The Hindu

Government Plans to revise Income Limits for Marginalised Students’ Scholarships

Context: Ahead of the upcoming financial cycle (FY 2026-27 to FY 2030-31), the Union government is considering revising the parental income limit for eligibility in availing post and pre-matric scholarships administered to students from marginalised castes and tribes.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Welfare schemes by the government. 

Marginalised Students’ Scholarships

  • The post and pre-matric scholarships for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Castes (OBCs) run as centrally sponsored schemes by the government. They are funded by both the Union and State governments on a 60:40 ratio (Union: States), except for in northeast States where the ratio is 90:10.
  • Post-matric scholarships for SCs, STs, and OBCs, require the student to be an Indian national studying at the post-matric stage (after 10th grade). 
  • Pre-matric scholarships are mostly available to students of grades IX and X. For SCs pre-matric scholarships are available from grades 1 to X, if their parent or guardian is involved in an unclean or hazardous occupation. 
  • Both post and pre-matric scholarships require students’ annual parental income to be below ₹2.5 lakh to become eligible.

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is looking to raise parental income limit to ₹4.5 lakh for post and pre-matric ST scholarships, and the Social Justice Ministry is discussing revising the limits for post and pre-matric scholarships for SCs), Other Backward Castes (OBCs), and Denotified Tribes (DNTs).

In addition, discussions are also on to raise the parental income limit of college and school scholarships for OBCs, and DNTs. 

Reasons for Revising the Parental Income Limit

  • Falling Number of Beneficiaries: Government data shows significant drops in beneficiaries for both pre-matric and post-matric scholarships across SCs, STs, OBCs, EBCs, and DNTs.
  • Too Low Existing Limit: The Parliamentary Committee on the Welfare of OBCs and the Parliamentary Committee overseeing the Ministries of Tribal Affairs & Social Justice observed that the current ₹2.5 lakh limit is too low, excluding many families even when they face financial stress.
  • Parliamentary Panel Recommendations: OBC Welfare Committee recommended doubling the income limit for OBC scholarships and expanding pre-matric coverage from Class IX-X to Class V onwards. The Joint Committee on Tribal Affairs & Social Justice recommended revising the parental income limits for ST scholarships and similar schemes for other marginalised groups.

Panels stressed that revising the limit would allow the scholarships to reach more beneficiaries who genuinely require them.

Aadhaar and Voter ID are Not Proof of Citizenship

Context: Recently, the Bombay High Court ruled that owning an Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or even a passport are not proof of Indian Citizenship, which is determined solely under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Indian Citizenship & Citizenship Act, 1955. 

The Bombay High Court ruled that: 

  • Documents like Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID and Passport are not conclusive proof of citizenship. These documents are meant for identification or availing services, but they do not override the basic legal requirements of citizenship as prescribed in the Citizenship Act, 1955.

Indian Citizenship is determined by the Citizenship Act, 1955

Citizenship can be acquired only via the five modes under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

  • By birth: If a person is born in the territory of India, he shall be a citizen of India.
  • By descent: A person born outside India to Indian citizen parents can acquire citizenship by descent. 
  • By registration: Certain individuals (like those married to Indian citizens or persons of Indian origin residing in India) can apply for citizenship through registration.
  • By naturalisation: Citizenship is acquired by making an application to the central government.
  • By incorporation of territory: If any territory or state becomes part of India, then the central government shall declare it as part of the Union of India. 

Electoral processes (E.g., Bihar’s Special Intensive Revision of rolls) may accept documents like birth certificates for voter registration, but this does not automatically confer citizenship.

Burden of Proof Is on the Individual

  • Under the Foreigners Act 1946, if the state presents credible evidence that raises doubt about a person’s citizenship, it is the individual’s responsibility to prove they are Indian.
  • The Laws Involved:
    • Citizenship Act, 1955: Defines how citizenship is acquired and the documents needed to prove it.
    • Foreigners Act, 1946: Places the burden of proof on the person suspected of being a foreign national.
    • Representation of the People Act: Governs voter ID issuance, which is not linked to a citizenship verification process as rigorous as the Citizenship Act.

Why is Aadhaar and Voter ID not Enough? 

