India-UK FTA, DPDP Act, Gaganyaan & NGHM | 24th July 2025 | UPSC Current Affairs Analysis |

Comprehensive Analysis of Daily Current Affairs: 24th July 2025

Prepared for the Union Public Service Commission Civil Services Examination

A Word of Motivation for the Aspirant

The path of a civil services aspirant is one of immense dedication, discipline, and intellectual rigor. Each day of preparation is not merely an act of study but a foundational step towards a life of service. The news and events you analyze today are not abstract occurrences; they are the very fabric of the nation you aspire to lead.

On this day, 24th July 2025, India has taken significant strides on the global stage. A historic trade agreement with the United Kingdom has been signed, a testament to India's maturing diplomatic and economic statecraft. Simultaneously, the nation's human spaceflight program, Gaganyaan, has crossed critical milestones, showcasing our indigenous scientific prowess and ambition. These are not just headlines; they are manifestations of a nation in motion, a nation with a vision.

As you delve into the complexities of these events—the nuances of a trade deal, the technological marvels of a space mission, the intricate debates on data privacy—remember that your future role will be to steward this very progress. The discipline you cultivate today in understanding policy will translate into the dedication required to implement it tomorrow. The analytical clarity you develop will become the wisdom needed to navigate the challenges of governance. Your journey is parallel to India's own. Embrace it with the seriousness and passion it deserves, for you are not just preparing for an examination; you are preparing to build the India of tomorrow.

Table of Contents

Part III: Comprehensive Daily Analysis: Mapping Events to the Syllabus

Section 1: Governance, International Relations & Social Justice (GS Paper-II & Prelims Focus)

1.1. Landmark India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Signed in London

1.1.1. Context and Significance

On July 24, 2025, India and the United Kingdom marked a historic moment in their bilateral relationship by officially signing a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA) in London. The signing ceremony took place at Chequers, the UK Prime Minister's official country residence, signifying the culmination of a long and complex negotiation process. The journey spanned over three years and fourteen rounds of formal negotiations, navigating through significant political changes in the UK and various missed deadlines. This FTA is of immense significance for both nations, representing the UK's most substantial trade pact post-Brexit and India's most ambitious trade deal to date, setting a template for future negotiations.

1.1.2. In-Depth Analysis of Key Provisions & Economic Impact

The India-UK FTA aims to more than double bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030. Key provisions include:

  • Trade in Goods: India will reduce tariffs on nearly 90% of UK product lines, cutting the average levy from 15% to 3%. This includes halving the 150% tariff on Scotch whisky and drastically cutting duties on UK cars from over 100% to 10% under a quota system. The UK will provide duty-free entry for 99% of Indian products, boosting sectors like textiles, leather, gems, and engineering goods.
  • Trade in Services & Professional Mobility: The agreement eases the temporary movement of Indian professionals to the UK, including chefs and yoga instructors. A crucial Social Security Agreement (SSA) exempts Indian professionals on temporary assignments from making social security contributions in the UK, saving an estimated Rs 40 billion annually.
  • Government Procurement: For the first time, India has opened its central government procurement market (tenders over Rs 2 billion in non-sensitive sectors) to a foreign partner, allowing UK firms to bid while balancing this with 'Make in India' preferences.
  • Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): The FTA enhances IPR protection, with India agreeing to protect copyright terms for at least 60 years and to review its copyright framework.
1.1.3. The Digital Trade Chapter: A Strategic Pivot

One of the most forward-looking components is the dedicated chapter on digital trade. This marks a significant evolution in India's policy, moving from a cautious stance to embracing binding commitments. Key provisions include:

  • Prohibition on Forced Source Code Transfer: Protects businesses from being forced to transfer proprietary source code as a condition for market access.
  • Cross-Border Data Flows: Facilitates data flows with built-in flexibility for future renegotiation, respecting India's right to regulate data while enabling digital trade.
  • E-commerce and Consumer Protection: Promotes digital commerce by legally recognizing electronic contracts and enhancing online consumer protection against spam.

This chapter is a geopolitical signal of India's intent to align with Western-led norms of digital governance and become a reliable player in global technology supply chains.

