding influence in littoral states, the Indian Ocean is becoming a crucial theatre of great power rivalry.

    Why Is the Indian Ocean Region Vital for India and China?

    Historically considered a neglected ocean, the Indian Ocean’s geostrategic relevance has surged in the 21st century. Three main developments explain this shift:

    • Rise of Asian Economies: The economic emergence of India and China has transformed regional trade and connectivity networks.
    • Maritime Security Challenges: Piracy near Somalia and other SLOC (Sea Lines of Communication) threats have pushed nations to fortify maritime security.
    • Indo-Pacific Construct: The conceptualisation of the Indo-Pacific as a strategic continuum has placed the Indian Ocean at the heart of global geopolitical discourse.
    • National Interests: For India, this ocean is not just a passage for trade—it is critical to national security and regional leadership. For China, expanding its footprint in the Indian Ocean is key to global power projection and SLOC protection.

    How Is China Expanding Its Presence in the Indian Ocean?

    • Political and Economic Engagement: Beijing’s massive investment in port infrastructure through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)—such as Hambantota in Sri Lanka and Gwadar in Pakistan—is viewed as an attempt to control key maritime chokepoints.
    • Maritime Surveillance via Research Vessels: China’s deployment of “research” vessels in the Indian Ocean has triggered concerns over underwater surveillance and data collection. 
    • Institutional Ambitions: Beijing’s creation of the China-Indian Ocean Forum (2022) reflects its ambition to shape regional norms and institutions. 
      • India’s exclusion from this grouping is strategic—China seeks to undermine India’s centrality in the IOR despite not being a geographically Indian Ocean nation.

    What Is India’s Strategy to Counter China in the Indian Ocean?

    • Positioning as a First Responder and Preferred Partner: India is actively providing HADR (Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief) support, developmental aid, and maritime domain awareness capabilities. 
      • The recently unveiled MAHASAGAR doctrine (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth for All in the Region) signifies India’s intent to lead regional security with a cooperative, inclusive approach.
    • Strengthening Regional Institutions: India has stepped up advocacy for regional platforms like the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), where China is absent. Other efforts include: Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS), Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), Colombo Security Conclave and Active role in the Quad (India, USA, Japan, Australia).
      • These frameworks are designed to build trust, enhance interoperability, and promote a rules-based maritime order.
    • Indigenous Naval Power and Modernisation: India is significantly expanding its naval capabilities through the indigenous development of warships and submarines, along with the commissioning of aircraft carriers, destroyers, and patrol vessels.

    What Makes the India-China Rivalry in the Indian Ocean Unique?

    • Unlike the visible military assertiveness in the South China Sea, the India-China rivalry in the Indian Ocean is unfolding in subtle, long-term ways. 
    • China’s strategy includes: Expanding economic dependencies, Infrastructure-based influence, Maritime surveillance under civilian guises andRegional norm-setting without direct confrontation.
    • India, in contrast, emphasises: Strategic restraint and inclusive development, Respect for sovereignty and regional consensus and Sustainable and transparent partnerships.
    • This contest for primacy in the IOR is not just a bilateral power struggle—it is about shaping the future maritime order in a region vital for global trade, energy flows, and geopolitical influence.

    Why Does the Indian Ocean Matter for Global Security?

    • The Indian Ocean accounts for 50% of global container traffic, 70% of oil shipments and major chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz, Malacca, and Bab el-Mandeb.
    • A stable Indian Ocean is crucial for global commerce and energy security. 

  • India’s Longer Coastline

    How India ‘added’ more than 3,500 km to its coastline

    Context: India’s coastline has officially expanded by nearly 50%, not due to territorial expansion but because of more accurate recent measurements.

    More on News

    • The recent update recalculates India’s coastline to be 11,098 km long, up from the earlier estimate of 7,516 km. 
    • Additionally, the total number of Indian islands has been revised, shedding new light on the country’s maritime geography.
    • This change, though largely technical, has important administrative, environmental, and strategic implications.

    How Has the Coastline Length Increased Without Any Land Gain?

    • This results from improved measurement techniques, not any new territorial acquisition. 
      • Earlier, the coastline was measured using low-resolution data with a scale of 1:4,500,000, leading to underestimation of intricate land contours.
    • The new measurements used high-resolution GIS data at a scale of 1:250,000, allowing for far more detailed mapping of coastal bends, inlets, and irregularities. 

