IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Analysis
Archives
(PRELIMS Focus)
Subject: Science & Technology / Space Technology (Satellite Navigation, SBAS, ISRO, Civil Aviation, GNSS, Navigation Systems)
Why in News?
India achieved a major milestone in civil aviation when an IndiGo Airbus A320 became the first commercial jet in the country to perform a satellite-based landing using the indigenous GAGAN (GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation) system at Udaipur Airport, under the supervision of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This marks the first use of GAGAN’s Satellite-Based Landing System (SLS) approach for a jet aircraft in India.
About GAGAN
- Full Form: GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation.
- India’s Satellite-Based Augmentation System (SBAS) jointly developed by ISRO and the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
- It augments GPS signals by providing correction and integrity information, enabling highly accurate aircraft navigation.
- Became operational in 2013–14 and complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.
Key Features
- Uses geostationary satellites (including GSAT-8 and GSAT-10) along with a network of ground reference stations.
- Improves navigation accuracy to about 1–3 metres.
- Enables precision approach and landing even at airports lacking an Instrument Landing System (ILS).
- Compatible with global SBAS systems such as WAAS (USA), EGNOS (Europe) and MSAS (Japan).
UPSC Prelims Analysis
Navigation technologies are a high-probability UPSC topic. Aspirants should distinguish GAGAN from NavIC:
- GAGAN is an SBAS that improves the accuracy and integrity of GPS/GNSS signals, primarily for aviation.
- NavIC is India’s independent regional satellite navigation constellation providing Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services.
Possible questions may test the developer agencies, purpose, satellite system used, difference between SBAS and GNSS, and applications in aviation safety. The topic also links with Digital India, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, and civil aviation modernisation.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Environment & Ecology (Species in News, Bird Conservation, IUCN Red List, Wetland Ecosystems, Community-Based Conservation)
Why in News?
During the 135th edition of Mann Ki Baat, the Prime Minister highlighted the remarkable conservation efforts of Assam’s “Hargila Army”, a women-led grassroots movement that transformed the Hargila (Greater Adjutant Stork) from a bird once considered a bad omen into a symbol of community pride and biodiversity conservation.
About the Hargila Bird
- Common Name: Greater Adjutant Stork (locally called Hargila, meaning “bone swallower”).
- Scientific Name: Leptoptilos dubius.
- One of the largest stork species in the world and an important scavenger, helping maintain ecosystem health by feeding on carcasses and organic waste.
- Habitat: Wetlands, shallow lakes, floodplains, freshwater marshes, and flooded forests.
- Distribution: Found mainly in Assam and Bihar in India, with small populations in Cambodia.
- Breeds during the winter season in colonies, often alongside other large waterbirds.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Endangered
- CITES: Appendix II
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule IV
- Major threats include loss of wetlands, felling of nesting trees, pollution, and human disturbance.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- The Hargila is a high-probability UPSC species due to its conservation significance and restricted distribution. Aspirants should remember its scientific name, IUCN status, habitat, and distribution.
- The Hargila Army, led by conservationist Purnima Devi Barman, is an excellent example of community-based conservation, where local women protect nesting trees, rescue chicks, and promote sustainable livelihoods through Hargila-themed handicrafts.
- The topic links static concepts of wetland ecology, flagship species, and community participation in biodiversity conservation with current affairs.
Source/Reference:
https://newsonair.gov.in/pm-narendra-modi-to-address-nation-in-mann-ki-baat-on-june-28/
Subject: Agriculture / Environment / Economy (Geographical Indications (GI), Medicinal Plants, Ayurveda, Horticulture, Traditional Knowledge)
Why in News?
Nagori Ashwagandha, a premium medicinal plant variety from Rajasthan, gained international recognition after the Prime Minister presented it as a GI-tagged gift during the G7 Summit in France. The crop has also recently received a Geographical Indication (GI) Tag (GI No. 1143), highlighting its unique medicinal qualities and regional identity.
