31th may 2025 Current Affairs

Battery Aadhaar Initiative

Syllabus:Economy

Battery Aadhaar Initiative – Unveiled at Battery Summit 2025 | By Tata Elxsi in collaboration with Tata Motors, Tata AutoComp & IIT Kharagpur | Purpose: Supports India’s green mobility goals and circular economy by enabling full battery traceability using secure digital systems.

What is Battery Aadhaar?

A digital identity system for batteries that ensures traceability across their lifecycle using blockchain-backed technologies.
Led by: Tata Elxsi via MOBIUS+ platform with Tata Motors, Tata AutoComp & IIT Kharagpur.

Objectives:

Assign unique digital IDs to every battery; enable safe usage, regulated reuse & responsible disposal; ensure compliance with Indian and global standards including the EU Battery Regulation.

Key Features:

Blockchain integration ensures tamper-proof, real-time data logging; lifecycle transparency tracks manufacturing details, usage history & material content; regulatory automation simplifies compliance; supports sustainability by reducing battery waste & environmental risk.

Why It Matters:

Prevents unsafe reuse of degraded batteries; enhances safety & efficiency in EVs and energy storage; improves supply chain visibility & accountability; fosters innovation in green tech; aligns with National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP).

Consider the following statements regarding the features of the Battery Aadhaar initiative:

It integrates blockchain to ensure tamper-proof tracking of each battery’s data.
It provides real-time lifecycle data, including material composition and usage history.
It is implemented exclusively by Tata Motors under the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer:A
Explanation:

Statement 3 is incorrect — the initiative is led by Tata Elxsi in partnership with Tata Motors, Tata AutoComp, and IIT Kharagpur, not exclusively by Tata Motors.
The Battery Aadhaar initiative leverages blockchain technology through Tata Elxsi’s MOBIUS+ platform.
Blockchain ensures that the data logged for each battery (e.g., manufacturing origin, usage, recycling status) is immutable, secure, and traceable in real-time, making it tamper-proof.
This is essential for ensuring regulatory compliance and preventing the unsafe reuse of degraded batteries.

Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023

Syllabus:Defence

Framed under Section 11 of the Act, these rules establish a clear operational framework for Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs).
Empower heads of ISOs with full administrative and disciplinary authority over personnel from all service branches.
Define command succession protocols during the absence of designated officers and prevent overlapping disciplinary proceedings.
Facilitate seamless coordination across tri-service commands without altering individual service laws.

About the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023:

Enacted: Came into force on May 10, 2024, following Presidential assent on August 15, 2023, and passage in the 2023 Monsoon Session of Parliament.
Purpose: To unify command and enhance operational efficiency in joint service establishments like the Andaman & Nicobar Command, National Defence Academy, and Defence Space Agency.

Key Features of the Act:

Empowered ISO Leadership: Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command can exercise disciplinary and administrative control over all personnel within their ISO, regardless of service affiliation, ensuring decisive leadership and clear command.
Tri-Service Integration: Recognizes existing ISOs and provides a legal basis for creating new joint commands, fostering collaboration in planning and operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Preservation of Service Laws: Does not modify the Army, Navy, or Air Force Acts, maintaining the unique conditions of each service while enabling joint administrative processes.
Command Clarity & Emergency Procedures: Establishes clear succession protocols for command vacancies and permits appointment of acting commanders during emergencies.
Administrative Efficiency: Eliminates redundant disciplinary actions, promotes resource sharing, and strengthens accountability within tri-service commands.

Consider the following statements regarding the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023 and its newly notified rules:

The Act empowers ISO heads with disciplinary authority over personnel from all services without altering existing service-specific laws.
The rules allow overlapping disciplinary proceedings across different service branches within an ISO to ensure strict accountability.
Command succession protocols are established to ensure operational continuity during the absence of designated officers.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 1 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct:The Act empowers the heads of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) to exercise full disciplinary and administrative authority over personnel from all service branches (Army, Navy, Air Force) under their command.
Importantly, this is done without altering the existing service-specific laws like the Army Act, Navy Act, or Air Force Act.
The Act creates a unified operational framework while preserving the unique laws governing each service.
Statement 2 is incorrect:The newly notified rules explicitly prevent overlapping disciplinary proceedings across different service branches within an ISO.
This is aimed at avoiding duplication and confusion in disciplinary actions, thereby promoting administrative efficiency and command clarity.
Allowing overlapping proceedings would contradict this objective.
Statement 3 is correct:The rules establish clear command succession protocols to ensure operational continuity when the designated officer is absent.
This includes provisions for deputation of acting commanders during emergencies or leaves, ensuring no disruption in command and control within ISOs.