    What Is the Coastline Paradox and How Does It Apply to India?

    • The phenomenon behind this surprising increase is known as the coastline paradox—a mathematical concept stating that natural features like coastlines do not have a fixed length. 
      • Their measured length varies depending on the scale or resolution of measurement.
    • As technology improves, future measurements may further extend India’s coastline, reinforcing the paradox.

    How Has the Number of Indian Islands Changed and Why?

    • Unlike coastlines, counting islands is not subject to the coastline paradox but has its own challenges. 
      • Ambiguities in definitions, such as tidal variations and classification criteria, have historically led to inconsistent island counts.
    • In 2016, the Office of the Surveyor General of India listed 1,382 offshore islands. 
      • However, a later reconciliation involving multiple agencies—such as state governments, the Indian Navy, and the Coast Guard—standardised the count to 1,389 islands, including 91 inshore islands. 
      • Notably, this count excludes river islands like those in Assam and West Bengal.

    What Are the Strategic and Administrative Implications of the New Coastline?

    • Coastal Zone Regulations (CRZ): Revised coastal boundaries could lead to redrawing of CRZ zones, affecting environmental planning and development restrictions.
    • Climate Change and Coastal Erosion: A more accurate coastline aids in designing better erosion control and climate resilience strategies.
    • Infrastructure and Tourism: Port development, coastal highways, and tourism projects can now be planned with better data.
    • Maritime Security: Enhanced understanding of islands and coastline length assists in improving coastal surveillance and naval deployments.

    Do These Changes Affect India’s International Maritime Boundaries?

    • The recalculated coastline and updated island count do not alter India’s international maritime boundaries or Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). 
      • These remain governed by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), based on baselines already established.
    • The significance of the new data is domestic and operational, providing India with a more accurate understanding of its maritime geography for policy, security, and environmental governance.

  • Tomb of Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus

    Context: In a significant ruling last week, the Madhya Pradesh High Court rejected a plea to allow religious and cultural practices at the tomb of Sufi saint Hazrat Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus in Gwalior. 

     

     

     

    About the Tomb

    • Overview: The Tomb of Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus is a significant historical and architectural landmark located in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India. 
      • Built after the saint’s death in 1563, the mausoleum stands as a prime example of early Mughal architecture and is renowned for its intricate stone lattice work and historical associations.
    • Historical Significance: Sheikh Muhammad Ghaus (1500–1562/3) was a prominent Sufi saint of the Shattari order, held in high regard by Mughal emperors Babur, Humayun, and Akbar.
      • He played an instrumental role in Babur’s conquest of Gwalior Fort in 1526 and later became a spiritual teacher to Emperor Humayun.
      • The tomb was constructed during Akbar’s reign, reflecting the Mughal architectural style of the period.
      • The site also houses the grave of Tansen, the legendary musician and one of Akbar’s “Navratnas,” who was a disciple of Muhammad Ghaus.
    • Architectural Features: The tomb is a square structure topped with a large central dome, originally adorned with blue glazed tiles (now lost).
      • Chhatris (domed kiosks) on the corners and a veranda encircle the main chamber, enhancing its multi-tiered appearance.
      • The most striking feature is the elaborate pierced stone screens (jaalis), which surround the tomb and are considered among the finest examples in India. 
        • These screens not only provide aesthetic beauty but also filter light and air, creating a serene atmosphere inside.
      • The design incorporates influences from Gujarati and Rajasthani architecture, serving as a precursor to later Mughal monuments such as the tomb of Shaikh Salim Chishti at Fatehpur Sikri.
    • Cultural and Legal Status: The tomb is a Centrally Protected Monument under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, and has been maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) since 1962.

  • Shubhanshu Shukla Makes History as First Indian Aboard the ISS

    Shukla becomes first Indian to enter the ISS

    Context: Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla of the Indian Air Force became the first Indian to enter the International Space Station (ISS). He was part of the Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) crew, alongside three other astronauts.

    What is Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4)?

