Daily Current Affairs for UPSC 26th Dec 2025

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched the BlueBird Block-2 satellite, the largest commercial communication satellite placed in orbit by India, marking a major milestone in India’s commercial space capabilities.

Mission Overview

Technological Significance

Launch Vehicle and Facility

Strategic and Economic Importance

Technological Achievement

UPSC Prelims Practice Question

With reference to the BlueBird Block-2 satellite mission, consider the following statements:

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: c) Both 1 and 2

Explanation:
The BlueBird Block-2 is the heaviest commercial satellite launched by India and was successfully placed in orbit using ISRO’s LVM3 launch vehicle from Sriharikota.

The article analyses why India’s manufacturing sector has failed to achieve the scale and dynamism seen in economies like China and South Korea. Despite economic liberalisation and growth in services, manufacturing has remained stagnant, limiting job creation and inclusive development.

1. Stagnant Manufacturing Share in GDP
• Manufacturing’s share in India’s GDP has remained largely stagnant around 15–16% for decades.

• In contrast, countries like China and South Korea expanded manufacturing to over 25–30% of GDP during their growth phases.


2. High Public Sector Wages Distorting Labour Markets
• Rising public sector wages increased overall wage expectations.

• This raised production costs in manufacturing, making Indian goods less competitive domestically and globally.


3. Dutch Disease–Like Effects
• Higher wages and income growth increased demand for imports.

• Appreciation of the real exchange rate reduced export competitiveness, hurting labour-intensive manufacturing sectors.


4. Weak Technological Upgradation
• Indian manufacturing failed to adopt advanced technologies at scale.

• Limited investment in automation, R&D, and industrial innovation reduced productivity growth.


5. Dominance of Services-Led Growth
• Economic growth has been driven by IT and services rather than industry.

• While services generate value, they absorb fewer workers compared to manufacturing.


6. Labour Market Rigidities
• Complex labour regulations and compliance costs discouraged large-scale manufacturing.

• Firms preferred automation or informal employment rather than expanding permanent workforce.


7. Uneven Skill Development
• Skill formation has not matched industrial needs.

• Manufacturing demands mid-level technical skills, but training systems remained weak and fragmented.


8. Lack of Industrial Clusters and Scale
• Unlike East Asian economies, India lacked dense manufacturing clusters that enable efficiency, innovation, and cost reduction.

• Fragmented production prevented economies of scale.


9. Rising Inequality and Limited Job Creation
• Manufacturing’s weak performance reduced quality job creation.

• Growth increasingly benefitted capital-intensive sectors, worsening income inequality.


Way Forward
• Revive manufacturing-led growth through targeted industrial policy.

• Strengthen skill development aligned with industry needs.

• Encourage technological adoption and R&D in manufacturing.

• Improve labour market flexibility while ensuring worker protection.

• Promote export-oriented industrial clusters with infrastructure and logistics support.

• Balance services growth with manufacturing expansion for inclusive development.



UPSC Mains Question
Discuss the structural and policy factors responsible for the stagnation of manufacturing in India. Suggest measures to revive the sector as a driver of inclusive economic growth.

The article analyses how India’s new labour codes, particularly those relating to social security and occupational safety, may adversely impact informal workers who constitute the majority of the workforce. It highlights concerns raised by trade unions and labour experts regarding dilution of protections and exclusion of vulnerable workers.


Key Issues
1. Background of the Labour Codes
• India consolidated 29 labour laws into four codes:

• Code on Wages

• Industrial Relations Code

• Social Security Code

• Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code

• Aim: Simplification, uniformity, and ease of doing business.


2. Marginalisation of Informal Workers
• Informal workers constitute nearly 90% of India’s workforce.

• Despite this, most protections under the new codes focus on formal sector employment.

• Several existing safeguards under laws like the Building and Other Construction Workers (BOCW) Act are weakened or removed.


3. Occupational Safety Concerns
• The OSHWC Code replaces earlier sector-specific safety laws.

• It relies heavily on digital inspections and employer self-reporting, which weakens on-ground enforcement.

