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June 10th Current Affairs

Home / UPSC / Current affairs / UPSC Current Affairs – June 10th

Table of Contents

Rajya Sabha Elections 2026: Political Significance, Key Contests

Why in News?

The biennial elections to 24 seats of the Rajya Sabha (Council of States) across 10 States are scheduled to be held on 18 June 2026. Political parties have announced their candidates, and intense political activity is underway in states such as Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand.

What is the Rajya Sabha?

  1. The Rajya Sabha is the Upper House of Parliament, representing the States and Union Territories of India. It is a permanent House and cannot be dissolved. One-third of its members retire every two years.

    Composition

    • Maximum strength: 250 members
    • 238 elected by State and UT legislatures
    • 12 nominated by the President for contributions to art, literature, science, and social service.

Why are Elections Being Held?

The terms of 24 Rajya Sabha members from 10 States are ending between June and July 2026. Hence, elections are being conducted to fill these vacancies.

States with Vacancies

  • Andhra Pradesh – 4 seats
  • Gujarat – 4 seats
  • Karnataka – 4 seats
  • Rajasthan – 3 seats
  • Madhya Pradesh – 3 seats
  • Jharkhand – 2 seats
  • Arunachal Pradesh – 1 seat
  • Manipur – 1 seat
  • Meghalaya – 1 seat
  • Mizoram – 1 seat.

Major Developments in the 2026 Elections

  1. BJP Seeking to Increase Strength in Rajya Sabha

The BJP has fielded candidates across several states with the objective of strengthening its position in the Upper House. Prominent candidates include Tarun Chugh from Madhya Pradesh and Satish Poonia from Rajasthan.

2. Congress Announces Key Candidates

The Congress has renominated:

  • Mallikarjun Kharge from Karnataka
  • Pawan Khera from Karnataka
  • Mansoor Ali Khan and other leaders from different states.

3. Madhya Pradesh Controversy

Congress candidate Meenakshi Natarajan’s nomination was rejected during scrutiny over alleged non-disclosure of a pending case, leading to protests by the Congress and accusations against the BJP and election authorities.

4. Karnataka Contest                                

The election in Karnataka has drawn attention because the BJP has entered the contest for the seat vacated by former Prime Minister H. D. Deve Gowda, making it a politically significant battle.

How are Rajya Sabha Members Elected?

Method of Election

  • Elected by elected members of State Legislative Assemblies.
  • Uses the system of Proportional Representation by Single Transferable Vote (STV).
  • Voting is through an open ballot system.

Significance of Open Ballot

  • MLAs show their marked ballot to an authorized party agent.
  • Helps reduce cross-voting and corruption.

Importance of Rajya Sabha Elections

Political Importance

  • Determines a party’s strength in the Upper House.
  • Influences the passage of ordinary legislation.
  • Helps regional parties gain national representation.

Governance Importance

  • A stronger presence in Rajya Sabha enables smoother legislative functioning.
  • Important for constitutional amendments and policy reforms requiring parliamentary approval.

Federal Importance        

  • Ensures representation of states in the Union legislature.
  • Strengthens India’s federal structure.

Challenges Associated with Rajya Sabha Elections

  1. Cross-voting by legislators.
  2. Allegations of political horse-trading.
  3. Strategic shifting of MLAs by parties to prevent defections.
  4. Questions regarding transparency in candidate selection.

Constitutional Provisions

  • Provision

    Details

    Article 80

    Composition of Rajya Sabha

    Article 84

    Qualifications for membership

    Fourth Schedule

    Allocation of seats among States

    Representation of the People Act, 1951

    Conduct of Rajya Sabha elections

India–Nepal Relations: Reset in Bilateral Ties Amid Boundary Concerns

Why in News?

India and Nepal have witnessed significant diplomatic engagement this week following the visit of Nepal’s Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal to New Delhi. Both countries expressed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade, connectivity, energy, and digital sectors while seeking to manage differences over the long-standing boundary dispute.

