2nd may 2025 Current Affairs

Disproportionate Burden on Women in Risk Society

Syllabus: GS1/ Society

What is a Risk Society?

Coined by German sociologist Ulrich Beck in his 1986 book Risk Society: Towards a New Modernity.
Refers to a shift from industrial society to one dominated by man-made risks—like climate change, pandemics, and technological hazards—arising from modern development.
Unlike natural disasters, these risks are global, complex, and often invisible, affecting societies unequally.

Why Women Are Disproportionately Affected

Environmental & Health Risks:
Water collection exposes women to contaminated sources, increasing the risk of disease.
Solid fuels for cooking cause indoor air pollution, leading to chronic respiratory issues.
Gender norms (e.g., eating last or less) worsen women’s nutritional and health outcomes.
NFHS-5 (2019–21): 57% of Indian women suffer from anaemia vs. 25% of men.
Economic Vulnerability:
Concentration in informal work with low job security and savings.
Limited land ownership and asset access hinder disaster recovery.
Lower credit access increases dependency and reduces resilience.
Unpaid care work adds emotional and physical strain.
Political & Institutional Exclusion:
Women’s voices are often missing in policy-making, especially in disaster preparedness and climate governance.
Results in gender-blind policies and missed use of women’s community knowledge.

Way Forward

Gender Mainstreaming: Integrate women’s needs into all risk reduction, climate, and pandemic strategies.
Economic Empowerment: Ensure land rights, financial access, and social protection schemes prioritise women.
Care Infrastructure: Support unpaid care work via crèches, health insurance, and community kitchens.
Inclusive Governance: Institutionalise women’s participation in disaster management and local planning bodies.

Consider the following statements regarding the concept of a “Risk Society” and its gendered impacts:

The term “Risk Society” was coined by Ulrich Beck in 1986 and refers to a society increasingly shaped by global, man-made risks such as climate change, pandemics, and technological hazards.
Women are disproportionately affected by environmental and health risks, such as water collection from contaminated sources and indoor air pollution from solid fuels.
Women’s economic vulnerability is exacerbated by higher participation in the formal labor sector, where job security and savings are guaranteed.
Political and institutional exclusion of women often leads to gender-neutral policies, ignoring their unique needs in disaster preparedness and climate governance.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: C. 1, 2, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct. Ulrich Beck’s “Risk Society” indeed describes the shift towards a society dominated by human-made, global risks such as climate change, pandemics, and technological hazards.
Statement 2 is correct. Women are disproportionately affected by environmental and health risks, such as exposure to contaminated water and indoor air pollution, which are exacerbated by gendered roles (e.g., water collection and cooking).
Statement 3 is incorrect. Women are more likely to be concentrated in the informal labor sector, where job security and savings are often lacking, not in the formal sector as the statement suggests.
Statement 4 is correct. Women’s exclusion from decision-making results in gender-blind policies, ignoring their specific needs in the context of disaster preparedness and climate governance.

Years of End of the Vietnam War

Syllabus: GS1/World History

Background

Vietnam had been a French colony since the mid-19th century, part of French Indochina along with Laos and Cambodia.
During World War II, Japan occupied Vietnam, allowing the French to retain some control. After Japan’s defeat in 1945, Ho Chi Minh, leader of the Viet Minh (League for the Independence of Vietnam), declared Vietnam’s independence.
However, the French attempted to reassert control, leading to the First Indochina War.

The Vietnam War:

The Vietnam War, also known as the Second Indochina War, was a prolonged conflict from 1955 to 1975 between North Vietnam (Communist) and South Vietnam (anti-Communist), with significant U.S. involvement on the side of the South.
North Vietnam: Led by Ho Chi Minh and the Communist Party, it was supported by the Soviet Union, China, and other communist nations.
South Vietnam: Initially led by Ngo Dinh Diem, with various leaders taking charge after multiple coups. It received support from the United States, South Korea, Australia, Thailand, and others.