• Risks increase for workers in construction, mining, agriculture and informal manufacturing.


4. Dilution of Welfare Mechanisms
• Welfare boards created under earlier laws are either diluted or subsumed.

• Welfare funds collected from cess and contributions lack clear protection under the new framework.

• Informal workers may lose access to pensions, healthcare, maternity benefits and accident compensation.


5. Impact on Women and Migrant Workers
• Women workers face loss of maternity benefits and job security.

• Migrant workers, already vulnerable, lack portable social security and face exclusion due to documentation barriers.


6. State-Level Concerns
• States like Tamil Nadu, which had strong labour welfare boards, fear erosion of decentralised protections.

• Trade unions argue that the codes centralise power and weaken state-level safeguards.


Suggestions
• Strengthen consultation with trade unions and worker organisations.

• Retain and strengthen sector-specific welfare boards.

• Ensure universal social security coverage, including informal and gig workers.

• Reinforce labour inspections and occupational safety mechanisms.

• Align labour reforms with constitutional guarantees of social and economic justice.


UPSC Mains Question
Discuss how the new labour codes may affect informal sector workers in India. Suggest measures to ensure inclusive labour reforms. (250 words)


The Supreme Court, while hearing a case related to dowry harassment, termed dowry a “cross-cultural evil” and directed the Union and State governments to strengthen institutional and educational measures to curb the practice. The judgment highlights dowry as a continuing violation of constitutional values of equality and dignity.

1. Dowry as a Deep-Rooted Social Evil
• The Court described dowry as a practice cutting across communities and religions.

• It violates constitutional values of equality, dignity, and fraternity under Articles 14 and 21.


2. Dowry Linked to Gender Inequality
• The practice reinforces patriarchal norms where women are treated as economic burdens.

• Dowry demands reduce women to commodities and perpetuate gender-based violence.


3. Constitutional and Legal Framework
• Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961 aims to prevent the giving and taking of dowry.

• Despite legal provisions, enforcement remains weak due to social acceptance and under-reporting.


4. Directions Issued by the Court
• States and Union Territories directed to appoint Dowry Prohibition Officers without delay.

• Authorities asked to ensure effective investigation and prosecution of dowry-related offences.

• Courts and police officials to undergo sensitisation training on gender justice.


5. Role of Education and Social Reform
• The Court stressed the need to revise school curricula to promote gender equality and discourage dowry practices.

• Awareness campaigns and community-level engagement were emphasised as long-term solutions.


Broader Social Implications
• Dowry undermines women’s economic autonomy and dignity.

• It perpetuates intergenerational inequality and normalises domestic violence.

• Legal reform must be accompanied by societal change for meaningful impact.

The Union Environment Ministry has directed Haryana, Rajasthan and Gujarat to strictly enforce Supreme Court orders restricting mining in the Aravalli region, amid concerns over ecological degradation and illegal mining activities.

1. Background of the Issue
• The Aravalli range is one of the oldest mountain systems and plays a crucial role in preventing desertification and maintaining ecological balance in north-west India.

• Large-scale mining and deforestation have severely degraded the region over decades.


2. Supreme Court Directions
• The Supreme Court had prohibited mining in ecologically sensitive zones of the Aravallis.

• Mining is permitted only where explicitly allowed and subject to strict environmental safeguards.

• The Court emphasised protection of forests, wildlife corridors, and groundwater recharge zones.


3. Government Action
• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) directed States to strictly enforce Supreme Court orders.

• States have been asked to ensure that no new mining leases are granted in prohibited areas.

• The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) has been tasked with preparing a management plan identifying permissible and restricted zones.


4. Environmental Significance
• Aravallis act as a natural barrier against desertification in north India.

• They support biodiversity, regulate climate, and protect groundwater recharge systems.

• Unregulated mining threatens ecological stability and increases vulnerability to climate change.


