Daily UPSC Analysis
The Hindu
News Analysis
UPSC Mains-Oriented Digest
Saturday, February 28, 2026 — Bengaluru Edition
Prepared by Legacy IAS, Bengaluru
📋 Table of Contents
- Kejriwal & 22 Others Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case GS-II
- New GDP Series Upgrades FY26 Growth to 7.6% GS-III
- Pakistan Bombs Kabul, Declares ‘Open War’ on Afghanistan GS-II / IR
- Short Tunnel Proposed at Goraguntepalya, Bengaluru GS-III
- NCERT Textbook Controversy & Supreme Court Ban GS-II
- Inflexible Power Grids Causing Dangerous Oscillations GS-III
- INS Anjadip Commissioned — Anti-Submarine Warfare GS-III
- SC on SHANTI Act — Nuclear Liability Concerns GS-II / GS-III
- Tribal Affairs Ministry Revamps Forest Rights Cells GS-II
- International Law — Resilience Amid Global Turmoil GS-II / IR
- Green Party Wins U.K. Bypoll — Blow to Labour GS-II / IR
- Norway Sovereign Fund Excludes Adani Green Energy GS-III
- Deaths of Foreigners in Goa — Policing & Tourism Governance GS-II
- Canadian PM Carney Visits India — Resetting Ties GS-II / IR
1
Kejriwal & 22 Others Discharged in Delhi Excise Policy Case
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- A special court in Delhi discharged AAP chief Arvind Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, K. Kavitha and 21 others in the politically charged Delhi Excise Policy case.
- The court termed the CBI’s probe a “premeditated and choreographed exercise” based on hearsay evidence, and ordered a departmental inquiry against the investigating officer.
- CBI announced it will appeal in the High Court immediately.
🔹 B. Static Background
- CBI & ED — Central agencies under the DSPE Act, 1946 and PMLA, 2002 respectively.
- Article 21 — Right to life and personal liberty; prolonged incarceration without trial violates this right.
- Section 227 CrPC (now BNSS equivalent) — Discharge of accused when no sufficient ground for trial exists.
- Vineet Narain v. Union of India (1998) — SC directed insulation of CBI from political interference.
- The excise policy case originated from an FIR based on a complaint by Delhi’s L-G alleging irregularities.
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
| Arguments For Discharge | Concerns Raised |
|---|---|
| Case relied on hearsay evidence and inadmissible approver testimony | BJP alleges destruction of 150+ phones/SIMs — evidence tampering |
| No material evidence against accused — major procedural lapses | CBI court had earlier noted Sisodia’s “most vital role” while denying bail |
| Public servants prosecuted for routine policy implementation | BJP calls it a “miscarriage of justice” — plans appeal |
| Court ordered inquiry against erring IO for framing charges without basis | Opposition says process itself was used as punishment |
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Weaponisation of agencies: Prolonged incarceration (Kejriwal — 5 months; Sisodia — 17 months) before discharge raises questions about agencies being used as instruments of political competition.
- “Process as Punishment”: Even if acquitted, the accused suffered reputational damage and electoral consequences — AAP lost Delhi in Feb 2025.
- Judicial Accountability: Court’s direction for inquiry against the IO is rare and significant — signals judicial pushback against investigative overreach.
- Federalism implications: CBI acting on L-G’s complaint in a state with an elected government highlights Centre-State friction in criminal investigation.
- Ethics dimension: Tension between duty to investigate corruption vs. presumption of innocence and right to fair trial.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- CBI Autonomy: Implement the 2nd ARC recommendations to insulate CBI from political executive — statutory independence like the CAG.
- Time-bound investigations: Cap on pre-trial incarceration for economic offences; enforce Section 167 BNSS strictly for default bail.
- Prosecution Sanction Reform: Independent review of prosecution decisions to prevent politically motivated chargesheets.
- Lok Pal as oversight: Strengthen Lokpal’s supervisory role over CBI in corruption cases.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- DSPE Act, 1946 — legal basis for CBI; CBI is NOT a statutory body.
- PMLA, 2002 — governs money laundering; ED is the enforcement agency.
- Discharge vs. Acquittal — Discharge = before trial; Acquittal = after trial.