  • Aadhaar is only proof of identity and residence, but not nationality.
  • PAN cards are for tax purposes, even foreign nationals can obtain one.
  • Voter ID is linked to electoral rolls; errors or fraudulent enrolment can occur. 
  • Passport requires some citizenship verification but can be obtained fraudulently.

Hence, these documents are valid for day-to-day identification but are not decisive proof of nationality in a court of law.

SC issues notice to introduce ‘creamy layer’ in SC/ST Reservation

Context: The Supreme Court has decided to examine a petition to introduce a “system”, similar to the creamy layer concept for the Other Backward Classes (OBC). This seeks to achieve equitable distribution of reservation benefits among the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Provisions for Reservation in India, Concept of creamy layer. Mains: Creamy layer in SC/ST reservations: Pros & Cons.

The petition contends that the present system of reservation disproportionately benefits economically better-off members within SC/ST groups, while the poorest and most marginalised sections remain excluded from real upliftment.

Reservation in India

Reservation in India is primarily caste-based, intended to address historical discrimination and social exclusion.

  • Articles 15(4): Allows the State (Union or State governments) to make special provisions, including reservations in education and other affirmative measures for:
    • Socially and Educationally Backward Classes (SEBCs)
    • Scheduled Castes (SCs)
    • Scheduled Tribes (STs)
  • Article 16(4): Permits the State to make laws or policies for reserving appointments or posts in public employment in favour of any backward class of citizens which, in the State’s opinion, is not adequately represented in its services.
  • Article 46: Directive Principle (DPSP) urging the State to promote educational and economic interests of SC/STs.
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Creamy layer concept in Reservation: 

  • The creamy layer concept was introduced in Indra Sawhney v. Union of India (1992) for OBCs, excluding the economically advanced among them from availing reservation benefits.
  • SC/ST reservations have so far been exempted from the creamy layer concept on the grounds that social discrimination against them operates regardless of income or education.

Over the years, concerns have been raised that within SC/ST communities, relatively affluent sections are cornering a disproportionate share of the opportunities.

Petition’s Key Proposals: 

  • The petition sought the introduction of a two-tier reservation system to be implemented within SC/ST categories, prioritising individuals from economically weaker sections before extending benefits to those who are relatively well-off.
  • The proposal for restructuring does not involve any reduction in the current percentage of reservation for SC/ST or other minority communities but refine it by introducing income-based prioritisation.

Arguments in Favour of Applying Creamy Layer to SC/STs: 

  • Ensures equitable distribution of benefits within the community.
  • Prevents the perpetuation of inequality within SC/ST groups.
  • Direct reservation benefits to those in greatest need of upliftment.
  • Aligns with economic justice principles in the Preamble.

Arguments Against:

  • Caste-based discrimination can persist despite economic advancement.
  • Risk of diluting the original purpose of SC/ST reservations which is to counter historical social exclusion, not just economic deprivation.
  • Practical difficulty in defining and implementing economic criteria fairly.
  • Potential to trigger social and political unrest within SC/ST communities.

Way Forward

  • Commission an empirical study to assess intra-community disparities in SC/ST groups.
  • Develop transparent and uniform income criteria if creamy layer is to be applied.
  • Maintain affirmative action for socially disadvantaged while ensuring economic prioritisation.
  • Consider phased implementation with extensive stakeholder consultation to avoid social backlash.

The proposal to apply the creamy layer principle to SC/ST reservations is a significant policy shift that attempts to reconcile social justice with economic fairness. 

However, it must be approached with constitutional sensitivity, robust data, and political consensus to ensure that the most marginalised within these communities are not left behind.

Mains Practice Question:  

Q. The introduction of a creamy layer within SC/ST reservations may improve the equitable distribution of benefits but risks undermining the core objective of affirmative action. Critically analyse. 

Dhirio: Bull Fight in Goa 

Context: The legislators across party lines in Goa state Assembly have demanded the legalisation of bull fighting in Goa, known locally as Dhirio. Despite being banned, the bull fights continue to be clandestinely held in Goa. 

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about traditional animal-based sports in India. 

