August 19th Current Affairs
Table of Contents
Operation Sindoor
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Operation Sindoor Why in News? Parliament’s Monsoon Session, starting July 21, 2025, is expected to feature
Alaska Earthquakes
July 21st Current Affairs Home / Alaska Earthquakes Why in News? On July 21, 2025, Alaska Peninsula was struck by
August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse
July 21st Current Affairs Home / August 2, 2027 Solar Eclipse Why in News? A total solar eclipse is set
India’s milestone in clean energy transition
July 21st Current Affairs Home / India’s milestone in clean energy transition Why in News? India achieved a milestone by
‘Baby Grok’, child-friendly AI app
July 21st Current Affairs Home / ‘Baby Grok’, Child-friendly AI app Why in News? Elon Musk’s AI company xAI has announced
Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma
July 22nd Current Affairs Home / Impeachment proceedings against Justice Yashwant Verma Context On July 22, 2025, impeachment proceedings against
Ukraine Peace deal
Context
US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s agreement on security guarantees for Ukraine is a major diplomatic development aiming to end the conflict sparked by Russia’s 2022 invasion.
Background
The war, which began in February 2022, has seen Russia and Ukraine in a prolonged conflict. Previous peace efforts, including the Minsk agreements, failed to secure a lasting peace. This new development follows a recent Trump-Putin summit in Alaska.
Diplomat
This new diplomatic initiative, if successful, could alter the existing framework of international law concerning the conflict. While not a formal UN resolution, the proposed security guarantees could function as a de-facto agreement that bypasses the stalemated UN Security Council. Diplomats are watching cautiously, with European leaders like French President Macron advocating for a broader, quadrilateral format that includes Europe to ensure the continent’s security interests are represented.Concerns remain about the potential for a deal that rewards Russian aggression by compelling Ukraine to cede territory, a move that would violate the UN Charter’s principle of territorial integrity.
Significance
The agreement signifies a potential shift from a war of attrition to a negotiated peace. It introduces a new “security guarantees” model, which could be an alternative to NATO membership for Ukraine, addressing a core Russian grievance. The willingness of both sides to engage in trilateral talks with the US suggests a pathway to peace, even if the terms remain contentious. This could fundamentally reshape the geopolitical landscape in Eastern Europe.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Security Guarantees: A formal pledge by one or more nations to provide military or political support to another country in the event of an attack. Unlike a military alliance (e.g., NATO’s Article 5), these are often more flexible and tailored, designed to provide a deterrent without a full collective defense commitment.
- Trilateral Talks: A diplomatic meeting involving three parties. In this case, the US, Russia, and Ukraine. This contrasts with previous formats like the Normandy format, which included France and Germany.
- Quadri/trilateral Meeting: A meeting of four or three parties respectively. President Macron has called for a quadrilateral meeting including European leaders to ensure all relevant parties are at the table, especially concerning the future security architecture of Europe.
- Donbas: The industrial heartland of eastern Ukraine, a region that has been a focal point of the conflict since 2014, with Russian-backed separatists establishing self-proclaimed republics there.
Strategic Nuances
The talks reflect a transactional approach to diplomacy. Trump’s emphasis on a deal, rather than a ceasefire, aligns with Putin’s desire to negotiate a final settlement that includes territorial concessions. Zelenskyy’s participation, despite the risks, shows a willingness to explore all avenues for peace. The US, by acting as a mediator, seeks to reassert its influence in European security matters. The European nations, by joining Zelenskyy, are trying to ensure their collective security interests are not sidelined in any bilateral agreement between the US and Russia.
Impact on India
India’s position of strategic autonomy is challenged. A peace deal, particularly one seen as favoring Russia, could complicate India’s relationship with the US and Europe. It may lead to a reduced global focus on the Ukraine conflict, potentially diverting attention and resources to other geopolitical arenas like the Indo-Pacific, which is a strategic interest for India. However, an end to the war would likely stabilize global commodity prices, including oil and food, which would be a significant economic benefit for India.
Challenges
The main challenges are:
- Territorial integrity: Ukraine’s willingness to concede territory like Crimea and parts of Donbas remains a major point of contention.
- US domestic politics: The deal is linked to Trump’s political ambitions, raising questions about its long-term stability and whether a future US administration would honor the guarantees.
- European buy-in: Ensuring a unified European front on the terms of the security guarantees is crucial for their effectiveness.
