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Post of Deputy Speaker is not Symbolic or Optional

Context: Prolonged vacancy of the Deputy Speaker’s office during the 17th and 18th Lok Sabha represents a serious constitutional anomaly. It poses a threat to the resilience and procedural integrity of India's legislative democracy.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts related to the office of Deputy Speaker.

Mains: Relevance of Deputy Speaker in parliamentary democracy.

Office of the Deputy Speaker

  • Article 93 of Indian Constitution provides for the office of Speaker & Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha.
  • The Deputy Speaker’s role is not optional. The Constitution places this office on an equal footing with the Speaker in terms of its necessity to the parliamentary structure.
  • The Office of Deputy Speaker is not merely a ceremonial seat. It is a constitutional imperative designed to ensure the continuity, stability, and procedural integrity of the Lok Sabha. 
  • However, the prolonged vacancy of this office during the 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024) and continuing into the 18th Lok Sabha represents a serious constitutional anomaly, undermining the spirit of parliamentary democracy.

Historical Evolution of the Office of Deputy Speaker: 

  • The institutions of Speaker and Deputy Speaker originated in India in 1921 under the provisions of the Government of India Act of 1919 (Montague-Chelmsford Reforms). 
  • At that time, the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker were called the President and Deputy President respectively. Sachidanand Sinha was appointed as the first Deputy President in 1921.
  • By the time India achieved independence in 1947, the Deputy Speaker had already become an institutional fixture in legislative governance. During the sessions of the Constituent Assembly (Legislative), a conscious decision was made to continue the office, recognising its importance even before the formal adoption of the Constitution.
  • M.A. Ayyangar became the first elected Deputy Speaker of the First Lok Sabha post-independence. Following the death of Speaker G.V. Mavalankar in 1956, M.A. Ayyangar served as the Acting Speaker, demonstrating the Deputy Speaker’s critical role as a constitutional safeguard for leadership continuity.

Relevance of Deputy Speaker in Parliament

  • Ensuring Procedural Continuity: As articulated by constitutional expert S.C. Kashyap, the Speaker cannot preside over all sittings continuously. The Deputy Speaker, therefore, acts as a vital constitutional functionary, stepping in to ensure the uninterrupted conduct of parliamentary proceedings.
  • Beyond Procedural Backup: The Deputy Speaker’s role is not limited to substituting the Speaker; they are empowered to chair significant sessions, preside over select parliamentary committees, and oversee sensitive debates requiring procedural neutrality.
  • Symbol of Bipartisan Norms: A well-established parliamentary convention — though non-binding — is to offer the Deputy Speakership to the Opposition, reinforcing institutional balance and cross-party cooperation.
  • Strengthening Non-partisan Ethos: The tradition of an Opposition Deputy Speaker reinforces the non-partisan character of the Speaker's office. This promotes consensus-based functioning and upholds the neutral character of the presiding authority.
  • Institutional Safeguard Against Centralisation of Power: A functional Deputy Speaker acts as a procedural counterweight within the House, ensuring that presiding authority does not get overly centralised in the Speaker alone, thereby maintaining democratic checks within the legislature.

Growing Constitutional Vacuum: 

  • Despite its clear constitutional basis and historic continuity, the vacancy of Deputy Speaker’s post marks a clear constitutional lapse, not just a procedural delay. Never before in India’s parliamentary history has the office remained vacant for such extended periods of time.
  • Article 93 clearly states: “The House of the People shall, as soon as may be, choose two members of the House to be respectively Speaker and Deputy Speaker....” The phrasing “as soon as may be” implies urgency, and not discretion.
  • The delay raises fundamental questions about adherence to constitutional mandates and respect for parliamentary norms.