1.1.4. Critical Issues & Sticking Points
  • Rules of Origin (RoO): The FTA introduces an innovative "coequal" rule, allowing producers to meet any one of a set of multiple origin criteria. While this offers flexibility, it increases the risk of circumvention and requires robust verification mechanisms.
  • Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT): Investment protection is not covered in the FTA and is being negotiated separately. Finalizing the BIT is a critical next step.
  • Agriculture: The agreement grants Indian farmers duty-free access for products like spices and processed foods to the UK market while successfully protecting sensitive domestic sectors like dairy, apples, and oats from tariff reductions.
1.1.5. Strategic & Geopolitical Analysis

The FTA is a cornerstone of the UK's post-Brexit "Indo-Pacific tilt" and a key element of India's strategy to diversify trade relationships. It strengthens ties with a UN Security Council permanent member and serves as a template for India's ongoing negotiations with the EU. While some analysts see it as a model for trade diplomacy, others, like Chatham House, advise caution, noting India's historically protectionist instincts and recommending a more diversified UK strategy in the Indo-Pacific.

1.2. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023: Implementation and Scrutiny

1.2.1. Context and Current Status

The DPDP Act, India's first comprehensive data protection law, received presidential assent in August 2023. It aims to balance an individual's right to protect personal data with the need for lawful processing. The Act is founded on principles like lawful processing, purpose limitation, data minimisation, and a consent-centric framework. It defines three key actors: the Data Principal (individual), Data Fiduciary (entity determining purpose), and Data Processor.

1.2.2. The Data Protection Board (DPB) of India: Powers, Structure, and Independence

The DPDP Act establishes the Data Protection Board (DPB) as the primary adjudicatory body with the powers of a civil court. However, its Chairperson and members are appointed by the Central Government, making it accountable to the executive. This starkly contrasts with the EU's GDPR, which mandates "completely independent" data protection authorities. This structure creates a conflict of interest, as the government is the largest data fiduciary. Critics fear the DPB may act as a "captive regulator," unable to take stringent action against government agencies, undermining the Act's enforcement.

1.2.3. Constitutional Analysis: DPDP Act vs. The Puttaswamy Judgment

The Act's origin lies in the Supreme Court's 2017 Puttaswamy judgment, which established the Right to Privacy as a fundamental right. The judgment laid down a four-pronged test for any state intrusion: it must have a legal basis, pursue a legitimate state aim, be proportionate, and have procedural safeguards. Section 17(2) of the DPDP Act grants the Central Government sweeping powers to exempt its agencies from the Act on broad grounds like "national security" without being inherently bound by the proportionality test. This has led to criticism that the law, meant to protect privacy, has instead created a legislative pathway for the state to legally circumvent it.

1.2.4. Implications for Transparency: The Dilution of the RTI Act

Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, 2005. It removes the crucial "public interest" override that allowed for the disclosure of personal information if the larger public interest justified it. This creates a near-blanket exemption for information classified as "personal." Critics argue this is a severe blow to transparency, as it can be used to deny access to information about public officials' assets, qualifications, or corruption cases, weakening accountability.

1.2.5. Comparative Analysis: DPDP Act vs. EU's GDPR
Parameter Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (India) General Data Protection Regulation (EU)
Scope Applies to digital personal data; excludes publicly available data. Applies to all personal data (digital or non-digital in a filing system); includes publicly available data.
Data Categorization No "sensitive data" category; designates "Significant Data Fiduciaries" with higher obligations. Defines "special categories" of sensitive data (health, race, etc.) with stricter processing conditions.
Legal Basis Primarily consent-based, with "legitimate uses" as exceptions. Six distinct lawful bases, including consent, contract, and legitimate interests.
Data Subject Rights Rights to access, correction, erasure, and grievance redressal. Omits right to data portability. More extensive rights, including data portability and the right to object to processing.
Regulatory Body Data Protection Board (DPB), appointed by and accountable to the Central Government. Independent Data Protection Authorities (DPAs) in each member state, free from government influence.
Penalties Maximum penalty up to ₹250 crore (approx. $30 million). Up to €20 million or 4% of worldwide annual turnover, whichever is higher.

This comparison shows the Indian approach is more government-centric, whereas the GDPR is more rights-based and ensures regulatory independence.

