Current Affairs 08 October 2025

Content

1. Trio wins Physics Nobel for building device showing ‘quantum tunnelling’
2. Why Indian capital needs to invest domestically
3. Pharmaceutical Oversight Gaps and Public Health Risks: MP Cough Syrup Case
4. By reusing old genes, bats became the only mammals able to fly
5. What is a supermoon?
6. India-UK ties: much to build on

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Trio wins Physics Nobel for building device showing ‘quantum tunnelling’

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Basics

• Event: 2025 Nobel Prize in Physics awarded to John Clarke, Michel Devoret, and John Martinis.
• Field: Quantum mechanics — study of matter and energy at the atomic and subatomic scale.
• Objective: To gain greater insight into quantum phenomena by designing novel experiments that manipulate single particles.

Relevance

• GS3: Science & Technology
  • Quantum computing, superconductors, and Josephson junctions.
  • Emerging technologies shaping India’s digital and defence capabilities.

Core Concepts

• Quantum Mechanics
  • Governs behaviour of particles at ultra-small scales (electrons, photons, atoms).
  • Deviates from classical physics; particles can exist in superpositions, tunnel through barriers, or be entangled.
• Quantum Tunnelling
  • Phenomenon where particles pass through energy barriers they shouldn’t classically cross.
  • Analogy: Cricket ball hitting a wall → normally bounces back, but quantum ball sometimes passes through.
  • Basis for many modern technologies (e.g., tunnel diodes, scanning tunnelling microscopes).
• Superconductors
  • Materials with zero electrical resistance at low temperatures.
  • Enable current to flow indefinitely without energy loss.
• Josephson Junction
  • Structure of two superconductors separated by a thin insulating layer.
  • Exhibits quantum tunnelling of Cooper pairs (pairs of electrons bound together in superconductors).
  • Crucial for quantum circuits and experimental control of quantum states.

Contribution of Clarke, Devoret, and Martinis

• Experiment Design
  • Created electrical circuits capable of manipulating single quantum particles.
  • Enabled observation and control of quantum tunnelling in a macroscopically measurable system.
• Significance
  • Transforms abstract quantum phenomena into engineered, controllable devices.
  • Lays the foundation for quantum computing and quantum information processing.
• Applications
  • Quantum Computers: Using superconducting qubits, capable of parallel computation beyond classical limits.
  • Quantum Sensors: Ultra-sensitive measurements of magnetic fields, gravity, or time.
  • Advanced Electronics: Next-generation transistors, precision circuits, and superconducting electronics.

Historical Context

• Quantum Mechanics → Technology Pathway
  • 1950s: Quantum principles led to transistors and silicon chips, enabling the modern electronics revolution.
  • Now: Controlled quantum systems → quantum computing era.
• Experimental Milestone
  • First time coherent control of single quantum systems in superconducting circuits achieved.
  • Bridges the gap between theory (quantum weirdness) and practical engineering.

Broader Implications

• Science & Technology
  • Opens avenues for high-performance computing, secure communication (quantum cryptography), and simulation of complex systems.
  • Quantum circuits may revolutionize drug discovery, materials science, and artificial intelligence.
• Societal & Economic
  • Quantum computing could lead to breakthroughs in cybersecurity, finance, logistics, and climate modelling.
  • Potential to position countries at the forefront of next-gen technology race.
• Philosophical/Conceptual
  • Demonstrates human ability to manipulate the fundamental laws of nature.
  • Illustrates the shift from understanding quantum behaviour passively to actively engineering quantum systems.

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Why Indian capital needs to invest domestically

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Basics

• Context: India faces a policy dilemma between:
  • Long-term benefits of global trade and liberalisation.
  • Short-term harms to large sections of the population (low wages, unemployment).
• Issue Highlighted: Current macroeconomic frameworks often prioritize supply and private profits, ignoring the domestic demand needs of the larger population.
• Key Idea: Domestic capital (Indian businesses) must align with public interest to ensure inclusive growth and mitigate external shocks.

