Maharashtra Security Bill, Donkey Route & Gender Gap Report & MORE | 12th July 2025 Current Affairs

July 12, 2025

Maharashtra Security Bill, Donkey Route & Gender Gap Report & MORE | 12th July 2025 Current Affairs | UPSC Daily News Analysis

Daily Current Affairs Analysis: 12th July 2025

Presented by सुन लो यूपीएससी youtube channel

Sources of Information: PIB, The Hindu, The Indian Express and Credible Govt Websites.

"The future belongs to those to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. But dreams don't work unless you do. Your resilience today will define your destiny tomorrow."

1. Polity, Governance, and Internal Security (GS Paper 2 & 3)
2. International Relations & Culture (GS Paper 1 & 2)
- 2.1. Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra Resumes: A Diplomatic and Cultural Bridge
- 2.2. Maratha Military Landscapes: India's 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site
3. Social Issues & Governance Initiatives (GS Paper 1 & 2)
- 3.1. Global Gender Gap Report 2025: India's Persistent Challenge
- 3.2. Key Governance Schemes and Initiatives
4. Economy, Environment, and Science & Technology (GS Paper 3)
5. Prelims Facts for 12th July 2025
6. Mains Practice Question

1. Polity, Governance, and Internal Security (GS Paper 2 & 3)

1.1. The Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024: A Critical Analysis

Context

The Maharashtra Assembly has passed the Special Public Security Bill, 2024, a significant and controversial piece of legislation aimed at curbing Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) and its perceived urban manifestations, often referred to as 'Urban Maoism' 3. Passed by a voice vote with near-unanimous support, the bill now awaits approval from the Legislative Council and the Governor's assent to become law 4. The legislation has ignited a fierce debate, pitting the state's security imperatives against concerns over the potential erosion of fundamental rights and civil liberties.

Government's Rationale and Key Provisions

The government has justified the bill as a necessary tool to combat a new form of warfare that operates beyond traditional armed conflict. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the target as "Naxalism minus AK-47," a form of Fifth Generation Warfare (5GW) that allegedly uses propaganda, protests, NGOs, and legal platforms to destabilise the state and "brainwash the youth" 3.

The key provisions of the bill grant the state expansive powers:

Declaring Organisations Unlawful: The government is empowered to designate any organisation as "unlawful" and prosecute individuals associated with it 4.
Cognizable and Non-Bailable Offences: All offences under this act are classified as cognizable, allowing police to make arrests without a warrant, and are non-bailable, meaning bail is not a right and is left to the court's discretion 5.
Pre-Trial Property Forfeiture: In a departure from existing laws like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Prevention of Money-Laundering Act (PMLA), the bill allows for the forfeiture of both movable and immovable property believed to be linked to an unlawful organisation, even before a trial or conviction. This is a significant expansion of state power, as UAPA and PMLA generally link property attachment to the proceeds of crime or terrorism 3.
Penalties for Speech and Expression: The bill provides for a jail term of up to seven years for "any action," including "spoken or written" words or "visual representation," that is construed as a "danger to peace and tranquillity" or interferes with "public order" 6.

The government has pointed to certain provisions as safeguards, such as the requirement for any ban on an organisation to be confirmed by an Advisory Board headed by a current or former High Court judge. It also notes that similar, albeit less "progressive," laws are already in place in other LWE-affected states like Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha 4.

Major Concerns and Criticisms

Despite government assurances, the bill has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, legal experts, and human rights organisations, who have labelled it "draconian" 4. The primary concerns revolve around its potential for misuse and its impact on democratic dissent.