Section 2: Economy, S&T, Environment & Security (GS Paper-III & Prelims Focus)

2.1. National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM): A Mid-Decade Review

2.1.1. Context and Mission Objectives

Launched in January 2023 with an outlay of ₹19,744 crore, the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production. Green hydrogen is produced via electrolysis using renewable energy. The mission's 2030 targets include:

  • A production capacity of at least 5 Million Metric Tonnes (MMT) per annum.
  • An associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW.
  • Attracting over ₹8 lakh crore in investments and creating over 6 lakh jobs.
  • Reducing fossil fuel imports by over ₹1 lakh crore and abating 50 MMT of annual GHG emissions.
2.1.2. Economic and Environmental Benefits

The NGHM aims to enhance energy security by reducing India's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels. It will facilitate the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors like fertilizers, steel, and cement. The mission is expected to catalyze a new sunrise industry, fostering economic growth and job creation, and position India as a leading global exporter of green hydrogen and its derivatives like green ammonia.

2.1.3. Policy Levers and Government Interventions

The government's strategy includes:

  • SIGHT Programme: The Strategic Interventions for Green Hydrogen Transition (SIGHT) programme, with a ₹17,490 crore outlay, acts like a PLI scheme to incentivize domestic electrolyzer manufacturing and green hydrogen production.
  • Policy Enablers: These include a 25-year waiver on interstate transmission charges for green hydrogen plants, exemption from environmental clearance, and a single-window clearance system.
  • Infrastructure Development: The mission will support the development of integrated Green Hydrogen Hubs.
2.1.4. Techno-Economic Analysis and Key Challenges

Significant challenges remain:

  • High Production Cost: Green hydrogen currently costs $3.8-$5.8/kg in India, much higher than grey hydrogen. Bringing it down to the target of $1/kg by 2030 is a major challenge.
  • Infrastructure Deficit: India lacks dedicated pipelines, transport, and storage infrastructure for hydrogen.
  • Resource Constraints: The mission requires vast amounts of land for renewable energy and is highly water-intensive, posing challenges in a water-scarce country.
  • Technological Dependencies: India is import-dependent for electrolyzer components and critical minerals like platinum, iridium, and nickel, creating supply chain vulnerabilities.

The mission's success requires a "whole-of-government" approach with seamless Centre-State coordination on issues like land, water, and power pricing.

2.2. Gaganyaan Mission: India's Leap into Human Spaceflight

2.2.1. Context and Current Status

The Gaganyaan Mission aims to demonstrate India's capability to send a crew of three astronauts into a 400 km Low Earth Orbit (LEO) for three days and bring them back safely. On July 23, 2025, the government confirmed the successful completion of ground testing for the Human-Rated Launch Vehicle (HLVM3). The first uncrewed orbital mission (G1) is targeted for late 2025, with the first crewed flight (H1) now scheduled for early 2027.

2.2.2. Technological Deep Dive: The Building Blocks of Gaganyaan
  • Launch Vehicle (HLVM3): A human-rated version of ISRO's most powerful LVM3 rocket, featuring enhanced reliability, redundancy, and a Crew Escape System.
  • Orbital Module (OM): Consists of the Crew Module (the pressurized living space for astronauts) and the Service Module (housing propulsion and support systems).
  • Crew Escape System (CES): A critical safety feature designed to pull the Crew Module away from the rocket in case of a launch failure.
Component First Stage (Solid) Second Stage (Liquid) Third Stage (Cryogenic)
Designation 2 x HS200 L110 C25
Engine(s) S200 Solid Motor 2 x Vikas Engines 1 x CE-20 Cryo Engine
Key Role Initial lift-off thrust. Sustained thrust after booster separation. Final orbital insertion.
Human-Rating All stages feature enhanced safety margins, fault-tolerant avionics, and redundant systems to ensure the highest reliability for crewed flight.
2.2.3. Scientific & Strategic Significance

Gaganyaan will place India in the elite club of nations (after the US, Russia, and China) with indigenous human spaceflight capability. It is a foundational step towards future ambitions like the Bharatiya Antariksha Station (India's own space station) by 2035 and landing an Indian on the Moon by 2040. The mission will serve as a platform for microgravity research and is a powerful driver of economic activity and technological spin-offs. Above all, it has immense inspirational value, fostering a scientific temper and encouraging youth to pursue STEM careers.