    • Axiom Mission 4 is a private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), organised by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX. The mission follows Axiom-1, Axiom-2, and Axiom-3.
    • The mission signifies the return to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary — their first government-sponsored crewed missions in over 40 years.
    • It is the second human spaceflight in history for each of these nations, and the first time they will participate in a mission aboard the ISS.
    • Ax-4 will conduct around 60 scientific studies and activities, representing 31 countries, including India, USA, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and several European nations.

    How is the Mission Being Carried Out?

    • Launch Date & Site: June 25, Launch Complex 39A, NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Florida.
    • Launch Vehicle: SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket, known for its reusability and reliability.
    • Capsule: SpaceX’s Dragon crew capsule will transport the astronauts to the ISS.

    Why Is This Mission Important?

    • It is India’s first astronaut visit to the ISS.
    • It serves as a prelude to the Gaganyaan mission, India’s first indigenous human spaceflight program, expected no earlier than 2026.
    • The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) paid over ₹500 crore to include Mr. Shukla and backup astronaut Prasanth Nair in Ax-4.
    • The mission enhances India’s presence in global human spaceflight and strengthens international collaborations.

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    International Space Station (ISS)

    • ISS was officially approved by President Reagan and received budget approval from the US Congress in 1984.
    • It is a joint venture involving five space agencies: NASA (United States), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (European Space Agency), and CSA (Canadian Space Agency).
    • It is Earth’s only microgravity laboratory.
    • It is a large spacecraft that orbits the Earth at an altitude of about 400 km.
    • An international crew of seven people live and work while travelling at a speed of five miles per second, orbiting Earth about every 90 minutes. 
    • It facilitates experiments, research, and international cooperation.

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  • Multidimensional Indices in Indian Healthcare

    Reforming Social Protection with Multidimensional Indices

    Context: India’s poverty measurement has evolved from pre-independence subsistence-based estimates to modern multidimensional frameworks. This shift recognises poverty as a complex interplay of deprivations across health, education, and living standards, not just income.

    What Is the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) and Why Was It Introduced?

    • The Multidimensional Poverty Index is a global measure that captures acute poverty by assessing multiple deprivations people face in their daily lives—beyond just income.
    • Developed in 2010 by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
    • In 2021, Niti Aayog introduced the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) for India, marking a pivotal step in measuring and addressing poverty. 
    • The MPI, based on the Alkire-Foster methodology, captures both the incidence (how many are poor) and intensity (how poor they are) of multidimensional poverty. 
    • India’s MPI utilises 12 weighted indicators, carefully selected to align with national development priorities. Households are categorised according to their cumulative deprivation scores, providing a nuanced picture of poverty. These indicators provide insight into both the incidence and intensity of poverty.

    Progress and Disparities in Poverty Reduction

    • A comparison between data from NFHS 2015-16 and NFHS 2019-21 shows a significant reduction in multidimensional poverty—from 24.85% to 14.96%—with approximately 135 million people moving out of poverty.
    • This progress is credited to the granular, region-specific insights generated by the MPI, which have informed targeted interventions under schemes such as: State Support Mission initiative, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana, National Food Security Act (NFSA), Jal Jeevan Mission, and Swachh Bharat Mission.
    • However, this progress has been uneven. While indicators related to standards of living saw reductions of 15–25 percentage points, health-related deprivations declined only by 0.6–6 percentage points, revealing systemic gaps in healthcare-related targeting and coverage.

    Why Is Healthcare Targeting Still Inadequate?

    • Despite the demonstrated value of MPI in addressing overlapping deprivations, its potential remains underexploited in healthcare policy. Current schemes such as AB-PMJAY and the NFSA 2013, rely on outdated data from the Socio-Economic Caste Census 2011, which uses broad income proxies. 
    • This results in inadequate targeting and exclusion of deserving households—for example, a household owning a motor vehicle might be ineligible for health benefits despite suffering from severe health-related deprivation.
    • Moreover, the MPI does not fully capture the intensity of poverty or the dynamic nature of vulnerabilities, which limits its effectiveness in designing responsive health policies. A government audit highlighted that beneficiary identification lacked scientific rigour, further compounding exclusion issues.

    How Can MPI and MVI Be Integrated into Healthcare Schemes Like AB-PMJAY?