About Dhirio

  • The bull fighting, locally referred to as Dhirio or Dhiri, is an integral part of Goa’s cultural fabric. Such fights were organised after the harvest season.
  • Bullfighting involves pitting two bulls against each other in a violent and often bloody confrontation. It is a straight fight till one bull falls or flees. A fight can be over in a few minutes or stretch for more than an hour. 
  • These bull fights have traditionally been held in paddy fields and football grounds of Goa, with village shepherds bringing in their animals.
  • Bull fights have been taking place in Goa for generations going back to the time of the Portuguese. 

Legal Status of Dhirio: 

  • The Goa bench of the Bombay High Court banned Dhirio in 1997, citing violations of the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. However, the bull fights continue to be organised clandestinely especially in coastal villages in South Goa and coastal belt in North Goa.

Argument in Support of Ban on Dhirio: 

  • The goal is to incite violence between the animals for entertainment and often gambling. These events subject the animals to significant physical and psychological harm, including fractures, puncture wounds, and severe stress. 
  • Agitated bulls may also charge at spectators, causing grievous injuries.

Important Court judgements in the context

  • In Jallikattu Case 2014 (Animal Welfare Board of India vs A. Nagaraja): The Supreme court ruled that animal life falls within the meaning of Article 21 of the Constitution. The SC noted that all living creatures (including animals) have inherent dignity, right to live peacefully and the right to protect their well-being. 
  • Legal backing to Jallikattu: In 2023, a five judge Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court dismissed petitions challenging constitutionality of Jallikattu, and upheld the validity of 2017 Tamil Nadu law for allowing bull taming sport Jallikattu. 

So, the legislators in Goa demand a similar exception to Dhirio, like Jallikattu citing the traditional continuity of the sport in the state. 

Also Read: Naangarni Spardha 

India’s first private constellation of Earth Observation Satellites

Context: The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe) announced the selection of a consortium led by Google-backed PixxelSpace to design, build and operate India’s first fully-indigenous commercial Earth Observation (EO) satellite constellation, under the public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about India’s first private constellation of Earth Observation Satellites. 
Mains: Commercialisation of the Space Sector in India. 

India’s first private constellation of Earth Observation Satellites

  • India’s first private constellation of Earth Observation (EO) Satellites will be built by a consortium led by Google-backed PixxelSpace. It also includes Piersight Space, Satsure Analytics India and Dhruva Space. 
  • The consortium will invest more than ₹1,200 crore over the next five years to launch a constellation of 12 EO satellites. 
  • The 12 EO satellite constellation will be entirely designed, manufactured, and operated in India. The constellation will be deployed in a phased manner over the next four years. 
  • The satellites will be equipped with panchromatic, multispectral, hyperspectral and microwave synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors.
  • Applications: Deliver analysis-ready data and value-added services for applications in:
    • Climate Change Monitoring
    • Disaster Management 
    • Agriculture
    • Infrastructure and Urban Planning
    • Marine Surveillance 
    • National Security 

Under the PPP framework, the government will provide strategic, technical and policy support, while the consortium will own and operate the EO system, including satellite manufacturing, launches from Indian soil, ground infrastructure and commercialisation of data services.

Significance: 

  • Demonstrates the capability of Indian private space companies to lead largescale, technologically advanced and commercially viable space missions that serve both national and global markets.
  • Advance world-class space-tech capability that will deliver analysis-ready data and value-added services to serve India, as well as the whole planet. 
  • Enhance India’s data sovereignty, reduce dependence on foreign imagery and ensure that all satellites are manufactured domestically, launched on Indian rockets and controlled from within the country.  

The project is also expected to create thousands of high-skill jobs and contribute to India’s target of growing its space economy from $8.4 billion in 2022 to $44 billion by 2033.

Also Read: What is Synthetic Aperture Radar? 

India’s Fisheries Sector on the Rise

Context: As per the latest government data, India’s fisheries sector has experienced a significant growth and contributes approximately 8% to global fish production.

Relevance of the Topic:Mains: Fisheries Sector in India: Present status; Challenges; Govt. schemes. 

Fisheries Sector in India

With a vast coastline and an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of 2.02 million square kilometres, India boasts of rich marine resources. India is the second largest fish producing country with around 8% share in global fish production.

