General Studies Paper -3

Context: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that 1,100 out of 1,200 government schemes are now under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), ensuring direct transfers to beneficiaries’ bank accounts.

Need and Background of Direct Benefit Transfers

• After independence, India sought to overcome the constraints inherited from colonial rule and emerge as a global power, emphasizing centralized planning and public welfare.
• Despite the emphasis on public provisioning, there were widespread issues in accessing welfare benefits due to financial leakages, delays, and inefficiencies.

Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Timeline 

• Direct Benefit Transfer deals with transfer of benefits to the marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.
• In 2014, under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mission was launched, leveraging digital technologies to improve public service delivery.
• In 2014, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY) was launched to address financial inclusion.
• JAM Trinity : The success of PMJDY paved the way for the creation of the world’s biggest targeted payments framework.

Major Central schemes seeded with DBT

• PM Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN): It is a Central Sector Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme, under which, financial assistance of Rs.6000/- per annum is provided to all landholding farmer families across the country, subject to certain exclusion criteria.
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS): It aims to enhance livelihood security for rural households.
  • Its wages are credited directly to the bank/post office accounts of Mahatma Gandhi NREGS beneficiaries by the Central Government through DBT.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojna (PMMVY): It aims to encourage improved health-seeking behavior among Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM).
  • It provides benefits to beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
• Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana- Gramin (PMAY-G): The PMAY-G aims at providing 2.95 crore houses to the eligible rural population in the country so as to achieve the objective of “Housing for All”.

DBT’s Impact

• DBT schemes expanded from 28 in 2013-14 to 323 in 2024-25, with funds transferred growing nearly 1000 times, from 7,400 crores to 7 lakh crores.
• DBT has saved around 3.5 lakh crores by reducing leakages and inefficiencies.
• DBT eliminated fake or duplicate beneficiaries, using Aadhar data, with schemes like PAHAL, MGNREGS, and PDS removing over 9.2 crore ineligible beneficiaries.
• DBT ensured timely transfer of benefits, improving the delivery of scholarships, pensions, and social assistance, while eliminating delays and reducing dependency on government offices.
• DBT Increased transparency and accountability and it allowed the redesign of welfare programs such as Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM), PM-JAY (health insurance), and PM-KISAN (farmers’ cash transfers).

International Recognition

• DBT has been praised by international organizations like the World Bank and IMF for its efficiency, reducing corruption, and broadening the reach of welfare schemes.

Future Potential

• The success of DBT can be leveraged to introduce more welfare schemes, and its efficiency can support innovative policies addressing broader well-being, helping India move towards becoming a developed nation by 2047.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: As per the World Bank’s report (India Country Economic Memorandum), India will need to accelerate reforms to achieve an average annual growth rate of 7.8% for becoming a high-income economy by 2047.

About

• From 2000 in real terms, the economy has grown nearly four-fold, and GDP per capita has almost tripled.
• India grew faster than the rest of the world, its share in the global economy has doubled from 1.6% in 2000 to 3.4% in 2023.
• India has become the world’s fifth largest economy.

Key Points from the India Country Economic Memorandum:

• Target of High-Income Status by 2047: Achievable with ambitious reforms, building on India’s past growth (6.3% from 2000-2024).
• Global Examples: Countries like Chile, Korea, and Poland succeeded in transitioning to high-income by integrating deeper into the global economy.

Key Growth Scenarios for 2047:

• Achieve faster, inclusive growth across states.
• Increase total investment from 33.5% to 40% of GDP by 2035.
• Raise labor force participation from 56.4% to above 65%.
• Overall labour force participation rates have remained low in India compared to countries like Vietnam (73%) and Philippines (60%).
• Accelerate productivity growth.
• India’s GNI (gross national income) per capita must increase nearly 8 times, requiring accelerated growth.
• Demographic Dividend: Invest in human capital, create better jobs, and raise female labor force participation from 35.6% to 50% by 2047.