Section 3: Linkages with Indian Society & Geography (GS Paper-I Focus)

3.1. Effects of Globalization on Indian Society

The India-UK FTA exemplifies globalization's impact. It benefits globally competitive sectors like IT and textiles, empowering professionals and creating jobs. However, it also increases competition for domestic industries like auto components, highlighting the classic dilemma where globalization creates both winners and losers, necessitating supportive policies for vulnerable sectors.

3.2. Role of Women

The FTA could significantly impact the role of women, as key beneficiary sectors like textiles, apparel, and processed foods are major employers of female workers. Increased exports in these areas can lead to more employment opportunities and economic empowerment for women. However, it's crucial to ensure this growth is accompanied by fair wages and decent working conditions.

3.3. Science, Technology, and Fostering a Scientific Temper

The Gaganyaan mission is a powerful symbol of national scientific achievement. It captures public imagination, fosters pride in indigenous innovation (Aatmanirbharta), and inspires youth to pursue STEM careers. By showcasing India's scientific capabilities, it acts as a potent tool for strengthening the scientific temper crucial for national development.

Section 4: Ethical Dimensions in Governance (GS Paper-IV Focus)

4.1. Probity in Governance & Transparency

The India-UK FTA negotiations tested the probity of civil servants and leaders in balancing national interest with diverse stakeholder demands. The inclusion of an Anti-Corruption chapter, committing both nations to combat bribery, reinforces India's commitment to upholding ethical standards in international economic dealings.

4.2. Ethical Concerns in Data Governance

The DPDP Act presents a classic ethical dilemma: The Right to Privacy vs. National Security. The Act's broad, vaguely worded exemptions for government agencies, without robust proportionality checks or an independent oversight body, raise critical ethical questions about balancing fundamental rights with state imperatives and the potential for creating a surveillance state.

4.3. Foundational Values for Civil Service

Missions like NGHM and Gaganyaan demand that civil servants embody foundational values. This includes dedication to public service for long-term national goals, objectivity in allocating resources and incentives, and the integrity and courage of conviction to uphold the highest safety and quality standards, especially when human lives are at stake.

Part IV: Prelims-Oriented Factual Compendium

India-UK FTA: Formally signed on July 24, 2025. Aims to increase bilateral trade to $120 billion by 2030. Tariff on Scotch whisky reduced from 150% to 75%. Accompanied by a Social Security Agreement.

DPDP Act, 2023: Enacted in August 2023. Establishes the Data Protection Board (DPB). Maximum penalty is ₹250 Crore. Amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act.

National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM): Launched in January 2023. 2030 target of 5 MMT production capacity. Key incentive scheme is the SIGHT Programme.

Gaganyaan Mission: Uses the Human-Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3). Aims for a 3-day mission in a 400 km LEO. The humanoid robot is named Vyommitra. First crewed flight is targeted for early 2027.

Part V: Mains Answer Writing Practice

Question: The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, was enacted to give legislative effect to the fundamental right to privacy. However, its broad governmental exemptions and the structure of the Data Protection Board have raised concerns about its efficacy in upholding this right. Critically analyze the provisions of the DPDP Act in light of the principles laid down in the K.S. Puttaswamy judgment. (250 words, 15 marks)

Answer Framework:

  • Introduction: Acknowledge the DPDP Act as a response to the Puttaswamy judgment which established the Right to Privacy. State the core tension between the Act's provisions and the judgment's principles.
  • Puttaswamy Principles: Briefly explain the test of legality, legitimate aim, proportionality, and procedural safeguards.
  • Conflict with Proportionality: Analyze Section 17(2) of the Act, highlighting how its broad exemptions for "national security" lack the stringent proportionality test mandated by the court, risking excessive state power.
  • Lack of Procedural Safeguards: Discuss the structure of the Data Protection Board (DPB), whose members are appointed by the executive. Argue that this lack of independence compromises the "procedural safeguards" test, as the regulator of the state is a creation of the state.
  • Conclusion: Summarize that while the DPDP Act is a necessary first step, its current form, with broad state exemptions and a compromised DPB, falls short of the constitutional standards set by the Puttaswamy judgment. Emphasize the need for future amendments or judicial interpretation to strengthen its privacy-protecting features.