  • Present status: In the five year period between 2019-20 to 2023-24:
    • India’s fisheries sector has achieved record production of over 184 lakh tonnes (lt) in FY24 from 141 lt in FY20 (nearly a 30% growth).
    • Fisheries exports from India increased to ₹60,500 crore in FY24.
    • Increase in per capita fish consumption from 5-6 kg to 12-13 kg in FY24.
    • Aquaculture productivity increased from 3 tonnes per hectare to 4.7 tonnes per hectare.
  • Increased investment: In the last 10 years, the government has made a cumulative investment in the fisheries and aquaculture sector of over ₹38,500 crores through various programmes and initiatives. 

Constraints in the growth of Fisheries Sector

  • Overexploitation of fish stocks due to increased demand for seafood. Additionally, seasonal nature of fishing operations, depleted stocks in natural waters, use of obsolete technology for harvesting coupled with low capital infusion threatens the livelihoods of fishing communities and overall health of marine ecosystems.
  • Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing: IUU fishing practices contribute to overfishing and undermine efforts to manage fisheries sustainably. Lack of effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms exacerbates this issue.
  • Inadequate infrastructure including lack of proper storage, transportation, and processing facilities, hinders the efficiency of the supply chain. This can lead to post-harvest losses and affect the quality of seafood products.
  • Pollution including industrial runoff, untreated sewage, and plastic waste, poses a threat to aquatic ecosystems.
  • Changing climate patterns impact fish habitats, migration routes, and breeding grounds. This affects fish populations and can result in shifts in the distribution of species, impacting the traditional fishing patterns of communities.
  • Limited access to modern fishing technologies and practices hampers the efficiency and productivity of the fishing industry. The adoption of sustainable and technologically advanced methods is crucial for long-term viability.
  • Ineffective fisheries management, including poorly enforced regulations and a lack of participatory approaches involving local communities, contributes to overfishing and resource degradation.
  • Social and Economic challenges faced by fishing communities such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthcare.

Government Schemes for supporting the growth of Fisheries Sector:

  • Blue Revolution Scheme: Launched in FY16 with a central outlay of Rs 3000 crores for 5 years. It focused mainly on increasing fisheries production and productivity from aquaculture and fisheries resources, both inland and marine.
  • National Policy on Marine Fisheries 2017: The policy guides the conservation and management of India’s marine fishery resources. It places strong emphasis on sustainability as the core principle for all marine fisheries actions.
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY): Approved with a total estimated investment of Rs. 20,050 crores for 5 years from FY 2020-25. Extended till FY26. It aims to address critical gaps in the fisheries value chain from fish production, productivity and quality to technology, post-harvest infrastructure and marketing. 
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana: Central Sector Sub-scheme under PMMSY for 4 years from FY 2024-27. It intends to address inherent weaknesses and bring in institutional reforms to the sector through identified financial and technological interventions. 
  • Technological Interventions:
    • GIS-Based Resource Mapping: Implementation of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology for mapping marine fish landing centers and fishing grounds, aiding in effective resource management.
    • Satellite Technology Integration: National Rollout Plan for Vessel Communication and Support System, application of Oceansat, Potential Fishing Zones (PFZ) etc., undertaken by the Department of Fisheries.
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Also Read: PMMSY: bridging gaps in the fisheries sector 

Strategies to be adopted to boost Blue Revolution: 

  • Horizontal Expansion in untapped areas like Brackish aquaculture, cold water fisheries, Pond aquaculture, Reservoirs, canals, ornamental fisheries, Recreational fisheries.
  • Vertical Expansion through diversification of culture species; Integrated farming system; rice-cum-fish culture system; wastewater aquaculture system, Organic aquaculture.
  • Restoration of natural productivity and conservation of indigenous fisheries resources through ecosystem restoration to boost riverine fisheries. 
  • Address stagnation in Marine fisheries through deep sea fishing, Mariculture, open-sea cage farming etc.
  • Upgradation of fishing fleet. Organise fishermen into FPOs and fishing village communities into VPOs to reap economies of scale and promote value-addition
  • Address problems of seed, feed and health.
  • Enhancing extension through Sagar Mitras.
  • Address technical and managerial gaps in shrimp farming through Foreign Direct Investment. 
  • Development of fisheries post-harvest infrastructure especially modern markets, cold storages, processing plants etc. through Public Private Partnership. 
  • E-markets and e-trading of fish and fish products will be encouraged and promoted.
  • Ecological certification of fisheries to boost exports. 