- Vineet Narain Case — CVC supervisory role over CBI.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 15 Marks)
“The misuse of Central investigative agencies undermines both federalism and the rule of law.” Critically examine the statement in light of recent judicial observations on politically motivated prosecutions. Suggest reforms to ensure investigative independence.
2
New GDP Series Upgrades FY26 Growth to 7.6%
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Government released second advance estimates of GDP under a new series with base year updated from 2011-12 to 2022-23.
- FY26 growth upgraded to 7.6% (from 7.4% in first estimates); FY25 growth revised upward to 7.1% (from 6.5%).
- However, nominal GDP has been revised downward for FY24–FY26, impacting fiscal ratios.
🔹 B. Static Background
- GDP estimation in India — done by the National Statistical Office (NSO) under MoSPI.
- Base year revisions happen periodically to capture structural changes in the economy.
- Previous base year change: 2004-05 → 2011-12 (done in 2015).
- Advance Estimates — First (Jan) and Second (Feb) released before fiscal year ends.
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
| Parameter | Old Series | New Series (2022-23 base) |
|---|---|---|
| FY24 Growth | 9.2% | 7.2% (↓ revised) |
| FY25 Growth | 6.5% | 7.1% (↑ revised) |
| FY26 Growth (2nd AE) | 7.4% (1st AE) | 7.6% |
| Q3 FY26 | — | 7.8% |
| Nominal GDP | Higher | Revised downward (FY24-26) |
🧠 Sectoral Growth Snapshot — FY26
Manufacturing ↑
12.5% growth (up from 8.3%) — key driver of secondary sector (9.5%)
Agriculture ↓
Slowed to 2.5% (from 4.3%) — primary sector weakening
Services ↑
8.9% growth; Trade, Hotels & Transport at 10.3%; Financial services at 10%
Construction ↓
6.9% (from 7.1%) — marginal deceleration
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Downward revision of nominal GDP worsens fiscal deficit-to-GDP and debt-to-GDP ratios — impacts India’s fiscal credibility with rating agencies.
- Agriculture slowdown to 2.5% amidst rural distress is a concern for inclusive growth and food security.
- Base-year changes and data opacity: Questions about methodology, data sources, and whether revisions are politically convenient.
- Manufacturing surge needs verification — does it reflect real industrial output or statistical artefact of new methodology?
- K-shaped recovery concern: Services and manufacturing booming but agriculture lagging — widening rural-urban divide.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- Strengthen agricultural value chains and crop diversification to arrest rural slowdown.
- Ensure transparency in GDP methodology — independent review by economists (like the Arvind Subramanian critique in 2019).
- Fiscal consolidation must account for revised nominal GDP — re-calibrate targets.
- Focus on employment elasticity of growth — high GDP growth must translate to job creation.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- New base year: 2022-23 (replacing 2011-12).
- NSO releases GDP data; part of MoSPI.
- Advance Estimates: 1st (January) → 2nd (February) → Provisional (May) → Revised.
- GVA vs. GDP: GVA measures production-side; GDP includes taxes minus subsidies.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 15 Marks)
“High GDP growth rates can mask underlying structural weaknesses in the Indian economy.” Discuss in the context of the new GDP series data and sectoral divergences in growth performance.
3
Pakistan Bombs Kabul, Declares ‘Open War’ on Afghanistan
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Pakistan launched air strikes on Kabul, Kandahar, and Paktia province, the most widespread bombardment of the Afghan capital since 2021.
- Pakistan’s Defence Minister declared “open war” with Afghanistan; Taliban demanded dialogue.
- Casualty claims from both sides are difficult to verify independently.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Durand Line (1893): 2,640-km border between British India and Afghanistan — no Afghan government since 1973 has accepted it.
- TTP (Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan): Ideologically aligned with Afghan Taliban but organisationally separate; responsible for attacks inside Pakistan.
- Taliban 2.0 (since Aug 2021): Captured Kabul; former insurgency now governs Afghanistan.
- Pakistan historically provided “strategic depth” to Taliban; now finds the Taliban acting autonomously.
