1. AI Governance and India’s Role at the AI Action Summit
Source: The Hindu, 10th February 2025
What is the AI Action Summit?
- The AI Action Summit, co-chaired by India and France, aims to address AI safety, governance, and innovation.
- Previous summits in the UK (2023) and South Korea (2024) focused on AI risk management and regulatory frameworks.
- India is advocating for equitable access to AI resources for the Global South.
Why is AI Governance Important?
- Ethical Concerns: AI systems can reinforce biases and lead to discrimination.
- Job Displacement: AI automation may eliminate traditional jobs, requiring workforce reskilling.
- Data Security: AI models rely on massive datasets, raising privacy concerns.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-III: Science & Tech, International Relations)
- India’s AI Policy & AI Mission
- Ethical AI Development
- Global AI Governance Frameworks
Mains Practice Question
"Discuss India's role in global AI governance and the challenges it faces in balancing AI innovation with ethical concerns."
2. Trump’s Trade War and Its Impact on India
Source: The Hindu, 12th February 2025
What Happened?
- Donald Trump imposed a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports.
- Sensex dropped by 1,018 points, reflecting investor panic.
- Adani Group stocks rose due to an executive order pausing a corruption probe.
Why Did This Happen?
- U.S. Protectionism: Trump’s policies favor domestic industries but disrupt global trade.
- Indian Exports Affected: India exports steel and aluminum to the U.S., impacting companies like Tata Steel and JSW Steel.
- Stock Market Instability: Trade war fears led to capital outflows from emerging markets.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-III: Economy, International Trade)
- Impact of Protectionism on Emerging Economies
- India’s Trade Policies with the U.S.
- Role of WTO in Trade Disputes
Mains Practice Question
"How do U.S. protectionist policies impact India’s trade and economy? Discuss with recent examples."
3. Manipur Political Crisis & President’s Rule Possibility
Source: The Hindu, 11th February 2025
What Happened?
- N. Biren Singh resigned as Manipur CM after violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups.
- The BJP is struggling to find a replacement, raising the possibility of President’s Rule.
- The Army has increased security, fearing insurgent activity.
Why Did This Happen?
- Ethnic Conflict: Long-standing tensions between the Meitei (valley-based) and Kuki-Zo (hill-based) communities.
- Allegations Against the CM: Singh was accused of favoring the Meitei community.
- Breakdown of Governance: Security failures led to widespread displacement and killings.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-II: Governance, Internal Security)
- Governor’s Role in Political Crises
- Article 356: President’s Rule
- Ethnic Conflicts & Federalism
Mains Practice Question
"Critically analyze the ethnic tensions in Manipur and the role of the Governor in handling such crises."
4. Bangladesh’s Political Instability After Sheikh Hasina’s Ouster
Source: The Hindu, 12th February 2025
What Happened?
- Sheikh Hasina was overthrown in August 2024 by a student-led uprising.
- Nobel Laureate Muhammad Yunus leads a military-backed interim government.
- Mob violence erupted, including attacks on the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum.
Why Did This Happen?
- Public Anger Against Authoritarianism: Hasina was accused of suppressing dissent and election rigging.
- Lack of Reforms by the New Government: Despite promises, no elections have been announced.
- Sectarian Violence: Minorities (Hindus, Christians, Ahmadiyyas) have been attacked.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-II: International Relations)
- India-Bangladesh Relations
- Democratic Backsliding in South Asia
- Impact of Political Instability on Regional Security
Mains Practice Question
"Analyze the political crisis in Bangladesh and its implications for India’s security and foreign policy."
5. Climate Finance at COP29 and Its Importance
Source: The Hindu, 9th February 2025
What Happened?
- COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan, focused on climate finance for developing nations.
- Developed countries failed to meet their $100 billion annual pledge for climate mitigation.
- India pushed for more funding to combat climate change in the Global South.
Why Did This Happen?
- Developed Nations’ Reluctance: Wealthy countries have not delivered on climate finance commitments.
- Vulnerable Nations Suffer More: Countries like India, Bangladesh, and African nations face rising climate disasters.
- Push for Sustainable Development: India emphasized green energy investments and adaptation funding.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-III: Environment & International Agreements)
- India’s Role in Global Climate Negotiations
- Challenges in Climate Finance
- UNFCCC, Paris Agreement, and COP Summits
Mains Practice Question
"Discuss the challenges in global climate finance and India’s role in securing climate justice for developing nations."
6. India’s Budget 2025-26 and Urban Development Focus
Source: The Hindu, 11th February 2025
What Happened?
- Budget allocated ₹96,777 crore for urban development.
- A new ₹10,000 crore Urban Challenge Fund was introduced.
- Focus on capital-intensive projects, but concerns over employment generation remain.
Why Did This Happen?
- Need for Smart Cities: Urbanization is increasing, requiring better infrastructure and transport.
- Concerns Over Sustainability: Critics argue that the budget lacks green job initiatives.
- Global Competition: India aims to make cities investment-friendly.
Relevance for UPSC (GS-III: Economy & Infrastructure)
- Urbanization & Smart City Initiatives
- Challenges in Sustainable Urban Growth
- Employment & Livelihoods in Urban Planning
Mains Practice Question
"Critically analyze the impact of Budget 2025-26 on urban development and employment generation in India."
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