Vague and Overbroad Definitions: A central point of contention is the bill's use of ambiguous language. Terms like "unlawful activity" and "encouraging or preaching disobedience to established law" are so broadly defined that they could potentially criminalise a wide range of legitimate activities, from peaceful protests and student activism to academic writing and journalism 8. The definition of an 'organisation' is equally elastic, covering any unregistered group or body of persons, which critics fear could be applied to people attending a film screening or a public meeting 7.
Dilution of Constitutional Protections: The provision for pre-trial property forfeiture is seen as a direct assault on the constitutional principle of "presumption of innocence until proven guilty," a cornerstone of criminal jurisprudence 3. By delinking forfeiture from the proceeds of a proven crime, the bill creates a powerful tool for penalising individuals and organisations before the judicial process has concluded.
Erosion of Judicial Scrutiny: The legislation significantly curtails the oversight of the judiciary. It bars regular courts from having jurisdiction over actions taken under the Act, leaving review exclusively to the High Court or Supreme Court. Furthermore, it provides sweeping immunity to government officials for any action taken "in good faith," making it difficult to hold the executive accountable for potential overreach or abuse of power 7.
Contradiction in the Government's Narrative: A logical inconsistency in the government's position has fueled suspicion about the bill's true intent. Deputy CM Fadnavis himself stated in the Assembly that LWE influence in Maharashtra is waning, with its presence reduced from four districts to just two blocks 6. This admission raises a critical question: if the traditional threat is declining, why is there a need for a new, more stringent law? This has led many to believe that the bill's actual target is not armed extremists but rather political and ideological opponents who can be conveniently labelled as 'Urban Maoists' to suppress their voices 6.
Violation of Supreme Court Precedent: The bill's criminalisation of speech and expression appears to be in direct conflict with the legal standard established by the Supreme Court in the landmark case of Kedar Nath Singh vs State of Bihar (1962). The Court ruled that criticism of the government, however harsh, does not constitute a crime like sedition unless it has a direct tendency to incite violence or public disorder 6. The bill's low threshold of causing a "danger to peace" seems to ignore this crucial distinction.

Comparative Analysis: Maharashtra Bill vs. UAPA

To understand the unique aspects of this new legislation, a comparison with the central Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, is instructive.

Feature	Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024	Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA)
Primary Focus	"Left-Wing Extremism," "Urban Maoism," "disobedience to law." 3	"Terrorist acts," "unlawful activities" threatening India's integrity.
Definition of Unlawful	Extremely broad: includes speech, signs, gestures that "disturb public order." 7	More specific, linked to secession, questioning sovereignty, and terrorism.
Property Forfeiture	Allows pre-trial forfeiture without linking it to proceeds of crime. 3	Property attachment is generally linked to "proceeds of terrorism."
Bail Provisions	Offences are non-bailable. 5	Stringent bail conditions, making it difficult to get bail (Section 43D(5)).
Jurisdiction	State-level legislation. 4	Central legislation with nationwide applicability.
Investigating Agency	State Police (case registration requires DIG approval). 7	Primarily the National Investigation Agency (NIA) for terror cases.

Conclusion and Deeper Implications

The Maharashtra Special Public Security Bill, 2024, marks a significant and potentially perilous expansion of state power. The government's own admission of a declining LWE threat, juxtaposed with the passage of this powerful law, suggests a strategic pivot. The focus appears to be shifting from countering armed insurgency in forested regions to managing and controlling ideological and political dissent in urban centres. The term 'Urban Maoism' is thus being operationalised not just as a security classification but as a political label to delegitimise activism and opposition that challenges the state's narrative.

This legislation could establish a dangerous precedent. If legally upheld and successfully implemented in Maharashtra, it could serve as a 'blueprint' for other states facing political opposition or social movements. This could trigger a trend of enacting similar security laws across the country, progressively shrinking the space for civic engagement and dissent. Such a development would institutionalise a framework where dissent is treated not as a vital component of democracy but as a security problem to be managed by the executive, fundamentally altering the relationship between the citizen and the state. It reflects a broader global pattern where the language of 'new warfare' is invoked to justify greater surveillance and control, blurring the critical line between dissent and sedition.

1.2. The 'Donkey Route' Crackdown: Tackling Transnational Human Trafficking

Context

A multi-agency crackdown led by India's Enforcement Directorate (ED) and National Investigation Agency (NIA) is currently underway to dismantle a vast and perilous human trafficking network known as the 'Donkey Route' or 'Dunki Route' 3. This illegal immigration pathway is predominantly used by Indian nationals, especially from states like Punjab and Haryana, to gain unauthorised entry into the United States 3. The investigation has exposed a sophisticated transnational criminal enterprise with grave implications for national security, foreign relations, and human rights.