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
🧠 Why Former Allies Drifted Into War
Durand Line Dispute
Taliban as state refuses to recognise border; was a non-issue when they were insurgents
TTP Safe Havens
Pakistan accuses Taliban of harbouring TTP; 400+ killed in TTP attacks in Pakistan in 2025
India Factor
Taliban warming ties with India — hosted Taliban FM in Delhi; appointed envoy. Pakistan calls Taliban “India’s proxy”
Failed Diplomacy
Qatar/Turkey-brokered ceasefires collapsed; Saudi mediation yielded limited results
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Strategic blowback for Pakistan: The Taliban was Pakistan’s creation for “strategic depth”; now it faces the very forces it nurtured — a textbook case of non-state actor autonomy.
- India’s opportunity: Taliban’s engagement with India gives New Delhi strategic leverage — but recognition dilemma persists (Taliban’s human rights record, especially women’s rights).
- Regional destabilisation: Refugee crisis, radicalisation spillover, and potential proxy war involving Iran, China, Saudi Arabia.
- UN Charter violation: Pakistan’s cross-border strikes raise questions under Article 2(4) — prohibition on use of force.
- Humanitarian impact: Civilians in Kabul and border areas bear the brunt.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- India should pursue calibrated engagement with Taliban — infrastructure, humanitarian aid — without formal recognition.
- UNSC should intervene to prevent escalation; invoke Chapter VI (peaceful settlement).
- Pakistan must address root causes of TTP rather than externalising blame.
- Regional forums — SCO, Heart of Asia — should facilitate de-escalation.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- Durand Line: 1893 border; never accepted by any Afghan government.
- TTP vs. Afghan Taliban: Separate organisations; TTP targets Pakistan; Afghan Taliban governs Afghanistan.
- Article 2(4) UN Charter: Prohibition on threat or use of force.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 15 Marks)
“The Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict represents a classic case of strategic blowback.” Analyse the factors behind the deterioration of Pakistan-Taliban relations and its implications for India’s Afghan policy.
4
Short Tunnel Proposed at Goraguntepalya, Bengaluru
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- A short tunnel is being explored at Goraguntepalya Junction on Tumakuru Road — one of Bengaluru’s most congested intersections.
- Proposal discussed during a review by DyCM D.K. Shivakumar with Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officials.
- Feasibility study has already been initiated; project may be included in the GBA corporation-level budget.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA): New planning and governance body for Bengaluru’s urban expansion.
- Bengaluru’s traffic congestion ranked among the worst globally (TomTom Traffic Index).
- Previous controversies over the Hebbal–Silk Board tunnel road raised concerns about environmental and financial viability.
- Urban Transport: National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) emphasises public transport over road infrastructure for congestion relief.
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Intersection of Tumakuru Road and ORR — gateway to 20+ districts |
| Traffic sources | Mangaluru-Bengaluru, Pune-Bengaluru highways, Hebbal, Yeshwantpur |
| Existing infra layers | Already has multiple infrastructure plans — risk of project overlap |
| Concern | Feasibility of tunnel in densely built-up area; underground utilities |
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Car-centric approach: Tunnels and flyovers address symptoms, not root causes — induced demand means more roads attract more vehicles.
- Public transport deficit: Bengaluru Metro Phase 2 delays, inadequate bus services — should investment prioritise MRTS over road tunnels?
- Environmental concerns: Tunnel construction in built-up areas affects groundwater, trees, and existing structures.
- Governance fragmentation: Multiple agencies (BBMP, BDA, GBA, NHAI) lead to uncoordinated planning.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- Adopt Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles — integrate land use with public transport.
- Implement congestion pricing and parking management before building more road infrastructure.
- Strengthen unified metropolitan governance — single planning authority for Bengaluru.
- Conduct transparent Environmental and Social Impact Assessments (ESIA) before approval.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 10 Marks)
“Building more roads and tunnels is not the answer to urban congestion in Indian cities.” Critically evaluate this statement with reference to Bengaluru’s infrastructure challenges.
5
NCERT Textbook Controversy & Supreme Court Ban
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Supreme Court banned a Class 8 NCERT Social Science textbook over a section on “corruption in the judiciary”, terming it a “selective reference”.
- NCERT asked the public to return books and delete social media posts about the section.
- Congress alleged PM Modi guided a “systematic indoctrination campaign” through NCERT.