Cabinet gives approval to four new Semiconductor Plants

Context: The Union Cabinet has approved four new projects under the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM). Two of the projects will be in Bhubaneswar in Odisha, and one each will be in Punjab and Andhra Pradesh.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: India’s efforts towards semiconductor self-reliance.

Four new Semiconductor Plants

  • The cumulative value of the new projects is ₹4,594 crore. This brings the total number of projects under the India Semiconductor Mission to 10. 

Key details about the four new projects: 

1. Silicon Carbide integrated facility in Bhubaneswar, Odisha:

  • SicSem Pvt Ltd will establish an integrated facility of Silicon Carbide (SiC) based Compound Semiconductors. This will be the 1st commercial compound fab in the country. 
  • The project proposes to manufacture Silicon Carbide devices. This compound semiconductor fab will have an annual capacity of 60,000 wafers and packaging capacity of 96 million units. 
  • The proposed products will have applications in Missiles, Defence equipment, Electric Vehicles (EVs), Railway, Fast Chargers, Data Centre racks, Consumer Appliances, and Solar Power Inverters.

Silicon Carbide:

  • Silicon carbide (also known as SiC) is a semiconductor base material that consists of pure silicon and pure carbon. 
  • SiC can be doped with nitrogen or phosphorus to form an n-type semiconductor or can be doped with beryllium, boron, aluminum, or gallium to form a p-type semiconductor.
  • SiC devices offer advantages such as higher power density, reduced cooling requirements and lower overall system cost.

2. Vertically integrated advanced packaging and embedded glass substrate unit in Bhubaneshwar, Odisha:  

  • 3D Glass Solutions Inc. will bring world’s most advanced packaging technology to India. 
  • Planned capacity of this unit will be approximately 69,600 glass panel substrates, 50 million assembled units, and 13,200 3D Heterogeneous Integration (3DHI) modules per annum. 
  • The products will have significant applications in defence, high-performance computing, artificial intelligence, RF and automotive, photonics and co-packaged optics etc.

3. Semiconductor manufacturing unit in Andhra Pradesh: 

  • Advanced System in Package  (ASIP) Technologies will set up a semiconductor manufacturing unit with an annual capacity of 96 Million units.
  • The products will find applications in mobile phones, set-top boxes, automobile applications, and other electronic products.

4.  Semiconductor manufacturing facility at Mohali, Punjab:

  • Continental Device India Pvt Limited will expand its discrete semiconductor manufacturing facility. 
  • The proposed facility will manufacture high-power discrete semiconductor devices such as MOSFETs, IGBTs, Schottky Bypass Diodes, and transistors, both in Silicon and Silicon Carbide.

About India Semiconductor Mission

  • ISM is a strategic initiative to establish a robust semiconductor and display ecosystem in the country. It seeks to position India as a global hub for electronics manufacturing and chip design.
  • Launched: 2021
  • Budget outlay: ₹76,000 crores
  • Implemented by: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY)
  • Incentives: Financial incentives up to 50% of the project cost are provided to companies involved in Semiconductor Fabs, Display Fabs, Assembly, Testing, Marking, and Packaging (ATMP/OSAT) units, Semiconductor Design.

Previous Projects approved under India Semiconductor Mission: 

  • Earlier, six major projects have been approved under the India Semiconductor Mission. Already five semiconductor units are in advanced stages of construction. 
  • Advanced 7 nm (nanometre), 5 nm and 3 nm chips are being designed in India. 
  • The first chip from one of the previous six units is expected to be rolled out by the end of 2025. 
Company / Joint Venture Location 
Micron Sanand, Gujarat 
Tata Electronics + PSMC (Taiwan)Dholera, Gujarat 
Tata Semiconductor Assembly & Test (TSAT)Morigaon, Assam
CG Power + Renesas (Japan) + Stars Microelectronics (Thailand)Sanand, Gujarat
Suchi SemiconSurat, Gujarat
HCL + Foxconn (Taiwan)Jewar, Uttar Pradesh

Also Read: India’s push for Semiconductor Chip Production amid Rising Imports 

India’s Retail Inflation hits 8-year low of 1.55% 

Context: India's retail inflation rate has dropped to 1.55% in July 2025, its lowest rate since June 2017 (lowest level in eight years), driven by a drop in food prices. 