    • Integrating MPI and MVI into schemes like AB-PMJAY can improve effectiveness. 
      • Currently, AB-PMJAY covers INR 5,00,000 per family for hospitalisation for the bottom 40% and individuals aged over 70. 
      • However, it lacks coverage for outpatient care, a significant source of financial stress for vulnerable families. Despite a reduction in out-of-pocket healthcare spending (from 62.6% to 39.4%), 32–39 million people are still pushed into poverty annually due to catastrophic health expenses.
    • By applying sliding scale mechanisms based on vulnerability intensity, MPI and MVI can ensure equitable resource distribution. India already uses similar tools under the Aspirational Districts Programme and could extend this approach to all national health initiatives.

    What Is the Way Forward for India’s Poverty and Health Policy? 

    • Budget Allocation: Multidimensional indices also have the potential to optimise budget allocation and improve institutional coordination. Costa Rica accelerated poverty reduction in 2017 without increasing spending by aligning MPI data with specific ministerial programmes, enhancing coordination and efficiency.
    • Inter-Ministerial Coordination: India can adopt a similar “whole-of-government” approach, drawing inspiration from Panama’s Social Cabinet, where inter-ministerial collaboration was led by the president. Such a mechanism would enhance cooperation across ministries dealing with health, nutrition, sanitation, education, and social protection, all of which affect health outcomes.

  • A Roadmap for Securing India’s Undersea Cables

    Undersea Cables in India: A Strategic Plan to Strengthen National Security

    Context: Undersea fibre optic cables, carrying 97% of global data and enabling US$10 trillion in daily transactions, are vital to India’s digital economy. With just 17 cables—mostly concentrated near Mumbai—India faces growing strategic risks, especially amid rising cable disruptions and China’s deep-sea sabotage capabilities. 

    What are undersea fibre optic cables and why are they important for India’s economy?

    Undersea fibre optic (FO) cables are the backbone of global digital communication. They carry 97% of global data traffic and enable about US$10 trillion in international financial transactions daily.

    Why Important for India:

    • India’s services exports stood at US$341.11 billion in 2023–24, most of which relied on undersea cables.

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    How are undersea fibre optic cables laid and maintained?

    • Specialised cable-laying ships deploy cables across oceans between Cable Landing Stations (CLSs).
    • In shallow waters, cables are buried using ploughs or water jet trenching devices to protect them from ship anchors and fishing activity.
    • Cables include repeater units (for signal amplification) and sometimes metallic armouring in high-risk zones.
    • Repairs require lifting the cable, cutting it, diagnosing faults, and splicing it with new sections. This is a complex, time-sensitive process.

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    • These exports are expected to rise to US$618 billion by 2030, overtaking merchandise exports.
    • India’s digital economy, finance sector, defence communication, and strategic planning critically depend on seamless undersea connectivity.

    Where do India’s undersea cables land, and why is it a strategic concern?

    • India currently hosts 17 international subsea cables through 16 landing stations, with the majority concentrated around Versova Beach in Maharashtra.
        • In contrast, Singapore has 26 subsea cables landing at three distinct sites, ensuring redundancy and security.

     

    • Why It Matters:
      • A six-kilometre coastal stretch hosting most of the country’s cables presents a single-point vulnerability.
      • Any targeted attack or natural disaster in this region could cripple India’s internet and financial systems.

    Why are undersea cables increasingly at risk?

    • On 22 March 2025, China revealed a deep-sea cable-cutting device capable of damaging even fortified underwater lines.
    • The Baltic Sea and Taiwan regions have witnessed multiple cable disruptions, with at least 11 incidents in the Baltic alone in 15 months.
    • The dual-use nature of these devices (repair vs. sabotage) creates ambiguity and threat.

    What are India’s key vulnerabilities in securing its undersea cables?

    • Limited number of cables: Only 17 subsea cables serve India.
    • Ageing infrastructure: At least 11 of these are nearing end-of-life.
    • Geographic concentration: Most cables land near Mumbai, a single point of failure.
    • Lack of indigenous repair ships: India depends on foreign cable repair services, which face delays due to availability, distance, and regulatory red tape.

    Why does this matter for India’s strategic and economic future?

    • India’s growing role as a global digital hub makes its undersea cable security a national imperative. The economic and strategic fallout of a major disruption—whether accidental or deliberate—could be catastrophic.
    • This report by Monty Khanna lays out a multi-layered roadmap encompassing infrastructure expansion, military preparedness, regulatory reform, and technological innovation, aimed at building resilience in India’s undersea cable network.
    • By treating data connectivity as critical infrastructure, India can ensure its economic growth and national security remain uninterrupted in the years ahead.