Tropical Cyclones and Their Impact on Infant Mortality

Syllabus:Geography

Recent research has revealed a concerning correlation between tropical cyclones and increased infant mortality rates in low- and middle-income countries. The study shows that infants exposed to cyclones within their first year of life are significantly more likely to die, highlighting the urgent need for improved disaster preparedness and child health protections—especially as climate change intensifies the occurrence and severity of these storms.

Tropical Cyclones: An Overview

Tropical cyclones are powerful storms that form over warm tropical oceans, characterized by low pressure, strong winds, and heavy rainfall. Depending on the region, they are called hurricanes or typhoons. Their formation depends on a combination of warm sea temperatures, moist air, and atmospheric circulation.

Key Findings on Infant Mortality

The study found that tropical cyclone exposure during infancy is associated with an average 11% rise in infant mortality, amounting to approximately 4.4 additional deaths per 1,000 live births. The greatest risk was recorded within the first year after the cyclone, with mortality rates returning to baseline levels after about two years. The specific mechanisms causing this rise are still being studied.

Geographic and National Disparities

Health records from seven countries—Bangladesh, Madagascar, Cambodia, the Philippines, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti—were analyzed. Impacts varied widely:
Bangladesh and Haiti experienced increases of over 10 additional deaths per 1,000 live births.

Other countries reported smaller or negligible changes.

These disparities are linked to differences in geography, housing quality, and the strength of public health systems.
Factors Driving Increased Mortality
Surprisingly, the study found no significant impact on health care access or child undernutrition from cyclone exposure. This suggests that other variables—such as environmental hazards, displacement, or breakdowns in community support systems—may be responsible for the increased mortality risk. Identifying these underlying drivers is essential for effective intervention.

The Role of Climate Change

Climate change is expected to increase both the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones. This growing threat poses heightened risks to vulnerable populations, especially infants. As a result, strengthening disaster response systems, improving infrastructure, and prioritizing infant and maternal health in emergency planning are critical steps to reduce these preventable deaths.

Consider the following statements regarding the recent research linking tropical cyclones to infant mortality in low- and middle-income countries:

The study observed a statistically significant rise in infant mortality primarily due to increased undernutrition and reduced access to health care facilities post-cyclone.
Countries with stronger public health infrastructure reported negligible increases in infant mortality rates despite exposure to tropical cyclones.
Climate change is projected to intensify both the frequency and severity of tropical cyclones, further aggravating risks to infant survival in vulnerable regions.
The impact of tropical cyclones on infant mortality was found to persist beyond two years post-exposure, indicating long-term health system deficiencies.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 2 and 3 only
B) 1, 3 and 4 only
C) 2, 3 and 4 only
D) 1, 2 and 3 only

Answer: A) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 – Incorrect: The study did not attribute the mortality rise to undernutrition or lack of healthcare access. In fact, it explicitly noted that these factors were not affected by cyclone exposure, suggesting other causes such as environmental stress or community-level disruptions.
Statement 2 – Correct: Countries with better public health systems did show lower increases in infant mortality, implying the buffering effect of health infrastructure.
Statement 3 – Correct: Climate change is indeed projected to increase the frequency and severity of tropical cyclones, posing greater risks to already vulnerable populations.
Statement 4 – Incorrect: The study found that the infant mortality spike stabilizes after two years, rather than persisting beyond that period.

RBI Balance Sheet Growth and Economic Outlook 2025

Syllabus:Economy

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has reported an 8.2% expansion in its balance sheet for the financial year 2024–25, reaching a total of ₹76.25 lakh crore. This growth reflects India’s robust economic performance amid global headwinds, reinforcing its status as the fastest-growing major economy projected for 2025–26.

Key Financial Indicators

Income and Expenditure: RBI’s income rose by 77%, while expenditure increased by 7.76%. The annual surplus stood at ₹2.69 trillion, reflecting a 27.37% increase over the previous year.