Causes of the War

Division of Vietnam: Following the First Indochina War, the 1954 Geneva Accords temporarily divided Vietnam at the 17th parallel, establishing North and South Vietnam.

Cold War Tensions: The U.S. feared the spread of communism in Asia, adhering to the “Domino Theory,” which suggested that if one country fell to communism, neighboring countries might follow.

Internal Conflict: The Viet Cong insurgency in South Vietnam, aligned with the Communist North, sought to reunify the country under communist rule.

Key Phases

Advisory Phase (1955–1963): The U.S. provided military advisors and aid to the South Vietnamese government. The unpopular regime of Ngo Dinh Diem was overthrown in a U.S.-backed coup in 1963.

Escalation (1964–1969):

The Gulf of Tonkin Incident (1964) allegedly saw attacks on U.S. ships, leading to increased U.S. involvement.
S. troop levels peaked at over 500,000 by 1969, with significant battles like the Tet Offensive (1968), Battle of Hue, and Khe Sanh.
The use of napalm, Agent Orange, and carpet bombing provoked widespread international outrage.
Withdrawal (1969–1973): Under President Richard Nixon, the U.S. pursued “Vietnamization,” training South Vietnamese forces to take over the war. U.S. forces began withdrawing, and the Paris Peace Accords were signed in 1973.

Final Collapse (1973–1975):

Despite the U.S. withdrawal, fighting continued, and on April 30, 1975, North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, marking the end of the war.
Vietnam was reunified under communist control, becoming the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Agent Orange:

Agent Orange, a potent herbicide, was used by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War as part of Operation Ranch Hand (1961–1971). This controversial chemical became one of the war’s most infamous symbols due to its severe health and environmental impacts.

Manufacturing:

The production of 2,4,5-T, a component of Agent Orange, led to the creation of TCDD, a highly toxic dioxin.
Purpose: The U.S. military used Agent Orange to defoliate forests and jungles, reducing cover for the Viet Cong, and to destroy crops feeding North Vietnamese forces.
Scale: Over 20 million gallons of herbicides were sprayed across South Vietnam, especially in dense jungles and rural farmlands.

Aftermath

Agent Orange remains a symbol of the Vietnam War’s human and moral cost.
Programs by the Vietnamese Red Cross, USAID, and international NGOs continue to support victims and work on environmental cleanup.
Advocacy continues for justice and recognition for all those affected by the lasting consequences of Agent Orange exposure.

Consider the following statements regarding the Vietnam War and its aftermath:

The Vietnam War was fought primarily between the Communist forces of North Vietnam and the Anti-Communist forces of South Vietnam, with heavy involvement from the Soviet Union and China in the South.
The Gulf of Tonkin Incident of 1964 was the catalyst for the escalation of U.S. military involvement in Vietnam, leading to the passage of the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution.
The Paris Peace Accords signed in 1973 led to the complete withdrawal of U.S. forces from Vietnam but did not end hostilities, as fighting continued until the fall of Saigon in 1975.
Agent Orange, a defoliant used by the U.S. military, caused long-term health and environmental damage, but its use was restricted solely to military combat zones, avoiding civilian exposure.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer:C
Explanation:

Statement 1: Incorrect. The Soviet Union and China supported North Vietnam, not South Vietnam. The U.S. supported South Vietnam.
Statement 2: Correct. The Gulf of Tonkin Incident led to the Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, which allowed the U.S. to increase its military presence in Vietnam.
Statement 3: Correct. While the Paris Peace Accords led to the U.S. military withdrawal, fighting continued, culminating in the fall of Saigon in 1975.
Statement 4: Incorrect. Agent Orange was widely used across military and civilian zones, causing long-term health issues for both Vietnamese civilians and U.S. veterans.

Cabinet Approves Caste Enumeration in Upcoming Census

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

The Cabinet Committee on Political Affairs (CCPA), chaired by the Prime Minister of India, has recently decided to include caste enumeration in the upcoming Census. This marks a significant shift in India’s approach to collecting demographic data.