🔹 B. Static Background
- NCERT: Autonomous organisation under MoE; develops curriculum frameworks and textbooks.
- Article 19(1)(a): Freedom of speech and expression — includes right to information and academic freedom.
- Article 19(2): Reasonable restrictions on free speech — does critique of judiciary fall under this?
- National Curriculum Framework (NCF) 2023: Latest framework guiding NCERT textbook revisions.
- Previous controversies: Textbook revisions removing references to Mughal history, Gujarat riots, Emergency.
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
🔄 Sequence of Events
NCERT releases Class 8 textbook with section on judicial corruption
→
CJI terms it “selective reference”; registers suo motu case
→
SC orders seizure of distributed copies; ban on book
→
NCERT apologises; asks public to return books & delete posts
→
Opposition alleges political use of textbooks; demands investigation
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Academic freedom vs. Judicial sensitivity: Should textbooks discuss institutional weaknesses? Education that interrogates deficits cultivates participatory citizenship.
- Judicial overreach? Court banning a textbook and ordering seizure raises questions about prior restraint on educational content — a chilling effect on academic discourse.
- Politicisation of textbooks: Successive governments have used NCERT to push ideological agendas — the textbook as a political weapon.
- Right to know: Students deserve honest engagement with institutional challenges, including judicial accountability.
- Transparency deficit: Discovery of burnt currency at a High Court judge’s residence (as noted in Letters to Editor) shows judicial corruption is not speculative.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- Establish an independent textbook review committee with academics, not bureaucrats or politicians.
- NCERT should ensure balanced, evidence-based content — discuss institutional challenges with corrective mechanisms.
- Judiciary should welcome constructive critique — transparency is essential for judicial legitimacy.
- Parliament should discuss bringing judicial accountability legislation — long-pending Judicial Standards Bill.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- NCERT: Autonomous body; not a statutory organisation.
- NCF 2023: Latest curriculum framework under NEP 2020.
- Suo Motu: Court acting on its own motion without a petition.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 15 Marks)
“The judiciary’s response to the NCERT textbook controversy raises fundamental questions about academic freedom and judicial accountability.” Discuss the tension between protecting institutional dignity and the right to informed civic education.
6
Inflexible Power Grids Causing Dangerous Oscillations
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- CEA Chairperson warned that India’s electric grid is not “smart” enough to switch between coal, solar, and wind — causing dangerous grid oscillations.
- An oscillation generated in Rajasthan was felt at Kudankulam, Tamil Nadu — showing vulnerability of the integrated national grid.
- India added 48 GW of renewable energy in 2025 — highest ever — but coal still generates ~75% of actual electricity.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Central Electricity Authority (CEA): Apex power-planning body under the Electricity Act, 2003.
- National Grid: India operates a single synchronous grid — all five regional grids interconnected.
- Renewable Energy Target: 500 GW non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030 (COP26 commitment).
- Grid oscillations = voltage/frequency fluctuations — can damage equipment or cause blackouts (like the 2012 grid failure).
🔹 C. Key Dimensions
| Parameter | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Installed RE capacity | ~264 GW (52% of total — exceeds fossil fuel capacity) |
| Actual RE share in generation | ~25% (coal still 75% due to on-demand availability) |
| RE added in 2025 | 48 GW — doubled from previous year |
| Key challenge | Grid not smart enough; inadequate battery storage |
| Risk demonstrated | Rajasthan oscillation felt in Kudankulam (TN) |
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Capacity vs. Generation paradox: RE exceeds coal in capacity but delivers only 25% of electricity — highlights intermittency problem.
- Storage deficit: India’s Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are inadequate to smooth RE variability.
- Grid modernisation lag: Smart grid investment hasn’t kept pace with RE addition — risk of cascading failures.
- Coal phase-down dilemma: Can’t retire coal plants until grid flexibility and storage are in place — just transition challenge.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- Accelerate Battery Energy Storage deployment — target 100 GWh by 2030.
- Invest in smart grid technologies — Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI), SCADA systems.
- Develop pumped storage hydropower — India has 96 GW potential (CEA assessment).
- Implement Green Energy Corridors Phase-II for RE evacuation infrastructure.