Impact of Vacant Deputy Speaker's Post

  • Erosion of institutional safeguards: Article 94 provides that the Deputy Speaker holds office until resignation, removal, or disqualification as a Member of Parliament, underscoring the constitutional mandate for an uninterrupted second-in-command to uphold continuity, stability, and institutional balance in Lok Sabha. The delay undermines institutional safeguards established by the Constitution.
  • Centralise procedural powers: It centralises procedural power solely within the Speaker and the ruling party, eliminating a vital counterbalance.
  • Risk of leadership vacuum in Emergencies: In cases like the Speaker’s resignation, death, or removal, the lack of a Deputy Speaker could lead to confusion or a temporary leadership vacuum in the House.
  • Disregard for Parliamentary Conventions: The ongoing delay also signals a broader disregard for parliamentary conventions, particularly the unwritten rule of offering the post to the Opposition, which historically promoted inclusivity and moderation.
  • Sidelining consensus politics: The vacancy reflects an active sidelining of consensus politics, limiting the role of the Opposition and undermining deliberative democracy.
  • Contradiction of democratic ethos: The argument that there is “no urgency” to appoint a Deputy Speaker runs counter to the entire ethos of constitutional democracy.
  • Restoring balance: Reviving the practice of appointing a Deputy Speaker from the Opposition is essential to rebuild institutional credibility and inject balance into legislative proceedings in an era of increasing political polarisation.

Need for Legislative Reforms:  

  • Time-Bound Election: Set a mandatory time frame for electing the Deputy Speaker. A specific deadline, for instance, within 60 days of the first sitting of the new Lok Sabha could close this loophole of delay and warrant compliance
  • Statutory Empowerment for Executive Action: Introduce legislation enabling the President to initiate the election process upon the advice of the Prime Minister or the Speaker, ensuring institutional accountability for delays.

It is time for Parliament to reaffirm its respect for constitutional norms and institutional integrity. Electing a Deputy Speaker is not just a formality, it is a test of the House’s commitment to rule-based governance. India’s Parliament must not fail this test any longer.

Also Read: Deputy Speaker Lok Sabha

India-Saudi Arabia Relations

Context: Recently, the Indian Prime Minister was on a two-day state visit to Saudi Arabia. India’s Prime Minister and Saudi Crown Prince co-chaired the 2nd India–Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council (SPC) at the Royal Palace in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Relevance of the Topic:Mains: Bilateral Relations: India and Saudi Arabia. 

Major Highlights of the Visit

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The visit helped deepen the India-Saudi Arabia partnership that has been on a remarkable growth trajectory since 2016. The countries: 

  • Reinforced their traditional energy partnership by sealing an agreement on setting up two oil refineries in India. India is the world’s third-largest importer and consumer of oil, relying on imports for >85% of its crude oil requirements.
  • Added two new ministerial committees – one on defence and another on tourism – under the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC). 
  • Vowed to conclude bilateral investment treaty as early as possible. The two countries agreed to start talks to conclude the India-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Free Trade Agreement. 
  • Concluded a preliminary pact on cooperation in space activities for peaceful purposes.
  • Pledged to work together in new and emerging technology domains like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and semiconductors.  
  • Pledged deeper cooperation in maritime border security, combating transnational crime, narcotics, and drug trafficking. 

India-Saudi Arabia Relations

  • Economic Relations: India is the 2nd largest trade partner of Saudi Arabia whereas Saudi Arabia is the 5th largest trading partner of India. In FY24, bilateral trade stood at USD ~43 billion.
  • Energy Partnership: Saudi Arabia was India’s 3rd largest crude and petroleum products sourcing destination for FY24. Beyond joint projects in the refining and petrochemical sector, the countries are exploring innovative uses of hydrocarbons; grid automation, connectivity, and security; energy storage; green hydrogen transport.
  • Strategic Partnership Council: SPC was set up in 2019 with two ministerial committees, one focusing on political and security issues and the second looking at the economy and investment. It serves to steer the bilateral relationship to include newer areas of cooperation like green energy, health, technology, and agriculture.
  • Defence Cooperation: The countries recently concluded their first land forces exercises (SADA TANSEEQ) and two rounds of naval exercises (AL MOHED AL HINDI). In 2024, an agreement was signed for defence export from India to Saudi Arabia worth USD 225 million. 
  • Strategic and security cooperation: Riyadh Declaration (2010) has raised the level of partnership to strategic partnership which will help to tackle terrorism and radicalization. Both cooperate on ensuring the security and safety of waterways in the Indian Ocean region and the Gulf region.
  • People-to-People ties: Around 2.7 million Indian nationals reside in Saudi Arabia, reflecting the strong people- to-people bonds. The annual Hajj pilgrimage is another important component of India-Saudi Arabia bilateral relations.