Key Developments

  1. Diplomatic Reset in Relations

During talks with Nepal’s Foreign Minister, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar described India-Nepal relations as a “very special relationship” and emphasized the need for a decisive shift to unlock the full potential of bilateral cooperation. Nepal also signaled a fresh approach, stating that it carries “no old baggage” in its engagement with India.

2. Focus on Economic and Development Partnership

The discussions focused on:

  • Cross-border connectivity projects
  • Energy cooperation, especially hydropower
  • Digital payments and fintech integration
  • Trade and investment
  • Emerging technology sectors

Nepal has expressed interest in leveraging India’s economic scale, technology, and corporate partnerships to accelerate its economic growth.

3. Boundary Dispute to be Resolved Through Dialogue

Nepal reiterated that the boundary issue should be resolved through peaceful diplomacy and bilateral dialogue rather than third-party mediation. Kathmandu emphasized that no dispute is too large if both sides engage with openness and mutual respect.

UPI–NPI Linkage: A Major Breakthrough

A major outcome of growing India-Nepal cooperation is the launch of a direct linkage between India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and Nepal’s National Payments Interface (NPI).

Benefits

  • Real-time cross-border remittances
  • Lower transaction costs
  • Faster money transfers
  • Greater financial inclusion
  • Benefits for migrant workers and businesses

This marks a significant step in regional digital connectivity and economic integration.

Areas of Cooperation Between India and Nepal

Political and Strategic

  • Open border regime
  • Regular high-level political exchanges
  • Security cooperation against terrorism and transnational crimes

Economic                       

  • India is Nepal’s largest trading partner.
  • Major investments in infrastructure and energy projects.

Energy Cooperation

  • Hydropower development
  • Cross-border electricity trade
  • Power transmission networks

Connectivity

  • Integrated Check Posts (ICPs)
  • Railway links
  • Road connectivity projects
  • Petroleum pipeline connectivity

Cultural and People-to-People Ties

  • Shared civilizational heritage
  • Religious tourism (Pashupatinath, Janakpur, Ayodhya)
  • Free movement of people across the border.

Challenges in India–Nepal Relations

  1. Boundary Dispute

The major unresolved issues concern:

  • Kalapani
  • Lipulekh
  • Limpiyadhura

These areas have periodically created diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

2. China’s Growing Presence

Increasing Chinese investments and infrastructure projects in Nepal have introduced new strategic dimensions to regional geopolitics.

3. Political Instability in Nepal

Frequent changes in governments often affect policy continuity and project implementation.

4. Trade and Transit Concerns

Nepal remains heavily dependent on Indian ports and transit routes, making economic relations highly sensitive.

Significance for India

  1. Important pillar of India’s Neighbourhood First Policy
  2. Vital for Himalayan security
  3. Enhances regional connectivity under South Asian cooperation
  4. Counters strategic competition in the region
  5. Strengthens energy and economic integration.

Way Forward

  1. Strengthen export readiness of MSMEs
  2. Improve logistics under Sagarmala & maritime connectivity
  3. Negotiate better service mobility provisions
  4. Expand CEPA-type agreements in GCC region (Saudi Arabia, UAE expansion)
  5. Strengthens energy and economic integration.

Constitutional and International Dimensions

Treaty of Peace and Friendship (1950)

The foundation of modern India-Nepal relations:

  • Open border
  • National treatment for citizens
  • Security cooperation

Neighbourhood First Policy

India prioritizes stronger ties with neighboring countries through development partnerships and connectivity initiatives.

India's Road Through Myanmar: Strategic Gateway to Southeast Asia

Why in News?

India and Myanmar have recently agreed to fast-track major connectivity projects, especially the India–Myanmar–Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway and the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project, during the visit of Myanmar’s President to India. These projects are considered crucial for India’s Act East Policy and regional connectivity goals.

What is India's Road Through Myanmar?