5. Governance and Compliance Challenges
• Fragmented jurisdiction between States and Centre has weakened enforcement.
Illegal mining continues despite judicial directions, highlighting gaps in monitoring and accountability.


Recent scientific analysis shows that while the total number of cyclonic disturbances in the North Indian Ocean has declined, their intensity, seasonal pattern, and regional distribution have changed significantly, raising new climate and disaster management concerns.

1. Decline in Number, Rise in Intensity
• Overall frequency of cyclonic disturbances has decreased over the last century.

• However, a higher proportion now intensify into severe and very severe cyclonic storms, increasing destruction potential.


2. Shift in Regional Pattern
• Historically, the Bay of Bengal generated most cyclones.

• Recent decades show rising cyclone intensity in the Arabian Sea due to warmer sea surface temperatures and changing wind patterns.


3. Changing Seasonal Behaviour
• Earlier, cyclones were concentrated in the monsoon months (July–September).

• Now, a significant shift is observed towards post-monsoon months (October–December), extending the cyclone season.


4. Increased Storm Intensity Drivers
• Rapid warming of the Arabian Sea.

• Higher ocean heat content supporting rapid intensification.

• Climate change-induced alterations in atmospheric circulation.


5. Implications for Coastal Regions
• Greater risks to coastal infrastructure, ports, fisheries and livelihoods.

• Increased need for early warning systems, disaster-resilient infrastructure and climate adaptation strategies.


UPSC Prelims Practice Question
Q. With reference to cyclonic activity in the North Indian Ocean, consider the following statements:
• The total number of cyclonic disturbances has increased significantly in recent decades.


• The Arabian Sea has witnessed a rise in the intensity of cyclones in recent years.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
 A. 1 only
 B. 2 only
 C. Both 1 and 2
 D. Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: B
Explanation:
 While the total number of cyclonic disturbances has declined, the intensity—especially over the Arabian Sea—has increased due to warming ocean temperatures.

The Union government has established the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025 to strengthen maritime security, address emerging threats at ports, and streamline regulation of India’s expanding port and shipping ecosystem.

Why the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS) was created
• India’s expanding maritime trade and port infrastructure exposed gaps in coastal and port security coordination.

• Multiple agencies earlier handled port security, leading to overlaps and weak accountability.

• BoPS was created to provide a single statutory authority for port security oversight.


Legal and Institutional Framework
• Established under the Merchant Shipping Act, 2025.

• Functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

• Replaces fragmented oversight with a unified national security framework for ports.


Core Functions of BoPS
• Regulatory oversight of security at all major and non-major ports.

• Implementation of international maritime security standards, including the ISPS Code.

• Cybersecurity oversight for port IT systems and digital infrastructure.


• Coordination with security agencies such as the Coast Guard, CISF and state marine police.

• Monitoring and auditing of port security preparedness and compliance.


Modernisation and Security Upgrades
• Strengthens protection against maritime terrorism, smuggling, illegal trafficking and cyber threats.

• Enhances coordination for surveillance, access control and emergency response.

• Supports India’s vision of safe, resilient and globally competitive ports.


Concerns and Criticism
• States have raised concerns over centralisation of authority and reduced autonomy of non-major ports.

• Questions raised over extensive inspection and enforcement powers without judicial oversight.


UPSC Prelims Practice Question
With reference to the Bureau of Port Security (BoPS), consider the following statements:
• It functions under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.

• It has been created to regulate and oversee security at all Indian ports, including non-major ports.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 only
 b) 2 only
 c) Both 1 and 2
 d) Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: c) Both 1 and 2
Explanation:
 The Bureau of Port Security is a statutory body under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways and oversees security arrangements at both major and non-major ports to ensure uniform maritime security standards.

Syllabus: GS 3 – Skill Development, Employment, and Human Resource Development

The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has invited industry participation in the PM-SETU Scheme to modernise India’s vocational training ecosystem and align skilling with industry demand.

Objective
• To transform Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) into industry-aligned, modern skill development centres.

• To enhance employability and address skill gaps in emerging sectors.