Significance of Saudi Arabia: 

  • Look West Strategy: Improving relations with Saudi Arabia is an integral part of India’s “Look West Strategy,” which seeks to bind India closer to the countries of this region. 
  • Security Cooperation: Saudi Arabia has been sending back Indian fugitives wanted for criminal and terrorist activities in India. Saudi Arabia can use its political and financial clout to get Pakistan to halt anti-India terrorism. 
  • Investment Potential: India is looking at attracting Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund to invest in its National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF). Saudi Arabia has pledged an investment of up to $100 billion in India.
  • Stakeholder in IMEEC: India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor was unveiled in 2023. Saudi Arabia is a key member of this ambitious and cost-effective ship-to-rail transit network.

India presents itself as a solid strategic and economic partner to Saudi Arabia, as Riyadh seeks strategic autonomy and establishes itself as a global middle power. 

Third United Nations Ocean Conference

Context: Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) represents a historic opportunity for the global community to build strong, action-oriented consensus for the protection, sustainable use, and better governance of the oceans. 

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts related to the third UN Ocean Conference.

Mains: Oceans and Marine Ecosystems: Significance, threats and efforts towards global ocean governance.

Why is protecting the Oceans urgent?

1. Significance of Oceans: 

  • Oceans cover over 70% of the Earth's surface, are a global commons essential for climate regulation, biodiversity, food security, livelihoods, and international trade.
  • Oceans generate 50% of the oxygen we need, absorb 25% of all carbon dioxide emissions and capture 90% of the excess heat generated from global warming. 

2. Present Challenges: 

  • Lack of Governance: High seas which account for more than 60% of the ocean remain largely unregulated, leading to overfishing, illegal activities, and environmental degradation.
  • Rising Pollution: Over 8 million tons of plastic end up in oceans every year (Science journal, 2020).
  • Resource Overexploitation: One-third of global fish stocks are overexploited, threatening marine food security. 
  • Impacts of Climate Change: Ocean acidification, coral bleaching, rising sea levels, and destruction of marine habitats are direct consequences.
  • Livelihood Risk: One in three people rely on the ocean for their livelihood, thus, safeguarding marine ecosystems becomes important. 
world ocean

In this context, UNOC3 represents an unprecedented opportunity to foster multilateral action, develop binding commitments, and implement tangible strategies to safeguard marine ecosystems.

United Nations Ocean Conference

  • High-level United Nations Conference to support the implementation of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14: Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources.
  • It provides a platform to mobilise political will, partnership and funding to reverse the decline in the health of our ocean for people, planet and prosperity.
  • First United Nations Ocean Conference (2017): New York, the US. 
  • Second United Nations Ocean Conference (2022): Lisbon, Portugal

3rd United Nations Ocean Conference: 

  • Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) is scheduled from June 9-13, 2025 at Nice, France. It will be co-hosted by France and Costa Rica.
  • It is a major global effort to protect oceans, promote sustainable use of marine resources, and advance international cooperation.
  • Theme: Accelerating action and mobilising all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean. 

Key Objectives of UNOC3

  • Operationalising BBNJ Agreement: The lack of surveillance and common rules is causing a real social and environmental disaster, with massive hydrocarbon and plastic pollution, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and the capture of protected and endangered mammals. To end this legal vacuum, the BBNJ Agreement needs to be ratified by 60 countries, so that it may come into force.
  • Enhancing Financing for Blue Economy: Mobilising public and private investments in sustainable marine sectors like eco-friendly shipping, fisheries, tourism, and ocean-based renewable energy.
  • Advancing Ocean Knowledge and Innovation: The depths of the ocean which covers 70% of the Earth’s surface remain unknown. There is a need to mobilise science, innovation, and education to better understand the ocean and raise public awareness. Improving ocean mapping, research, and monitoring technologies to fill scientific gaps.
  • Building a Global Pact: Aim to adopt the "Nice Ocean Agreements", setting a global action framework for oceans, aligned with SDG-14 (Life Below Water).

Significance of the Conference

  • Ten years after COP21 and the Paris Agreement, which established a binding global framework to limit climate change, the UNOC3 is a historic opportunity.
  • The “Nice Ocean Agreements” can form an international pact for the conservation and sustainable use of the ocean, fully in line with the Sustainable Development Goals adopted by the UN in 2015. 