The term refers primarily to the India–Myanmar–Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway, a flagship connectivity project linking India with Southeast Asia through Myanmar

Route

The highway connects:

Moreh (Manipur, India) → Tamu → Kalewa → Mandalay → Myawaddy (Myanmar) → Mae Sot (Thailand)

The total length is approximately 1,360 km.

Objectives of the Project

  1. Strengthening the Act East Policy

The project is a cornerstone of India’s Act East Policy, aimed at deepening economic and strategic engagement with ASEAN countries.

2. Enhancing Trade Connectivity

  • Facilitates movement of goods and services.
  • Reduces transportation costs.
  • Opens new markets for Northeast India.
  • Strengthens supply chains with ASEAN nations.

3. Development of Northeast India

The highway will transform the Northeastern States from a landlocked region into a gateway to Southeast Asia, boosting:

  • Trade
  • Tourism
  • Logistics
  • Industrial development.

4. Strategic Significance

The project helps India:

  • Counterbalance growing Chinese influence in Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
  • Improve border infrastructure.

Enhance regional integration through BIMSTEC and ASEAN frameworks.

Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project

Alongside the highway, India is also developing the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project.

Route

  • Kolkata Port → Sittwe Port (Myanmar) by sea
  • Sittwe → Paletwa via inland waterways
  • Paletwa → Zorinpui (Mizoram) by road

This provides an alternative route to the Northeast, reducing dependence on the Siliguri Corridor.

Challenges Facing the Project

  1. Political Instability in Myanmar

Myanmar’s ongoing internal conflict since the 2021 military takeover has delayed construction and affected security along project routes.

2. Security Concerns

  • Presence of armed ethnic groups.
  • Insurgent activities near the India–Myanmar border.
  • Threats to construction and transport corridors.

3. Infrastructure Delays

The project has faced repeated delays due to:

    • Difficult terrain
    • Funding issues
    • Security challenges in Myanmar.

Recent Developments

During the recent India–Myanmar summit, both countries agreed to:

    • Accelerate the IMT Trilateral Highway.
    • Fast-track the Kaladan Project.
    • Strengthen border management and security cooperation.
    • Expand trade and economic ties.

Significance for India

Economic

  • Boosts trade with ASEAN.
  • Integrates Northeast India into global value chains.

Strategic                 

  • Counters China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
  • Enhances India’s influence in Southeast Asia.

Geopolitical

  • Strengthens BIMSTEC cooperation.
  • Improves connectivity in the Indo-Pacific region.

Security

    • Better border infrastructure and monitoring.
    • Improved coordination with Myanmar on insurgency issues.

China and the International Order: Beijing’s Growing Influence in a Changing World Order

Why in News?

A recent discussion in global strategic circles has focused on how China is positioning itself as a major shaper of the emerging international order amid geopolitical tensions, U.S.-China rivalry, disruptions in global trade, and debates over reforming global governance institutions

What is the International Order?

The international order refers to the rules, institutions, norms, and power structures that govern relations among states.

Key pillars include:

    • The United Nations system
    • International law
    • Multilateral institutions such as the World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, and World Bank
    • Principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute resolution.

China's Vision of the International Order

  1. Reform Rather Than Replace

China argues that the current order is overly dominated by the United States and Western powers. Beijing seeks reforms that would give greater influence to developing countries and emerging economies. China emphasizes multilateralism and the central role of the United Nations in global governance.

2. Greater Role for the Global South

China presents itself as a champion of developing nations through initiatives such as:

  • BRICS
  • Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
  • Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

Through these platforms, China seeks to expand economic connectivity and political influence.

3. Reducing Dependence on the U.S.-Led System    

China advocates a less U.S.-centric global order and supports alternative financial, technological, and trade arrangements that reduce dependence on Western institutions.

Major Factors Driving China's Rise

  1. Economic Power

China is the world’s second-largest economy and a major trading partner for over 120 countries. Its manufacturing capabilities, control over critical minerals, and leadership in several emerging technologies have increased its global influence.