  • AUKUS and Indo-Pacific Security

    Context: The Indo-Pacific region’s rapidly evolving security dynamics have made multilateral defence cooperation critical. 

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    • In 2021, AUKUS—a trilateral security alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—was launched with a strategic focus on countering China’s rising assertiveness. 
    • However, in 2025, the future of AUKUS appears uncertain as the White House under President Donald Trump initiates a review to assess its compatibility with the administration’s ‘America First’ foreign policy agenda.

    What Is AUKUS and Why Was It Formed?

    • AUKUS was established to:  
      • Enable Australia to acquire conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs).
      • Promote joint development and sharing of cutting-edge military technologies, including cyber, AI, quantum, and undersea warfare.
    • At its core, AUKUS is a strategic response to China’s growing influence and military footprint in the Indo-Pacific. 
      • It aims to reinforce regional deterrence, ensure a rules-based order, and prevent escalation through collective maritime preparedness.

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    AUKUS and India

    AUKUS significantly impacts India’s strategic environment by enhancing deterrence against China’s assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific. While India is not a member, it stands to benefit from strengthened Australian naval capabilities, which help divert Chinese naval focus away from the Indian Ocean, and from potential technology cooperation in areas like cybersecurity and advanced defense systems. The alliance complements India’s Quad partnership by focusing on military capabilities, offering India opportunities to deepen scientific and strategic ties with AUKUS members, especially Australia and the UK. However, India must balance these engagements carefully to maintain strategic autonomy and manage complex regional dynamics, including relations with other powers like Russia and France.

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    What is the Strategic Need for AUKUS?

    • China has pursued aggressive tactics in the South China Sea (SCS) by militarising artificial islands and ignoring the 2016 PCA ruling in the Philippines v. China case. 
      • With more than twenty outposts in the Paracel Islands and seven artificial islands in the Spratlys, China’s grey-zone operations have alarmed regional powers.
    • Recent PLA Navy exercises in the Taiwan Strait, including unscheduled live-fire drills and median line incursions by over 20 military aircraft, underscore the rising tensions. 
      • China’s rising nuclear stockpile—growing from 200 warheads in 2018 to over 600 in 2024, and projected to reach 1,500 by 2035—further heightens the security stakes in the Indo-Pacific.
    • In response, AUKUS plays a critical role in reinforcing nuclear deterrence, leveraging the forward-deployment of up to five allied SSNs in Australia by the mid-2030s to enhance war-preparedness and peace through strength.

    Trump’s Review of AUKUS: A Strategic Reset?

    President Trump’s return to office has triggered a strategic reassessment of US foreign alliances, including AUKUS. His administration’s review is aimed at:

    • Ensuring AUKUS aligns with the ‘America First’ policy, which prioritises US defence capabilities.
    • Addressing concerns that US submarine production is stretched thin even for domestic needs.
    • Re-evaluating the cost-benefit balance of providing nuclear submarine technology to allies.
    • Trump’s foreign policy is transactional and unilateral, reducing emphasis on long-term multilateral alliances unless they serve immediate American interests. 
      • This poses challenges to the future of defence pacts like AUKUS.

    What about Resilience and Strategic Calculations?

    • Despite the uncertainties, Australia remains committed to AUKUS, having pledged A$368 billion over 30 years and recently accelerating A$10 billion in defence spending over the next four years. 
      • Canberra views the review as a routine administrative measure following a change in US leadership.
    • The UK, another key AUKUS partner, has also reviewed and reaffirmed its commitment to the alliance, planning to raise its defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% by 2034.
    • The US, in turn, has urged both partners to increase burden-sharing, expecting Australia to spend up to 3.5% of its GDP on defence. This push for a more balanced and equitable security alliance reflects Washington’s broader Indo-Pacific strategy.