Critical Areas for Policy Action:

• Increase Investment: Strengthen financial sector regulations, ease MSME credit access, and simplify FDI policies.
• Create More Jobs: Target job-rich sectors (e.g., agro-processing, hospitality), invest in skills, and foster an innovation-driven economy.
• Promote Structural Transformation: Shift labor and resources to higher productivity sectors like manufacturing and services, improve infrastructure, and streamline labor market regulations.
• Enable Faster State Growth: Tailor policies for less developed states (focus on fundamentals) and more developed states (focus on advanced reforms and GVC participation).
• Federal Support: Incentivize low-income states with federal programs like the Urban Challenge Fund to improve public expenditure, efficiency and accelerate growth.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: Aditya-L1 has made a significant discovery by capturing the first-ever image of a solar flare ‘kernel’ in the lower solar atmosphere (photosphere and chromosphere).

Aditya-L1

• It was launched in September 2023, by ISRO’s PSLV C-57 rocket.
• It was placed in a halo orbit around the Earth-Sun Lagrange Point (L1) in January
• It is India’s first dedicated space-based solar mission.
• It stays approximately 1.5 million km away from Earth, directed towards the Sun, which is about 1% of the Earth-Sun distance.
• It would study the outer atmosphere of the Sun.
• It will neither land on the Sun nor approach the Sun any closer.

Scientific payloads

• The Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT): It captures high-resolution images in 11 different NUV bands, enabling the study of multiple solar layers.
• Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer (SoLEXS), and High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS) monitor solar X-ray emissions to detect flare activity.

Importance

• A significant revelation is the correlation between localized brightening in the lower atmosphere and an increase in plasma temperature in the solar corona, validating long-standing theories about solar flare physics.

Do you know?

• “Aditya” means the Sun in Sanskrit, and “L1” refers to Lagrange Point 1 in the Sun-Earth system.
• L1 is a location in space where the gravitational forces of the Sun and Earth are in equilibrium, allowing objects placed there to remain stable relative to both celestial bodies.
• The L1 point allows the spacecraft to continuously observe solar activities without any eclipse or occultation.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: Recently, a delegation led by European Commission (EC) President Ursula von der Leyen is in India for a two-day visit exploring a ‘security and defence partnership’.

About India-European Commission (EC) Partnership

Historical Context:

• 1962: Diplomatic relations between India and the European Economic Community (EEC), the precursor to the European Union;
• 1994: Signing of the India-EU Cooperation Agreement;
• 2004: Strategic Partnership, a shift towards deeper collaboration in trade, security, and global governance.
• 2020: ‘India-EU Strategic Partnership: A Roadmap to 2025’, outlining ambitious goals for cooperation in various sectors, including digital innovation, climate action, multilateralism, and global peace.

Economic Cooperation:

• Trade: The EU is one of India’s largest trading partners, accounting for nearly 11% of India’s total trade, and the USA (10.8%) and China (10.5%).
  • As of 2023, bilateral trade between India and the EU reached approximately €120 billion.
  • The EU is the second-largest destination for Indian exports (17.5% of the total) after the USA (17.6%), while China only ranks fourth (3.7%).
• Investment and Business Ties: The EU is one of the largest foreign investors in India, with cumulative FDI inflows of over $100 billion in sectors such as automobiles, renewable energy, and information technology.
• Supply Chain Resilience: Both are focusing on diversifying supply chains, particularly in semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and critical minerals.
• Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Negotiations: The India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA), officially known as the India-EU Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA), has been under negotiation since 2007.
  • It aims to enhance market access, reduce tariffs, and streamline trade regulations.

Strategic and Security Cooperation:

• Maritime Security: EU’s Global Gateway Strategy and India’s Indo-Pacific Strategy are working together to ensure free and open sea lanes in the Indian Ocean and the Indo-Pacific region.
• Counter-Terrorism: The India-EU Counter-Terrorism Dialogue facilitates intelligence-sharing and counter-radicalization measures to combat terrorism and cyber threats.
• Defense Cooperation: The EU and India are exploring deeper defense collaboration, including joint military exercises, cybersecurity cooperation, and technology-sharing agreements.