Relevance

• GS3: Indian Economy
  • Domestic capital, private investment, macroeconomic demand-supply balance, wage policies, R&D investment.
  • Trade vs domestic demand in a globalized economy.
• GS2: Governance & Policy
  • Role of government-business coordination for national interest.
  • Policy interventions to boost domestic consumption and inclusive growth.

Historical Evolution of Capital

• Pre-liberalisation India
  • Indian businesses grew under protectionist policies.
  • Benefited from inward-looking policies and supernormal profits in domestic markets.
• Post-liberalisation
  • Indian firms leveraged accumulated wealth to expand globally.
  • Some Indian conglomerates became major players in international markets, though such depth is limited to a few giants.
• Current Scenario
  • Global uncertainties: tariffs, distortions, and shrinking external demand threaten Indian exports and aggregate demand.
  • Domestic capital needs reorientation toward internal markets and public-aligned strategies.

Key Economic Concepts

• Mass Markets & Demand Creation
  • Three drivers historically:
    • Creation of wage-labour class.
    • Industrial mass production enhancing productivity.
    • Growth in personal incomes altering demand composition.
  • Modern challenge: Policies often assume demand passively responds to supply; neglecting active stimulation of domestic demand.
• Domestic vs. External Demand
  • Early industrialisation: focus on domestic consumption.
  • Later phases: global markets emphasized.
  • Current turbulence: external demand weak, highlighting the need for domestic consumption-driven growth.

Role of Domestic Capital

1. Enhancing Private Investments
   1. Private sector profits high post-COVID, but investment lags behind.
   1. Public investment has surged: ₹3.4 lakh crore (FY20) → ₹10.2 lakh crore (FY25), CAGR 25%.
   1. Indian capital shows higher inclination toward foreign FDI (CAGR 12.6%) than domestic investment.
   1. Need: Reverse trend by incentivizing domestic capital deployment.
2. Moderate Wage Growth
   1. Corporate profits at 15-year high; wages stagnating.
   1. Contractualisation reduces collective bargaining → slower real wage growth.
   1. Real wages projected to decline (FY26: 6.5% vs FY25: 7%).
   1. Importance: Higher wages → higher domestic demand → inclusive growth.
3. Research & Development (R&D)
   1. India’s gross R&D spending: 0.64% of GDP (low vs global standards).
   1. Private sector contributes ~36% of R&D (much lower than US, China, Japan, Korea where >70%).
   1. Sector focus: Pharmaceuticals, IT, transport, defence, biotech.
   1. Need: Increase long-term innovation investment across diverse sectors.

Challenges Highlighted

• Domestic capital prioritizes profit over national interest.
• Global uncertainties (tariffs, supply chain disruptions) threaten exports and aggregate demand.
• Wage stagnation and low R&D impede inclusive and innovation-driven growth.
• Private sector investments in domestic infrastructure remain subdued despite government incentives.

Policy and Strategic Recommendations

• Unified Approach: Government and domestic capital must cooperate for macroeconomic stability.
• Active Private Investments: Deploy record-high profits into domestic infrastructure, industry, and public-interest projects.
• Inclusive Wage Policies: Ensure wage growth keeps pace with profits to boost consumption.
• Strengthen R&D: Encourage private sector to invest in long-term fundamental research.
• Domestic Demand Focus: Shift attention from purely global export orientation to internal market development.

Broader Implications

• Economic:
  • Domestic capital mobilisation can buffer India against global shocks.
  • Stimulates aggregate demand and strengthens GDP growth.
• Social:
  • Higher wages and employment stability reduce income inequality.
  • Inclusive growth fosters social cohesion.
• Strategic:
  • Self-reliant domestic production reduces dependence on volatile global supply chains.
  • Aligns with “Atmanirbhar Bharat” philosophy in economic policy.

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Pharmaceutical Oversight Gaps and Public Health Risks: MP Cough Syrup Case

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Context

• Incident: Adulterated cough syrup Coldrif caused 20 child deaths in Madhya Pradesh, mainly in Chhindwara (17), Betul (2), and Pandhurna (1). Five children remain under treatment for kidney failure.
• Culprit: Sresan Pharmaceuticals (Tamil Nadu) — syrup contaminated with over 45% diethylene glycol, a toxic chemical.
• Timeline:
  • Recent deaths: 2 children died on Tuesday, 1 on Monday, 17 prior deaths.
  • States affected: Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.