About Nagori Ashwagandha
- A premium variety of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), cultivated mainly in Nagaur, Churu, and Bikaner districts of Rajasthan.
- Grows under arid to semi-arid climatic conditions with well-drained sandy soils, which impart distinctive medicinal properties.
- Characterised by:
- Long, thick, brittle, cavity-free roots
- High starch content
- Rich concentration of withanolides and alkaloids, making it highly valued by the herbal and pharmaceutical industries.
GI Tag & Significance
- Awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) Tag in 2026 (GI No. 1143).
- GI registration was supported by:
- ICAR–Directorate of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research (ICAR-DMAPR), Anand
- National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB)
- Department of Agriculture, Rajasthan
- Nagori Welfare Society.
- The GI tag protects the crop’s geographical identity, enhances export potential, preserves traditional knowledge, and improves farmers’ incomes.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- Medicinal plants and GI-tagged agricultural products are recurring UPSC themes. Aspirants should remember that Nagori Ashwagandha is associated with Rajasthan, while Ashwagandha’s scientific name is Withania somnifera.
- UPSC may test the crop–state mapping, GI framework, implementing institutions, and active phytochemicals (withanolides).
- The topic also provides a static–dynamic linkage between Ayurveda, traditional medicinal plants, GI protection, and India’s soft power through indigenous products.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Geography & Environment (Artificial Lakes, River Basins, Urban Water Resources, Reservoirs, Flood Management)
Why in News?
The Hyderabad Metropolitan Water Supply and Sewerage Board (HMWSSB) released around 1,000 cusecs of water from Himayat Sagar Lake after the reservoir received heavy inflows due to intense monsoon rainfall. Authorities issued flood alerts for downstream areas along the Esi River.
About Himayat Sagar Lake
- An artificial reservoir located in Ranga Reddy district, Telangana, about 20 km southwest of Hyderabad.
- Constructed across the Esi River, a tributary of the Musi River.
- Construction: Began in 1920 and completed in 1927 during the reign of Mir Osman Ali Khan (Nizam VII).
- Named after Himayat Ali Khan, the eldest son of the last Nizam.
- Built primarily for:
- Flood control following the 1908 Musi floods.
- Supplying drinking water to Hyderabad and Secunderabad.
- Lies parallel to the Osman Sagar reservoir, which is built across the Musi River.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- Urban reservoirs and river systems are frequently tested in UPSC Prelims.
- Aspirants should remember that Himayat Sagar is built on the Esi River, while Osman Sagar is built on the Musi River, and both were constructed after the devastating 1908 Musi floods to provide flood moderation and drinking water for Hyderabad.
- The topic links static concepts of river tributaries, reservoirs, urban water management, and flood mitigation with current monsoon-related developments. It may also be connected with questions on watershed conservation, reservoir management, and urban resilience.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Environment & Ecology (Species in News, Vulture Conservation, IUCN Red List, Wildlife Protection Act, Threatened Birds)
Why in News?
A GPS/radio-tagged White-rumped Vulture died due to electrocution after colliding with an overhead power line near Mudumalai Tiger Reserve in the Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu). The bird, part of a captive-breeding and reintroduction programme, had been released earlier in 2026. The incident has renewed concerns over uninsulated power lines in critical vulture habitats.
About the White-rumped Vulture
- Scientific Name: Gyps bengalensis.
- Also known as the Oriental White-backed Vulture.
- An Old World vulture native to South Asia.
- Habitat: Open plains, agricultural landscapes, forest fringes, villages, and wooded areas.
- Diet: Obligate scavenger, feeding primarily on livestock carcasses and playing a vital role in ecosystem sanitation.
Conservation Status
- IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered (CR)
- CITES: Appendix II
- Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I
- Major threats:
- Veterinary Diclofenac poisoning (principal cause of population collapse)
- Electrocution and collision with power lines
- Habitat degradation
- Food scarcity and poisoning.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- The White-rumped Vulture is a high-priority UPSC species due to its dramatic population decline and conservation significance. Aspirants should remember its scientific name, conservation status, and the role of diclofenac in causing kidney failure (visceral gout).