Climate Change and Sustainable Development:

• India-EU Clean Energy and Climate Partnership: Focuses on renewable energy, energy efficiency, and green financing.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): The EU actively supports India’s ISA initiative, which aims to promote solar energy deployment worldwide.
• EU-India Green Hydrogen Partnership: Aims to accelerate the use of green hydrogen in industrial sectors to reduce carbon emissions.

Technology and Digital Transformation:

• India-EU Digital Partnership: Focuses on 5G, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity to enhance digital connectivity.
• Data Protection and Privacy: India and the EU are discussing frameworks to align data protection laws, ensuring a secure digital ecosystem.
• Research and Innovation: India’s participation in Horizon Europe, the EU’s flagship research program, fosters collaboration in space, biotechnology, and health sciences.

Geopolitical and Multilateral Engagement:

• G20 (India hosted the G20 Summit in 2023 with strong EU participation);
• United Nations (India supports EU’s role in global governance);
• World Trade Organization (WTO) (Both advocate for fair trade practices);

Challenges in the India-EU Partnership

• Trade Barriers: Tariff and non-tariff barriers, particularly in the agriculture, automotive, and pharmaceutical sectors, have slowed FTA negotiations.
• Human Rights and Labor Standards: The EU has raised concerns over labor rights, environmental standards, and digital governance in India.
• Geopolitical Divergences: India’s neutral stance on the Russia-Ukraine war has led to some diplomatic tensions with EU nations.
• Regulatory Hurdles: Differences in data privacy laws, intellectual property rights (IPR), and digital taxation require further negotiation.

Future Prospects

• Expansion of India’s role in EU-led global initiatives, including the Global Gateway and climate financing projects.
• Conclusion of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement in the coming years.
• Enhanced defense cooperation, including joint defense production.
• Stronger collaboration in space technology and AI-driven innovation.
• With both sides committed to deepening their strategic alliance, the India-EU partnership aims to play a crucial role in shaping the global economic and security landscape in the decades ahead.

General Studies Paper -3

Context: The National Geospatial Policy 2022 positions India as a global leader in geospatial technology, ensuring that location-based intelligence powers the nation’s progress and prosperity.

About National Geospatial Policy (NGP)

• It was announced by the Centre in  2022 and it replaces  the National Map Policy, 2005.
• It builds on the Department of Science and Technology (DST) guidelines issued in February 2021.
• These guidelines deregulated the geospatial sector and liberalized the acquisition, production, and access to geospatial data.
• It outlines a strategic plan to develop geospatial infrastructure, services, and platforms at both national and sub-national levels.
• It aims to strengthen the location-centric industry to support the information economy.
• A key objective of the NGP is to establish a high-resolution topographical survey and mapping system by 2030, along with creating a highly accurate Digital Elevation Model (DEM) for the entire country.
• It aims to drive India toward its vision of a self-reliant “Viksit Bharat” by 2047.

Features

• It acknowledges the role of geospatial technology in governance, economic growth, and societal development.
• It promotes self-reliance by empowering Indian companies and reducing dependency on foreign geospatial data.
• It focuses on enhancing institutional frameworks, coordination, and a vibrant geospatial ecosystem.
• It emphasizes data-driven decision-making to modernize infrastructure and improve governance.
• It encourages open access to geospatial data and services via geospatial platforms.
• It is aligned with PM Gati Shakti, which aims to streamline infrastructure development across 16 Ministries.

Related Steps

• Operation Dronagiri: It was launched in 2024, as a pilot project to showcase geospatial technology applications in governance, business, and citizen services.
• Initially implemented in five states (Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra).
• It Integrates government, industry, and startups for geospatial innovation.
• It facilitates seamless access and sharing of geospatial data for urban planning, environmental monitoring, and disaster management.

Allocations and Trends from the Union Budget 2025

• The Government of India has allocated ₹100 crore for the National Geospatial Mission.
• This mission aims to develop foundational geospatial infrastructure and data, playing a crucial role in modernizing land records, urban planning, and infrastructure design

Conclusion

• The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is a significant step towards strengthening India’s geospatial ecosystem.