Relevance of the Topic:Prelims: Key facts about Retail Inflation; Consumer Price Index

Retail Inflation

  • Retail inflation reflects the cost of everyday goods and services bought for consumption purposes by households. It is measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
  • Under the inflation-targeting regime (2016), the Reserve Bank of India is mandated to keep inflation within a 2%-6% band, and must explain to the government if it breaches either end for three consecutive quarters. 

Retail Inflation in India

  • India's retail inflation rate has dropped to 1.55% in July 2025, its lowest rate since June 2017.  
  • Inflation is well below the Reserve Bank of India's tolerance band of 2%-6% for the first time since January 2019.
  • Food prices have been the main driver for the drastic fall in inflation for the last eight months.
  • Concerns: A drop below 2% signals weak demand and can hurt farm incomes and rural spending. However, it is unlikely to trigger an immediate rate cut as policymakers may view the decline as temporary and driven by volatile food prices.
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Key government interventions to help lower Retail Inflation: 

The government’s strategic interventions have been pivotal in achieving this outcome. Key measures include:

  • Bolstering buffer stocks of essential food items, and releasing them periodically in open markets. 
  • Subsidised retail sales of staples like rice, wheat flour, pulses, and onions. 
  • Simplified import duties on critical food items. 
  • Stricter stock limits to prevent hoarding. 
  • Reduced GST rates on essentials have further eased price pressures. 
  • Targeted subsidies, such as LPG support under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana and the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana.

What is the Consumer Price Index (CPI)?

  • CPI is an economic indicator that measures inflation at retail level (changes in the level of retail prices over time). 
  • It reflects how much households need to spend on a fixed basket of goods and services they typically consume, such as food, clothing, housing, and fuel. 
  • Compiled by: National Statistical Office (NSO), under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.
  • Calculated using: base year 2012 
  • CPI is a key benchmark for targeting inflation, monitoring price stability, and guiding monetary policy decisions by the Reserve Bank of India. It also serves as a deflator in the National Accounts to measure real economic growth.

With inflation now at its lowest since 2017, India has reinforced macroeconomic stability and created an enabling environment for sustainable growth. However, the steep fall in food prices can lower farmer incomes and directly impact rural consumption demand. 

Carriage of Goods by Sea Act 2025 & Coastal Shipping Act 2025

Context: In the biggest overhaul of India’s maritime legal framework, two landmark legislations- ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025’, and the ‘Coastal Shipping Act, 2025’ have been enacted. 

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key provisions of ‘Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025’, and the ‘Coastal Shipping Act, 2025.’

Overhaul of India’s Maritime Legal Framework

  • The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025 replaces outdated provisions of the Indian Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 1925.
  • The Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 seeks to simplify and modernise the legal framework governing coastal shipping. It replaces outdated provisions of Part XIV of the Merchant Shipping Act, 1958. 

Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025

  • The Carriage of Goods by Sea Act, 2025 adopts Hague-Visby Rules, a globally accepted maritime standard. It standardises Indian maritime trade law with globally accepted norms (especially regarding bills of lading and cargo liability). 
  • The Act lays out clearly defined roles, responsibilities, liabilities and protections for parties involved in the carriage of goods by sea to reduce legal disputes. 
  • It caps carrier liability to provide predictability for shippers and insurers. Exemptions cover force majeure events like war and natural disasters, while allowing negotiated terms for special cargo. 
  • The Act outlines clear rules around the Bill of Lading- including who is responsible if something goes wrong, and what rights both parties have. The government can update or modify the rules related to bills of lading, without needing to bring a new law to Parliament.

Bill of Lading:

  • It is a legal receipt issued by a shipping company to the person sending the goods. 
  • It lists what goods are being shipped, their quantity and condition, and where they are going. 
  • It acts as proof of ownership of the goods and is essential for international trade.