Also Read: BBNJ negotiations - Treaty of the High Seas 

UNOC3 can become a historic inflection point if nations rise above narrow interests and work collaboratively for the stewardship of oceans and securing them for future generations. 

ISRO’s breakthrough in Semi-Cryogenic Engine development for LVM3

Context: Indian Space Research Organisation has successfully conducted the second short duration hot test of the Lox Kerosene 2,000 kiloNewton (kN) semi-cryogenic engine (SE2000). Earlier, the first major hot test of the engine was conducted in March 2025. 

During the test, the engine was successfully ignited and operated up to 60% of its rated power level, demonstrating stable and controlled performance.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key Facts about Semi-cryogenic Engine; Cryogenic Engine. 

ISRO’s Semi-cryogenic Engine

  • The Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre of ISRO is developing the Semi cryogenic propulsion Engine and Stage (SC120). 
  • The stage (SC120) is powered by the 2000 kN semi-cryogenic engine (SE2000). It uses a Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene-based propulsion system that offers an enhanced thrust of 2,000 kiloNewton. 
  • It will replace the present core liquid stage (L110) (which uses Vikas engine) in Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3). 
image 118

Evaluation Tests on Semi-cryogenic Engine: 

  • Before the full integration of the SE2000 engine, ISRO conducted a series of performance evaluation tests on intermediate configurations.
    • Pre-Burner Ignition Test Article (PITA): Tests the ignition process of the engine’s pre-burner. The successful test lasted 2.5 seconds, demonstrating the smooth ignition and operation of the engine. 
    • Power Head Test Article (PHTA): Validates the integrated performance of an engine's critical subsystems, including the gas generator, turbo pumps, pre-burner and control components. It involves performing a hot-firing of the engine for an extremely brief duration of not more than 4.5 seconds.
  • All critical parameters performed as expected, marking a major breakthrough in the semi-cryogenic engine development program. 

Benefits of Semi-cryogenic Propulsion System: 

  • Non-toxic and non hazardous propellants (Liquid Oxygen and Kerosene) are employed in Semi cryogenic propulsion. This will deliver higher performance compared to the existing L110 stage. 
  • Induction of the Semi cryogenic propulsion system along with an uprated cryogenic stage in the LVM3 vehicle enhances its payload capability from 4 tonne to 5 tonne in GTO (Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit).

Advantages of Semi-cryogenic Engine over Cryogenic Engine: 

  • Cryogenic engines use liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen. Handling liquid hydrogen is challenging, as it needs to be stored at minus 253 degrees Celsius, and is highly inflammable. 
  • A semi-cryogenic engine uses a liquid oxygen – kerosene combination, where kerosene is readily storable. This combination offers advantages like high-density impulse (with respect to cryogenic engines), less toxic (with respect to fuel storage) and is cost-effective.

Significance: The success of the test brings ISRO a step closer towards enhancing the payload capacity of India's LVM3 rocket and strengthening the country's capabilities in space launch vehicles.

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre empowered under PMLA

Context: Government has authorised Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) to receive and share information from Enforcement Directorate and other law enforcement agencies to combat money laundering linked to cybercrime.

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre. 

Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre

  • I4C is a nodal agency established by the Ministry of Home Affairs to address cybercrime in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.
  • I4C works towards improving coordination among the Law Enforcement Agencies and the stakeholders and enhancing the nation’s collective capability to tackle cybercrimes. 
  • I4C has partnered with Google and Facebook for sharing intelligence and signals for proactive identification and action on cyber criminals.
    • Cyber fraudsters have been using digital platforms (like Google services platforms) for initiating organised investment crimes and the I4C has partnered with the Internet search giant to flag such content. 
  • I4C has been added to the list of entities under the Section 66 of the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA). The move is aimed at detecting money trails and combat money laundering linked to cybercrime.

Objectives of I4C

  • Facilitate easy filing cybercrime related complaints and identifying cybercrime trends and patterns.
  • Act as an early warning system for Law Enforcement Agencies for proactive cybercrime prevention and detection.
  • Strengthen the fight against cybercrime committed against women and children.
  • Awareness creation among the public about preventing cybercrime.
  • Assist States/UTs in capacity building of Police Officers, Public Prosecutors and Judicial Officers in the area of cyber forensic, investigation, cyber hygiene, cyber-criminology, etc.