- UPSC may also test knowledge of safe alternatives such as meloxicam, the distinction between Old World and New World vultures, and the role of BNHS in India’s Vulture Conservation Breeding Programme.
- The topic links biodiversity conservation, wildlife legislation, veterinary practices, and power-line mitigation measures.
Source/Reference:
Subject: Economy (Infrastructure Financing, Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs), Sovereign Funds, Public–Private Investment, SEBI)
Why in News?
The Union Cabinet approved an additional investment commitment of ₹30,000 crore to the National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF). This raises the Government of India’s total commitment to ₹60,000 crore and will support the launch of NIIF Infrastructure Fund II, aimed at mobilising long-term institutional capital for infrastructure and other nationally important sectors.
About NIIF
- Established in 2015 following the Union Budget 2015–16 announcement.
- A sovereign-anchored investment platform managed by National Investment and Infrastructure Fund Limited (NIIFL).
- Registered with SEBI as a Category II Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
- The Government of India is the anchor investor (49%), while the remaining capital is mobilised from domestic and global institutional investors.
Objectives & Fund Structure
- Mobilise long-term capital for greenfield and brownfield infrastructure projects.
- Invest in sectors such as:
- Transportation
- Energy
- Digital infrastructure
- Urban infrastructure
- Manufacturing and other strategic sectors.
- NIIF currently manages four major investment platforms:
- Master Fund
- Private Markets Fund
- Strategic Opportunities Fund
- India–Japan Fund.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- NIIF is a high-value UPSC economy topic because it combines infrastructure financing, public-private investment, and capital mobilisation.
- Aspirants should remember that NIIF is not a sovereign wealth fund, but a sovereign-anchored Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with the Government acting as an anchor investor (49%).
- UPSC may test its year of establishment (2015), SEBI registration category, fund structure, and the distinction between NIIF, National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID), and National Investment Fund (NIF).
- The topic also links with the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP), PM Gati Shakti, and India’s strategy to attract global institutional capital into infrastructure.
Source/Reference:
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2279107®=48&lang=1
Subject: Environment & Ecology (Species in News, Island Biodiversity, IUCN Red List, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Endemic Species)
Why in News?
The Aldabra Giant Tortoise was in the spotlight during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s State Visit to Seychelles, where he visited the Giant Tortoise Enclosure at the Seychelles National Botanical Garden. The visit highlighted the ecological significance of the species and its long-standing conservation and cultural link with India.
About the Aldabra Giant Tortoise
- Scientific Name: Aldabrachelys gigantea.
- One of the largest and longest-living land tortoise species in the world, with many individuals living over 150 years, and some exceeding 200 years.
- Endemic to the Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles.
- Herbivorous, feeding mainly on grasses, leaves, shrubs, and fruits.
- Adult males can weigh over 250 kg, making them among the heaviest living tortoises.
Conservation & Ecological Importance
- IUCN Red List: Vulnerable (VU).
- CITES: Appendix II.
- Habitat: Tropical scrub forests, coastal grasslands, and mangrove ecosystems.
- The Aldabra Atoll is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1982) and supports the world’s largest wild population of Aldabra giant tortoises.
- Historically, giant tortoises disappeared from many Indian Ocean islands, but Aldabra’s isolated location enabled their survival.
UPSC Prelims Analysis
- The Aldabra Giant Tortoise is an important species-in-news with strong UPSC relevance. Aspirants should remember its scientific name, endemic location (Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles), IUCN status (Vulnerable), and UNESCO linkage.
- UPSC may also test concepts such as endemism, island biogeography, tortoise vs turtle (tortoises are terrestrial with dome-shaped shells, whereas turtles are primarily aquatic), and World Heritage Sites.
- The topic provides an excellent static–dynamic linkage between biodiversity conservation, Indian Ocean island ecosystems, and India–Seychelles environmental cooperation.