Caste-Based Enumeration: A Historical Perspective

1931 Census: The last caste-based enumeration in India took place under British rule, recording 4,147 distinct castes.
Post-Independence: Since then, only Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) have been recorded in the decennial Census.
1961 Directive: The Union Government permitted states to conduct their own surveys to identify Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
2011 Socio-Economic Caste Census: A major effort to gather data on the socio-economic status of various communities was undertaken, though it did not fully enumerate all castes.

Constitutional Basis for the Decision

Union Subject: The Census is a Union subject under Article 246 of the Indian Constitution, listed in the Union List under the Seventh Schedule. This ensures that caste enumeration will have a uniform, standardized framework across the country.
Census Act, 1948: Provides the legal framework for conducting population censuses in India, outlining the procedures, duties, and penalties associated with the process.
Significance of Caste Enumeration
Digital Census: The upcoming Census will be conducted digitally, with respondents having the option to fill out the questionnaire using a mobile application. A new column for caste enumeration will be added, with a user-friendly drop-down directory for easy selection.
Data-Driven Policy Making: The collection of detailed caste data will enable evidence-based governance. It will allow for fair representation in education, employment, and welfare programs, and will assist in refining the reservation policies.
Supporting Women’s Reservation: It will also help in implementing the 33% reservation for women in Parliament and State Assemblies.
Addressing Socio-Economic Inequality: The data will provide insights into the economic disparities among different caste groups, enabling targeted development programs for marginalized communities.
Judicial Demand: The Indra Sawhney case (1992) emphasized that the assessment of “backwardness” of any group must be based on objective and proper evaluation. This data will align with judicial guidelines in evaluating backwardness.
Concerns Related to Caste Enumeration
Political Exploitation: Critics argue that caste enumeration could be used for political purposes, influencing electoral strategies. There are concerns that caste data collected by states may lack transparency and be politically motivated.
Deepening Social Divisions: Some fear that detailed caste data may reinforce caste identities, exacerbating social divisions rather than fostering inclusivity. It could also intensify debates surrounding caste-based reservations, leading to further social tensions.
Implementation Challenges: Ensuring accurate and unbiased data collection remains a significant challenge. It is crucial that the methodology for caste classification be transparent, scientifically valid, and free from manipulation or misrepresentation.

Conclusion

The decision to include caste enumeration in the next Census represents a landmark move that could transform India’s socio-political landscape. By providing detailed caste demographic data, the government aims to address social inequalities and promote inclusive development. The success and impact of this move will depend on the transparency and accuracy of the data collected, as well as its responsible use in policy-making. The outcomes of this Census will be closely monitored for their influence on India’s policies and societal dynamics.

Consider the following statements regarding the inclusion of caste enumeration in the upcoming Census:

The decision to include caste enumeration is a major shift from India’s previous approach, where only Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) were recorded.
The caste enumeration in the Census will be conducted entirely using paper-based forms.
The Union Government had authorized states to conduct their own surveys to identify Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in 1961.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 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 previous Census only recorded SCs and STs, but now caste enumeration will be expanded.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Census will be conducted digitally, with mobile applications for data entry.
Statement 3 is correct: States were allowed to conduct surveys for OBCs in 1961

Right To Digital Access Part of Article 21

Syllabus: GS2/ Polity and Governance

The Supreme Court of India has emphasized that digital access is a vital component of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution.

Background:

The ruling stemmed from a petition filed by a group of acid attack survivors. The petition highlighted the challenges faced by disabled individuals, particularly acid attack victims, in completing digital KYC (Know Your Customer) processes that require visual tasks.

Supreme Court Ruling:

The Court underscored that the state has a responsibility to create an inclusive digital ecosystem, especially for marginalized, vulnerable, and historically excluded sections of society. The judgment mandates the following:

Directive to Improve KYC Accessibility:

The Court directed that alternative methods of verification be provided for individuals who are unable to use facial recognition or perform tasks like blinking.
It emphasized full compliance with Section 46 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, which ensures accessibility in electronic and print media.
All websites, mobile applications, and digital platforms must adhere to universal accessibility standards.