India’s Immunisation Journey

Context: Vaccines are one of the most effective tools in modern medicine and one of humanity’s greatest achievements. India has earned the title of 'pharmacy of the world', and is the backbone of a stable, resilient and equitable global healthcare system.

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Key facts related to various immunisation efforts.

Mains: India's role as a global vaccine hub, challenges and solutions.

India’s Immunisation Journey

1. Early beginning of Immunisation: 

  • India’s first smallpox vaccine was administered in Bombay in 1802, laying the foundation for public preventive healthcare.
  • Tuberculosis campaign (1948): Preventive mass immunisation began with the adoption of the International Tuberculosis Campaign, targeting TB which claimed an estimated 500,000 lives per year in India in the 1940s.

2. Institutionalising Immunisation:

  • Expanded Programme on Immunisation (EPI): In 1978, EPI was launched which aimed at providing free vaccines, initially against six diseases. 
  • Universal Immunisation Programme (1985): EPI was renamed as UIP. It provided free vaccines against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases including: TB, polio, measles, and hepatitis B. UIP is among the largest public health programs globally, reaching over 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women each year. Significant achievements: successful eradication of polio in 2014. 
  • Mission Indradhanush (2014): Aim: To improve full immunisation coverage for children in India from 65% in 2014 to at least 90% earlier than 2020. MI focuses on vaccinating women and children against a host of diseases, including diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, polio, TB, meningitis and pneumonia. The initiative has completed twelve phases so far, covering 554 districts across the country.

In 2023-24, India reached full, national immunisation coverage — a milestone made possible through the consistent and extensive efforts of programmes like UIP and MI. 

3. Technological Innovations: 

  • eVIN: India has introduced technology-driven innovations such as the Electronic Vaccine Intelligence Network (eVIN) to strengthen vaccine logistics and transparency. It is an AI-integrated application that modernises healthcare delivery through real-time vaccine stock monitoring.
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India’s role in Global Immunisation Efforts

  • Covering 60% of the global vaccine supply, India is remarkably one of the biggest suppliers of low-cost vaccines in the world.
  • Initiatives like Vaccine Maitri during the COVID-19 pandemic further underscored India's commitment to global health equity.
  • International collaborations with GAVI, COVAX, and WHO underlines India’s commitment to global health.  

India’s immunisation journey illustrates an inspiring story of transformation- from early experiments with smallpox vaccines to achieving full national immunisation coverage and becoming the "pharmacy of the world." 

India extends continental-shelf claim in Arabian Sea 

Context: India has strategically advanced its maritime interests by submitting a revised claim to the United Nations Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), seeking recognition for an additional 10,000 square kilometers of seabed in the Central Arabian Sea. 

Relevance of the topic:

Prelims: Extended Continental Shelf; Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf; Location of Sir Creek.

Mains: India-Pakistan Bilateral Relations: Maritime disputes. 

Continental Shelf and Extended Continental Shelf: 

  • Continental shelf is a natural seaward extension of a land boundary. Coastal countries have an EEZ (exclusive economic zone) which gives exclusive mining and fishing rights, up to 200 nautical miles from their coastlines. 
  • Extended Continental Shelf:
    • States can make claims for more area in the ocean in the UN body Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf (CLCS), if they can scientifically establish that this claimed area extends unbroken from their landmass all the way till the sea bed. 
    • If proved, all of this oceanic area is considered part of a country’s extended continental shelf. This gives them rights to commercially mine for valuable minerals, polymetallic nodules and oil reserves. 
image 79

India’s extended Maritime Claims

  • India has increased its claim in the Central Arabian Sea, as part of its ‘extended continental shelf’ by nearly 10,000 square km.
  • India has also modified an earlier claim to avoid a long-standing dispute with Pakistan over the maritime boundary between the two countries.
  • With the anticipated addition of approximately 1.2 million square km of extended continental shelf from the two submissions to the ~2 million sq. km of EEZ, India’s seabed and sub-seabed area would become almost equal to its land area of 3.274 million sq. km.
image 80