Source/Reference:
(MAINS Focus)
GS III – Indian Economy
Taxation Reforms, GST, and Fiscal Federalism
Introduction
Introduced on 1 July 2017, GST unified India’s indirect tax system under “One Nation, One Tax.” With GST 2.0 (2025), rates and compliance were simplified. Taxpayer registrations rose from 66.5 lakh to 1.65 crore, while collections increased from ₹7.4 lakh crore to ₹22.27 lakh crore (2025–26), boosting formalisation, cooperative federalism, and economic growth.
Understanding GST: Structure and Salient Features
Key Features
- Tax on Supply: GST levied on “supply” of goods/services, not on manufacture, sale, or service separately
- Destination-Based Consumption Tax: Tax accrues to State where goods/services are finally consumed
- Dual GST: CGST (Centre) + SGST (State) on intra-state; IGST on inter-state supplies
- Coverage: Applies to almost all goods/services; alcoholic liquor kept outside; 5 goods subject to future GST Council approval
- GST Council: Statutory body ensuring Centre-State cooperative decision-making
Institutional Framework
- GSTN (50% Centre: 50% State): Provides common digital infrastructure for GST system
- GST Council: Reviews issues, responds to challenges, enables timely course corrections
- Digital Systems: E-invoicing, real-time data capture, AI/ML for monitoring
Next-Generation GST Reforms (GST 2.0)
Streamlined Rate Structure
- Primary Slabs: Reduced to 5% and 18%
- Luxury and Sin Goods: 40% rate on lottery/online gaming, tobacco, aerated drinks, high-end cars, yachts, private aircrafts
- Exemptions: Insurance and essential medicines exempted to protect households and improve healthcare access
Compliance Simplification
- Easier Registration: Ease-based scheme; low-risk applicants get registration within 3 working days
- Simpler Returns: Quarterly Return Filing and Monthly Payment (QRMP) for turnover up to ₹5 crore; NIL returns via SMS
- Relief in Disputes: Reduced pre-deposit for appeals; waiver of interest/penalties for FY 2017-18 to 2019-20
- Small Taxpayers: Registration exemption for intra-state e-commerce sellers; MSME-focused measures
Sectoral Impact
- Households: Cheaper goods/services; exemptions on insurance and essential medicines
- MSMEs: Reduced rates on inputs (cement, handicrafts); lower production costs; simplified structure reduces classification disputes
- Exports: Correction of inverted duty structures boosts domestic value addition and competitiveness
- Farmers & Artisans: Relief through lower rates and simpler compliance
Impact and Achievements
Taxpayer Base and Collections
- Taxpayers: 66.5 lakh (2017) to 1.65 crore (May 2026)
- Gross Collections: ₹7.4 lakh crore (2017-18) to ₹22.27 lakh crore (2025-26)
- Recent Momentum: ₹4.37 lakh crore (April-May 2026)
- Revenue Buoyancy: Strong collections reflect economic formalisation and compliance improvement
Formalisation and Compliance
- Increased Tax Base: Wider taxpayer participation indicates formalisation
- Technology-Driven Admin: GSTN, e-invoicing, AI/ML for evasion detection
- Pre-filled Returns: Real-time validation reduces errors and manual reporting
- Risk-Based Monitoring: AI identifies evasion patterns; focus on high-risk taxpayers
Cooperative Federalism
- GST Council: Regular reviews; timely changes and course corrections
- Centre-State Coordination: Dual GST structure; revenue sharing mechanisms
- Compensation Provisions: Transition support for states (as per GST Compensation Act)
Economic Impact
- Common National Market: Removed interstate tax barriers
- Lower Compliance Costs: Streamlined processes for businesses
- Boost to Consumption: Cheaper goods/services drive demand
- Macro Stability: Predictable collections support fiscal transparency
Challenges
- Complexity: Though simplified, multiple slabs and compliance still burdensome for some MSMEs
- Revenue Neutrality: Some states face revenue gaps; compensation issues
- Technology Gaps: Digital divide affects small taxpayers; connectivity issues
- Compliance Burden: Quarterly/ monthly filings still demanding for smallest businesses