Relevance

• GS2 – Governance & Public Policy
  • Regulatory governance of pharmaceuticals (CDSCO, Schedule M, CAPA, ONDLS).
  • Accountability and legal frameworks for public health.
  • Role of judiciary in ensuring public safety.
• GS3 – Health & Human Development
  • Child health, toxicology, pharmaceutical quality management.
  • Public health policy, preventive measures, emergency response systems.
  • Importance of research and quality standards in MSME pharma.

Key Issues Highlighted

1. Drug Safety and Regulatory Compliance
   1. Schedule M (Revised): Central govt’s pharmaceutical manufacturing regulations include:
      1. Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA): Quality management methodology to investigate and resolve manufacturing issues.
      1. Online National Drugs Licensing System (ONDLS): Digital, single-window licensing system for uniform approval processes across states.
   1. Current Status:
      1. 18 state drug authorities have adopted ONDLS.
      1. No state fully compliant with CAPA guidelines, crucial for proactive quality maintenance.
      1. 3,838 of 5,308 MSME pharma companies comply with revised Schedule M GMP.
2. Regulatory Failures
   1. Manufacturer allegedly blacklisted earlier but still supplied syrup.
   1. Gaps in inspection and monitoring allowed toxic syrup to reach children.
3. Legal & Ethical Dimensions
   1. Arrest of Dr. Praveen Soni (paediatrician) for prescribing the syrup triggered a doctors’ strike, highlighting:
      1. Debate over liability: prescribing vs. manufacturing.
      1. Doctors demand action against manufacturers, not individual prescribers.
   1. Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed to probe the case.
4. Political & Social Response
   1. Congress demands judicial probe and compensation to victims’ families.
   1. State government committing to cover treatment costs.
   1. Public outrage over preventable child deaths.

Underlying Causes

• Toxic Contaminant: Diethylene glycol — causes acute kidney failure, liver damage, death.
• Weak Regulatory Enforcement:
  • Poor CAPA implementation.
  • Incomplete adoption of ONDLS & Schedule M compliance checks.
• Systemic Issues in Pharma Oversight:
  • Small and medium pharma units often inadequately monitored.
  • Lack of real-time auditing and accountability mechanisms.

Policy and Governance Dimensions

1. Strengthen Drug Regulation
   1. Ensure full CAPA compliance across all states.
   1. Strict enforcement of GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), inspections, and penalties.
   1. Continuous monitoring via ONDLS and digital tracking of pharmaceutical products.
2. Liability Clarity
   1. Distinguish prescriber vs manufacturer responsibility in legal and policy frameworks.
   1. Create guidelines to protect healthcare providers from undue criminalisation when prescribing approved drugs.
3. Public Health Measures
   1. Immediate recall of toxic batches.
   1. Emergency treatment protocols for affected children.
   1. Awareness campaigns on risks of unverified or adulterated medicines.
4. Judicial Oversight
   1. Demand for judicial probe to investigate negligence in production, approval, and distribution.
   1. Compensation mechanisms for victims and families.
5. Long-Term Measures
   1. Strengthen pharmaceutical quality audits and lab testing infrastructure.
   1. Mandatory digital tracking of drug batches.
   1. Training and accountability for drug inspectors and regulators.

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By reusing old genes, bats became the only mammals able to fly

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Basics

• Mammalian limb structure: All mammals share a common five-digit limb blueprint (pentadactyl limb).
• Bats’ uniqueness: Only mammals capable of true powered flight, achieved via wings.
• Wing formation: Forelimbs elongate digits 2–5; thin skin sheet called chiropatagium stretches between them.

Relevance :

• GS3 – Science & Technology / Biotechnology
  • Evolutionary biology, genetics, regulatory evolution.
  • Developmental biology insights applicable to medicine (congenital limb disorders, syndactyly).
  • Comparative genomics and single-cell analysis techniques.