India’s Maritime Disputes

1. With Pakistan: 

  • Sir Creek dispute: Sir Creek area is a 96-kilometer tidal estuary in the Indus River Delta. It serves as a boundary between India's Gujarat state and Pakistan's Sindh province. It is located near the marshy regions adjoining the Rann of Kutch. 
  • 2021: Pakistan objected to portions of India’s claimed territory in the Western offshore regions on the grounds that nearly 100 nautical miles overlapped with a maritime border that was under the Sir Creek dispute. 
  • 2023: CLCS rejected the entirety of India’s claim in the Arabian Sea region. However, the Commission gives leeway to countries to submit ‘modified claims.’
  • 2025: India has split its original claim (in the Western Arabian Sea) into two ‘partial ones.’ This was done to ensure that India’s claim in the Central Arabian Sea region is not affected.

2. With Oman: 

  • Some parts of India’s continental shelf claims in the Arabian Sea overlap with that of Oman. 
  • However, the two countries have an agreement in place since 2010 that while the continental shelf between them is yet to be delimited, it is ‘not under dispute.’

3. On the Eastern and Southern coast: 

  • India has claimed about 300,000 square km in the Bay of Bengal and the Indian Ocean though these have faced contests by Myanmar and Sri Lanka. 
  • The CLCS is expected to begin a new session of consultations later this year.

Contributions of Dr Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan

Context: Dr. Krishnaswamy Kasturirangan, an eminent space scientist, educationist and the guiding force behind India’s space and education milestones passed away recently.  

Relevance of the Topic:Mains: Contributions of Dr. K Kasturirangan. 

Dr. K Kasturirangan: 

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  • Dr. K Kasturirangan was born in 1940 in Ernakulam, Kerala.
  • He earned his physics degree from Bombay University and his PhD in experimental high-energy astronomy from the Physical Research Laboratory, Ahmedabad. 
  • He has published more than 200 papers, both in international and national journals in the areas of astronomy, space science and space applications.
  • He has won several awards including:
    • Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award in Engineering. 
    • Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan. 

Notable Contributions of Dr. K Kasturirangan:  

1. Space Scientist: 

  • He was director at ISRO Satellite Centre and was responsible for overseeing development of next-generation satellites including INSAT-2 and IRS-1A & 1B. 
  • He was the project director for BHASKARA-I and II, India’s first experimental Earth observation satellites. He laid the groundwork for the nation’s remote sensing capabilities.
  • He was the chairman of ISRO from 1994-2003. He witnessed several major milestones including:
    • operationalisation of Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
    • successful flight-test of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV). 
  • Under his stewardship, ISRO pursued technological self-reliance and began planning ambitious missions such as Chandrayaan, despite facing international sanctions following India’s 1998 nuclear tests.
  • His research interests included high-energy X-ray and gamma ray astronomy. He made significant contributions to studies on cosmic X-ray sources, celestial gamma rays, and their effects on Earth’s atmosphere. 
  • He played a key role in conceptualising India’s first space-based high-energy astronomy observatory.

2. Kasturirangan Committee on Western Ghats:

  • He was the Chairman of the high level working group on the protection of Western Ghats, popularly known as Kasturirangan committee. His report on the ecology of the Western Ghats, is the basis on which human activities in specific areas of the Western Ghats are sought to be regulated. 

3. Chief architect of National Education Policy 2020: 

  • He was the chief architect of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 that envisages a new education structure and 100% gross enrolment by 2030. Later, he spearheaded the development of the National Curriculum Framework.

Dr K Kasturirangan is a towering figure in India's scientific and educational journey. His visionary leadership and selfless contribution to the nation will continue to inspire the future generations.  

Raja Ravi Verma

Context: On the occasion of his 177th birth anniversary of the legendary artist Raja Ravi Varma, a musical tribute will be paid at the Kilimanoor Palace, Kerala. 

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about Raja Ravi Verma.  

Raja Ravi Verma (1848-1906)

Raja Ravi Verma
  • Ravi Varma was born into the aristocracy at Kilimanoor in the erstwhile Travancore (present-day Kerala state in India) on April 29, 1848.
  • He is considered to be the pioneer of the modern school of painting. The school was called ‘modern’ because of the heavy influence of western techniques and themes.
  • He successfully combined elements of South Indian painting and Indian iconography with Western techniques and styles.
  • He was patronised by: Ayilyam Thirunal, the next Maharaja of Travancore and began formal training. Later, he was trained in water painting by Rama Swami Naidu, and in oil painting by British portraitist Theodore Jenson. 
  • His religious depictions of Hindu deities and works from Indian epic poetry and Puranas have received profound acclaim.