- Enforcement: The lack of a clear enforcement mechanism for the security guarantees raises concerns about whether Russia would adhere to them.
Way Forward
A sustainable peace requires a comprehensive deal that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty while addressing Russia’s security concerns. This would likely involve a formal security guarantee for Ukraine, potentially a hybrid model that involves the US and European nations, in exchange for a neutral status for Ukraine and a future resolution on territorial disputes through diplomatic, non-military means. The international community needs to be prepared to provide substantial post-war reconstruction aid to Ukraine.
Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to the recent diplomatic efforts concerning the Russia-Ukraine conflict, consider the following statements: 1. The proposed security guarantees for Ukraine are expected to be an exact replication of NATO's Article 5 collective defense clause. 2. French President Emmanuel Macron has called for a quadrilateral summit, including European leaders, in response to the US proposal for a trilateral meeting. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Analyze the geopolitical implications of a US-brokered peace deal on the global order. (10 marks)
China resumes it’s exports to India
Context
China’s agreement to resume supplying critical resources like fertilizers, rare earth minerals, and tunnel boring machines to India marks a significant step towards normalizing bilateral ties. The move comes amid a backdrop of strained relations and shared concerns over US policies.
Background
The relationship between India and China has been strained due to the border stand-off at the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This diplomatic breakthrough, following a temporary halt in Chinese exports to India, indicates a thawing of economic relations despite unresolved border issues.
Diplomats
The resumption of supplies is viewed by diplomats as a pragmatic step by both sides. Indian diplomats emphasize that while economic ties are improving, the core issue of border de-escalation remains a priority. The assurance from China on these supplies is seen as a gesture to build confidence ahead of the more sensitive Special Representative-level talks on border issues.
Significance
This development is significant for several reasons:
- It signals a pragmatic approach from both nations to separate economic cooperation from border disputes.
- The supply of fertilizers is crucial for India’s agricultural sector and food security.
- Rare earth minerals are vital for India’s technological and manufacturing sectors, including defense and electronics.
- Tunnel boring machines are essential for India’s ambitious infrastructure projects, particularly in urban and mountainous regions.
- This cooperation, even with lingering border tensions, indicates a de-facto decoupling of economic and military issues, a strategy that could stabilize the relationship.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Fertilizers: Chemical compounds containing essential plant nutrients like Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium (NPK), or Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP), used to increase crop yield in agriculture.
- Rare Earth Minerals: A group of 17 metallic elements crucial for high-tech applications, including electronics, electric vehicles, and defense systems.China holds a near-monopoly on their supply.
- Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM): A machine used to excavate tunnels with a circular cross-section, widely used for metro systems, road tunnels, and other infrastructure projects.
- Line of Actual Control (LAC): A notional demarcation line that separates Indian-controlled territory from Chinese-controlled territory. It is not an internationally recognized legal border.
Strategic
The agreement to supply critical resources is a tactical move by China to ease economic pressure on India and create a more conducive environment for future high-level talks. By providing these materials, China is leveraging its economic power to gain a diplomatic edge. The mention of shared concerns over US policies suggests a strategic alignment against potential US-led containment efforts. For India, this engagement allows it to diversify its supply chains and reduce immediate dependencies on the US-led Western bloc while maintaining a dialogue with Beijing to de-escalate military tensions. This is a classic example of hedging diplomacy.
Impacts on the World
- The normalization of ties between two of the world’s largest economies and most populous nations will have a stabilizing effect on the global economy.
- A more amicable India-China relationship could reduce geopolitical tensions in Asia, impacting global supply chains and trade.
- The shared apprehension of US policies by both nations highlights the growing trend of a multipolar world where countries are increasingly seeking to balance relationships with all major powers rather than aligning exclusively with one bloc.
Challenges
- Sustainability: The agreement is fragile as it is not a formal treaty and could be reversed if border tensions flare up again.
- Trust Deficit: A deep-seated trust deficit remains due to the 2020 Galwan clash.
- US Factor: The US will be monitoring this rapprochement closely, and any perception of a Sino-Indian alliance against US interests could complicate India’s QUAD engagement.
- Border Resolution: The core issue of border de-escalation remains unresolved, making the current positive momentum tenuous.
Way Forward
- India and China need to formalize the de-escalation process at the LAC.
- Both sides should establish formal mechanisms to prevent future border incursions and misunderstandings.
- A diversified supply chain for critical materials is essential for India’s long-term strategic autonomy.