Modus Operandi of the Trafficking Network

The 'Donkey Route' is a testament to both human desperation and criminal ingenuity. The operations are complex and multi-layered:

The Perilous Journey: The route is a long and arduous one, aptly named after the difficult journey of a donkey. It typically begins in India, with migrants flying to countries with lenient visa policies for Indians, such as the UAE, Ecuador, or Bolivia 3. From these staging points in Latin America, they embark on a hazardous overland journey through multiple countries, including Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Mexico. A particularly treacherous leg involves crossing the Darién Gap, a dense and roadless jungle on the Colombia-Panama border, where migrants face risks of assault, extortion, and attacks by wild animals 3. The final step involves illegally crossing the US-Mexico border, often through dangerous tunnels 3.
The Criminal Syndicate: This is not the work of isolated agents but a well-oiled international syndicate. The network comprises local agents in Indian villages, fraudulent visa and travel consultancies, and high-level international kingpins or 'donkers' who manage the logistics abroad 3. Investigations have revealed that powerful Mexican cartels, traditionally involved in drug trafficking, have diversified their business and are now major players in human trafficking, charging fees as high as $6,000 per person for the final border crossing 3.
The Exorbitant Cost: Migrants and their families are duped with false promises of legal and safe passage. They pay staggering sums, ranging from ₹30 lakh to as high as ₹1.25 crore, often by selling ancestral land or taking on massive debt 3. These funds are frequently channelled through illegal hawala networks, which is the focus of the ED's money laundering probe 10.
Alternative Pathways: A notable variation of the route involves exploiting the student visa system. Agents arrange admissions for migrants in dubious or non-existent colleges in Canada, at a cost of ₹50-60 lakh. Once in Canada, these individuals attempt to cross illegally into the US 3. The ED is currently investigating a syndicate that allegedly involves at least 260 such Canadian colleges 3.

Multi-dimensional Implications for India

The ramifications of this phenomenon extend far beyond illegal migration:

National Security Threats: The involvement of transnational criminal organisations and the use of hawala channels for financial transactions pose a significant threat to India's national security. These networks can be exploited for terror financing, money laundering, and the infiltration of anti-national elements disguised as migrants 3.
Strain on International Relations: The surge in illegal migration from India damages the country's international reputation and strains diplomatic relations, particularly with the United States and Canada. In 2023 alone, nearly 97,000 Indians were apprehended at the US border, making them the third-largest group of undocumented migrants 3. This undermines bilateral cooperation and creates friction over immigration and security policies 3.
A Deep-Rooted Socio-Economic Crisis: The 'Donkey Route' is ultimately a symptom of profound socio-economic distress. It is driven by a lack of viable opportunities, agrarian distress, and high unemployment in states like Punjab and Haryana, which compels individuals to undertake life-threatening risks in pursuit of a better life 3. The fact that many migrants are from middle or lower-middle-class families who sell assets like land to fund the journey indicates a deep-seated pessimism about their economic future in India. It is a high-risk, high-cost investment born out of a calculation that the potential rewards of migrating, even illegally, surpass the prospects at home 12.
Grave Human Rights Violations: The journey is fraught with danger. Migrants are subjected to extreme conditions, extortion, and sexual assault. Many lose their lives. The tragic case of a Gujarati family of four who froze to death while trying to cross the US-Canada border is a stark reminder of the human cost of this illicit trade 3.

Government's Response and Conclusion

The Indian government has adopted a multi-agency approach to tackle this menace. The ED is focused on the financial trail, investigating money laundering under the PMLA, conducting raids, seizing passports, and unearthing hawala transactions 10. Simultaneously, the NIA is targeting the organised crime aspect, arresting key operatives like Gagandeep Singh, who is alleged to have trafficked over 100 people 3.

However, enforcement actions alone are insufficient. The diversification of violent Mexican cartels into human trafficking has fundamentally changed the nature of the threat. Indian migrants are no longer just dealing with opportunistic smugglers; they are now commodities in a ruthless, industrial-scale criminal enterprise. This makes their journey infinitely more dangerous and necessitates a shift in India's response. Domestic action can only target the lower-level agents. To dismantle the core infrastructure of the route, India must urgently build robust diplomatic and law-enforcement partnerships with countries in Latin America, especially Mexico, Colombia, and Panama. A comprehensive policy response must combine stricter domestic regulation of immigration consultancies with proactive international cooperation and, most importantly, address the root socio-economic drivers that fuel this desperate migration.