Scientific Question

• How do bats develop wings while sharing the same genes as other mammals?
• Early embryos of bats, mice, dolphins, etc., look almost identical.
• Key concept: Regulatory evolution — altering when, where, and how genes are activated, rather than changing gene sequences.

Chiropatagium Mystery

• Traditionally, mammals lose skin between fingers via apoptosis (programmed cell death).
• Hypothesis: Bats suppressed interdigital apoptosis → wing formation.
• New study challenges this: apoptosis still occurs in bat wing tissue; something else must sustain the chiropatagium.

Study Approach

• Species used: Bats (Carollia perspicillata) and mice.
• Methodology:
  • Single-cell RNA sequencing of >180,000 embryonic limb cells.
  • Created an interspecies limb atlas for developmental comparison.
  • Computational modelling to identify cell types and gene activity.

Key Findings

1. Cell-level similarity: Bat and mouse limbs have almost identical cell types; no novel cell type was invented.
2. Specialized fibroblasts:
   1. A population of connective tissue cells (fibroblasts) is repositioned between digits in bats.
   1. These fibroblasts express transcription factors MEIS2 and TBX3, switched off in other mammals at this stage.
3. Evolutionary co-option:
   1. Existing gene programs redeployed in a new context → new structures without new genes.
4. Functional validation in mice:
   1. Transgenic mice expressing bat MEIS2 and TBX3 in distal limbs → fused, webbed digits resembling early bat wings.
   1. Shows regulatory changes alone can drive structural innovation.

Mechanistic Insights

• Regulatory shifts: Key to bat wing evolution; small changes in gene timing/location produce dramatic morphological differences.
• Apoptosis still occurs: Wing webbing persists due to specialized fibroblasts, not apoptosis suppression.
• Transcription factors as “genetic dials”: MEIS2 and TBX3 are sufficient to partially activate wing-building programs.

Broader Implications

• Evolutionary biology:
  • Supports the concept that diverse limb morphologies (bat wings, bird wings, whale flippers, fish fins) arise from modifying universal developmental blueprints.
• Developmental biology & medicine:
  • May inform understanding of syndactyly (fused digits in humans).
  • Insights into gene regulation during limb formation could aid diagnosis and treatment of congenital limb disorders.
• Research tools: Single-cell RNA sequencing and cross-species analysis enable mapping of regulatory changes driving evolution.

Takeaways

• Bat wings evolved through regulatory evolution, not new genes.
• Existing cell types were repurposed and strategically deployed.
• Small genetic shifts can yield major morphological innovations.
• Study demonstrates the power of transcription factors in shaping limbs across species.
• Highlights the potential of comparative genomics and single-cell analysis in unraveling evolutionary mechanisms.

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What is a supermoon?

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Basics

• Definition: A supermoon occurs when a full moon or new moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to Earth (perigee) in its elliptical orbit.
• Perigee distance variation: The moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle; distance from Earth varies by ~50,000 km.
• Visual effect: Full moon at perigee appears ~14% larger and ~30% brighter than at apogee (farthest point).

Relevance :

• GS3 – Science & Technology / Space
  • Astronomy: Moon’s orbit, perigee/apogee, tidal effects.
  • Scientific observation opportunities, satellite impact, tidal studies.
• GS1 – Geography (Physical)
  • Earth-moon interactions affecting tides, coastal flooding, and oceanography.

Recent Occurrences

• Supermoon visible on October 7, 2025.
• Two more supermoons expected in November and December 2025.

Origin and Popularisation

• Term “supermoon” popularised by astrologer Richard Nolle in the 1970s.
• Widely adopted by astronomers and media to describe visually striking lunar events.

Astronomical Significance

• Brightness perception: Subtle size difference may not be easily noticed with the naked eye; brightness and low-horizon view make it appear vivid.
• Tidal impact:
  • Causes perigean spring tides — tides slightly higher/lower than usual.
  • Results from moon’s stronger gravitational pull aligning with the sun.
  • Can exacerbate coastal flooding if coinciding with storm surges.