State’s Obligations:

The state, under Article 21, has a duty to ensure that digital infrastructure, government portals, and financial technologies are universally accessible to all.
The Court clarified that the state’s obligations under Article 21 (Right to Life) extend to ensuring the digital inclusion of all individuals, which is reinforced by Articles 14 (Equality before law), 15 (Prohibition of discrimination), and 38 (State to secure a social order for the promotion of welfare of the people) of the Constitution.

Article 21 of the Indian Constitution:

Article 21 states, “No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law.”It is part of the Fundamental Rights, enshrined in Part III of the Constitution, and applies to both citizens and non-citizens. Over time, courts have interpreted Article 21 not only to prevent arbitrary state interference with a person’s life and liberty but also to impose positive obligations on the state, ensuring a dignified life for every individual.

Consider the following statements regarding the Supreme Court’s ruling on digital accessibility as a component of the Right to Life under Article 21 of the Indian Constitution:

The Supreme Court emphasized that digital access is an essential aspect of the Right to Life, especially for vulnerable and marginalized sections of society.
The court’s judgment mandates the introduction of alternative verification mechanisms for individuals unable to use facial recognition or blink during KYC processes.
The Right to Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, mandates that websites and mobile applications must be made fully accessible, but only for government portals, not private entities.
The court interpreted Article 21 in such a way that it imposes a duty on the state to ensure a dignified life, which includes providing inclusive digital infrastructure.

Which of the above statements are correct?

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

Answer: A) 1, 2, and 4 only

Explanation:

Statement 1: Correct – The Supreme Court indeed emphasized that digital access is crucial to the Right to Life under Article 21, particularly for marginalized groups.
Statement 2: Correct – The Court mandated alternative verification mechanisms for individuals who cannot use facial recognition, including those with disabilities or specific conditions like acid attack survivors.
Statement 3: Incorrect – The RPwD Act mandates accessibility in both government and private sectors, not just government portals. The Court ordered compliance across all digital platforms.
Statement 4: Correct – The interpretation of Article 21 does indeed impose a positive obligation on the state to ensure dignified living, including the provision of accessible digital infrastructure.

SC upholds courts’ power to modify arbitral awards under limited circumstances

Syllabus :GS2/Governance

Context:

The Supreme Court of India, in a 4:1 majority ruling, has clarified the limited powers of courts to modify arbitral awards under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996.

Background:

The decision came in response to a legal question referred to a three-judge bench in February 2024. The bench sought clarity on whether Indian courts have the authority to modify arbitral awards.
Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996:
Arbitration is an alternative dispute resolution mechanism that minimizes judicial interference with arbitral awards. Courts are only allowed to intervene in limited circumstances as specified under the Act.

Key Highlights of the Judgment:

Limited Modifications:Courts are permitted to modify arbitral awards only for specific reasons, such as:
Removing invalid portions of the award.
Correcting typographical, computational, or clerical errors.
Adjusting interest post-award if necessary.

Judicial Intervention:

The scope for judicial intervention under Section 34 is narrow. Courts can only set aside arbitral awards on specific grounds such as:
Violation of public policy.
Fraud or corruption.
Moral injustice.
Courts cannot:
Correct factual errors.
Reconsider the costs or review the merits of the award.

Article 142 Powers:

The Supreme Court invoked its inherent powers under Article 142 to ensure complete justice, but emphasized that such powers should be exercised cautiously, consistent with the principles outlined in the 1996 Act.

Do You Know?

Section 34: Courts can set aside an arbitral award on grounds like violation of public policy, fundamental legal principles, fraud, corruption, or moral injustice.
Section 37: Deals with the circumstances under which an appeal can be made against an arbitral order.
Despite the restricted scope for modification under Section 34, the Supreme Court highlighted that it had occasionally modified arbitral awards in the past to prevent prolonged litigation and ensure justice. However, this modification was not explicitly provided for in Section 34.