Coastal Shipping Act, 2025

The Coastal Shipping Act, 2025 consolidates rules for coasting trade, defined as cargo or passenger movement between Indian ports or related offshore activities.

  • It introduces a simplified licensing system for coastal shipping and lays down the framework for regulating foreign vessels engaged in coasting trade.
    • It requires foreign vessels to obtain licences from the Director-General of Shipping.
    • Indian vessels, while exempt from licensing, must meet reporting norms.
  • The Act mandates formulation of National Coastal and Inland Shipping Strategic Plan to map routes, forecast traffic and integrate coastal shipping with inland waterways. It has to be updated every two years. 
  • It provides for creation of a National Database for Coastal Shipping to enable real-time access to authentic and regularly updated data. This database will keep potential investors informed about the government’s development plans and policy priorities.
  • Strict penalties target unlicensed operations, false declarations and safety breaches. The government is empowered to reroute or ban vessels in public interest or for national defence. 

Significance of overhauling India’s Maritime Legal Framework: 

  • Align India’s maritime framework with global conventions and international protocols. 
  • Streamline coastal trade and prioritise Indian-owned vessels in domestic waters. Enhance supply-chain security by increasing Indian ships’ participation in domestic cargo movement. 
  • The National Database for Coastal Shipping will promote transparency and confidence.
  • Reduce India’s dependence on foreign vessels thereby preventing the outflow of foreign exchange. 
  • Promotes ease of doing business for Indian shipping operators, cuts freight costs and enhances multimodal transport efficiency.
  • Catalyses local economic development generating employment opportunities across coastal regions. 

India moves a step closer to building a rule-aligned, integrated, efficient, and globally competitive coastal and inland shipping ecosystem, while securing the country’s vast 7500 km coastline for strategic and commercial benefit. 

Aadhaar Face Authentication to ensure Exam Transparency 

Context: The government is expanding Aadhaar face authentication to enhance fairness in exams, improve service delivery, and ensure inclusion.

Relevance of the Topic : Prelims: What is Aadhar Face Authentication and how it is done.

What is Aadhaar Face Authentication?

  • Aadhaar Face Authentication is a biometric verification method where a person’s live facial image is matched with the photograph stored in the Aadhaar database at the time of enrolment.
  • Uses liveness detection to ensure the person is physically present.
  • Operates through a smartphone or computer camera.

Why is it being used?

  • Transparency in competitive exams: It helps ensure the person taking the exam is the real registered candidate. The Staff Selection Commission (SSC) and the Railway Recruitment Board (RRB) already have approval to use it for examinee verification.
  • Solving biometric issues: Many labourers and elderly people have worn-out fingerprints, making fingerprint authentication unreliable. Face authentication bypasses that issue.

Recent adoption of Aadhaar Face Authentication: 

  • Employment Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO): EPFO has mandated that Universal Account Numbers (UAN) for salaried employees and pensioners will only be generated after Aadhaar face authentication.
  • India Post Payments Bank: Recently adopted face authentication for services, saying it aligns with Digital India and Financial Inclusion goals ensuring equal access for all citizens.
  • Sports Authority of India (SAI): Approved to use Aadhaar authentication for athletes, coaches, and staff to verify identity during registration, attendance, and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes like Khelo India and TOPS.

Legal and Administrative Framework: 

  • Any Aadhaar authentication (including face recognition) requires IT Ministry approval.
  • In January 2025, new rules called the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Amendment Rules, 2025 were issued.

Under these rules:

  • Government & private organisations can submit authentication proposals to the IT Ministry.
  • Proposals are vetted by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI).
  • A new Aadhaar authentication portal (SWIK Portal) has been launched for submitting proposals. About 1-6 proposals are approved each month.

Significance: 

  • Enhance Examination Integrity: Reduces impersonation in competitive exams and builds trust among candidates.
  • Social Inclusion: Addresses biometric failure issues for vulnerable groups.
  • Administrative Accountability: Ensures accurate beneficiary identification and transparent welfare delivery.
  • Ease of Access: Smartphone-based authentication reduces dependency on physical infrastructure.