1.3. Strategic Security Initiatives: Operations SHIVA and Fire Trail

Beyond the headlines, two ongoing operations highlight the diverse nature of India's internal security challenges, spanning both traditional and non-traditional threats.

Operation SHIVA

Context and Objective: Operation SHIVA is a large-scale, high-altitude security exercise conducted annually by the Indian Army to secure the Shri Amarnath Yatra, a major Hindu pilgrimage in Jammu & Kashmir 16. Amidst rising threats from Pakistan-backed terror outfits, the operation's primary goal is to create a secure environment for the pilgrims. For the 2025 yatra, over 8,500 troops have been deployed 16.

Methodology: This is one of India's most logistically intensive military-civilian coordination efforts. It involves preventing terrorist attacks, countering potential drone threats, maintaining real-time surveillance of the pilgrimage routes, and ensuring robust coordination between the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), disaster relief agencies, and the local civil administration 16.

Operation Fire Trail

Context and Objective: Spearheaded by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), Operation Fire Trail is a regulatory enforcement action aimed at curbing the illegal import and trade of restricted explosives, with a particular focus on Chinese-made fireworks 16.

Methodology: The operation's objectives are multi-fold: to enforce India's Foreign Trade Policy, under which the import of fireworks is a 'Restricted' item requiring specific licenses; to prevent the misuse of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for smuggling these goods into the domestic market; and to mitigate the significant public safety and environmental risks posed by these fireworks, which often contain banned and toxic chemicals like lithium, red lead, and copper oxide 16.

These two operations, while distinct, collectively illustrate the evolving landscape of India's security concerns. Operation SHIVA addresses the persistent, traditional threat of terrorism in a conflict-ridden region, demanding a strong kinetic response and heavy troop presence. In contrast, Operation Fire Trail tackles a non-traditional security threat rooted in economic and trade violations, requiring vigilant regulatory enforcement and intelligence-led customs action. Together, they underscore the reality that securing India in the 21st century requires a comprehensive strategy that combines military strength with robust economic governance and regulatory oversight.

2. International Relations & Culture (GS Paper 1 & 2)

2.1. Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra Resumes: A Diplomatic and Cultural Bridge

Context

In a significant development for India-China relations, the sacred Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra officially resumed in the summer of 2025 after a five-year suspension 3. The pilgrimage was halted in 2020 due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and was subsequently kept on hold because of the severe downturn in bilateral ties following the military clashes in the Galwan Valley 17. The decision to restart the Yatra was the result of high-level diplomatic engagements between the two nations, aimed at stabilising the relationship and rebuilding trust 18.

Geopolitical and Cultural Significance

The Yatra holds immense importance that transcends religious pilgrimage, serving as a crucial barometer of the health of the India-China relationship.

A Confluence of Faiths: Located in the Ngari Prefecture of Tibet, Mount Kailash is a revered spiritual centre for multiple religions. For Hindus, it is the sacred abode of Lord Shiva. For Jains, it is the site where their first Tirthankara attained enlightenment. For Buddhists, it is the cosmic centre of the universe, and for followers of the pre-Buddhist Bon religion of Tibet, it is a site of great spiritual power 3. The mountain is also the source of four major trans-boundary rivers—the Indus, Brahmaputra, Sutlej, and Karnali—making it a vital geographical landmark for the entire region 3.
A Potent Confidence-Building Measure (CBM): The resumption of the Yatra has been deliberately framed as a "people-centric" initiative designed to thaw the icy relationship 18. While not a formal CBM in the military sense, it is widely regarded as one of the most effective informal measures to foster goodwill and signal a mutual intent to normalise ties. Its restart, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, adds to its symbolic weight 19.

Evolution of the Yatra and Infrastructure Upgrades

The nature of the pilgrimage has transformed over the years, with recent developments making it more accessible.

