Stay ahead in your UPSC preparation with the top editorials and issue-based analysis from The Hindu, Indian Express, and relevant reports. All topics below are linked to GS1 , GS2 & GS3, with a focus on exam-relevant insights, keywords, and actionable conclusions.
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1.
The Road to Safety: India’s Urban Mobility Challenge
{pg.9,GS3}
Why in News?
India is at a critical juncture in mobility transformation, where rapid urbanization and economic growth bring both opportunities and challenges for road safety.
Key Issues
- High Fatality Rate: India recorded 1.68 lakh road accident deaths in 2022, translating to 12.2 deaths per 1 lakh population.
- Economic Impact: Road crashes cost India an estimated 3% of its GDP annually, hampering national development.
- Urban Expansion: By 2047, India’s urban population is expected to reach 50% of the total population, increasing vehicle ownership and congestion.
- Policy Gaps: Despite initiatives by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), enforcement remains weak.
Way Forward
- Safe System Approach – Redesign roads to minimize human error and fatalities.
- Stronger Regulations – Implement speed limits, pedestrian zones, and vehicle safety standards.
- Public Awareness – Educate citizens on road safety laws and responsible driving.
- Technology Integration – Use AI-driven traffic monitoring to reduce accidents.
India must prioritize road safety as a fundamental right under Article 21 of the Constitution, ensuring safer urban mobility for all.
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2.
India’s Genome-Edited Rice: A Breakthrough in Agriculture
{pg10,GS3}
Why in News?
India has become the first country in the world to develop genome-edited rice varieties, marking a significant advancement in agricultural biotechnology.
Key Details
- New Varieties: India developed DRR Dhan 100 (Kamala) and Pusa DST Rice 1, using genome editing technology.
- Higher Yield & Climate Resilience: Kamala offers superior yield, drought tolerance, and nitrogen efficiency, while Pusa DST Rice 1 shows higher productivity under saline conditions.
- Technology Used: Scientists employed Site-Directed Nuclease (SDN-1 & SDN-2) genome editing techniques, which modify genes without introducing foreign DNA.
- Environmental Benefits: These varieties consume less water, mature faster, and reduce methane emissions, contributing to sustainable agriculture.
- Regulatory Exemption: Unlike genetically modified (GM) crops, these genome-edited varieties are exempt from strict biosafety regulations, making them easier to commercialize.
Way Forward
- Accelerate Seed Production – Ensure large-scale availability for farmers.
- Expand Genome Editing Research – Apply technology to other staple crops.
- Enhance Public Awareness – Educate farmers on benefits and adoption.
India’s genome-edited rice is a game-changer for food security and climate resilience.
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3.Trumpeting Claims: US Mediation Controversy
{pg8,GS2}Why in News?
The US President has repeatedly claimed credit for mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan, sparking diplomatic tensions. India has firmly rejected these assertions, stating that the ceasefire was negotiated directly between military officials without external intervention.
Key Details
- India’s Response: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) clarified that the ceasefire talks were held directly between Indian and Pakistani military officials, not mediated by the US.
- Violation of India’s Policy: India has long maintained that Kashmir is a bilateral issue, rejecting third-party involvement.
- Trade & Security Concerns: The US President also claimed he influenced India-Pakistan trade relations, but India denied any such discussions.
- Geopolitical Implications: Analysts suggest the US stance may be shifting, possibly due to China-Pakistan military cooperation.
Way Forward
- Diplomatic Clarity – India must reinforce its bilateral stance on Kashmir.
- Strategic Messaging – Stronger communication to counter misleading narratives.
- Global Engagement – Strengthen alliances to prevent external interference.
India’s firm rejection of US claims underscores its sovereign diplomatic approach.
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4.Justice B R Gavai Takes Over as Chief Justice of India
{pg.12,GS2}Why in News?
Justice Bhushan Ramkrishna Gavai was sworn in as the 52nd Chief Justice of India (CJI) on May 14, 2025, succeeding Justice Sanjiv Khanna. He will serve a six-month tenure until November 23, 2025.
Key Details
- First Buddhist CJI: Justice Gavai is the first Buddhist to hold the position.
- Legal Career: He was elevated to the Supreme Court in May 2019 after serving 16 years in the Bombay High Court.
- Landmark Judgments: He was part of benches that ruled on Article 370 abrogation, electoral bonds, and demonetization.
- Judicial Philosophy: Known for his bold and decisive approach, he has championed constitutional rights and judicial transparency.
Way Forward
- Judicial Reforms – Address case backlog and improve court efficiency.
- Legal Transparency – Strengthen public trust in the judiciary.
- Social Justice – Continue efforts to uphold constitutional rights.
Justice Gavai’s tenure is expected to shape key legal debates in India.
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5.Indigenous Weapon Systems Prove Highly Effective: Centre
{pg.13,GS3}Why in News?
The Indian government has highlighted the success of indigenous defence systems during Operation Sindoor, reinforcing India’s self-reliance in military technology.
Key Details
- Akash Missile System: India’s short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) outperformed Chinese HQ-9 SAMs, effectively intercepting threats.
- Electronic Warfare Superiority: The Indian Air Force (IAF) jammed Pakistan’s Chinese-supplied air defence systems in just 23 minutes, demonstrating technological dominance.
- Precision Strikes: Indian forces neutralized key Pakistani airbases, using loitering munitions and guided drones.
- Defence Exports Surge: India’s defence exports have risen 34-fold since 2013-14, with global interest in Akash and BrahMos systems.
Way Forward
- Expand Indigenous Defence Production – Strengthen self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat.