By simplifying data access, promoting innovation, and fostering enterprise development, the policy is creating a robust and dynamic geospatial sector that supports governance, industry, and research.

General Studies Paper-3

Context: As per the union minister of state for Science & Technology India’s space economy is set to grow fivefold to $44 billion in the next decade, with private investments already crossing ₹1,000 crore.

India’s share in Space Industry

• India’s space economy stands at $8 billion contributing 2-3% of the global space economy and this is expected to rise to 8% by 2030 and further to 15% by the year 2047.
• With over 400 private space companies, India ranks fifth globally in no. of space companies.

Private players in Space Industry

• The number of space startups in India increased to nearly 200 in 2024 from just one in 2022, in just about two years.
• The funding received by these start-ups reached a total of $124.7 Mn in 2023 from $67.2 Mn in 2021.
• The Skyroot, have launched India’s first privately built rocket, Vikram-S, into space, with plans to revolutionize satellite launches.

Regulation of the Private sector in the Space industry in India

• National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe): It is an autonomous and single window nodal agency in the Department of Space for the promotion, encouragement and regulation of space activities of both government and private entities.
• NewSpace India Ltd (NSIL): It is mandated to transfer the matured technologies developed by the ISRO to Indian industries.
• All of them are under the purview of the Ministry of Defence.

Significance of privatization of space sector

• Cost Reduction: Profit motive drives private companies to reduce costs in space missions and satellite launches.
• Competition & Innovation: Privatization introduces competition, enhancing efficiency and fostering innovation.
• Commercialization: Private players enable space applications in sectors like agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, navigation, and communication.
• Autonomy: Greater decision-making autonomy allows private companies to take on new projects more swiftly.
• Employment & Self-reliance: Privatization generates jobs, supports modern technology adoption, and helps make the space sector self-reliant.

Challenges

• High Investment Costs: Space technology requires heavy investment, potentially leading to monopolization by wealthy corporations.
• Specialized Expertise: Building and operating space tech demands specialized technical skills and resources.
• Protecting intellectual property rights (IPR): Safeguarding intellectual property rights is essential to encourage innovation and investment.
• International Competition: Indian private space companies face strong competition from established players like SpaceX and Blue Origin globally.

Steps Taken by Government

• Space Sector Reforms (2020): Government allowed private sector participation, defining roles of IN-SPACe, ISRO, and NSIL.
• Space Vision 2047: Aims for Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS) by 2035 and an Indian Moon landing by 2040.
  • Gaganyaan follow-on missions & BAS first module by 2028.
  • Next Generation Satellite Launch Vehicle (NGLV) by 2032.
  • Chandrayaan-4 by 2027, to collect moon samples and demonstrate return technology.
  • Venus Orbiter Mission (VOM) by 2028, to study Venus.
• Indian Space Policy, 2023: Ensures level playing field for Non-Government Entities (NGEs) in space activities.
  • Venture Capital Fund: Rs. 1000 crore fund for space startups under IN-SPACe over the next 5 years.
• Space Tech Innovation Network (SpIN): SpIN is a one-of-its-kind public-private collaboration for start-ups and SMEs in the space industry.
  • Under the amended FDI policy, 100% FDI is allowed in the space sector.

Way Ahead

• Private entities are now actively involved in crucial aspects of research, manufacturing, and fabrication of rockets and satellites, fostering a vibrant ecosystem of innovation. It is expected to integrate Indian companies into global value chains.
• With this, companies will be able to set up their manufacturing facilities within the country duly encouraging ‘Make In India (MII)’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives of the Government.