- India must continue to engage with both the US and China, balancing its interests without compromising on its national security and sovereignty.
Prelims MCQ
With reference to the recent diplomatic engagement between India and China, consider the following statements: 1. The Chinese Foreign Minister has assured the supply of tunnel boring machines and rare earth minerals to India. 2. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) is a legally recognized international border separating India and China. 3. India has changed its official position on the issue of Taiwan as part of this new diplomatic understanding with China. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. How does economic engagement act as a stabilizing factor in a relationship marred by border disputes? (10 marks)
GST reforms
Context
India’s proposed GST reforms simplify the tax structure to a two-rate model (5% and 18%) while introducing a new 40% slab for sin goods. This aims to reduce complexities, correct duty structures, and potentially lower costs for consumers.
Background
The current GST, implemented in 2017, features a multi-slab structure (0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28%) plus a cess on certain goods. This has led to classification disputes and an inverted duty structure for some sectors, prompting the need for reform.
Government Schemes and Policies
This reform aligns with the government’s broader economic agenda of ‘Ease of Doing Business’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’ A simplified GST reduces compliance burdens on MSMEs and startups, which are key pillars of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It also fits with the government’s fiscal policy of balancing revenue collection with consumer welfare.
Constitutional Provisions
The GST is a constitutional reform enacted through the 101st Amendment Act, 2016. The proposed changes would be implemented through the GST Council, which is a constitutional body established under Article 279A. This council, comprising Union and State Finance Ministers, is the apex decision-making body for all GST-related matters, and its recommendations are crucial for the implementation of any new tax structure.
Economist
Economists generally support the move toward a simpler tax structure. A two-rate system (plus a higher slab for demerit goods) is considered a more efficient and transparent model globally. It reduces classification disputes, which have been a major point of friction for businesses. The move to lower taxes on essentials and consumer durables is also seen as a positive step to boost consumption, which is critical for economic growth. Some economists might caution that the 40% slab could lead to a thriving black market for certain goods, or that the loss of revenue from the 12% and 28% slabs might not be fully offset by the new sin goods slab.
Significance
The reform plan is a significant step towards creating a truly simplified and modern tax regime. It addresses several long-standing issues, such as the inverted duty structure in key sectors and the complexity of multiple tax slabs. By potentially lowering taxes on everyday items and durable goods, it aims to stimulate consumption, provide relief to the middle class, and make Indian goods more competitive.
Definition of Technical Terms
- GST (Goods and Services Tax): A comprehensive, multi-stage, destination-based tax that is levied on every value addition. It replaced multiple indirect taxes in India.
- Tax Slab: A tax rate applied to a specific category of goods or services.
- Sin Goods: Products that are considered harmful to society and are subject to higher taxes (e.g., tobacco, alcohol, etc.).
- Inverted Duty Structure: A situation where the tax on raw materials is higher than the tax on the final product, leading to an accumulation of input tax credit for businesses, which can create a financial burden.
Financial Nuances
The proposal is a delicate balancing act between revenue neutrality and tax simplification. The government intends for the new structure to be revenue-neutral, meaning total tax collections remain largely the same. The higher 18% slab is expected to be the primary revenue generator, while the 40% slab on a limited number of goods is designed to offset the revenue loss from lowering taxes on many items currently in the 12% and 28% slabs.
Impacts on Daily Consumer Goods
- Cheaper: Many essential items currently in the 12% slab, such as packaged food, butter, ghee, stationery, and apparel, are likely to move to the 5% slab.
- Cheaper (Healthcare): Medicines and medical equipment may also become cheaper, reducing healthcare expenses.
- Mixed impact (Consumer Durables): Items like TVs, refrigerators, and ACs may become more affordable as they move from the 28% to the 18% slab.
- Costlier (Sin/Luxury Goods): Goods like pan masala, tobacco, and luxury cars will become more expensive due to the new 40% tax rate.
Challenges
- Revenue Leakage: The government must ensure that the new structure does not lead to a significant fall in tax collections, which are vital for fiscal health.
- GST Council Consensus: Getting all states to agree on the new rates can be challenging, as some states may fear a loss of revenue or have differing priorities.
- Classification Disputes: While simplified, a two-rate system might still lead to disputes over which category an item falls into (e.g., is a specific snack an “essential” or “merit” good?).