- Enhance Electronic Warfare Capabilities – Invest in AI-driven defence technologies.
- Boost Global Defence Partnerships – Promote Indian-made weapon systems internationally.
India’s indigenous defence technology is proving to be a game-changer in modern warfare.
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6.Former Defense Secretary Ajay Kumar Appointed UPSC Chairman
{pg.14,GS2}Why in News?
Dr. Ajay Kumar, a 1985-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). His tenure will last until October 2027, when he turns 65 years old.
Key Details
- Previous Role: Served as Defense Secretary from August 2019 to October 2022.
- Major Contributions: Led defense reforms, including the creation of the Chief of Defense Staff, the Agniveer scheme, and corporatization of Ordnance Factories.
- Educational Background: Holds a PhD in Business Administration and an MS in Applied Economics from the University of Minnesota.
- Digital India Initiatives: Played a key role in UPI, Aadhaar, MyGov, and Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
Way Forward
- Strengthen UPSC Reforms – Enhance transparency and efficiency in civil services recruitment.
- Promote Digital Governance – Leverage technology for streamlined examinations.
- Ensure Merit-Based Selection – Uphold fairness and integrity in UPSC processes.
Dr. Ajay Kumar’s leadership is expected to bring strategic reforms to UPSC operations.
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Signature Campaign Begins for Puducherry Statehood Demand
{pg.12,GS1!}Why in News?
Several social organizations have launched a signature campaign to press for statehood status for Puducherry. The campaign, led by Independent legislator Nehru alias Kuppusamy, has gained support from Chief Minister N. Rangasamy, who signed the petition.
Key Details
- Target: The campaign aims to collect 1 lakh signatures to strengthen the demand for statehood.
- Political Backing: The Puducherry Assembly had unanimously passed a resolution urging the Central government to grant statehood.
- Upcoming Protest: A demonstration in New Delhi is planned for June 27 to highlight the demand.
- Historical Context: Puducherry has been seeking statehood for over 40 years, citing governance challenges under Union Territory status.
Way Forward
- Public Mobilization – Increase awareness and participation in the campaign.
- Political Advocacy – Engage with national leaders to push for legislative action.
- Legal Framework – Strengthen constitutional arguments for statehood recognition.
The campaign marks a renewed push for Puducherry’s political autonomy.
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8.Birth Rates in Delhi, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu Declining at Twice the National Average {pg.14,GS2}
Why in News?
A recent Sample Registration System (SRS) Statistical Report 2021 reveals that the crude birth rates in Delhi, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu are declining at twice the rate of the national average.
Key Findings
- National Decline Rate: India’s crude birth rate dropped at 1.12% per year from 2016 to 2021.
- State-Specific Decline:
- Tamil Nadu: Declining at 2.35% per year.
- Delhi: Declining at 2.23% per year.
- Kerala: Declining at 2.05% per year.
- Slowest Decline: States like Rajasthan (0.48%), Bihar (0.86%), and Jharkhand (0.98%) show slower birth rate declines.
- Rising Birth Rates: Uttarakhand is the only state where birth rates increased during this period.
Reasons for Declining Birth Rates
- Higher Female Literacy & Workforce Participation – Women in South India tend to delay childbirth due to education and career priorities.
- Improved Healthcare Access – Better maternal healthcare leads to lower fertility rates.
- Urbanization & Lifestyle Changes – Rising cost of living discourages larger families.
Way Forward
- Policy Adjustments – Address population decline concerns through family welfare programs.
- Economic Planning – Prepare for aging population challenges in low-birth-rate states.
- Social Awareness – Promote balanced family planning while ensuring economic stability.
The report signals major demographic shifts, impacting India’s workforce and economic planning.
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9.India Ranks Among Top 6 in 6G Patent Filings
{pg.15,GS3}Why in News?
India has secured a top-six global ranking in 6G patent filings, marking a significant milestone in telecom innovation.
Key Details
- Research Investment: India has funded 111 research projects with a ₹300 crore allocation to advance 6G technology.
- Technological Leap: 6G will operate on TeraHertz frequency bands, enabling data speeds of up to 1 terabit per second, which is 100 times faster than 5G.
- Economic Impact: Indigenous 6G development is expected to contribute $1 trillion to India’s economy by 2035, fostering new industries and technological leadership.
- Global Positioning: India joins the US, China, South Korea, Japan, and Germany in leading 6G patent filings, reinforcing its role in next-gen telecom.
Way Forward
- Strengthen R&D – Expand 6G research funding and industry collaboration.
- Develop Secure Networks – Ensure indigenous 6G infrastructure for data security.
- Global Standards Participation – Engage in international 6G standardization efforts.
India’s 6G advancements position it as a key player in future telecom evolution.
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10.Scientists Create Unique 2D Metals for Future Technologies
Why in News?
Researchers have successfully developed 2D metals, a breakthrough in quantum materials that could revolutionize electronics, photonics, and energy storage.
Key Details
- Quantum Confinement: These metals exhibit unique electronic properties, similar to graphene and quantum dots.
- Material Innovation: Scientists overcame challenges in metal atom stability, enabling large-scale production.
- Potential Applications: 2D metals could enhance semiconductors, medical diagnostics, and solar panels.
Way Forward
- Expand Research – Further studies on stability and scalability.
- Industry Collaboration – Integrate 2D metals into next-gen devices.
- Sustainable Production – Ensure eco-friendly manufacturing.
This discovery marks a major leap in material science, paving the way for advanced technologies.
DEEPIKA PARASHAR
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