Asset Growth Drivers:

Gold holdings: Up by 09%
Domestic investments: Increased by 32%
Foreign investments: Rose by 70%
Composition of Assets and Liabilities (As of March 31, 2025)

Assets:

Domestic assets: 25.73% of total assets
Foreign currency assets, gold, and loans to financial institutions: 74.27%

Liabilities:

Notes issued: Increased by 03%
Revaluation accounts: Up by 32%
Other liabilities: Grew by 31%
Currency and Coin Circulation Trends

Banknotes:

Total value in circulation rose by 6%
₹500 notes remained dominant but saw a marginal decline in value share
Withdrawal of ₹2000 notes continued, with 2% returned to banks

Coins:

Circulation increased by 6%
Digital Currency and Counterfeiting
E-Rupee: Recorded a substantial 334% increase in circulation, reflecting growing adoption of central bank digital currency (CBDC).

Counterfeit Notes:

Overall decline, except for:
₹200 notes: 9% increase
₹500 notes: 3% increase

Macroeconomic Outlook

The RBI affirmed that India’s macroeconomic fundamentals remain strong, supported by:
Easing of global supply chain constraints
Improvement in agricultural output
Moderating inflation pressures, with the RBI projecting headline inflation aligning with the 4% target over the next 12 months

Policy Recommendations

The central bank advised financial institutions to:
Enhance interest rate risk management
Address risks in both the trading book and the banking book

Prepare for pressure on net interest margins in a dynamic interest rate environment

With reference to the RBI Annual Report 2024–25, consider the following statements:

The increase in RBI’s surplus in FY 2024–25 was driven primarily by higher domestic investments and interest earnings from sovereign lending.
The share of foreign currency assets, gold, and institutional loans collectively exceeded that of domestic assets in the RBI’s total asset composition.
The proportion of ₹500 banknotes in circulation increased, making it the fastest-growing denomination in value terms during the financial year.
The e-Rupee saw a multi-fold growth in circulation, surpassing the value of coins in circulation for the first time.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2 and 3 only

Correct Answer: B. 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect
While domestic investments increased by 14.32%, the primary drivers of surplus were broader, including foreign exchange transactions and gold-related gains, not specifically sovereign lending or domestic interest income.
Statement 2: Correct
As per the RBI report, foreign currency assets, gold, and institutional loans made up 27% of total assets, exceeding domestic assets (25.73%).
Statement 3: Incorrect
The ₹500 banknotes remained the most circulated denomination but saw a slight decline in value share, meaning it did not grow the fastest.
Statement 4: Incorrect
Though e-Rupee circulation rose by 334%, there’s no evidence suggesting it surpassed coins in total value. Coins themselves rose by 9.6%, but e-rupee is still a smaller share of total circulation.

Amazon Rain Forests

Syllabus:Environment

The recent publication of the book “How to Save the Amazon”, completed posthumously in honor of British journalist Dom Phillips, has reignited global focus on the ecological importance and growing vulnerability of the Amazon Rainforest.

Amazon Rainforest Overview

Geographical Extent:Spanning across nine South American nations, the Amazon Rainforest is geographically bounded by:
North: Guiana Highlands
West: Andes Mountains
South: Brazilian Central Plateau
East: Atlantic Ocean
Area Distribution:
Brazil: ~60%
Peru: ~13%
Colombia: ~10%
Others: Bolivia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Guyana, Suriname, and French Guiana hold smaller portions.
Climate:
Predominantly hot and humid, with stable temperatures ranging between 26°C to 30°C year-round
Non-seasonal climate with annual precipitation ranging from 2,000 mm to 10,920 mm

Biodiversity and Indigenous Communities

Tribal Populations:Includes diverse indigenous groups such as the Yanomamo, Kayapo, Akuntsu, Matses, and Tupi, among others, who are vital custodians of forest knowledge and conservation.
Faunal Diversity:Home to numerous iconic and endemic species, including:
Reptiles & Amphibians: Anaconda, poison dart frog, glass frog
Mammals: Jaguar, sloth, spider monkey, Amazon River dolphin
Birds: Toucan, scarlet macaw
Other Notables: Jesus lizard, howler monkey, golden lion tamarin
Floral Richness:Dominated by moist broadleaf tropical rainforest species like:
Timber & Medicinal Trees: Rosewood, mahogany, Amazonian cedar
Economically Valuable Plants: Brazil nut, rubber tree, myrtle, laurel, palm, acacia