Titles and Acclaimations:

  • He received widespread acclaim after he won an award for an exhibition of his paintings at Vienna in 1873.
  • His paintings were also sent to the World's Columbian Exposition held in Chicago in 1893.
  • In 1904, Viceroy Lord Curzon, on behalf of the British King Emperor, bestowed upon Varma the Kaisar-i-Hind Gold Medal.
  • He was conferred the title of ‘Raja’ by the Viceroy and Governor-General of India Lord Curzon.

Famous works:

  • Episodes from the story of Dushyanta and Shakuntala
  • Nala and Damayanti from the Mahabharata
  • Paintings from the epic Ramayana, especially the one titled ‘Ravana Kidnapping Sita’.
  • Lady in the Moonlight
  • Galaxy of Musicians
  • Parsi Lady painting. 

Why does Crimea matter to Russia?

Context: The US President Donald Trump has claimed that Crimea (a part of Ukraine) would stay with Russia, a move which is seen as a new pressure tactic on Ukraine to make concessions to end the war.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Location of Crimea; Importance of Crimea for Russia. 

Location of Crimea

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  • Crimea is a strategically important peninsula located in Eastern Europe, bordered by the Black Sea to the west and south, and the smaller Sea of Azov to the northeast.
  • Crimea lies to the south of Ukraine, and to the west of Russia's southern regions. It is connected to mainland Ukraine via the Isthmus of Perekop and to Russia via the Kerch Strait.
  • Crimea was part of independent Ukraine since the country split from the Soviet Union in 1991. Crimea was annexed by Russia in 2014.

Significance of Crimea for Russia

  • Quest for Warm Water: Russia’s coastline stretches more than 37,000 kms. However, much of it is to the north of the Arctic Circle, where sea ice makes many Russian ports unusable in the winter. Thus, control over Crimea and specifically its Black Sea ports gives Russia access to warm waters that stay navigable even during harsh winters.
  • Gateway to the Mediterranean: 
    • Black Sea provides Russia with a direct maritime link to the Mediterranean Sea and from there, to southern Europe, Africa, and West Asia. 
    • To reach the Mediterranean, Russian ships must pass through two narrow, Turkish-controlled straits: the Bosphorus Strait and the Dardanelles Strait. These straits are vital chokepoints. If any hostile power controls them, it could block Russia’s ships from accessing the Mediterranean, affecting Russia’s economy and military operations. 
    • Crimea’s location on the Black Sea allows Russia to safeguard its crucial southern access to the Mediterranean and maintain its strategic and economic independence.
  • Importance of Sevastopol: Sevastopol is a deep-water port in Crimea and the main base of Russia’s Black Sea Fleet. Other nearby Russian ports are shallow and less useful for large naval ships. By controlling Sevastopol, Russia ensures strong naval presence in the Black Sea and avoids dependence on Ukraine.
  • Geopolitical Buffer Zone: Russia fears that Ukraine could join NATO, like Romania and Bulgaria. Losing Ukraine would leave Russia exposed in the Black Sea. Securing Crimea strengthens Russia’s defenses and provides a strategic base.
  • Securing water supply: Crimea depends on water from the Dnieper River through the North Crimean Canal. After 2014, Ukraine blocked the canal, causing a water crisis. Controlling Crimea and the canal is vital for providing water to Crimea’s people. 

India may allow 49% foreign ownership in Nuclear Power Plants

 Context: India is considering allowing foreign firms to hold up to 49% ownership in its Nuclear Power Plants, aiming to boost its nuclear sector and reduce carbon emissions.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about India’s Nuclear Energy Sector; Atomic Energy Act, 1962. 