General Studies Paper-2

Context: Recently, the Vice-President of India highlighted the transformation of India’s “Look East” policy into “Act East” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Historical Context and Evolution

• Look East Policy (Post-Cold War Era): Introduced by Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao in 1992, the Look East Policy sought to rectify India’s historical neglect of Southeast Asia, despite deep cultural and historical ties.
• Initially focused on Southeast Asia, the policy later expanded to East Asia and Oceania.
• Primary Objectives: Enhance trade and economic development.
  • Strengthen strategic and cultural connections with ASEAN nations.
  • Draw inspiration from the economic success stories of East Asia.
• Initial Outcomes: Reduction of trade barriers to facilitate commerce.
  • Increased inbound tourism from Southeast Asia.
• Act East Policy (Post-2014): The Act East Policy was a direct evolution of the Look East Policy, emphasizing stronger action and outcomes. In 2011, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urged India to play a more active role in the Asia-Pacific, prompting a shift in approach.
  • In 2014, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj formally declared India was ready to “Act East,” a commitment reinforced by Prime Minister Modi.
• Key Advancements: Greater emphasis on concrete action and outcomes.
  • Integration of Northeast India as a critical hub for regional engagement.
  • Recognition of the Indo-Pacific as a strategic and economic priority.
  • At the 2014 East Asia Summit, PM Modi introduced the 3Cs approach:
• Commerce – Expanding trade and economic ties.
• Culture – Strengthening historical and cultural linkages.
• Connectivity – Building infrastructure and digital networks for seamless integration.

Objectives and Achievements of Act East Policy

• Strategic Expansion: Extended focus beyond ASEAN to the broader Indo-Pacific region.
  • Strengthened regional groupings like BIMSTEC, Asia Cooperation Dialogue, and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
• Enhanced defense diplomacy: Sale of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines.
  • Military logistics pact with Vietnam.
• Economic and Trade Ties: Reduction in trade barriers.
  • Greater economic integration with Southeast Asia via Free Trade Agreements (FTAs).
  • Increased foreign investment flows from the region into India.
  • India has elevated relations to strategic partnerships with Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Singapore, and ASEAN.
  • India has invited ASEAN countries to join the International Solar Alliance, emphasizing regional integration and effective project implementation.
• Cultural and Soft Power Diplomacy: Promotion of shared cultural heritage, including Ramayana and Mahabharata traditions and Buddhist linkages.
  • Hosting of cultural events such as the Ramayana Festival with Southeast Asian participation.
  • India aims to revive and strengthen Buddhist and Hindu cultural links to enhance people-to-people connections and regional cooperation.
  • Connectivity: Improved infrastructure development in Northeast India to serve as a gateway to Southeast Asia.
• Major projects include:
  • India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.
  • Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
  • Rhi-Tiddim Road Project and Border Haats to strengthen connectivity.

Challenges and Areas of Improvement

• Strategic and Economic Challenges: Environmental impact of urbanization and industrialization in Northeast India.
  • China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) presents strong competition by offering attractive financial incentives to Southeast Asian nations.
  • China’s BCIM-EC (Bangladesh, China, India, Myanmar Economic Corridor) poses competitive challenges in connectivity and infrastructure.
  • Myanmar’s political transition is becoming increasingly challenging for India.
  • Despite its strategic geographical proximity to ASEAN nations, the Northeast is not yet fully integrated into India’s Bharatmala and Sagarmala projects.
• Soft Power and Cultural Challenges: China’s claim over Buddhist heritage challenges India’s narrative.
• Limited linguistic engagement: Few Indian universities offer courses in Khmer, Bahasa Indonesia, Thai, or Burmese.
• Connectivity Bottlenecks: Delays in infrastructure projects like the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.
• Underdeveloped transport and trade facilities in Northeast India.

Conclusion and Way Forward

• The road to greater Act East Policy will require infrastructure development, investment, and addressing security issues to ensure mutual growth and progress.
• India’s North-East must play a central role in strengthening ASEAN-India ties, benefiting from the region’s proximity to South East Asia.
• India’s connectivity efforts must address infrastructure gaps and ensure seamless integration for improved trade and interaction.
• As Southeast Asia becomes increasingly vulnerable to climate change and non-traditional security threats, India’s role in regional disaster management, climate diplomacy, and maritime domain awareness is set to grow.
• India should also work to expand its network of strategic partnerships by engaging more proactively with middle powers in the Indo-Pacific.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: The Right to Information (RTI) Act was hailed as a revolutionary step towards transparency and accountability in governance.

• However, over the years, the effectiveness of the RTI Act has been undermined, leading to concerns that it has transformed from a tool for transparency into a ‘right to deny information’.