Ecological and Global Significance

“Lungs of the Planet”: Contributes approximately 20% of global oxygen, playing a critical role in atmospheric cleansing
Carbon Sequestration: Acts as a major carbon sink, aiding global climate regulation
Medicinal Value: Rich in bioactive plant compounds with potential to treat chronic illnesses, including cancers

Major Threats to the Amazon

Climate Change: Alters precipitation patterns, increases temperature anomalies, and introduces pollutants, thereby stressing ecosystems
Deforestation: Driven by logging, agricultural expansion, and cattle ranching, leading to significant habitat loss
Wildfires: Intensified by human activities and dry conditions—e.g., 2019 fires caused extensive ecological damage and biodiversity loss

With reference to the Amazon Rainforest, consider the following statements:

The Amazon contributes nearly one-third of the world’s oxygen and spans exclusively within Brazil’s territory.
The forest is home to unique amphibian species such as the glass frog and poison dart frog, both of which rely on intact canopy cover for survival.
Despite being rich in carbon storage, the Amazon is not considered a significant contributor to medicinal bio-discovery due to its low endemism.
The 2019 Amazon wildfires were largely attributed to natural climatic cycles rather than anthropogenic activity.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 2 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: A. 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Amazon contributes around 20% of global oxygen and spans nine South American countries, not just Brazil.
Statement 2 is correct: Species like the glass frog and poison dart frog depend on dense, moist canopies found in undisturbed rainforest habitats.
Statement 3 is incorrect: The Amazon is a global hotspot for medicinal research due to its immense biodiversity and endemism.
Statement 4 is incorrect: The 2019 wildfires were primarily caused by human activities such as illegal logging and slash-and-burn agriculture, not natural climatic phenomena.

What are TR1 Cells?

Syllabus:Science

Recent Developments

In April 2025, groundbreaking research highlighted the critical role of a lesser-known immune cell subset—TR1 (Type 1 regulatory T) cells—in combating malaria. This discovery holds promise for next-generation vaccine design and immunotherapy strategies targeting persistent infections.

Immune System Overview

Innate Immunity: Provides immediate, non-specific defense mechanisms.
Adaptive Immunity: Offers specific, long-lasting protection through immunological memory—central to vaccine efficacy.

CD4+ T-Cells and TR1 Subtype

CD4+ T-cells are essential in orchestrating immune responses. They include various functional subtypes like helper T-cells.The study focused on TR1 cells, a subtype that had previously received limited attention in malaria research.
These cells were found to be pivotal in controlling Plasmodium falciparum, the parasite responsible for the most severe form of malaria.

Study Context:

Uganda Conducted in malaria-endemic regions of Uganda.
Focused on children with repeated malaria exposures. Revealed that TR1 cells, despite being a minority among CD4+ T-cells, played a disproportionately large role in the immune response.
Innovative Research TechniquesUtilized single-cell RNA sequencing and genetic barcoding. Enabled researchers to track T-cell lineage, activation patterns, and memory potential over time. Allowed real-time assessment of immune cell behavior during and after multiple infections.
Key Findings Dominance of TR1 cells in the anti-malaria immune response.
Long-term memory capability: TR1 cells remained effective over successive infections. Unlike other T-cell subsets, TR1 cells expanded significantly upon reinfection, indicating strong antigen-specific adaptability.
Implications for Vaccine Development Potential to reframe malaria vaccine strategies by focusing on TR1 activation and memory formation. Opens possibilities for modulating immune responses instead of directly targeting the malaria pathogen.
Broader Relevance Insights may extend to other infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, HIV, and dengue.
Could revolutionize therapeutic approaches by enhancing or redirecting immune functions rather than relying solely on pathogen eradication.