- Revise grid codes to mandate frequency response from RE plants.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- CEA: Statutory body under Electricity Act, 2003.
- National Grid: Single synchronous grid — 5 regions connected since 2013.
- 2012 Grid Failure: World’s largest blackout — affected 700 million people.
- BESS: Battery Energy Storage Systems — critical for RE integration.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 15 Marks)
“India’s ambitious renewable energy targets are outpacing its grid infrastructure.” Discuss the challenges of integrating variable renewable energy into India’s power grid and suggest solutions for a reliable energy transition.
7
INS Anjadip Commissioned — Boosting Anti-Submarine Warfare
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Indian Navy commissioned INS Anjadip — the 4th indigenously designed Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC) — at Chennai Port.
- Built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) at Kattupalli yard.
- Equipped with indigenous sonar, lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine rockets, and combat management system.
🔹 B. Static Background
- ASW SWC Project: Contract for 8 ships — replaces the aging Abhay-class corvettes.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defence: Indigenisation drive — 75% defence procurement to be indigenous by 2027.
- GRSE: Defence PSU under Ministry of Defence — headquartered in Kolkata.
- Named after Anjadip Island off Karwar coast — historic naval significance.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Strategic necessity: Growing Chinese submarine presence in Indian Ocean makes ASW capability critical.
- Indigenisation success: Reflects India’s growing shipbuilding ecosystem — from “Make in India” to “Trust in India”.
- Littoral warfare focus: Shallow water ASW addresses coastal security and island territory defence.
- Gap: India still lacks sufficient nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs) for blue-water ASW.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- INS Anjadip: 4th ASW Shallow Water Craft; 77m long; built by GRSE.
- GRSE: Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers — Kolkata-based defence PSU.
- ASW SWC Project: 8 ships total; designed for anti-submarine warfare in coastal waters.
- Kattupalli: Shipbuilding yard near Chennai (formerly L&T, now GRSE facility).
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 10 Marks)
Discuss the strategic significance of indigenous anti-submarine warfare capabilities for India’s maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.
8
SC on SHANTI Act — Nuclear Liability & Private Sector Entry
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- SC heard a petition challenging the SHANTI Act, 2025 which allows private and foreign companies to operate nuclear power plants in India.
- The Act caps operator liability at ₹3,000 crore (less than 0.1% of Chernobyl/Fukushima damage costs) and exempts suppliers from any liability.
- CJI observed that nuclear power is a necessity to meet India’s energy needs, but the court agreed to examine constitutionality.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA), 2010: Previous law imposed operator + supplier liability — a key sticking point with the U.S.
- Section 17(b) of CLNDA: Allowed operators to claim recourse against suppliers — unique to Indian law.
- SHANTI Act, 2025: Replaced CLNDA; removed supplier liability; capped operator liability.
- India’s nuclear capacity: ~8 GW — aims for 100 GW by 2047 (Vision Viksit Bharat).
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Removing supplier liability is a concession to foreign companies (e.g., Westinghouse, EDF) — incentivises cutting corners on safety.
- Abysmally low liability cap: ₹3,000 crore vs. Chernobyl’s $700 billion estimated damage — victims left uncompensated.
- Energy security vs. safety: CJI’s framing of nuclear power as “necessity” shouldn’t override fundamental right to life (Article 21).
- Private sector nuclear plants raise concerns about safety culture, regulation, and accountability — AERB independence questioned.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- SHANTI Act, 2025: Replaced CLNDA 2010; allows private/foreign nuclear operators.
- CLNDA, 2010: Had Section 17(b) — operator’s right of recourse against supplier.
- AERB: Atomic Energy Regulatory Board — regulates nuclear safety (under AEC).
- SDR: Special Drawing Rights — IMF’s unit of account used in nuclear liability conventions.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 15 Marks)
“The SHANTI Act prioritises energy security over nuclear safety and victims’ rights.” Critically evaluate the provisions of the Act in the context of global nuclear liability frameworks and India’s energy transition goals.
9
Tribal Affairs Ministry Revamps Forest Rights Cells
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Tribal Affairs Ministry is replacing FRA Cells (dedicated to Forest Rights Act implementation) with one-stop Project Monitoring Units (PMUs) that coordinate across all Ministry policies.