    Why AUKUS Still Matters for Indo-Pacific Security

    • The strategic importance of Australia’s maritime geography underpins the AUKUS pact. 
      • As tensions with China intensify, AUKUS allows the US and UK to project power, share defence technologies, and strengthen collective deterrence without direct military escalation.
    • Key developments reinforcing AUKUS’ strategic relevance include:
      • The 2014 Force Posture Agreement between Australia and the US.
      • The 2021 AUSMIN Dialogue, which laid the groundwork for deeper US-Australia military coordination.
      • Plans to double forward-deployed allied submarines in the Indo-Pacific.
    • As China advances militarily and diplomatically in the region, AUKUS remains a cornerstone of maritime defence strategy and a deterrent force safeguarding a rules-based Indo-Pacific order.

  • India’s Poverty Debate

    The truth about poverty in India

    Context: In April 2025, the Government of India issued a press release titled “India’s Triumph in Combating Poverty”, citing the World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Brief which stated that 171 million Indians were lifted out of extreme poverty in the last decade. 

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    • Earlier this month, the World Bank updated its poverty line to $3 per day, estimating that just 5.75% of Indians now live in abject poverty, a significant decline from 27% in 2011–12.

    What the World Bank’s Latest Data on Poverty in India Shows

    • Past Poverty Was Overestimated: According to updated World Bank figures, India’s historical poverty levels were actually lower than previously estimated. 
      • For instance, in 1977–78, poverty was earlier estimated at 64%, but is now revised to 47%.
    • Sharp Decline in Extreme Poverty Since 2011: Using the new international poverty line of $3/day, the proportion of Indians living in extreme poverty has dropped from 27% (2011–12) to 5.75% (2022–23) — a reduction of nearly 270 million people in a decade.

    What Is the $3 Poverty Line? 

    • The World Bank uses Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), a method that adjusts for price differences across countries. 
    • The PPP rate for India in 2025 is 20.6, making the poverty threshold ₹62/day per person.

    What Is a Poverty Line and Why Does It Matter?

    • A poverty line is a benchmark income level that helps determine whether an individual is poor. 
        • However, poverty is context-specific — ₹1,000/month may have been adequate in 1975, but is far from sufficient today.
    • Why Governments Use Poverty Lines:
      • To design and evaluate welfare policies.
      • To track poverty trends over time and measure the success of economic interventions.

    Why Does India Rely on the World Bank’s Poverty Line?

    Historically, India was a global pioneer in poverty estimation, with home-grown methodologies like:

    • Tendulkar Committee (2009): Set poverty lines at ₹29/day (urban) and ₹22/day (rural), later revised to ₹36 and ₹30 in 2011–12.
    • Rangarajan Committee (2014): Recommended a higher poverty line of ₹47/day (urban) and ₹33/day (rural), but its report was never officially adopted.
    • Since 2012, no official update has been made to India’s poverty line, pushing analysts to rely on NITI Aayog’s Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) or World Bank benchmarks.

    How Is the World Bank Poverty Line Calculated?

      • The World Bank’s first poverty line — $1/day in 1985 prices — was based on an average of poverty thresholds from the world’s poorest countries, adjusted using PPP exchange rates to allow global comparisons.
      • As global inflation rose, the World Bank updated its thresholds:
    • $1/day → $1.25 → $1.90 → $2.15
      • In 2025: $3/day PPP-adjusted poverty line
    • In India, this equates to ₹62/day per person. By comparison, the UK’s PPP rate is 0.67, and China’s is 3.45.

  • Bonalu

    Month-long Bonalu starts in Hyderabad

    Context: Month-long Bonalu festival has started in Hyderabad’s Sri Jagadambika Ammavari Temple at Golconda Fort.

    What is Bonalu?

    • It is a Hindu festival dedicated to Goddess Mahakali, celebrated predominantly in the state of Telangana, especially in the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. 
    • The festival takes place annually during the Telugu month of Ashada Masam, which typically falls in July or August. 

    What is the Meaning and Origin?

    • The word “Bonalu” comes from the Telugu word Bonam, meaning “meal” or “feast.” 
    • This refers to the special food offerings prepared for the goddess as a form of thanksgiving and devotion. 
    • The festival’s origins trace back to the early 19th century during a deadly plague in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. 
      • Locals prayed to Goddess Mahakali for protection, promising offerings if the plague ended. 
      • When the epidemic subsided, the tradition of Bonalu began as an annual expression of gratitude.

    What are the Key Rituals?