Dissenting Opinion:

Justice Viswanathan’s View:Justice Viswanathan dissented, arguing that arbitral awards should not be modified unless explicitly permitted by statute. He emphasized that Section 34 only allows for setting aside an award, not modifying it.
The dissent mirrored the government’s stance, which argued that the power to modify should be statutorily granted.
Legal experts raised concerns that modifying arbitral awards could effectively replace them with court decrees, which could have international enforcement implications, especially under international conventions.

Conclusion:

The Supreme Court’s ruling emphasizes that while courts can intervene in certain limited circumstances, the autonomy of arbitral awards must largely be preserved to avoid undermining the arbitration process and its international recognition.

Consider the following statements regarding the Supreme Court’s judgment on the modification of arbitral awards under Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996:

Courts can modify arbitral awards to correct typographical, computational, or clerical errors.
Courts can reconsider the merits of the arbitral award under Section 34.
The Supreme Court invoked its powers under Article 142 to modify arbitral awards, even in the absence of statutory provisions.
The power to modify arbitral awards is explicitly provided in Section 34 of the Arbitration and Conciliation Act.

Which of the above statements are correct?

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

Answer: A) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct. The Supreme Court allowed modifications to arbitral awards for errors like typographical, computational, or clerical mistakes.
Statement 2 is incorrect. Courts cannot reconsider the merits of the arbitral award under Section 34.
Statement 3 is correct. The Supreme Court has used its powers under Article 142 to ensure justice, including modifying arbitral awards in certain situations.
Statement 4 is incorrect. Section 34 does not explicitly provide the power to modify arbitral awards; it allows setting them aside on specific grounds.

Tension and Clumpiness of Universe

Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology

Recent research suggests that understanding the “clumpiness” of the universe may be key to uncovering its fundamental nature.

Clumpiness of the Universe

The universe originated around 13.8 billion years ago in a massive Big Bang, starting from a state of void. Over time, it expanded and formed galaxies, star clusters, solar systems, and planets. Initially, when scientists observed the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) — the radiation left over from the Big Bang — they found a nearly uniform glow across the sky. This led to the conclusion that, early on, the universe was remarkably uniform, with only slight density variations.

The S8 Tension

The “clumpiness” refers to how matter is not evenly spread across the universe. Instead, it forms dense regions, such as galaxies and galaxy clusters, while other parts remain empty. This uneven distribution is measured by the clumpiness factor (S8). The S8 value reflects the level of clustering in the universe, where a higher S8 indicates more dense matter clumping together, and a lower S8 suggests a more uniform distribution.
However, a challenge arose when cosmologists measured S8 through different methods and arrived at conflicting values. This discrepancy has come to be known as the ‘S8 tension’ in astrophysics.

Why Does the S8 Tension Matter?

If the S8 tension cannot be explained by measurement errors, it could suggest several possibilities:
The ΛCDM (Lambda Cold Dark Matter) model, which currently explains the evolution of the universe, might be incomplete or require revisions.
There could be new insights into how dark matter or dark energy behave, potentially deviating from the current understanding.
New physics may be at play, such as interacting dark energy, modified gravity, or even variations in fundamental constants over time.
The Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) Model
The ΛCDM model is the standard cosmological framework that describes the universe’s large-scale structure. According to this model:
Dark matter and dark energy make up about 95% of the universe’s mass-energy content.
These components interact to shape the evolution of cosmic structures, influencing the growth of primordial fluctuations into the galaxies, stars, and clusters we observe today.
The ongoing research into the S8 tension may potentially lead to refinements or entirely new theories about the universe’s structure and the forces that govern it.