Way Forward
The next steps involve the Group of Ministers on rate rationalization deliberating the proposals, followed by the GST Council taking a final call. If approved, the changes would require legislative amendments. The government must also launch a clear public awareness campaign to inform consumers and businesses about the new tax structure to ensure a smooth transition.
Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to the proposed GST reforms in India, consider the following statements:
1. The reform plan proposes to eliminate the 12% and 28% tax slabs.
2. The new 40% slab is intended to apply to all consumer durables and luxury goods.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Evaluate the proposed GST reforms’ potential to simplify the tax system and its impact on the economy. (15 marks)
Shubanshu Shukla meets PM
Context
Shukla, a private citizen, has become the second Indian to go to space and the first to visit the International Space Station (ISS) as part of the Axiom-4 mission. This marks a new era for India’s space endeavors, moving beyond government-led missions.
Background
The first Indian to go to space was Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma in 1984 aboard the Soviet Soyuz T-11 mission. Shukla’s achievement comes 40 years later, highlighting the shift toward commercial spaceflight and increased private participation in space exploration.
Government Schemes and Policies
The Indian Space Policy 2023 aims to liberalize the space sector, allowing private companies to participate in space activities. This includes satellite manufacturing, launch services, and human spaceflight. Shukla’s mission is a real-world example of this policy in action, complementing ISRO’s own upcoming Gaganyaan mission for human spaceflight.
Constitutional Provisions, Rules, Laws, SC Verdicts, UN Resolutions
The event, is subject to international space law, including the Outer Space Treaty of 1967, which holds states responsible for their national activities in space, whether carried out by governmental or non-governmental entities.
Space Scientists
Indian space scientists view Shukla’s mission with a mix of optimism and pragmatism. They see it as a validation of the global trend toward commercial spaceflight and a sign of India’s growing presence in this domain. However, they also emphasize that this does not diminish the importance of ISRO’s state-led missions like Gaganyaan, which are crucial for developing indigenous technology and strategic capabilities.
Significance
Shukla’s mission holds immense significance.
- It breaks a four-decade-long hiatus for Indian human presence in space.
- It represents India’s entry into the burgeoning private and commercial human spaceflight sector.
- It serves as a major inspiration for India’s youth, especially those interested in STEM fields.
- It can potentially open new avenues for Indian research and technology demonstration aboard the ISS.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Axiom-4 Mission: The fourth all-private astronaut mission to the ISS, managed by Axiom Space. These missions are a new model for space exploration, where private companies organize and train astronauts for commercial spaceflights.
- International Space Station (ISS): A modular space station in low Earth orbit, a collaborative project involving five space agencies: NASA (USA), Roscosmos (Russia), JAXA (Japan), ESA (Europe), and CSA (Canada).
- Gaganyaan Mission: India’s ambitious indigenous human spaceflight program being developed by ISRO. It aims to send a three-member crew to a 400-km orbit for a three-day mission and safely return them to Earth.
Technology
This mission highlights a few key technological points:
- It relies on commercially developed space vehicles (likely from SpaceX), demonstrating the reliability and maturity of private space technology.
- It underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in space exploration. While ISRO has its own human spaceflight program, collaboration with global private players can accelerate India’s learning curve.
- The mission is a testament to the advanced life-support systems, propulsion, and avionics now available from private companies.
Impact on Youth
The successful mission will likely create a “Shukla effect,” akin to the “Rakesh Sharma effect” of the 1980s. It will inspire a new generation of scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to pursue careers in the space sector. It makes space exploration more tangible and accessible, moving it from the realm of government agencies to the private sector.
Challenges
- Cost: Commercial spaceflight is prohibitively expensive, limiting access to only a select few.
- Regulation: India needs a more robust regulatory framework for private space activities to ensure safety, liability, and compliance with international law.
- Indigenous Capability: While a private flight is a great step, India must not lose focus on developing its own indigenous human spaceflight capabilities through the Gaganyaan mission.
Way Forward
India should continue to foster a vibrant private space ecosystem. This involves providing regulatory clarity, financial incentives, and technological support to private firms. Simultaneously, ISRO must continue its strategic missions, as they are crucial for national security and scientific advancement. The long-term strategy should be a collaborative model where ISRO focuses on deep space and strategic missions, and private players handle commercial applications and routine orbital travel.
Prelims MCQ
Q.With reference to India's human spaceflight history, consider the following statements:
1. Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma was the first Indian to go to space, flying aboard an American space shuttle mission.
