Category: Weekly Current Affairs & Editorials

Society History Governance Science and Technology Environment Polity Economy International Relations Geography Reports Defence Miscellaneous Hatti Tribe & Polyandry in Himachal Pradesh Syllabus: Society   Context: A woman in Himachal Pradesh recently married two brothers from the Hatti tribe, drawing attention to the tribal practice of polyandry, especially in the lower Himalayan regions.   Key Features: Polyandry Practice: Known locally as Jodidara, polyandry is where a woman marries multiple husbands, often brothers. Cultural Prevalence: Practised among Hatti and other Himalayan communities; it historically emerged to preserve property and reduce population pressure. Legal-constitutional Aspect: Polyandry is not permitted under Indian law (Hindu Marriage Act, 1955), but the Constitution (Article 29) protects tribal customs and culture. Tribal Status: Hatti community was notified as a Scheduled Tribe (ST) in 2022 for socio-economic upliftment.   Way Forward: Need for balancing tribal rights and constitutional morality. Social awareness programs to empower tribal women. Revisit the scope of Article 29 to address gender equity in tribal laws. With reference to tribal marital customs in India, consider the following statements: Polyandry is legally recognized under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. Article 29 of the Indian Constitution protects distinct cultural practices of communities, including tribal customs. The Hatti tribe, notified as an ST recently, primarily resides in Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?A. 1 and 2 onlyB. 2 onlyC. 2 and 3 onlyD. 1, 2 and 3  Correct Answer: B Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: The Hindu Marriage Act prohibits polyandry; it allows only monogamous unions. Statement 2 is correct: Article 29(1) protects the cultural and linguistic identity of groups, including tribals. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Hatti tribe primarily resides in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, not in J&K or Ladakh. Celebrating India-Sri Lanka Buddhist Heritage: Unveiling of Ashoka Pillar Syllabus:History   Background Unveiling Location: The Ashoka Pillar (or a representation/tribute to it) was unveiled at Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya in the Kalutara District of Sri Lanka. Foundation Laying: The foundation for this initiative (likely related to the pillar or a larger commemorative project) was laid in January 2024 by the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, signifying India’s diplomatic and cultural involvement. Sponsorship: The initiative was sponsored by E. Kyabje Ling Rinpoche, the 7th Ling incarnation. This highlights the involvement of a significant spiritual leader in the Buddhist tradition. Significance of the Temple: The Waskaduwa Sri Subhuthi Viharaya temple is a key spiritual site as it reportedly holds Kapilavastu Buddha relics. Kapilavastu was the ancient kingdom where Siddhartha Gautama (Buddha) spent his early life. The presence of these relics makes the site highly revered.   Significance of Ashoka Pillar (in this context) Symbol of Emperor Ashoka’s Legacy: The Ashoka Pillar is a powerful symbol of Emperor Ashoka’s legacy in spreading Buddhism. Ashoka (304–232 BCE) was a pivotal figure in the propagation of Buddhism, particularly after the Kalinga War, and his pillars often carried edicts promoting Dhamma (righteous conduct). Tribute to Arhat Mahinda & Sangamitta: The unveiling serves as a tribute to Arhat Mahinda and Sangamitta. They were the son and daughter of Emperor Ashoka, respectively, who are credited with bringing the Buddha Sasana (teachings of Buddha, and the monastic order) to Sri Lanka in the 3rd century BCE. Their arrival marked the formal introduction of Buddhism to the island. Reinforces India-Sri Lanka Civilizational Bonds: This act of celebrating shared Buddhist heritage strongly reinforces the deep historical and civilizational bonds between India and Sri Lanka. Buddhism has been a profound cultural and religious link connecting the two nations for over two millennia. This event underscores the enduring spiritual and historical connections between India and Sri Lanka, primarily through the shared heritage of Buddhism. Consider the following statements regarding UNESCO and the USA’s engagement with it: The US has never withdrawn from UNESCO since its inception in 1945. The recognition of Palestine as a full member led to US funding cuts. The most recent rejoining by the US was under the Trump administration. Which of the above statements is/are correct?A. 1 onlyB. 