Consider the following statements regarding the clumpiness of the universe and the S8 tension:

The clumpiness factor, denoted as S8, reflects the non-uniform distribution of matter in the universe.
A higher value of S8 indicates a more uniform distribution of matter, while a lower value suggests more clustering of matter.
The ongoing S8 tension points to the possibility that the ΛCDM model might be incomplete or require revision.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct as S8 is the clumpiness factor measuring the distribution of matter.
Statement 2 is incorrect. A higher S8 indicates more clustering of matter, not a more uniform distribution.
Statement 3 is correct. The S8 tension raises concerns about the completeness of the ΛCDM model

India Opposes Inclusion of Chlorpyrifos at Stockholm Convention

Syllabus :GS 3/Environment

At the meetings of the conferences of the Parties to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) conventions in Switzerland, India expressed strong opposition to the inclusion of Chlorpyrifos under the Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). India raised concerns about the potential impact on food security due to the lack of viable alternatives to this insecticide.

Chlorpyrifos: Overview

Chlorpyrifos is an insecticide that has been widely used in agriculture and pest control. It has been linked to several adverse health effects, including:
Neurodevelopmental issues
Reduced birth size
Lung and prostate cancer with chronic exposure
The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Chlorpyrifos as a moderately hazardous pesticide. The chemical works by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme essential for proper nervous system function, leading to harmful neurological effects.

Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)

The Stockholm Convention, adopted in May 2001 and entering into force on 17 May 2004, aims to protect human health and the environment from harmful chemicals known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs).
The Convention outlines measures for the elimination or restriction of POPs in three annexes:
Annex A: Chemicals to be eliminated.
Annex B: Chemicals to be restricted.
Annex C: Chemicals for which unintentional production and release should be minimized.
The Convention also provides a framework for dispute resolution between member countries.

Chlorpyrifos Phase-out and India’s Concerns

Chlorpyrifos was nominated for global phase-out by the European Union in 2021.
In 2024, the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) recommended the inclusion of Chlorpyrifos in Annex A of the Stockholm Convention (for elimination), though it suggested exemptions for certain uses, such as plant protection, cattle tick control, and wood preservation.
At the BRS meetings, there was significant debate over whether exemptions for agricultural uses and pest control should be allowed. India, along with other nations, advocated for certain exceptions, particularly for the pesticide’s crucial role in pest control and vector-borne disease management.

India’s Stance on Chlorpyrifos

India’s extensive use of Chlorpyrifos: Registered in India since 1977, Chlorpyrifos was the most widely used insecticide in the country in 2016-17.
India emphasized that Chlorpyrifos is essential for agriculture, particularly for controlling urban pests such as cockroaches and termites, as well as for vector-borne disease control, which remains a significant public health issue in the country.
A 2024 study detected Chlorpyrifos residues in 33% of food samples tested in India, underscoring the widespread use of the pesticide.
The Anupam Verma Committee (2013), set up to review pesticides banned or restricted in other countries but still in use in India, identified Chlorpyrifos as being toxic to fish and bees, which raised environmental concerns.

India’s Future Plans

India is actively promoting natural farming through a national mission led by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. This initiative is aimed at reducing dependence on synthetic chemicals like pesticides, while also improving soil health and sustainability in agriculture.

Other Chemicals Discussed at the BRS Convention

Apart from Chlorpyrifos, other chemicals such as Medium-chain chlorinated paraffins and long-chain perfluorocarboxylic acids (LC-PFCAs) are also being debated at the BRS Convention for potential inclusion in the lists of restricted or eliminated chemicals.
India’s opposition to the inclusion of Chlorpyrifos under the Stockholm Convention reflects its complex balancing act between addressing environmental concerns and ensuring food security and public health, particularly in a country where the pesticide plays a key role in pest control.

Consider the following statements regarding India’s stance on Chlorpyrifos at the BRS Convention:

India opposed the inclusion of Chlorpyrifos under the Stockholm Convention due to concerns over food security and lack of alternatives.
Chlorpyrifos was nominated for global phase-out by the European Union in 2021 and the Persistent Organic Pollutants Review Committee (POPRC) recommended its inclusion in Annex B of the Stockholm Convention in 2024.
Chlorpyrifos is primarily used in India for urban pest control, including insects like cockroaches and termites, and vector-borne disease management.