Official Routes: The Ministry of External Affairs organises the Yatra through two primary routes: the traditional trekking route via the Lipulekh Pass in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, and a motorable route via the Nathu La Pass in Sikkim, which was opened in 2015 3. For the 2025 season, 750 pilgrims were selected, with 250 using the Lipulekh route and 500 using the Nathu La route 3.
Enhanced Accessibility: A game-changing development has been the construction of a new motorable road by India's Border Roads Organisation (BRO) leading up to the Lipulekh Pass. This strategic infrastructure project has dramatically reduced the arduous trekking portion on the Indian side from 27 kilometres in 2019 to just 1 kilometre in 2025 3. This has made the physically demanding journey accessible to a wider range of devotees.

Conclusion and Underlying Duality

The resumption of the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra is a welcome and positive step in India-China relations. It is a powerful example of cultural and religious diplomacy being leveraged to mend a deeply fractured political and military relationship. However, this development must be viewed within the larger, unresolved context of the ongoing border dispute and strategic competition.

A fundamental duality characterises India's approach. The very infrastructure that has made the Yatra easier—the all-weather road to Lipulekh Pass—is itself a product of the strategic imperative to enhance military mobility and logistical capabilities along the contested border. This reveals a sophisticated, two-pronged policy. On one hand, India is building hard power capabilities to secure its territorial interests. On the other, it is skillfully leveraging soft power assets like the shared heritage of the Yatra to manage the relationship, keep diplomatic channels open, and foster people-to-people connections. The Yatra thus stands as a fragile but vital bridge, built with the tools of strategic competition but serving the cause of diplomatic engagement.

2.2. Maratha Military Landscapes: India's 44th UNESCO World Heritage Site

Context

In a moment of significant cultural recognition for India, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially inscribed the 'Maratha Military Landscapes of India' on its prestigious World Heritage List, making it the 44th such site in the country 16. The inscription is governed by the 1972 World Heritage Convention, which aims to protect sites of exceptional global importance 16.

Significance of the Site

The inscription is a recognition of the unique and enduring legacy of the Maratha Empire's military prowess.

Composition of the Site: This is a transnational serial nomination, comprising a network of 12 strategic forts constructed between the 17th and 19th centuries. These forts are spread across Maharashtra and represent the military architectural genius of the Maratha Empire 16.
Outstanding Universal Value (OUV): The primary criterion for a UNESCO inscription is a site's OUV. The Maratha forts were recognised for their exceptional military strategy and architectural ingenuity. They showcase a remarkable adaptability to diverse geographical terrains, including hill forts, sea forts, and land forts, and represent a unique and influential chapter in the history of defensive architecture and military science in the Indian subcontinent 16.

Implications for India

The inclusion of the Maratha Military Landscapes on the World Heritage List carries several important benefits for India:

Global Cultural Recognition: It elevates the legacy of the Maratha Empire to a global platform, bringing worldwide attention to its contributions to military history, strategy, and architecture.
Boost to Tourism and Conservation: The coveted UNESCO tag is a major draw for international and domestic tourists, which will provide a significant economic boost to the regions where these forts are located. More importantly, it will facilitate access to international expertise, technical assistance, and funding for the long-term conservation and sustainable management of these historic sites.
Enhancement of Diplomatic Soft Power: Each new inscription on the World Heritage List strengthens India's cultural standing on the global stage. It reinforces India's image as a cradle of ancient and diverse civilisations and adds a valuable dimension to its diplomatic soft power.

3. Social Issues & Governance Initiatives (GS Paper 1 & 2)

3.1. Global Gender Gap Report 2025: India's Persistent Challenge

Context

The World Economic Forum's (WEF) Global Gender Gap Report 2025 has delivered a sobering assessment of gender equality in India. The country has been ranked at a low 131 out of 148 countries, marking a slip of two places from its 2024 rank of 129. With an overall gender parity score of just 64.1%, India remains one of the poorest performers in South Asia and globally, indicating that deep-seated structural and cultural barriers continue to impede the progress of women 20.

Decoding India's Performance: A Detailed Sub-index Analysis

The report evaluates gender parity across four key dimensions. India's performance across these pillars reveals a story of stark contrasts and paradoxes.