India’s Nuclear Energy Sector

  • As of 2024, the total Indian nuclear generation is just over 8 GW, which is just 2% of the country’s installed electricity capacity. 
  • India aims to expand nuclear power capacity by 12 times to 100 gigawatts by 2047. 
  • The government is considering changing its nuclear foreign investment framework. It would increase India’s nuclear capacity and replace carbon-intensive coal with cleaner energy.
  • Necessary legal changes are required in the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. The amendments to the Act would allow the government to issue licences to private companies to build, own and operate a plant and mine and manufacture atomic fuel.

Atomic Energy Act, 1962

  • The Act provides for the development, control and use of atomic energy for the welfare of the people of India and for other peaceful purposes. 
  • The central government through NPCIL (Nuclear Power Corporation of India) holds the authority for activities related to nuclear energy, including its production, development, use, and disposal.
  • The Act restricts private companies from owning and operating nuclear power plants in India.
  • The 2015 amendment to the Atomic Energy Act, allows NPCIL to form joint ventures with other public sector units (PSUs) to secure funding for new projects. However, this does not extend to private or foreign companies. 
  • Currently, private companies can participate in specific areas like supplying components and reactors, but not owning or operating plants. Discussions are ongoing about allowing Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs). This would require amendment to the Act.

Also Read: Nuclear Energy Sector in Union Budget 2025-26 

However, the foreign nuclear investments would still require prior government approval rather than be allowed automatically. 

What is the 1972 Simla Agreement?

Context: Pakistan has suspended the 1972 Simla Agreement, a crucial peace treaty established after the 1971 war between India and Pakistan.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts related to Simla Agreement.

Simla Agreement 

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  • Bilateral treaty signed on July 2, 1972, in Simla, Himachal Pradesh between India and Pakistan, by former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and then Pakistani President Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. 
  • It came in the immediate aftermath of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani war, which led to the secession of East Pakistan and the creation of an independent Bangladesh.
  • Aim: To promote peace, avoid future conflict, and lay down the framework for bilateral relations between India and Pakistan.
  • It primarily deals with: 
    • How bilateral relations are to be conducted between the two countries?
    • Recognition of the Line of Control (LoC) as the de facto border.
  • It does not create legally binding obligations and does not include a formal dispute resolution mechanism, making its enforcement dependent on mutual trust and political will.

Key provisions of the Simla Agreement: 

  • Guided by UN Charter: India and Pakistan agreed that their relations would be based on the principles of the United Nations Charter which promotes peace, sovereignty, and non-aggression.
  • Peaceful bilateral resolution: Both nations committed to resolving disputes through bilateral negotiations, without involving third-party mediation — a clause India has consistently highlighted in opposing international interference, especially in the Kashmir issue.
  • Line of Control: The 1971 ceasefire line was redesignated as the Line of Control (LoC), marking a de facto border in Jammu and Kashmir. Neither party would attempt to alter it unilaterally, nor use force to change the status quo.
  • Return of Territory: India returned over 13,000 km² of land captured during the war, demonstrating goodwill and commitment to peace. However, it retained strategic zones like Turtuk and Chalunka in the Chorbat Valley.
  • Non-Interference and Mutual Respect: Both nations agreed to refrain from interfering in each other’s internal affairs and reaffirmed commitment to sovereign equality and territorial integrity.
  • Recognition of Bangladesh: Though not immediate, the agreement set the stage for Pakistan's eventual diplomatic recognition of Bangladesh.

Pakistan has frequently violated the spirit and letter of the Simla Agreement, it has repeatedly violated the ceasefire, tried to annex positions on the Indian side of the LoC in Kargil in 1999, and frequently sponsored non-state actors to breach India’s sovereignty.

Potential Impact of Suspension

  • Increase ceasefire violations in militarised regions like J&K and Ladakh, and attempts to alter the LoC status. 
  • Undermines bilateralism: The suspension could mark a strategic shift in Pakistan's approach. It might now seek third-party involvement — possibly from the United Nations or allies like China or the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to internationalise the Kashmir conflict.
  • Contravention of Vienna convention: Pakistan’s unilateral suspension of the Simla Agreement may breach the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties (1969). 
  • Sets a precedent for unilateral exit of other regional/ bilateral agreements. 

The Simla Agreement has been dead for a long time. In fact, even the ongoing suspension of talks between the two nations can be seen as a breach of the Simla Agreement. Pakistan suspending the treaty only means that it no longer recognises the LoC.  

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