4.The Anupam Verma Committee (2013) recognized Chlorpyrifos as safe for both environmental and health concerns, with no significant risks to wildlife.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer:B. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct. India did indeed oppose the inclusion of Chlorpyrifos under the Stockholm Convention, citing concerns over food security and the absence of viable alternatives.
Statement 2 is incorrect. While Chlorpyrifos was nominated for global phase-out by the European Union in 2021, the POPRC recommended its inclusion in Annex A (for elimination) in 2024, not Annex B.
Statement 3 is correct. Chlorpyrifos is extensively used in India for pest control, particularly for urban pests like cockroaches and termites, and for vector-borne disease management.
Statement 4 is incorrect. The Anupam Verma Committee (2013) recognized Chlorpyrifos as toxic to fish and bees, raising environmental concerns, not as safe.

Sujata Chaturvedi Appointed As A UPSC Board Member

Syllabus:Polity

Sujata Chaturvedi, an experienced civil servant with over three decades of service, has been appointed as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Her appointment is considered a significant addition to the Commission, bringing extensive expertise in administration, sports, and policy formulation.

Why in the News?

On 1st May 2025, Ms. Sujata Chaturvedi, a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Bihar cadre, took charge as a Member of the UPSC. The oath of office and secrecy was administered by Lt. Gen. Raj Shukla (Retd.), the seniormost Member of the Commission.

Background & Career Highlights:

Batch and Cadre: Chaturvedi is a member of the 1989 batch of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Bihar cadre.
Educational Qualifications: She holds a postgraduate degree in History, an M.Phil in Public Administration, and a Diploma in Russian language. She graduated in English from Nagpur University.

Key Positions Held:

At the State Level (Bihar):
Principal Secretary, Department of Finance
Commercial Tax Commissioner
Secretary, Finance Department
Vice Chairman, Department of Urban Development

At the Central Government:

Secretary, Department of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
Additional Secretary, Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT)
Regional Deputy Director General, UIDAI

Major Contributions in the Department of Sports:

Successfully hosted significant events like the Khelo India Games, FIDE Chess Olympiad, and FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.
Spearheaded the creation of a National Sports Repository System.
Initiated the nationwide mapping of sports facilities.
Played a key role in the enactment of the Anti-Doping Bill, strengthening India’s anti-doping stance.

Language Proficiency:

Chaturvedi is fluent in several languages, including Hindi, English, Urdu, Russian, and Marathi.

Significance of Her UPSC Appointment:

Chaturvedi’s diverse policy experience is expected to bring a new dimension to the UPSC.
Her background in sports administration may offer fresh perspectives, particularly in the youth and development sectors.
She is also expected to enhance the civil services examination system and recruitment policies, contributing significantly to the functioning of the Commission.

Consider the following statements regarding Ms. Sujata Chaturvedi’s appointment as a Member of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):

Sujata Chaturvedi is a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Bihar cadre.
She has served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Chaturvedi was involved in the creation of a National Sports Repository System.
She is fluent in Hindi, English, Urdu, and Russian.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer:D
Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Ms. Sujata Chaturvedi is a 1989-batch IAS officer from the Bihar cadre.
Statement 2 is correct: She served as the Secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Statement 3 is correct: She played a key role in the creation of a National Sports Repository System.
Statement 4 is correct: She is fluent in Hindi, English, Urdu, Russian, and Marathi.

Top 10 Countries With the Highest Debt-To-GDP in 2025

Syllabus:Economy

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised alarm about a surge in global public debt, with projections for 2025 indicating that several countries will see their debt levels exceed those recorded at the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the IMF’s Fiscal Monitor Report (April 2025), the global public debt-to-GDP ratio could approach critical levels once again, sparking concerns about the economic and fiscal sustainability of both developing and advanced economies.
In a surprising development, Sudan has surpassed Japan to become the country with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in the world in 2025, driven by internal conflict and economic instability.
Meanwhile, the debt burdens of major economies like the United States, France, and Canada remain significantly high, reflecting persistent structural deficits and geopolitical challenges.