Dimension	Global Rank (out of 148)	Parity Score (0 to 1)	Key Indicators and Performance
Overall	131	0.641 (64.1%)	Slipped 2 ranks from 129 in 2024. 21
Economic Participation & Opp.	143	0.407 (40.7%)	Bottom 5 globally. Low female labour force participation. Women earn ~30% of what men do. 20
Educational Attainment	- (High Score)	0.971 (97.1%)	Near-parity in literacy and tertiary enrolment. A key strength but not translating to other areas. 22
Health and Survival	- (Low Score)	-	Skewed sex ratio at birth reflecting son preference. Lower healthy life expectancy for women. 20
Political Empowerment	- (Low Score)	-	Score declined. Female representation in Parliament fell to 13.8%; in ministerial roles to 5.6%. 21

Economic Participation and Opportunity (Rank 143): This remains India's most significant challenge. Despite a marginal improvement in estimated earned income parity, India is in the bottom five countries worldwide on this sub-index 23. The female labour force participation rate remains stubbornly low, and women continue to earn less than a third of what men do for similar work 20.

Educational Attainment: This is India's brightest spot, with a score of 97.1% indicating that the country is close to achieving full parity in literacy rates and enrolment in primary, secondary, and tertiary education 22. This success, however, throws the failures in other domains into sharp relief.

Health and Survival: Performance in this domain is alarming. India continues to have one of the world's most skewed sex ratios at birth, a clear indicator of persistent son preference and gender-biased sex selection 20. Furthermore, women's healthy life expectancy is lower than men's, and a staggering 57% of women in the 15-49 age group are anaemic, which has severe consequences for their health, productivity, and maternal outcomes 20.

Political Empowerment: Contrary to global trends of improvement, India has witnessed a regression in this area. The share of women in the national Parliament has declined from 14.7% to 13.8%, and the representation of women in ministerial positions has fallen from 6.5% to 5.6% 21.

The 'Leaky Pipeline': A Critical Developmental Failure

The report's findings reveal a critical 'leaky pipeline' in India's development narrative. The country has been largely successful in the 'input' stage—getting girls into schools and colleges. However, the system is failing to translate this enormous investment in human capital into tangible 'outputs' in the form of economic and political participation. This points to systemic failures in the ecosystem that exists beyond the classroom. The job market, political structures, and prevailing societal norms are not evolving fast enough to absorb, retain, and empower this growing pool of educated women. The "leak" occurs when educated women are forced to drop out of the workforce due to a lack of safe workplaces, the disproportionate burden of unpaid care work, or patriarchal restrictions on their mobility and choices 20.

The economic consequences of this gap are enormous. The McKinsey Global Institute had estimated that closing gender gaps could add $770 billion to India's GDP 16. The Time Use Survey highlighted that Indian women perform nearly seven times more unpaid domestic and care work than men, a contribution estimated to be worth 7.5% of India's GDP but which remains invisible and unmonetized in national accounts 20.

Way Forward and Conclusion

The regression in political empowerment is particularly concerning as it suggests a potential weakening of the political will required to drive gender-centric reforms. This decline at the very top of the empowerment pyramid could make it even harder to dismantle the structural barriers in the economy and society. While the passage of the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam (Women's Reservation Bill) is a landmark step, its impact is yet to be realised, and the declining numbers show that legislation alone is not a panacea without a corresponding shift in political culture 24.

Addressing this multifaceted challenge requires a comprehensive strategy that moves beyond just educational interventions. Policy focus must shift from solely 'educating the girl child' to creating a conducive ecosystem for the 'working and leading woman'. Key interventions must include:

Formalising the Care Economy: Investing in public and private childcare, elderly care facilities, and maternity benefits to reduce the burden of unpaid work on women 16.
Enhancing Economic Inclusion: Implementing workplace reforms to ensure safety and pay parity, and providing targeted support for women's entrepreneurship through schemes like Stand-Up India and Mahila e-Haat 24.
Prioritising Women's Health: Increasing public health expenditure on women's reproductive health, nutrition programs to combat anaemia (like POSHAN Abhiyaan), and maternal care 16.
Strengthening Inclusive Governance: Activating Gender Budget Cells across all ministries and building the capacity of the millions of elected women representatives in Panchayati Raj Institutions to create grassroots leadership 24.

The Global Gender Gap Report 2025 is not merely a ranking but a clear warning. For India to achieve its ambitions of becoming a developed nation, it must treat gender equality as a demographic and economic imperative, not just a social issue.