- Anti-Profiteering: Enforcement challenges in passing benefits to consumers
- Litigation: Disputes on classification, valuation, and interpretation persist
Way Forward
Further Rate Rationalisation
- Consolidate remaining slabs (28%) into 18% with appropriate revenue adjustments
- Expand exemptions for essential goods and services
- Consider further relief for MSMEs and exporters
Strengthening Technology
- Enhance GSTN portal for user-friendliness and scalability
- Expand AI/ML for real-time compliance monitoring
- Integrate with other digital platforms (UPI, GeM)
- Provide offline/ low-bandwidth solutions for remote areas
Easing Compliance for MSMEs
- Further simplify QRMP scheme
- Reduce compliance frequency for smallest taxpayers
- Provide sector-specific compliance guides
- Strengthen grievance redressal mechanisms
Dispute Resolution and Litigation
- Strengthen advance ruling mechanism
- Reduce litigation through clear circulars and clarifications
- Fast-track GST appellate tribunals
- Provide amnesty schemes for past disputes
Fiscal Federalism
- Ensure adequate compensation to states during transition
- Strengthen state-level GST administration
- Improve revenue forecasting and sharing mechanisms
- Address state-specific concerns through GST Council
Conclusion
After nine years, GST has transformed India’s indirect tax system by improving tax compliance, formalising the economy, and boosting revenue. While reforms such as GST 2.0 have simplified the framework, continued rate rationalisation, technological upgrades, and cooperative federalism are essential to support Viksit Bharat.
Practice Question
- Nine years after its implementation, how has GST transformed India’s indirect tax system? Discuss the key challenges and suggest measures for strengthening the GST regime. (250 words, 15 marks)
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2279318®=3&lang=1
GS III – Agriculture / GS II – Governance
Irrigation, Water Management, and Agricultural Sustainability
Introduction
Launched on 1 July 2015, Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) has transformed irrigation and water-use efficiency in Indian agriculture. The scheme has benefited over 27 million farmers, created irrigation potential across 24.61 million hectares, and brought 110.92 lakh hectares under micro-irrigation. With a ₹6,587 crore allocation in Budget 2026–27, PMKSY continues to strengthen water security, agricultural productivity, and sustainable farming.
Understanding PMKSY: Objectives and Components
Vision and Goals
- Objective: Expand assured irrigation, improve on-farm water efficiency, promote sustainable water conservation
- Approach: Jal Sanchay (rainwater harvesting/storage) + Jal Sinchan (efficient water application)
- Impact: Enhanced productivity, climate resilience, environmental sustainability, improved soil health
Four Strategic Components
Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP)
- Focus: Rapid completion of ongoing major and medium irrigation projects
- Central Assistance: ₹21,023 crore (since 2016-17)
- Beneficiaries: 17.30 million farmers (largest component by coverage)
- New Sub-Scheme (2025-26): Modernization of Command Area Development and Water Management (M-CADWM) – initial outlay ₹1,600 crore
Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP)
- Focus: Creating new water sources through minor irrigation (surface and groundwater)
- Achievements: 3,462 Surface Minor Irrigation and RRR schemes completed
- Irrigation Potential Created: 5.93 lakh hectares (surface) + 88.55 thousand hectares (groundwater)
Watershed Development
- Focus: Enhancing productive potential of rainfed and degraded lands
- Central Assistance: ₹12,432.09 crore (since 2016-17)
- Beneficiaries: 1.34 million farmers
Per Drop More Crop (PDMC)
- Focus: Maximising water use efficiency through micro-irrigation
- Technologies: Drip and sprinkler irrigation systems
- Financial Assistance: 55% for small/marginal farmers; 45% for others
- Coverage: 110.92 lakh hectares under micro-irrigation (~7.98% of net sown area)