Cultural and Scientific Relevance

• Cultural impact:
  • Supermoons have inspired folklore, mythology, and spiritual observances across civilizations.
• Scientific opportunities:
  • Enables astronomers to observe lunar surface details more clearly.
  • Facilitates study of tidal effects and oceanographic impacts.
  • Offers photography opportunities due to enhanced brightness and apparent size.

Key Takeaways

• Supermoon = astronomical + cultural phenomenon.
• Visual impact is enhanced near horizon; effect on tides is modest but not negligible.
• Highlights the interaction between celestial mechanics (moon’s orbit) and Earth phenomena (tides).
• Serves as a reminder of how orbital dynamics influence everyday life and culture.

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Pediatric Drug Safety Concerns: Coldrif Cough Syrup Contamination Incident

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Basics

• Issue: At least five states in India banned the sale, distribution, and use of Coldrif cough syrup following deaths in Madhya Pradesh linked to contaminated syrup.
• Cause of concern: Some samples of Coldrif were found adulterated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG, 48.6%), a toxic substance that can cause kidney injury and death.
• Regulatory context: The Government Analyst at the Drug Testing Laboratory, Chennai, flagged the product as potentially injurious to health.

Relevance:

• GS2 – Governance & Public Policy
  • Regulatory oversight of pharmaceuticals: CDSCO, Schedule M, CAPA, ONDLS.
  • Accountability and legal frameworks for manufacturers and prescribers.
• GS3 – Health & Human Development
  • Child health and safety, toxicology, adverse drug reactions.
  • Public health policy: preventive measures, emergency treatment protocols.

Types of Cough Syrups

1. Cough suppressants:
   1. Treat dry coughs, which are distressing but non-productive.
   1. Active ingredient example: Dextromethorphan Hydrobromide.
2. Decongestants:
   1. Treat nasal congestion, runny nose, or cough triggered by nasal drip.
   1. Can include ingredients like phenylephrine, chlorpheniramine, or dexamethasone in some cases.

Safety Concerns

• Dangers for children:
  • Children under 6 years are particularly at risk if syrup is contaminated.
  • Over-the-counter syrups may not be safe without strict medical supervision.
  • In India, unlike the US, OTC cough syrups are widely available; parents often self-administer.
• Adverse effects:
  • Overdose can cause sedation, drowsiness, heart rate issues, nausea, or addiction (in adolescents).
  • DEG contamination can lead to kidney failure.
• Dosage guidance:
  • Administer only under a pediatrician’s prescription.
  • Dosage usually calculated in mg/kg body weight, not household teaspoons.
  • Special caution for children under 4 years.

Regulatory & Manufacturing Issues

• Past bans: Several states banned syrups containing dextromethorphan after deaths of children.
• Manufacturer responsibility:
  • Contamination often arises from using cheap, industrial-grade chemicals (e.g., DEG as solvent).
  • Companies should ensure safe, pharmaceutical-grade solvents and packaging.
• Doctor’s role:
  • Only prescribe when medically necessary; do not self-medicate children.
  • Improper use by parents can lead to serious harm.

Alternatives for Cough Relief

• Dexamethasone: Anti-inflammatory; used under medical supervision.
• Phenylephrine & Chlorpheniramine: Second-line antihistamines; suitable for children over 2 years.
• Non-medicinal: Saline nasal drops, humidified air, adequate hydration.

Systemic & Public Health Lessons

• Digital drug licensing: Adoption of Online National Drugs Licensing System (ONDLS) exists, but compliance with Corrective and Preventive Action (CAPA) guidelines is incomplete.
• Policy gap: States must ensure strict adherence to drug safety norms, especially for pediatric formulations.
• Parental awareness: Critical to avoid self-administration and check expiry, packaging, and manufacturer legitimacy.

Key Takeaways

• Pediatric cough syrup can be dangerous if contaminated or misused.
• Proper prescription, dosage, and manufacturer quality are crucial.
• Regulatory oversight (CAPA & ONDLS) must be strengthened to prevent tragedies.
• Safer alternatives and parental education are essential for child health protection.