3.2. Key Governance Schemes and Initiatives

Amidst the larger policy debates, several targeted governance initiatives have been launched to address specific developmental gaps.

TALASH Initiative for Tribal Students:

Context: The National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), an autonomous body under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, has launched the TALASH initiative in collaboration with UNICEF India 25.

Objective: TALASH, which stands for Tribal Aptitude, Life Skills and Self-Esteem Hub, is the first national-level program of its kind. It is specifically designed for students in the Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) and focuses on their holistic development, encompassing not just academics but also life skills, aptitude building, and self-esteem. This is a crucial intervention aimed at improving educational outcomes and personal growth for a particularly vulnerable section of the population 25.

NITI Aayog's Roadmap for State S&T Councils:

Context: The government's premier think-tank, NITI Aayog, has released a strategic report titled “A Roadmap for Strengthening State Science and Technology (S&T) Councils” 25.

Objective: The report aims to foster decentralised innovation by transforming State S&T Councils from passive advisory bodies into dynamic, mission-oriented institutions. The goal is to better align science and technology policy with local development needs and challenges, thereby promoting a bottom-up approach to building India's Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem 25.

The Sanchar Mitra Scheme:

Context: Launched by the Department of Telecommunications, the Sanchar Mitra Scheme is a volunteer-based digital outreach program 16.

Objective: The scheme aims to leverage a network of volunteers ('Sanchar Mitras') to promote digital literacy and enhance awareness about cyber hygiene and online safety among the general public. This is a significant initiative to bridge the digital divide and build a safer online environment for citizens 16.

4. Economy, Environment, and Science & Technology (GS Paper 3)

4.1. Defence Indigenisation: The Astra Missile Milestone

Context

In a major boost to India's defence capabilities and its 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) mission, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully conducted a flight test of the indigenous Astra Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) 16. The tests were conducted from a Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft against high-speed unmanned aerial targets at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur 27.

Strategic Importance and Technological Leap

The success of this test holds immense strategic and technological significance for India.

Mastery of Critical Technology: The most crucial aspect of this test was the successful validation of the indigenously designed and developed Radio Frequency (RF) seeker 27. The RF seeker is the missile's 'eye,' a critical sub-system that guides the weapon to its target with pin-point accuracy in the terminal phase of its flight. Mastering this complex technology is a landmark achievement, as it is one of the most sophisticated components of a modern missile system.
Enhanced Combat Capability: The Astra missile is a state-of-the-art weapon with a range exceeding 100 kilometres. It allows an IAF pilot to engage and destroy highly manoeuvrable enemy aircraft from a safe distance, well beyond the enemy's visual range 16. This capability is a significant force multiplier in modern aerial warfare.
Strengthening Self-Reliance: This successful test is a powerful testament to the growing maturity of India's defence-industrial ecosystem. By developing critical technologies like the RF seeker domestically, India reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers for crucial military hardware. This not only saves valuable foreign exchange but also provides India with greater strategic autonomy, insulating it from potential supply chain disruptions or geopolitical pressures. The project involved contributions from over 50 public and private sector industries, showcasing a collaborative model for defence manufacturing 27.

4.2. Technology for Development: Google's AMED API

Context

In a significant move that could transform Indian agriculture, technology giant Google has launched the Agricultural Monitoring and Event Detection (AMED) Application Programming Interface (API) for India 25. This tool leverages Artificial Intelligence (AI) to bring data-driven insights to the farm level.

Features and Potential Impact

Functionality: AMED is an open-source AI-based API designed to provide highly granular and real-time data about agricultural landscapes. It can offer information on crop type, crop season duration, field size, and agricultural activity history for the past three years, all at the level of an individual field 25.
Revolutionising Precision Farming: This technology has the potential to be a game-changer for precision agriculture in India. By providing farmers with specific data about their fields, it can empower them to make more informed decisions. For instance, it can offer insights into the precise soil, water, and nutrient requirements for their crops, helping to optimise the use of resources like fertilisers and water. It can also help in predicting harvest volumes, which can aid in better post-harvest management and marketing. Ultimately, the adoption of such technology can lead to increased farm efficiency, higher crop yields, reduced input costs, and more sustainable agricultural practices 25.