Background and Context:The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented wave of government borrowing as nations scrambled to tackle public health emergencies and implement large-scale stimulus programs. Consequently, global public debt reached 98.9% of GDP in 2020.

Despite subsequent economic recovery, ongoing geopolitical instability—including trade tensions, particularly following recent U.S. tariff declarations—and inflationary pressures have led to a rise in borrowing needs. The IMF warns that global public debt levels could reach 117% of global GDP by 2027 under worst-case conditions and nearly 100% (99.6%) by 2030.

Key Insight: The Top 10 Countries with the Highest Debt-to-GDP Ratio in 2025:

The IMF’s recent findings reveal an alarming composition of the ten countries with the highest public debt in 2025, mostly driven by persistent budget deficits, economic mismanagement, and structural vulnerabilities such as demographic decline or excessive external debt.

Top 10 Countries with the Highest Debt-to-GDP Ratio in 2025:

Rank	Country	General Government Gross Debt (% of GDP)
1	Sudan	252%
2	Japan	234.9%
3	Singapore	174.9%
4	Greece	142.2%
5	Bahrain	141.4%
6	Maldives	140.8%
7	Italy	137.3%
8	United States	122.5%
9	France	116.3%
10	Canada	112.5%

Country Highlights and Analysis:

Sudan: Facing prolonged internal conflict, economic instability, and a loss of oil revenues, Sudan has reached a debt-to-GDP ratio of 252%, the highest globally.
Japan: Despite being a developed and technologically advanced economy, Japan’s public debt stands at 234.9%, due to persistent fiscal deficits, an aging population, and years of low economic growth.
United States and Other Developed Economies: The U.S. ranks 8th, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 122.5%. This is driven by rising federal deficits, and spending on defense, healthcare, and interest payments. France (116.3%) and Canada (112.5%) also face similar challenges in managing social welfare spending and post-pandemic economic recovery.

Where Do China and India Stand?

Unlike the top 10 indebted nations, China and India have more manageable debt levels:

China: With a debt-to-GDP ratio of 96%, China ranks 21st, reflecting a controlled fiscal expansion model.
India: India ranks 31st, with a debt-to-GDP ratio of 80%. The Indian government aims to reduce this ratio to 50±1% by March 31, 2031, through fiscal consolidation and economic growth.

Future Outlook: Risks and Recovery

The IMF warns that, unless corrective measures are adopted, global public debt could surpass the levels seen during World War II. Key risks include:

Continued geopolitical instability
High interest rates
Sluggish global growth
Elevated inflation and subsidy bills

Even a temporary shock—such as another trade war, a health crisis, or a spike in commodity prices—could accelerate vulnerabilities related to public debt.

Call to Action:

Nations are being urged to adopt credible, medium-term fiscal plans. Key measures include enhancing tax collection efficiency, curbing unproductive subsidies, and investing in growth-driving sectors to prevent the risk of spiraling debt.

Consider the following statements regarding the surge in global public debt as highlighted by the International Monetary Fund (IMF):

Sudan has surpassed Japan to become the country with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in the world in 2025.
The global public debt-to-GDP ratio is expected to reach 117% by 2027 under worst-case conditions.
The United States has a debt-to-GDP ratio of 122.5%, ranking 8th among the countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio.
China and India are among the top 10 countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratios globally in 2025.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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

Answer: A) 1, 2, and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: Sudan has indeed surpassed Japan to become the country with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in the world in 2025.
Statement 2 is correct: The IMF forecasts that global public debt could reach 117% of global GDP by 2027 under worst-case conditions.
Statement 3 is correct: The United States has a debt-to-GDP ratio of 122.5%, ranking 8th among the countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratio.
Statement 4 is incorrect: China and India, though significant economies, are not in the top 10 countries with the highest debt-to-GDP ratios in 2025. India is ranked 31st, and China is ranked 21st.