- Annual Reach: 9.3 lakh farmers
Institutional Support
- Micro Irrigation Fund: Established under NABARD for promoting MI adoption
- Continuation (2021-26): Overall outlay ₹93,068.56 crore
- Budget 2026-27: ₹6,587 crore allocation
Impact and Achievements
Scale of Reach
- Farmers Benefited: 27 million+
- Irrigation Potential Created/Restored: 24.61 million hectares
- Central Assistance: ₹64,407 crore
- Micro-Irrigation Coverage: 110.92 lakh hectares
Success Story: Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh
- Brothers: Uma Shankar Verma and Subhash Verma (farming since 1990s)
- Traditional Method: Flood irrigation (high water, labour, uneven growth)
- Adoption (2016): Sprinkler irrigation under PMKSY
- Results:
- Crop yields increased 25-30%
- Water, electricity, labour, fertilizer use reduced ~50%
- Labour requirements fell 50-60%
- Fertilizer consumption reduced to one-fourth
- Profits: ₹60,000-70,000 per hectare
- Ripple Effect: Encouraged neighbouring farmers to adopt sprinkler irrigation
Formalisation and Compliance
- Water-Use Efficiency: Micro-irrigation delivers water directly to roots, reducing waste
- Climate Resilience: Efficient irrigation supports sustainable farming
- Environmental Benefits: Reduced water extraction; improved soil health
- Inclusive Growth: Small and marginal farmers receive higher subsidies
Challenges
- Scale Gap: Micro-irrigation covers only ~8% of net sown area; potential remains untapped
- Adoption Barriers: High initial costs; limited awareness; fragmented landholdings
- Infrastructure Gaps: M-CADWM implementation pending; water storage deficits
- Water Availability: Overexploitation of groundwater in some regions
- Maintenance: Sustainability of created infrastructure (canals, micro-irrigation systems)
- Regional Disparities: Uneven coverage across states; rainfed areas still vulnerable
- Inter-State Issues: River water sharing disputes affect AIBP projects
Way Forward
Expanding Micro-Irrigation
- Target: Cover 50% of net sown area by 2030
- Simplify subsidy access and ensure timely disbursement
- Promote affordable micro-irrigation solutions for small farmers
- Develop farmer-friendly financing through NABARD and banks
Strengthening Infrastructure
- Complete ongoing AIBP projects on priority
- Implement M-CADWM effectively for command area development
- Invest in water harvesting and storage structures (check dams, farm ponds)
- Upgrade and maintain existing irrigation infrastructure
Water-Use Efficiency and Conservation
- Promote precision irrigation technologies (sensors, automation)
- Encourage crop diversification to less water-intensive crops
- Integrate watershed development with micro-irrigation
- Adopt conjunctive use of surface and groundwater
Institutional and Policy Reforms
- Strengthen Water User Associations (WUAs) for participatory management
- Implement groundwater regulation and pricing reforms
- Enhance convergence with other schemes (MGNREGA, PMFBY)
- Build farmer capacity through training and demonstrations
Research and Innovation
- Invest in climate-resilient irrigation technologies
- Develop drought-tolerant and water-efficient crop varieties
- Use satellite/remote sensing for irrigation planning and monitoring
- Promote solar-powered irrigation systems
Conclusion
After a decade, PMKSY has significantly expanded irrigation, improved water-use efficiency, and enhanced farmers’ incomes through initiatives such as micro-irrigation and watershed development. However, challenges like regional disparities, infrastructure gaps, and low adoption persist. Strengthening irrigation infrastructure, expanding micro-irrigation, and promoting sustainable water management will be crucial for achieving Viksit Bharat @2047.
Practice Question
- PMKSY has significantly improved irrigation and water-use efficiency in India. Examine its achievements, challenges, and suggest measures to strengthen water security and climate-resilient agriculture. (250 words, 15 marks)
https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2279431®=3&lang=1