2 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. 2 and 3 only Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: The US has withdrawn multiple times. Statement 2 is correct: Palestine’s 2011 admission led to US defunding. Statement 3 is incorrect: Rejoined under Biden, not Trump. UN SDG Report 2025: Course Correction Needed Syllabus: GS2 – Governance, International Reports Context: The UN’s 2025 SDG Progress Report reveals major setbacks with just 5 years to meet the 2030 Agenda.     Key Findings:• 35% of targets are stagnating or regressing.• SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 4 (Education), SDG 6 (Water), SDG 8 (Work), SDG 10 (Inequality) face severe challenges.• 2.3 billion affected by food insecurity; 57% of education goals off track.   Positive Trends• 40% decline in HIV cases; rise in malaria prevention.• Broader social protection coverage seen globally.   India’s Context• SDG India Index by NITI Aayog aligns domestic priorities with global targets.• Strong performance in clean energy (SDG 7), climate action (SDG 13), but education and inequality lag.   Recommendations• Renewed political will, reforming global finance (Sevilla Commitment), improved data tracking (Medellín Framework), and focused action on lagging goals.   With reference to the 2025 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Progress Report, consider the following: SDG 13 (Climate Action) is among the most severely lagging targets globally. The Sevilla Commitment advocates reform in global financing for SDGs. Medellín Framework focuses on educational inclusivity among indigenous populations. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?A. 1 and 2 onlyB. 2 onlyC. 2 and 3 onlyD. 1, 2 and 3 Answer: BExplanation: Statement 1 is incorrect: SDG 13 has shown progress in India, though global challenges remain. Statement 2 is correct: The Sevilla Commitment pushes for reform in global financing systems for SDG implementation. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Medellín Framework pertains to data tracking and monitoring, not indigenous education. Adoption Crisis in India: Too Few Children, Too Many Waiting Parents Syllabus: GS2 – Governance, Vulnerable Sections Context:• An RTI reveals a sharp mismatch between

Society History Governance Science and Technology Environment Polity Economy International Relations Geography Reports Defence Miscellaneous Jarawa Tribe Syllabus: GS2/ Marginalized Community In a significant move, the upcoming Census 2027 will make a focused effort to enumerate the six major indigenous tribes of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, including the Jarawa community—one of the most ancient surviving tribes in the world.   The Jarawa Tribe: An Ancient Community Lifestyle: The Jarawas are nomadic hunter-gatherers residing in the dense forests of Middle and South Andaman Islands. Social Structure: They typically live in small bands of 40–50 people, sustaining themselves through forest and marine resources. Isolation: Historically, the tribe remained hostile to outsiders, maintaining isolation until the late 1990s, when limited contact began.   Demographics and Census Insights 2011 Census: Documented 380 Jarawa individuals out of a total of 28,530 Scheduled Tribe (ST) population in the islands. 2025 Estimates: The Jarawa population has grown to 647 individuals, attributed to improved health services and declining mortality rates. Other Indigenous ST Tribes: Andamanese Nicobarese Shompen Onge Sentinelese Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs): All except Nicobarese are categorized as PVTGs, reflecting their fragile socio-economic status and low population.   Policy Measures and Development Initiatives The PM-JANMAN scheme (Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan) has identified 191 PVTG individuals in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands so far. The scheme focuses on justice, welfare, and livelihood enhancement for PVTGs across India, including remote tribal communities in island territories. With reference to the Jarawa tribe of the Andaman Islands, consider the following statements: The Jarawa tribe is classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. They traditionally inhabit the Little Andaman region and practice shifting cultivation. The first significant peaceful contact with the tribe began only in the late 20th century. The