- 324 district-level FRA cells in 18 States already sanctioned are being restructured.
- States like Odisha have shut down existing FRA cells; Chhattisgarh is exploring transition.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006: Recognises rights of forest-dwelling communities over land, resources, and governance.
- Individual Forest Rights (IFR) and Community Forest Rights (CFR) — two categories of rights under FRA.
- DAJGUA Programme: Ministry’s programme that funded FRA cells for claims processing and digitisation.
- FRA implementation has been poor nationally — high rejection rates; many claims pending.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Dilution risk: Merging FRA-specific cells into multi-purpose PMUs may reduce focus on tribal forest rights.
- One-size-fits-all: States at different stages of FRA implementation need tailored support, not standardised PMUs.
- Odisha’s premature closure of 50 sub-division FRA cells is concerning — State has large tribal population with pending claims.
- Cost argument used by Ministry may mask political unwillingness to prioritise tribal rights over forest-diversion for industry.
🔹 E. Way Forward
- Ensure PMUs have dedicated FRA expertise — not just administrative coordination.
- Community-level facilitation should continue through gram sabhas and CSOs.
- Track FRA claim processing metrics — rejection rates, pendency, CFR titles granted.
- Link FRA implementation with PVTG development and Fifth Schedule governance.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 10 Marks)
Critically examine the recent restructuring of Forest Rights Act cells by the Tribal Affairs Ministry. Does it reflect a weakening of institutional commitment to tribal land rights?
10
International Law — Resilience Amid Global Turmoil
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- An op-ed argues that despite frequent violations of Article 2(4) of the UN Charter (prohibition on use of force), international law is not dead.
- While populist-authoritarian leaders increasingly ignore international norms, the broader architecture of international law continues to function silently.
🔹 B. Static Background
- Article 2(4) UN Charter: Prohibits threat or use of force in international relations.
- Thomas Franck (1970): Argued Article 2(4) was “dead” due to Cold War violations — but it survived.
- High Seas Treaty (2023): For sustainability of marine biodiversity.
- Pandemic Agreement: WHO-led treaty for pandemic preparedness.
- International courts: ICJ, ICC, regional courts — continue resolving disputes peacefully.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Qualitative shift: In the past, powers at least justified force using legal frameworks; today’s populist leaders show brazen disregard — no pretence of legal justification.
- Silent international law: Trade agreements (India-EU FTA), aviation rules, maritime law — function seamlessly, enabling globalisation to work.
- Law gives agency to the powerless: Without international law, small states have no normative framework to question powerful actors.
- Reduction fallacy: Reducing all of international law to the UN Charter ignores its vast scope in trade, investment, environment, and human rights.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 15 Marks)
“Pronouncing the death of international law only plays into the hands of global bullies.” Discuss the relevance and resilience of international law in the current geopolitical climate, with reference to recent violations and continuing legal frameworks.
11
Green Party Wins U.K. Bypoll — Blow to Labour’s Starmer
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- The Green Party won the Gorton and Denton seat in Greater Manchester from Labour — a traditionally safe Labour constituency.
- Reform UK (far-right) came second; Labour finished third with halved vote share.
- Campaign saw accusations of sectarianism — targeted messaging to Muslim voters on Gaza.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Erosion of centrist politics: Both left (Greens) and right (Reform UK) gaining at the expense of Labour — mirrors global fragmentation of centre-left.
- Gaza as a political issue: Muslim voters’ disillusionment with Labour over its Gaza stance — identity politics reshaping UK elections.
- Implications for India: UK’s internal politics may influence its India-UK FTA negotiations, diaspora engagement, and stance on Kashmir/Palestine.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 10 Marks)
Analyse the rise of Green and far-right parties in European democracies. What lessons can established democracies draw from the erosion of centrist political spaces?
12
Norway Sovereign Wealth Fund Excludes Adani Green Energy
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Norway’s $1.2 trillion sovereign wealth fund (Norges Bank) excluded Adani Green Energy Ltd (AGEL) from its portfolio.
- Reason cited: “gross corruption or other serious financial crime” — no detailed explanation given.