About the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005

• The RTI Act recognized citizens as the rightful owners of government information and aimed to restore the concept of ‘swaraj’ (self-rule).
• It empowers citizens who seek information from public authorities, ensuring transparency and accountability in governance.
• It provides a legal framework for individuals to access information related to government decisions, policies, and operations.

Key Features of the RTI Act

• Right to Access Information: Any citizen of India can request information from a public authority, which is obligated to provide a response within 30 days (or 48 hours in cases concerning life and liberty).
• Applicability: The Act applies to all levels of government—central, state, and local bodies, including government-funded NGOs and institutions.
• Public Information Officers (PIOs): Every government department must appoint PIOs to handle RTI requests and provide information.
• Appeal Mechanism: If an applicant is not satisfied with the response, they can appeal to the First Appellate Authority and then to the Central or State Information Commission.
• Penalties: Officials failing to provide information within the stipulated time or providing incorrect details can be fined up to ₹25,000.

Denial of Information Under RTI

• The RTI Act mandates that government agencies must disclose information unless it falls under specific exemptions listed in Section 8 & Section 9 of the Act. While these exemptions are necessary, they have increasingly been misused to withhold information that should otherwise be made public. These include:
  • National Security & Sovereignty (Section 8(1)(a)): Information that could affect India’s national security, strategic interests, or relations with foreign countries.
  • Personal Data & Privacy (Section 8(1)(j)): Information that invades an individual’s privacy without serving public interest.
  • Parliamentary Privilege & Cabinet Papers (Section 8(1)(i)): Internal deliberations, discussions, and unpublished cabinet papers.
  • Commercial Confidence & Trade Secrets (Section 8(1)(d)): Information that affects competitive business interests.
  • Ongoing Investigations & Law Enforcement (Section 8(1)(h)): Information that could obstruct investigations or trials.

Reality: How RTI Is Denied?

• Vague and Arbitrary Exemptions: Government officials often misuse Section 8 to reject applications without clear justification.
  • Information unrelated to security or trade secrets is still denied under vague excuses.
• Delays & Resistance from Bureaucracy: RTI Act mandates a 30-day response time, but authorities often delay responses indefinitely.
  • Many information commissioners, often retired bureaucrats, were reluctant to empower citizens and viewed their roles as post-retirement sinecures.
  • Some Public Information Officers (PIOs) ignore applications or provide incomplete information.
• Weak Enforcement of Penal Provisions: The RTI Act includes provisions for penalizing officers who deny information.
  • However, many commissioners hesitate to impose penalties, leading to a lack of accountability.
• Misuse of ‘Third Party’ Clause: Authorities reject RTI requests citing third-party confidentiality, even when public interest is involved.
• Amendment Weakening RTI Act (2019): It gave the government power to fix the tenure and salary of the CIC and SICs, reducing their independence.
• Increasing Rejection by the PMO & Key Ministries: Reports suggest that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) and other critical ministries have increased RTI rejections in recent years.
• Harassment & Intimidation of RTI Activists: Over 100 RTI activists have been attacked or killed for exposing corruption, discouraging citizens from using RTI.

Case Studies: How Information Is Denied?

• Electoral Bonds & Political Funding: RTI applications seeking details on electoral bonds were denied under national interest, despite concerns over political funding opacity.
• COVID-19 Data: During the pandemic, RTIs requesting details about vaccine procurement, pricing, and expenditure were rejected under commercial confidence.
• Judiciary & RTI: The Supreme Court initially resisted coming under RTI and later selectively disclosed information.
  • The Supreme Court’s 2011 ruling emphasized that Section 8 exemptions should not undermine the right to information, but it also warned against using RTI as a tool for obstruction or intimidation.
• Pegasus Spyware Investigation: RTI requests about the use of Pegasus spyware for surveillance were denied under national security claims.