2. Shukla is the first Indian citizen to step aboard the International Space Station (ISS).
Which of the statements is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Discuss the role of private sector in advancing India’s space program. (10 marks)
3000 Bighas of land
Context
The Gauhati High Court has questioned the allotment of a massive 3,000 bighas of land to a private cement company in Assam’s Dima Hasao, a Sixth Schedule tribal district, raising concerns about tribal rights and environmental protection.
Background
The land was allotted to Mahabal Cement Private Limited to set up a cement plant after an MoU was signed at an investment summit. The allotment has led to petitions from locals who allege they are being evicted from their land.
Government Schemes and Policies
This issue highlights the tension between the Assam government’s investment promotion policies, such as the ‘Advantage Assam’ summits, and its constitutional obligation to protect the rights of tribal communities. The allotment was made under a yet-to-be-disclosed land allotment policy of the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC), an autonomous body under the Sixth Schedule.
Constitutional Provisions
The core of this issue lies in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which provides for the administration of certain tribal areas in the northeastern states, including Dima Hasao. It gives autonomous district councils like the NCHAC the power to make laws on matters like land and revenue. This provision is designed to protect tribal land rights and cultural identity. The High Court’s scrutiny is based on the principle of ensuring that these constitutional protections are not bypassed.
Industrialists
Industrialists generally view such large-scale land allotments as a necessary prerequisite for setting up large industrial projects. They argue that these projects bring much-needed investment, employment opportunities, and infrastructure development to a region. However, a responsible industrialist would also stress the importance of following due process, ensuring fair compensation, and adhering to environmental norms to secure a smooth and sustainable operation.
Significance
The Gauhati High Court’s intervention is significant for several reasons:
- It reaffirms the judiciary’s role in protecting constitutional rights, especially those of marginalized communities.
- It puts the spotlight on the potential for misuse of power by autonomous councils.
- It brings to the forefront the conflict between economic development and the preservation of tribal rights and the environment.
Definition of Technical Terms
- Bigha: A traditional unit of land measurement. While its size varies by region, 3,000 bighas is approximately 4 square kilometers or over 990 acres.
- Sixth Schedule: A special provision in the Indian Constitution that allows for the creation of autonomous district councils in certain tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram. These councils have legislative, executive, and judicial powers.
- North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC): The autonomous body responsible for the administration of the Dima Hasao district in Assam under the Sixth Schedule.
Environmental Nuances
The case has significant environmental implications, as the court specifically mentioned the environmental sensitivity of the Umrangso region.
- Cement factories are highly polluting, releasing large amounts of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides.
- The raw materials for cement production (limestone, coal) require extensive mining, which can cause land degradation and disrupt local ecosystems.
- The presence of a hot spring and migratory birds in the region makes it an ecological hotspot, necessitating a stringent environmental impact assessment before any such project is approved.
Impacts on Society
- Tribal Rights: The allotment raises serious concerns about the potential for forced eviction and displacement of tribal communities, which would violate their constitutional rights and traditional way of life.
- Economic Impact: While the project promises investment and jobs, the benefits may not be equitably distributed. The economic gains could be limited, while the costs of environmental degradation and displacement are borne by the local tribal population.
- Social Fabric: Large-scale industrial projects can disrupt the social fabric of a tribal society, leading to a loss of cultural identity and traditional livelihood.
Challenges
- Balancing Act: The primary challenge is to balance the need for economic development with the constitutional mandate to protect tribal rights and the environment.
- Transparency and Accountability: The lack of transparency in the land allotment process and the apparent bypassing of tribal land rights highlight the need for greater accountability from autonomous councils.
- Land Rights: The ambiguity and potential for illegal land transfers in tribal areas, as highlighted by this case, underscore the complexities of land governance in Sixth Schedule areas.
Way Forward
- The Gauhati High Court’s directive for transparency is a crucial step. The NCHAC must publicly disclose the policy and the process under which the land was allotted.
- A thorough and independent Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is essential before any construction can proceed.
- The state must ensure that the rights of the local tribal population are protected, and any displacement is handled with due process, fair compensation, and a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
Prelims MCQ
Q. With reference to the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, consider the following statements:
1. It is a special provision for the administration of certain tribal areas in the four states of Northeast India.
2. The Autonomous District Councils under the Sixth Schedule have the power to legislate on matters such as land and revenue.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Mains Question
Q. Evaluate the conflict between industrial development and tribal rights in Sixth Schedule areas. (10 marks)