Part VI: Daily Current Affairs Quiz

1. With reference to the recently signed India-UK Free Trade Agreement, which of the following statements is correct?

  1. The agreement mandates a complete elimination of tariffs on Scotch whisky immediately upon enforcement.
  2. The pact includes a comprehensive Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to protect investments in both countries.
  3. Indian professionals on temporary work in the UK are exempted from paying social security contributions for up to three years under an associated agreement.
  4. The agreement grants duty-free access to 100% of Indian agricultural products, including dairy and apples, in the UK market.

Answer: (c)
Explanation: The tariff on whisky is reduced, not eliminated. The BIT is being negotiated separately. India has protected sensitive agricultural sectors like dairy. The Social Security Agreement is a key feature.

2. Which of the following is NOT a stated target of India's National Green Hydrogen Mission to be achieved by 2030?

  1. Development of green hydrogen production capacity of at least 5 MMT per annum.
  2. Abatement of nearly 50 MMT of annual greenhouse gas emissions.
  3. Achieving a green hydrogen production cost of $5 per kg.
  4. An associated renewable energy capacity addition of about 125 GW.

Answer: (c)
Explanation: The targets of 5 MMT production, 50 MMT emissions abatement, and 125 GW RE capacity are correct. The mission aims to bring the cost down significantly, with a target closer to $1/kg, not achieve a cost of $5/kg.

3. The Human-Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (HLVM3), used for the Gaganyaan mission, is a modified version of which existing ISRO launch vehicle?

  1. Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV)
  2. Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
  3. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark II (GSLV Mk II)
  4. Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mark III (GSLV Mk III)

Answer: (d)
Explanation: The HLVM3 is the human-rated version of the LVM3, which was previously known as the GSLV Mk III. It is ISRO's most powerful rocket.

4. The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, has been criticized for potentially weakening the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. This is primarily because it:

  1. Increases the penalties for PIOs who disclose personal information.
  2. Establishes the Data Protection Board as the final appellate authority for all RTI cases.
  3. Amends the RTI Act to remove the "public interest" justification for disclosing personal information.
  4. Requires all RTI applications to be filed digitally through a government-monitored portal.

Answer: (c)
Explanation: Section 44(3) of the DPDP Act amends Section 8(1)(j) of the RTI Act, removing the crucial proviso that allowed disclosure of personal information in the larger public interest.

5. Consider the following terms: 1. Crew Escape System (CES), 2. Vyommitra, 3. Service Module (SM), 4. SIGHT Programme. Which of these are correctly associated with the Gaganyaan Mission?

  1. 1, 2 and 3 only
  2. 1 and 3 only
  3. 2 and 4 only
  4. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a)
Explanation: CES, Vyommitra (humanoid), and Service Module are all part of Gaganyaan. The SIGHT Programme is part of the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

Part VII: Revision Flashcards

Part VIII: Concluding Analysis & Way Forward

The events of July 24, 2025, encapsulate the defining characteristics of contemporary India: a nation pursuing ambitious strategic goals on the global stage while simultaneously grappling with the complex governance challenges of implementing them domestically. The signing of the India-UK Free Trade Agreement and the reported progress in the Gaganyaan mission are powerful indicators of India's growing confidence and capability. However, these ambitious outward-looking initiatives are juxtaposed with the intricate and often contentious nature of domestic policy implementation.

The Way Forward:

  • For the India-UK FTA: The immediate priority is the swift ratification and implementation of the agreement. The focus must now shift to concluding the separate Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) to provide comprehensive protection for investors. Furthermore, the effectiveness of the novel "coequal" rules of origin will depend entirely on the robustness of India's customs and compliance mechanisms.
  • For the DPDP Act: The path forward requires a delicate balancing act. The government must build trust by clarifying the scope of government exemptions and for establishing institutional mechanisms that can ensure the DPB's functional autonomy, thereby aligning the Act more closely with the spirit of the Puttaswamy judgment.
  • For the National Green Hydrogen Mission: The mission's success will be determined by on-the-ground implementation. This necessitates the creation of a strong institutional framework for Centre-State coordination to address bottlenecks related to land, water, and grid infrastructure.
  • For the Gaganyaan Mission: With the launch vehicle now ground-tested, the focus shifts to the upcoming uncrewed flights. Maintaining the highest standards of safety and reliability, even if it requires adjusting timelines, must remain the paramount priority.

In essence, as India's global ambitions grow, so too does the complexity of its domestic governance. The nation's ability to successfully navigate this interplay between external aspiration and internal reform will ultimately define its trajectory in the coming decades.

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