- Previously excluded: Adani Ports (May 2024), ONGC, Coal India, ITC, NTPC, BHEL, GAIL, L&T, Vedanta.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- ESG and sovereign investing: Norges Bank applies ethical guidelines — exclusion signals reputational risk for Indian corporates globally.
- Impact on FDI: Such exclusions can trigger a cascading effect among other global institutional investors.
- Irony flagged: A fossil-fuel-funded sovereign fund (Norway’s oil wealth) excluding a renewable energy company on corruption grounds.
- India’s corporate governance: Hindenburg, Norges Bank exclusions highlight need for stronger SEBI oversight and independent audits.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-III, 10 Marks)
Discuss the implications of sovereign wealth fund exclusions on India’s corporate governance standards and foreign investment flows.
13
Foreigners’ Deaths in Goa — Policing & Tourism Governance
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Two Russian women were allegedly murdered in North Goa’s “mini Russia” belt (Morjim-Arambol) in January 2026.
- RTI data shows 245 foreign nationals died across four Goa police jurisdictions between 2003-2015 — many cases poorly investigated or misclassified.
- Families of victims (Scarlett Keeling, Felix Dahl, Denyse Sweeney) have fought for years, alleging police cover-ups.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- Pattern of misclassification: Deaths routinely classified as “accidental” or “drowning” despite forensic evidence suggesting foul play — reflects institutional apathy or complicity.
- Tourism vs. accountability: Goa’s dependence on tourism creates incentives to minimise crime reporting to protect the State’s brand.
- Policing failure: Crime scenes not secured, forensic evidence mishandled, initial classifications that shape investigations — systemic procedural failures.
- Scarlett Keeling case: Took 11+ years for partial justice — conviction of one accused in 2019 after CBI intervention and HC reversal of trial court acquittal.
- Ethics angle: Duty of care towards foreign nationals; India’s international reputation and obligations to protect tourists.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 10 Marks)
Examine the challenges of ensuring accountability in police investigations involving deaths of foreign nationals in tourist destinations. Suggest reforms for improving investigative standards and victim protection.
14
Canadian PM Mark Carney Visits India — Resetting Ties
🔹 A. Issue in Brief
- Canadian PM Mark Carney arrived in Mumbai for a four-day India visit — aims to reset ties and double trade.
- Visit comes amidst Canada’s fracturing relations with the U.S. under Trump — diversifying economic partnerships.
- Focus on India-Canada Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations.
🔹 D. Critical Analysis
- From friction to reset: Relations had deteriorated sharply under PM Trudeau over Nijjar assassination allegations; Carney represents a fresh start.
- U.S. factor: Trump’s tariffs and protectionism push Canada to seek trade diversification — India is a natural partner.
- CEPA significance: India-Canada bilateral trade is modest (~$8-9 billion) — a CEPA could boost trade in services, technology, mining, and agriculture.
- Diaspora dimension: 1.8 million Canadians of Indian origin — economic and political bridges, but also sources of bilateral friction.
🔹 F. Exam Orientation
📌 Prelims Pointers
- Mark Carney: Became Canadian PM after Trudeau’s resignation; former Bank of England governor.
- CEPA: Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement — broader than FTA; covers services, investment.
- India-Canada bilateral trade: ~$8-9 billion; potential for significant growth.
📝 Mains Model Question (GS-II, 10 Marks)
Evaluate the prospects for an India-Canada bilateral reset under PM Mark Carney. What are the key opportunities and challenges in deepening the economic partnership?
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the significance of the Delhi Excise Policy case discharge for UPSC preparation?
The case is highly relevant for GS-II (Polity & Governance) as it covers issues of CBI independence, misuse of investigative agencies, federalism (Centre-State conflict in criminal investigation), judicial oversight of prosecution, and the principle that “process as punishment” violates Article 21. It also connects to GS-IV (Ethics in Public Life) regarding institutional integrity and accountability.
What changed with India’s new GDP base year revision to 2022-23?
The National Statistical Office updated the GDP base year from 2011-12 to 2022-23, incorporating new data sets and improved representativeness. Key changes include: FY24 growth revised down from 9.2% to 7.2%, FY25 revised up from 6.5% to 7.1%, and FY26 growth estimated at 7.6%. Importantly, nominal GDP was revised downward, affecting fiscal deficit-to-GDP and debt-to-GDP ratios. For UPSC, understand the difference between real and nominal GDP, and how base year changes impact economic metrics.