Challenges & Concerns

  • Privacy Risks: Potential misuse of biometric data, if safeguards are weak.
  • Cybersecurity: Need for robust protection against spoofing or hacking.
  • Digital Divide: Access issues for those without smartphones or internet.

Aadhaar face authentication is becoming a central identity verification tool in India. It reflects the government's broader push for Digital India, Good Governance, and Financial Inclusion, while expanding the role of Aadhaar beyond fingerprints and OTPs. 

Also Read: UIDAI notifies new rules for Aadhar Authentication 

India’s First Underwater Museum and Artificial Coral Reef

Context: Maharashtra is set to create India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef by scuttling the decommissioned naval warship INS Guldar near Nivati Rocks, Vengurla, in Sindhudurg district. 

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: About India’s First Underwater Museum; Artificial Coral Reef; INS Guldar. 

India’s first Underwater Museum and Artificial Coral Reef

  • India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef will be developed around the decommissioned warship INS Guldar in Maharashtra.
  • Aim: To boost marine conservation and tourism, offering scuba diving and future submarine tours. 
  • The underwater museum cum-artificial reef is estimated to cost Rs 78 crore. The initiative is supported by the central government. Centre will bear nearly 60% of the total cost and the state government the rest. 

INS Guldar

  • INS Guldar, an 83 metre long Kumbhir Class landing ship, was built in Poland and commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985. It was decommissioned in 2024. 
  • It was designed for amphibious warfare and capable of beach landings. It was once part of India’s peace keeping mission in Srilanka combating attacks from the Liberation of Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)
  • It has been officially handed over by the central government to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation for conversion into a submerged museum. 

Scuttling of INS Guldar: 

  • Scuttling is the deliberate sinking (controlled sinking) of a ship to dispose of an old vessel, create an artificial reef, or prevent it from falling into enemy hands. The process of scuttling follows the Archimedes principle.
  • Archimedes principle: The buoyant force keeping an object afloat is equal to the weight of the water the object displaces. 

Fishing Cat 

Context: India is home to 15 species of the cat family (Felidae). Smaller wild cats like the Fishing Cat remain lesser-known yet ecologically significant. The species faces growing threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict, particularly due to the degradation of wetlands.

Relevance of the Topic: Prelims: Key facts about Fishing Cat. 

Fishing Cat

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  • Description: An elusive nocturnal cat, twice the size of the domestic cat. It weighs 7-12 kgs, and has a greyish brown fur lined with black spots. 
  • Behaviour: 
    • In its territory, this cat is often the apex predator meaning no other creature preys on it. 
    • The diet is primarily fish; it also hunts on rodents, chickens, small animals. 
    • Well adapted to water with webbed paws, a waterproof coat, ability to swim underwater, and claws that stay out to help grip mud and catch fish.
  • Habitat: Wetlands i.e., river floodplains, mangroves, marshes, swamps.
  • Distribution in India: Terai region, marshes of western India, Sundarbans, East coast, Chilika Lake (Odisha), Sri Lanka; rediscovered in Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan).
  • The fishing cat spends 50% of its hunting time standing, sitting or crouching near the edge of water. Barely 5% of hunting time is spent submerged in water. 

Protection Status: 

  • IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
  • CITES: Appendix II (trade regulated to avoid threats to survival)
  • Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I (the highest level of legal protection in India)

Fishing cat numbers are rapidly declining in the Sundarbans and were once thought extinct in Rajasthan until recent sightings in Keoladeo National Park.

Factors responsible for Decline:  

  • Habitat loss: The decline is largely on account of habitat loss. It has been estimated that 30-40% of India’s wetlands have been lost or severely degraded in the last four decades. Protecting wetland ecosystems is therefore crucial for the fishing cat. 
  • Human encroachment on wetlands and revenge killings of cats by humans. 

Scientific Research & Monitoring:

  • Fishing Cat Project (Tiasa Adhya): Extensive surveys, community engagement.
  • Wildlife Institute of India’s Godavari Estuary Project: GPS collar tracking in Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary (Andhra Pradesh) to map habitat use and human interaction zones.
  • Community-Based Conservation: Awareness campaigns to reduce animosity and promote co-existence.

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