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India-UK ties: much to build on

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Context

• British PM Keir Starmer visiting India (Oct 2025) for two days; first visit since assuming office in July 2024.
• Visit is reciprocal: follows PM Modi’s UK visit in July 2025.
• During Modi’s UK visit, India-UK Free Trade Agreement (FTA) was signed.
• The FTA has bipartisan support in the UK, reflecting continuity in India-UK relations despite domestic political changes.
• Boris Johnson initiated FTA negotiations in 2022; Starmer pursued early conclusion after Labour’s election win.

Relevance :

• GS2 – International Relations
  • Bilateral trade and diplomatic ties; strategic partnership with the UK.
• GS3 – Economy & Science & Technology
  • FTA, trade volumes, investment, innovation hubs, joint R&D in AI/quantum.
  • Defence tech collaboration, emerging technologies, and industrial growth.

Strategic & Political Significance

• India-UK ties offer stability and predictability in an uncertain global environment (e.g., US policy unpredictability).
• Starmer prioritizes India as a key bilateral partner, signaling long-term strategic interest.
• The Vision 2035 document provides a roadmap for comprehensive bilateral cooperation.

Vision 2035: Key Pillars

1. Economic Growth & Trade – mutual prosperity goals.
2. Education & Skills Partnership – joint programs, talent mobility.
3. Tourism & Culture – expanding soft power engagement.
4. Science & Technology Cooperation – joint research, innovation, AI, quantum technology.
5. Defence & Security – co-development of advanced technologies.
6. Climate & Critical Economic Cooperation – joint initiatives on sustainable development and tech transfer.

Economic Cooperation

• Bilateral trade (goods + services) ~£38 billion by 2023-end; aim to double in 10 years.
• UK investments in India increased by 120% since 2016.
• Indian exports to the UK valued at ~£15 billion.
• Early FTA “harvest deals” resolved issues like Indian whisky exports.
• FTA expected to enhance market access, reduce tariffs, and facilitate investment flows.

Research & Innovation

• India-UK Science and Innovation Council (SIC) oversees bilateral R&D collaboration biennially.
• UK = India’s second largest research & innovation partner; 400+ collaborative projects; £300–400 million joint programmes.
• May 2024: 20 AI and quantum grants announced, reinforcing focus on emerging tech.
• UK-India Innovation Hub at University of Surrey; AI Innovation branch campus at GIFT IFSC, Gujarat.

Defence Cooperation

• Defence Industrial Roadmap launched July 2024: joint research and co-development of future defence systems.
• Focus areas: jet engines, maritime power, cybersecurity, complex weapons.
• Participation by major UK companies: Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems.
• Framework planned for SMEs, startups, and defence manufacturers.

Education & Skills Mobility

• 140,000 Indian students in the UK.
  
  
• Migration and Mobility Pathway (July 2025) facilitates:
  • Transition from studies to graduate jobs.
  • Easier entry for dependents and family reunification.
• Young Professionals Scheme: ~3,000 Indian professionals migrate annually to the UK.

Connectivity & Cultural Exchange

• Aviation links: direct Mumbai–Manchester flights; restored and streamlined services (March 2024).
• Fast-track public services: visa, health services enhanced (March 2024).
• Film Co-Production Framework: updated July 2024; simplifies procedures and incentives for joint India-UK film projects.

Comprehensive Overview

• Economic: FTA expected to deepen trade, diversify investment, and strengthen supply chains, especially in goods, services, and whisky exports.
• Technological: Collaboration in AI, quantum, and innovation hubs positions both nations for future competitiveness.
• Defence & Security: Joint R&D roadmap enhances strategic autonomy and interoperability.
• Education & Talent: Mobility pathways and professional schemes support human capital flow.
• Soft Power & Culture: Film and tourism partnerships enhance mutual cultural influence.
• Strategic Implication: In a multipolar, uncertain world, India-UK relations offer a stable, predictable partnership, potentially serving as a model for other bilateral ties.

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