Why is the Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict important for UPSC Mains?
This topic is crucial for GS-II (International Relations) as it covers: the concept of “strategic blowback” where non-state actors gain autonomy, the Durand Line dispute, TTP vs. Afghan Taliban dynamics, India’s calibrated engagement with Taliban 2.0, and regional security implications. It connects to questions on India’s neighbourhood policy, UN Charter Article 2(4), and the challenges of engaging with non-recognised governments.
What is the SHANTI Act, 2025 and why is it controversial?
The SHANTI (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India) Act, 2025 replaced the CLNDA 2010. It allows private and foreign companies to operate nuclear power plants, caps operator liability at ₹3,000 crore (far below disaster damage estimates), and completely exempts suppliers from liability. Critics argue this endangers public safety and violates Article 21, while supporters say nuclear power is essential for India’s energy transition. The Act is important for GS-II (Polity), GS-III (Energy), and GS-IV (ethical governance).
How are grid oscillations related to India’s renewable energy targets?
India added a record 48 GW of renewable energy in 2025, making non-fossil fuel sources 52% of installed capacity. However, coal still generates 75% of actual electricity because solar and wind are intermittent. The grid lacks smart technology and battery storage to handle rapid switching between sources, causing dangerous voltage oscillations. This is critical for GS-III (Energy, Infrastructure) and connects to India’s COP26 commitments, energy security, and the concept of “just transition”.
What is the controversy surrounding the NCERT Class 8 textbook ban?
The Supreme Court banned an NCERT Social Science textbook over a section discussing corruption in the judiciary, terming it a “selective reference.” This raises important questions about academic freedom vs. judicial dignity, the politicisation of education, the scope of free speech under Article 19(1)(a), and whether the judiciary should shield itself from pedagogical critique. For UPSC, this connects to GS-II (Judiciary, Education), GS-IV (Ethics), and Essay topics on democratic discourse and institutional accountability.
What are the key articles from The Hindu relevant for UPSC Prelims from this edition?
Key Prelims facts: INS Anjadip (4th ASW SWC, built by GRSE); SHANTI Act 2025 (replaced CLNDA 2010); new GDP base year 2022-23; CEA is a statutory body under Electricity Act 2003; Durand Line (1893 border); Article 2(4) UN Charter; NCERT is an autonomous body (not statutory); CBI works under DSPE Act 1946; CEPA negotiations between India-Canada; Norway’s sovereign fund (world’s largest at $1.2 trillion); and the Forest Rights Act 2006.
How is the restructuring of Forest Rights Act cells relevant for UPSC?
The Tribal Affairs Ministry’s decision to replace dedicated FRA cells with multi-purpose Project Monitoring Units (PMUs) is relevant for GS-II (Social Justice, Governance) and GS-I (Society). Key concerns include potential dilution of focus on tribal forest rights, poor FRA implementation record nationally, high claim rejection rates, and the tension between administrative efficiency and dedicated tribal welfare machinery. It connects to Fifth Schedule governance, PESA Act, and tribal development debates.
What lessons does the Green Party’s UK bypoll victory offer for understanding global democratic trends?
The Green Party’s win in a traditionally safe Labour seat (Gorton and Denton) illustrates the global erosion of centrist politics, the rise of identity-based voting (Gaza issue mobilising Muslim voters), and the fragmentation of political landscapes across democracies. For UPSC GS-II (International Relations) and Essay, this connects to themes of populism, the decline of traditional political parties, sectarianism in democracies, and how foreign policy issues (like Gaza) reshape domestic electoral politics.
What is the significance of the India-Canada bilateral reset under PM Mark Carney?
PM Mark Carney’s four-day India visit signals a shift from the diplomatic freeze under Trudeau (triggered by Nijjar allegations). The visit focuses on CEPA negotiations to double bilateral trade. Canada, facing U.S. tariffs under Trump, seeks trade diversification with India. For UPSC, this is relevant for GS-II (IR) — India’s Act East/Look West policy, trade agreement negotiations, diaspora diplomacy, and managing bilateral relationships amidst great-power competition.