PM-JANMAN scheme specifically excludes island tribes due to ecological sensitivity. Which of the above statements is/are correct? A) 1 and 3 onlyB) 1 and 2 onlyC) 3 and 4 onlyD) 2, 3, and 4 only Answer: A) 1 and 3 onlyExplanation: Statement 1 is correct: Jarawa is among the PVTGs. Statement 2 is incorrect: They inhabit Middle and South Andaman, not Little Andaman, and are hunter-gatherers, not shifting cultivators. Statement 3 is correct: Contact started in the late 1990s. Statement 4 is incorrect: PM-JANMAN includes PVTGs in the islands. Sheesh Mahal (Glass Palace) Syllabus: GS1/History The historic Sheesh Mahal in North Delhi has been restored and officially unveiled by Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. About Sheesh Mahal Location: Situated within Shalimar Bagh in North Delhi. Historical Background: Constructed in 1653 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The Shalimar Bagh, originally called Aizzabad Garden, was reportedly commissioned by Shah Jahan in memory of Aizzun-Nisha Begum. The name Shalimar is said to be derived from the Persian words ‘Shala’ and ‘Mara’, meaning “abode of pleasure”, and is believed to have been named by Shah Jahan himself.   Architectural and Historical Significance Sheesh Mahal, a Mughal-era palace, is now a protected monument under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It holds notable historical importance as the venue of Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658, marking a pivotal moment in Mughal succession politics. This restoration project is part of broader efforts to revive Delhi’s Mughal heritage and promote cultural tourism through the conservation of historical monuments. With reference to the Sheesh Mahal in Delhi, consider the following statements: It was constructed during the reign of Akbar as part of his urban garden complex. The structure is situated within Shalimar Bagh, which was originally called Aizzabad Garden. The site hosted an important coronation ceremony in Mughal history. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? A. 1 and 2 onlyB. 2 and 3 onlyC. 1 and 3 onlyD. 1, 2 and 3 Answer:BExplanation: Statement 1 is incorrect – Sheesh Mahal was built during Shah Jahan’s reign (not Akbar). Statement 2 is correct – Shalimar Bagh was originally called Aizzabad Garden. Statement 3 is correct – It hosted Aurangzeb’s first coronation in 1658 Brazil vs Mexico: Latin America’s Giants in Culture and Cuisine Syllabus:Culture   Brazil and Mexico stand out as two of the most dynamic and culturally rich nations in Latin America. Celebrated for their vibrant traditions, flavorful cuisine, lively music, and colorful festivals, both countries share certain similarities yet remain distinct in their identities. This article delves into the unique characteristics of each country, highlighting what makes Brazil and Mexico globally admired.   An Overview of Brazil Brazil is the largest country in South America and the fifth-largest in the world by area. With a population exceeding 212 million, it ranks as the seventh most populous country. The capital city is Brasilia, while São Paulo is its most populous and economically powerful metropolis. Brazil comprises 26 states and a Federal District. Uniquely, it is the only country in the Americas where Portuguese is the official language, a legacy of its colonial past under Portugal.   An Overview of Mexico Mexico, officially known as the United Mexican States, is a major nation in North America. It shares borders with the United States to the north and Guatemala and Belize to the south. Flanked by the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea, Mexico enjoys expansive and scenic coastlines. With a population of over 130 million, Mexico is the 13th-largest country by area. Its capital, Mexico City, ranks among the largest urban centers in the world. Spanish is the country’s official and most widely spoken language.   Comparative Overview: Brazil vs Mexico Despite being part of the broader Latin American cultural sphere, Brazil and Mexico diverge in several aspects including language, festivals, and cuisine. Below is a structured comparison: ·         Basis of Difference ·         Brazil ·         Mexico ·         Official Language ·         Portuguese ·         Spanish ·         Popular Music ·         Samba, Bossa Nova ·         Mariachi, Ranchera ·         Popular Dance ·         Samba ·         Jarabe Tapatío ·         Main Festival ·         Carnival (parades, dance, costumes) ·         Día de los Muertos (Day of the