With reference to the recent findings on immune response mechanisms in malaria-endemic regions, consider the following statements:

Type 1 regulatory T (TR1) cells, though a minority among CD4⁺ T-cells, exhibit expansion upon reinfection, indicating antigen-specific adaptability.
The study confirmed that TR1 cells are non-memory-forming and only function during the acute phase of Plasmodium falciparum infection.
Single-cell RNA sequencing and genetic barcoding techniques were used to track T-cell behavior over time.
TR1 cells exert their immune function by directly attacking the Plasmodium falciparum pathogen through cytotoxic activity.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: The study found that TR1 cells, although few in number, expand significantly upon reinfection, indicating specific and adaptive immune characteristics.
Statement 2 is incorrect: TR1 cells were found to have long-term memory capability, contradicting the claim that they function only in the acute phase.
Statement 3 is correct: Researchers used advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and genetic barcoding to monitor immune cell dynamics.
Statement 4 is incorrect: TR1 cells do not directly kill pathogens like cytotoxic T-cells. Instead, they regulate immune responses and contribute to immunological memory and control, not pathogen eradication through cytotoxicity.

First Batch of Female Cadets Graduates from NDA

Syllabus: GS2/Gender Issues

Recent Development

In a historic milestone, the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune witnessed the graduation of its first batch of 17 female cadets alongside over 300 male cadets. This landmark event reflects a significant shift toward gender inclusivity in India’s defence institutions.

Background

Traditionally an all-male institution, the NDA was opened to women cadets following a landmark Supreme Court judgement in 2021. The verdict enabled women to join the 148th NDA course in 2022, thereby institutionalising their entry into one of the most prestigious defence training academies in the country.

Significance of Female Induction

The induction of female cadets marks a transformative step in breaking gender barriers in military training. These cadets underwent the same rigorous academic and physical training as their male counterparts and were awarded degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) in disciplines such as Science, Computer Science, Arts, and Technology.

Historical Evolution of Women in the Indian Armed Forces

Pre-Independence Contributions
World War I: Women served mainly in the nursing corps of the British Indian Army.
World War II: Expanded roles through the Women’s Auxiliary Corps in administrative and communication domains.
Azad Hind Fauj: The Rani of Jhansi Regiment, formed by Subhash Chandra Bose, was a pioneering all-female combat unit.
Post-Independence Developments
1958: Women received regular commissions in the Indian Army Medical Corps.
Subsequent Decades: Gradual inclusion in logistics, engineering, legal, and other non-medical branches.
1990s Onwards: Women inducted into the Indian Air Force as pilots, expanding into combat-related roles.

Judicial and Policy Reforms Supporting Women in Defence

Supreme Court Judgement (2020):Mandated the grant of Permanent Commission to women in the Indian Army, reinforcing principles of gender equality and leadership.
Supreme Court Judgement (2021):Allowed women to enter the NDA and train alongside male cadets for eventual permanent commissions.
Agnipath Scheme (2022):A transformative recruitment policy introducing Agniveers, with women eligible for induction, aiming to modernise the armed forces.
Kargil Review Committee (1999):Recommended expanding women’s roles in non-combat domains such as logistics, engineering, and intelligence.
Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence:Advocated equal opportunities and infrastructure development to accommodate female officers.

Recent Operational Contributions by Women

Operation Sindoor: Women officers played key roles in strategic defence operations.
Leadership Roles: Officers like Colonel Sofiya Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh have led critical military initiatives.
Naval Milestones: Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa A completed Navika Sagar Parikrama II, a circumnavigation voyage of 25,600 nautical miles, symbolising maritime endurance and operational capacity.

Arguments Supporting Women in Defence Services

Gender Equality: Strengthens democratic ideals and promotes inclusivity in national institutions.
Talent Diversification: Women bring diverse perspectives and skills to operational strategy and management.
Global Precedents: Successful integration in countries like the USA, UK, and Israel.
Challenging Stereotypes: Reframes societal norms and provides aspirational role models for future generations.

Arguments Against Full Integration

Physiological Differences: May necessitate modifications in training modules and assessment criteria.
Operational and Logistical Challenges: Issues related to deployment, accommodation, and hygiene in combat zones.
Cultural Resistance: Traditional mindsets and institutional inertia may hinder smooth integration.
Combat Readiness Concerns: Questions persist regarding policy preparedness for frontline roles.

The Road Ahead

While women have made commendable advances in the Indian defence ecosystem, enduring challenges remain. Infrastructure inadequacies, entrenched gender biases, and societal perceptions continue to act as limiting factors.
However, with sustained policy reforms, judicial support, and evolving public attitudes, the future trajectory of women in uniform appears promising.
Their presence not only reinforces national security but also enhances the moral fabric of India’s defence establishment.