2. Diplomatic Expansion

China has expanded its engagement through bilateral partnerships, regional organizations, and multilateral forums, seeking a greater role in global decision-making.

3. Strategic Partnerships     

China continues to deepen ties with countries such as North Korea, Russia, and many nations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, strengthening its geopolitical reach.

Challenges to China's Vision

  1. U.S.-China Strategic Rivalry

The United States views China’s growing economic and technological influence as a challenge to the existing international system. Trade disputes, technology restrictions, and geopolitical competition remain major sources of tension.

2. Concerns Over Territorial Assertiveness

Many countries remain concerned about China’s actions in:

  • South China Sea
  • East China Sea
  • Taiwan Strait
  • India-China border regions

These issues create doubts about China’s commitment to a rules-based order.

3. Debt and Dependence Concerns

Some countries have expressed concerns that large-scale infrastructure investments under the Belt and Road Initiative may increase economic dependence on China.

Implications for India

  1. Strategic Challenge

China’s growing influence affects India’s interests in:

  • Indo-Pacific region
  • Indian Ocean
  • South Asia
  • Border security

China’s border policies and infrastructure expansion along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) continue to be important concerns for India.

2. Opportunity for Strategic Autonomy

India seeks to maintain strategic autonomy by:

  • Engaging with the United States and Western partners
  • Participating in BRICS and SCO
  • Strengthening ties with the Global South

This balancing approach helps India protect its national interests amid great-power competition.

Zojila Tunnel Breakthrough: India Achieves Major Milestone in All-Weather Connectivity to Ladakh

Why in News?

The Zojila Tunnel Project achieved a historic breakthrough on 9 June 2026, when Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari triggered the final blast connecting both ends of the tunnel. This marks the completion of the excavation phase of one of India’s most strategic infrastructure projects.

What is the Zojila Tunnel?

The Zojila Tunnel is an under-construction road tunnel beneath the Zoji La Pass, connecting Kashmir Valley with Ladakh on the Srinagar–Leh highway (NH-1). It is being built to provide year-round connectivity to Ladakh, which often remains cut off during winter due to heavy snowfall.

Key Features                

Feature

Details

Length

13.15 km (approx.)

Location

Between Baltal and Minamarg

Altitude

Around 11,500 feet

Type

Single-tube, bi-directional road tunnel

Connectivity

Srinagar–Kargil–Leh Highway

Significance

All-weather access to Ladakh

The tunnel is expected to become one of the world’s longest single-tube bi-directional road tunnels at such a high altitude.

What Happened Recently?

  1. The final rock barrier separating the two ends of the tunnel was removed.
  2. More than 13 km of excavation has been completed.
  3. The project entered a crucial stage before operational works such as ventilation, safety systems, road surfacing, and testing.

Strategic Importance

  1. National Security

The Srinagar–Leh highway is the primary land route for supplying troops and equipment to Ladakh.

During the Kargil War, this route was highly vulnerable to disruption. The tunnel will ensure uninterrupted military logistics throughout the year.

2. All-Weather Connectivity

Currently, the Zojila Pass remains closed for several months due to snow and avalanches. The tunnel will provide uninterrupted access between Kashmir and Ladakh.

3. Faster Travel

The tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel time across the pass, making movement of people and goods easier and safer.

Economic Development

Benefits include:

    • Increased tourism in Ladakh and Kashmir
    • Better trade and market access
    • Employment generation
    • Improved connectivity for remote regions.

Importance for Ladakh

  1. The tunnel will:

    • Reduce winter isolation.
    • Ensure continuous supply of essential commodities.
    • Improve healthcare and emergency access.
    Promote tourism and local businesses.

Challenges Faced

  1. Harsh Himalayan terrain
  2. Extreme weather conditions
  3. Avalanche-prone zones
  4. Geological complexities
  5. High-altitude construction challenges.
  6.  

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