Way Forward: Strengthening RTI

• Stricter Penalties for Wrongful Denial: Officials who misuse exemptions should face penalties.
• Time-Bound Appeals & Accountability: Cases should be resolved within 60 days to prevent indefinite delays.
• Whistleblower Protection: RTI activists should have legal protection against threats.
• Independent RTI Bodies: Information Commissioners should be free from political control.
• Public Awareness & Digital RTI: More citizens should be trained to file RTIs effectively.

Conclusion

• The transformation of the RTI Act from a tool for transparency to a “right to deny information” is a concerning development.
• To restore the effectiveness of the RTI Act, it is essential to address the challenges of bureaucratic resistance, delays, and weak enforcement.
• Strengthening the RTI mechanism and ensuring timely and accurate responses to information requests will be crucial for promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: According to a report by advocacy body ‘Access Now’, the number of Internet shutdowns are highest in 2024 globally.

About

• Global trend: 296 Internet shutdowns happened globally in 2024, and India’s cumulative 84 curbs accounted for 28% of these.
• India had the second highest number of Internet shutdowns in 2024; Myanmar had one more disruption than India.
• India’s total shutdowns in 2024 were fewer compared to the previous year.
• Shutdowns affected 16 States and Union Territories in India.
• Most Shutdowns: Manipur (21 shutdowns), Haryana (12), and Jammu & Kashmir (12).
• Reasons for shutdowns: 41 related to protests, 23 due to communal violence.

Legal Provisions Relating to Internet Shutdown

• Grounds: Indian States and Union Territories can impose an internet shutdown only in case of a “public emergency” or in the interest of “public safety”, according to the Indian Telegraph Act.
• However, the law does not define what qualifies as an emergency or safety issue.
• Till the year 2017, shutdowns were imposed largely under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC).
• Section 144 of CrPC gave the police and the District Magistrate the powers in order to prevent unlawful gathering of people and also to direct any person to abstain from a certain activity.
• In 2017, the law was amended and the Government promulgated the Temporary Suspension of Telecom Services (Public Emergency or Public Safety) Rule 2017.
• These rules outline the procedures and conditions under which internet services can be temporarily suspended.
• They require the review of orders by an advisory board within 5 days to ensure the legitimacy of the shutdown.

Arguments in Favour of Internet Shutdown by the Government

• National Security: The government suspend internet services as a temporary and targeted measure to prevent the spread of misinformation, coordinate unlawful activities, or address security threats.
• Temporary and Targeted Measures: These measures are not meant to infringe on long-term access but rather to address specific and immediate concerns.
• Preventing Unrest and Violence: Suspending online communication helps prevent the organization of protests, riots, or other forms of civil unrest.
• Counteracting Fake News and Disinformation: During times of crisis or conflict, false information circulating online can exacerbate tensions and contribute to misinformation.

Arguments Against the Internet Shutdown by the Government

• Impact on Freedom of Expression: Internet shutdowns infringe upon the freedom of expression guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.
• Global Image and Investment: Frequent internet shutdowns impact India’s global image, raising concerns among investors and international partners.
• Human Rights Concerns: Internet shutdowns raise human rights concerns, including the right to access information, freedom of speech, and the right to peaceful assembly.
• Economic Disruptions: India has a rapidly growing digital economy, and internet shutdowns can lead to significant economic losses.
• Educational Challenges: With the increasing use of online platforms for education, internet shutdowns severely affect students’ access to learning resources.
• Lack of Transparency: The government needs to provide clear justifications for such actions and communicate transparently about the duration and reasons for the shutdown.

Conclusion

• In a democracy, governments need to provide a rationale for disrupting the internet services in a periodic manner.
• Indiscriminate shutdowns have high social and economic costs and are often ineffective.
• For better internet governance the Indian civil society needs to push for a transparent and accountable system.

General Studies Paper -2

Context: India-Japan Economy and Investment Forum was held recently.

About

• Concerns Over Trade Surplus: Union Minister Piyush Goyal expressed concerns over Japan’s growing trade surplus with India.
• Stagnant Exports: India’s exports to Japan have remained stagnant for the past 15 years.
  • Many Japanese investments in India source products from countries like Korea, Japan, Taiwan, and China, using India mainly as a market for their goods.
• Rising Japanese Exports: Japanese exports to India have consistently increased, worsening the trade imbalance.
• Focus on Addressing Imbalance: The Union Minister highlighted the need to address this growing disparity in trade between the two countries.
  • He urged Japanese companies to produce goods and services in India that can be exported to Japan, aiming to balance the trade relationship.