    • Bonam Offering: Women prepare rice cooked with milk and jaggery in new brass or earthen pots, decorated with neem leaves, turmeric, vermilion, and a lit lamp. These pots are carried on their heads to temples, where the offerings are presented along with bangles and sarees to the goddess.
    • Pothuraju Procession: Pothuraju, considered the goddess’s brother, is represented by a man who leads the processions, dancing energetically to drumbeats and symbolising strength and protection.
    • Rangam: A ritual where a woman, believed to be possessed by the goddess, enters a trance and delivers oracular predictions for the community.

    Important Venues

    • Sri Jagadambika Ammavari Temple, Golconda Fort: The festival traditionally begins here with the offering of the golden bonam.
    • Ujjaini Mahankali Temple, Secunderabad: Hosts one of the grandest celebrations, especially on the third Sunday of Ashada Masam.
    • Other Temples: Celebrations are also held at various other temples across Hyderabad, Secunderabad, and Telangana, each with its unique local customs.

  • Rising Non-Communicable Diseases in Rural India

    Why non-communicable diseases are rising in rural India

    Context: India is witnessing a rapid and concerning escalation in the prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), with lifestyle changes, environmental pressures, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure, especially in rural areas, NCDs have emerged as a leading public health crisis.

    What Are NCDs and Their Impact?

    • NCDs are chronic conditions that are not transmitted from person to person. They include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health disorders. 
    • NCDs are the leading cause of death worldwide, responsible for 74% of all deaths. Nearly three-quarters of NCD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.
    • This shift is no longer confined to urban areas—rural India is increasingly affected, raising serious concerns about healthcare equity and access.

    Key Drivers of NCDs in Rural India

    • Urbanisation-driven lifestyle changes: Increased fast food consumption, lack of sleep and exercise, rising stress.
    • Globalised consumer habits are displacing traditional diets and physical routines.
    • Overuse of fertilisers and pollution are affecting both human and animal health.
    • India’s dual burden: While some parts of the population suffer from malnutrition, others face obesity-related risks.

    Case Study: Gangnauli Village, Uttar Pradesh – A Rural NCD Hotspot

    • Gangnauli, a small village in Baghpat district, Western Uttar Pradesh, provides a microcosmic view of this national crisis. 
    • Om Singh, a 65-year-old resident, first noticed a gum wound in 2009. After local treatments failed, he was diagnosed with cancer at Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi in 2010. 
    • Contributing factors include:
      • Polluted groundwater due to industrial waste from nearby sugar mills seeping through check dams into irrigation channels.
      • Shift to monoculture (sugarcane and paddy) farming in response to environmental and policy pressures.
      • Rising stray cattle due to restrictions on cattle trade.
      • Shrinking forest cover, pushing wild animals into croplands.

    Challenges in Addressing NCDs in Rural Settings

    • Inadequate infrastructure: Many villages lack functional primary health centres. The Primary Health Centre is 10 km away, accessible only by private transport.
    • Shortage of trained personnel: Especially specialists and diagnostic technicians. Diagnostic facilities are absent; most patients travel to Delhi for treatment.
    • High out-of-pocket costs: Push families into debt or deter care-seeking.
    • Poor follow-up systems: Chronic care requires continuity, which is often missing. Only five ASHA and four Anganwadi workers serve the village.

    Government Response and Interventions

    • Ayushman Bharat and Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs): Launched in 2018, HWCs aim to provide comprehensive primary care, including NCD screening, free medicines, and teleconsultation.
    • NPCDCS: Launched in 2010, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke supports infrastructure, training, and screening across all states.
    • Intensified NCD Screening Drives: In 2025, the government launched a nationwide campaign to screen all individuals aged 30+ for diabetes, hypertension, and common cancers.
    • Mobile Medical Units and Telemedicine: These are being deployed to bridge access gaps in remote areas, offering diagnostics and specialist consultations.

    Way Forward

    • Frontline local health workers (ASHAs, ANMs) are critical for outreach, screening, and follow-up. Foster public-private partnerships and leverage innovations like mobile health apps for screening and follow-up.
    • Implement data-driven, region-specific interventions to address local risk factors. Integrate NCD care into routine services, especially maternal and child health platforms.
    • Enhance rural health literacy and introduce school-based awareness programs to promote healthy lifestyles from a young age.