Consider the following statements regarding the historical evolution of women in India’s armed forces:

The Rani of Jhansi Regiment, under the Indian National Army, was India’s first officially recognized all-women combat unit with deployment in administrative services.
Women received permanent commissions in non-medical branches of the Indian Army beginning in the 1980s.
The inclusion of women as pilots in the Indian Air Force marked a significant shift in allowing women into combat-related roles.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: C) 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Rani of Jhansi Regiment was a combat unit, not restricted to administrative services.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Regular commissions for women in the Army Medical Corps began in 1958, but inclusion in non-medical branches started much later and not in the 1980s.
Statement 3 is correct: The 1990s saw the induction of women into the Indian Air Force as pilots, a watershed in combat-related inclusion.

Karnataka’s Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025

Syllabus: GS3/ Economy

The Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025, has been enacted to create a comprehensive legal framework for the protection and welfare of gig workers in the state.

Who are Gig Workers?

According to Section 2(35) of the Code on Social Security, 2020, a gig worker is defined as “a person who participates in a work arrangement and earns from such activities outside of a traditional employer–employee relationship.”
The gig economy in India is rapidly expanding, with recent projections estimating that the number of gig workers could reach 23.5 million by 2030.

Background

The Labor Codes introduced in 2020, including the Code on Social Security, 2020, aim to extend welfare benefits to unorganized and gig workers. This code also defines platform workers and mandates the creation of a National Social Security Board to oversee their interests.

Key Provisions of the Karnataka Ordinance

Gig Workers Welfare Board: Established to oversee the implementation of gig workers’ welfare laws and address issues faced by gig workers and platform companies.
Platform and Worker Registration: Aggregator platforms such as Zomato, Ola, Swiggy, and Amazon are required to register with the state welfare board and enroll all gig workers under their platform, who will be issued unique identification numbers.
Welfare Contributions: Platforms must contribute between 1% and 5% of their payouts to a state-run welfare fund dedicated to social security for gig workers.
Algorithmic Transparency: Platforms must disclose the logic behind algorithms used for task allocation, payment, ratings, and access control to prevent discrimination.
Written Agreements: Platforms are mandated to provide clear written contracts specifying earnings, payment methods, and conditions for blocking or deactivating workers.
Grievance Redressal: A two-tier grievance mechanism is established—starting with an Internal Dispute Resolution Committee within the platform, escalating to the Welfare Board if unresolved.
Penalties and Interest: Late welfare payments attract 12% annual interest. Non-compliance penalties range from Rs 5,000 for a first offense to Rs 1 lakh for subsequent violations.

Challenges Faced by Gig Workers

Job insecurity and absence of formal social protection.
Low wages and income disparities.
Opaque algorithms controlling job allocation, pay, performance ratings, and deactivation, often without transparency.
Ambiguous employment status complicates the application of traditional labor laws designed for regular employment.

Steps Taken by India to Support Gig Workers

Social Security Code, 2020: Recognizes gig workers as a distinct category and seeks to provide them social security benefits.
e-Shram Portal: A national database capturing information about unorganized sector workers, including gig and platform workers.
Union Budget 2025-26: Includes provisions for issuing identity cards and extending healthcare coverage under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) to gig workers.
Rajasthan Platform-Based Gig Workers Act, 2023: India’s first state-level legislation specifically addressing rights and welfare of gig workers.

Consider the following statements regarding the Karnataka Platform-Based Gig Workers (Social Security and Welfare) Ordinance, 2025:

It mandates aggregator platforms to register with the state welfare board and provide unique IDs to all gig workers.
Platforms must contribute a fixed 5% of their total revenue to a state welfare fund for gig workers.
The ordinance requires disclosure of algorithmic logic used by platforms for task allocation and pay determination.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

The correct answer is B) 1 and 3 only.

Explanation:

Statement 1: The ordinance does mandate that aggregator platforms like Zomato, Ola, Swiggy, Amazon register with the state welfare board and provide unique IDs to all gig workers. This is correct.

Statement 2: The platforms are required to contribute between 1% and 5% of their payout to workers into a state-run welfare fund—not a fixed 5% of total revenue. This statement is incorrect because it implies a fixed 5% contribution rather than a variable rate within the specified range.

Statement 3: The ordinance requires platforms to disclose the logic behind their algorithms for task allocation, pay, ratings, and access, ensuring transparency and preventing discrimination. This is correct.