4.3. Environment and Biodiversity Conservation

Gaja Mitra Scheme (Assam)

Context: To address the escalating issue of human-elephant conflict, which leads to loss of life and property, the Assam government has launched an innovative community-based initiative called the 'Gaja Mitra' (Friends of Elephants) scheme 25.

Mechanism: The scheme is being implemented in high-risk districts across the state. It involves the formation of community-based rapid response teams, each comprising local volunteers who are trained and equipped to manage conflict situations. These teams will work actively during peak conflict periods, such as the paddy harvesting season, to help guide elephant herds away from human settlements and agricultural fields, thereby promoting a model of human-wildlife coexistence 25.

Note on Biodiversity

A noteworthy event for biodiversity enthusiasts and ornithologists was the recent sighting of a rare partially white laughing dove in the Nagamalai hillocks near Erode, Tamil Nadu 25. The laughing dove (Spilopelia senegalensis), also known as the little brown dove or Senegal dove, is a common resident breeder across Africa, the Middle East, and the Indian Subcontinent. The partial albinism (leucism) observed in this individual is a rare genetic trait. Such sightings are important as they contribute to the ongoing monitoring of biodiversity and genetic variations within species populations 25.

4.4. Disaster Management: Seismic Vulnerability of Delhi-NCR

Context

Disaster management experts have once again sounded the alarm about the high seismic vulnerability of the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) 16. This is a recurring concern that highlights the urgent need for preparedness and mitigation measures.

Analysis of Vulnerability

The region's risk profile is a combination of geological factors and man-made vulnerabilities:

Geological Risk: According to the seismic zoning map of India prepared by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), Delhi is located in Seismic Zone IV, which is classified as a 'High Damage Risk Zone'. The region is situated near several active fault lines in the Himalayan belt, making it prone to experiencing moderate to strong earthquakes, with the potential for a major event of magnitude 7 or higher 16.
Amplifying Risk Factors: The geological risk is dangerously amplified by anthropogenic factors. The Delhi-NCR has an extremely high population density. Much of its building stock consists of unregulated and poorly constructed buildings that do not adhere to seismic safety codes. The presence of a large number of old and aging structures further exacerbates the vulnerability. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) has frequently recorded minor tremors in the region, which serve as a constant reminder of the underlying seismic activity. A major earthquake in this region could result in catastrophic damage, with an immense loss of life and property 16.

5. Prelims Facts for 12th July 2025

Operation Sindoor: An operation mentioned by the National Security Advisor, in which nine sites in Pakistan were allegedly targeted 26.
Animesh Kujur: Became the first Indian athlete to complete the men's 100-metre race in under 10.2 seconds 28.
Brazil's Highest Honour: Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the 'Grand Collar of the Southern Cross,' the highest civilian honour of Brazil 28.
UPI in the Caribbean: Trinidad and Tobago has become the first country in the Caribbean to launch UPI services for Indian travellers 28.
Eurozone Expansion: Bulgaria is on track to become the 21st member of the Eurozone, adopting the Euro as its currency in 2026 28.
Operation Kalanemi: A special campaign launched by the Uttarakhand Police to identify and take action against fake saints and religious impersonators exploiting devotees 28.
National Fish Farmers Day: Observed annually on July 10th to honour the contributions of fish farmers and aquaculturists 26.
Aspirational DMF Programme: An initiative focused on leveraging the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) funds for the development of mining-affected areas, similar to the Aspirational Districts Programme 26.
Sanchar Mitra Scheme: A volunteer-based digital outreach initiative by the Department of Telecommunications aimed at promoting digital literacy and cyber hygiene among citizens 16.
Laughing Dove: A small pigeon species, also known as the Senegal dove, which is a resident breeder in the Indian Subcontinent. A rare individual with partial albinism was recently spotted in Tamil Nadu 25.

6. Mains Practice Question

The recent Global Gender Gap Report 2025 highlights a paradox where India's significant gains in educational attainment for women are not translating into proportional improvements in their economic and political participation. Critically analyze the structural, social, and economic barriers that create this 'leaky pipeline'. Suggest comprehensive policy measures to bridge this gap, moving beyond just educational interventions. (250 words)