Brief on India and Japan Relations

• Historical and Cultural Ties: Both countries share spiritual and cultural traditions, such as the influence of Hinduism on Japan’s Seven Lucky Gods and historical connections like the 752 AD consecration of Lord Buddha’s statue by Indian monk Bodhisena at Todaiji Temple in Japan.
• Establishment of Relations: After WWII, India opted for a separate Peace Treaty with Japan, signed in 1952, marking the start of formal diplomatic relations.
• Strategic Synergy: Both nations align on key regional initiatives, such as India’s Act-East Policy, Indo-Pacific vision (SAGAR), and Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision.
• Trade and Investment: Japan is a key ally in India’s economic growth, with FDI from Japan exceeding $43 billion from 2000 to 2024, making it India’s fifth-largest source of foreign investment.
  • In 2023-24, the country’s export to Japan was $5.15 billion and imports were $17.7 billion. The trade gap was $12.55 billion.
• Collaboration on Global Initiatives: Japan and India cooperate in initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA), Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Leadership Group for Industry Transition (LeadIT).
  • Both countries work together in multilateral frameworks like the Japan-Australia-India-U.S. Quad and the India-Japan-Australia Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).
• Integral Defense Partnership: India-Japan defense cooperation is a key pillar of bilateral ties, focused on Indo-Pacific peace, security, and stability.
  • Key Agreements:
    • Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation (2008).
    • Memorandum of Defense Cooperation (2014).
    • Agreements on Defense Equipment & Technology (2015) and Protection of Classified Military Information (2015).
    • Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services Agreement (2020).
  • Exercises and Joint Activities: Maritime Exercise Malabar.
    • First Bilateral Fighter Exercise, Veer Guardian, in Japan (2023).
    • First-ever Army-to-Army Exercise Dharma Guardian held in Japan ( 2023).
    • Exercise Shinnyu Maitri between IAF and JASDF.
    • JIMEX joint Naval Exercise between two nations.
• Connectivity Projects in India: The first High Speed Rail (HSR) corridor is being implemented from Mumbai to Ahmedabad with technical and financial assistance from Japan.
• Presently, six Metro Rail projects (Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai) are being implemented with technical and financial support from Japan.
• Space Collaboration: ISRO and JAXA collaborate in X-ray astronomy, satellite navigation, lunar exploration, and the Asia Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF).
• In 2016, they signed a Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) for peaceful space exploration and use.

Challenges

• Trade Imbalance: There is a significant trade imbalance, with Japan exporting more to India than India exports to Japan, creating a need for better reciprocal trade.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Regional security issues, such as China’s influence in the Indo-Pacific, pose challenges for India-Japan relations, requiring careful diplomatic balancing.
• Cultural and Language Barriers: Despite strong ties, differences in language, culture, and business practices pose challenges to deeper integration.
• Limited People-to-People Exchanges: The scale of people-to-people interactions is still limited, impacting deeper mutual understanding.
• Infrastructure Constraints: Despite improvements, some areas in India still lack the infrastructure necessary to support large-scale Japanese investments effectively.
• Different Economic Priorities: India’s focus on rapid economic growth may sometimes contrast with Japan’s emphasis on sustainable development and technology.

Way Ahead

• Enhance Trade and Investment: Focus on reducing the trade imbalance by increasing Indian exports to Japan and encouraging Japanese investment in India’s manufacturing and technology sectors.
• Boost People-to-People Connections: Increase cultural exchanges, tourism, and educational collaborations to deepen mutual understanding.
• Technology and Innovation Partnership: Leverage Japan’s expertise in technology and India’s growing digital sector to collaborate in AI, robotics, renewable energy, and space exploration.
• Address Environmental Concerns: Increase cooperation on environmental sustainability, climate change, and disaster resilience to support both countries’ green energy goals.