Coverage and Structure
• Upgradation of 1,000 government ITIs across India.

• Implemented through a hub-and-spoke model with 200 hub ITIs and 800 spoke ITIs.


Infrastructure and Training
• Hubs will have advanced labs, innovation centres, incubation facilities, and placement cells.

• Spokes will focus on outreach, basic training, and skill dissemination.


Industry Linkages
• Introduction of industry-relevant courses aligned with market demand.

• Establishment of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) with industry partners for governance and outcome-based training.


Skill Pathways
• Offers short-term courses, long-term diplomas, and executive training programmes.

• Emphasis on employability, entrepreneurship, and continuous upskilling.


Institutional Strengthening
• Five National Skill Training Institutes upgraded as Centres of Excellence:
 Bhubaneswar, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kanpur, and Ludhiana.


Financial Framework
• Total outlay of ₹60,000 crore over five years.

• Supported by World Bank and Asian Development Bank co-financing.

Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Art and Culture

Dhanu Yatra, held annually in Bargarh, Odisha, has begun, transforming the town into a living stage that reenacts episodes from the life of Lord Krishna. The festival highlights India’s rich tradition of folk theatre and community participation.

• Cultural Significance: Dhanu Yatra is regarded as the world’s largest open-air theatre, blending mythology, folk performance, and community participation.

• Location and Setting: The entire town of Bargarh is transformed into mythological Mathura, with nearby villages representing Gokul and Vrindavan.

• Theme and Narrative: The festival depicts episodes from the life of Lord Krishna, including his childhood and the slaying of King Kansa.

• Community Participation: Local residents act as performers, and public spaces become performance zones, eliminating the barrier between audience and actors.

• Cultural Recognition: It holds National Festival status and attracts thousands of visitors every year, promoting Odisha’s cultural heritage.

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Internal Security

The Union Government is finalising India’s first comprehensive national anti-terror policy to strengthen preventive, investigative, and coordination mechanisms against evolving terror threats. The initiative responds to emerging challenges such as digital radicalisation, misuse of open borders, and foreign-funded extremist networks.

1. Central Role of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
• The policy is being drafted under the leadership of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• It aims to provide a uniform national framework for counter-terrorism across States and Union Territories.


2. Role of National Investigation Agency (NIA)
• The NIA has provided operational and intelligence inputs.

• Focus on strengthening inter-agency coordination, intelligence sharing, and preventive action.


3. Addressing Emerging Threats
• Digital radicalisation: Use of online platforms and encrypted communication for extremist recruitment.

• Misuse of open borders: Especially along sensitive frontiers such as the India–Nepal border.

• Foreign-funded conversion networks: Identified as a growing security and social concern.


4. Preventive and Proactive Approach
• Emphasis on early detection and prevention rather than post-incident response.

• Strengthening coordination between Centre and States for real-time intelligence sharing.

5. Towards a National Counter-Terror Architecture
• The proposed policy aims to integrate intelligence, law enforcement, and cyber monitoring mechanisms.

• Seeks to standardise procedures for counter-terror operations across states.

Syllabus: GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy (Government Schemes & Cooperative Sector)

The Government of India has launched the Bharat Taxi Initiative to create a cooperative-based, driver-centric alternative to existing app-based cab aggregators, promoting fair earnings and digital inclusion in the mobility sector.

Cooperative-Based Model
• India’s first cooperative-owned ride-hailing platform, where drivers are shareholders and decision-makers.

• Operates under the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002.


Nodal Ministry and Implementation
• Implemented under the Ministry of Cooperation with technical support from the National e-Governance Division (NeGD).

• Operated by Sahakar Taxi Cooperative Limited.


Driver-Centric Economic Model
• Drivers receive 100% of fare earnings with no commission deductions, unlike private aggregators.

• Enables income stability and ownership for driver-members.


Institutional Support
• Promoted by major cooperative institutions such as NCDC, IFFCO, AMUL, KRIBHCO, NABARD, NDDB, and NCEL.

• Backed by cooperative financing and governance structures.


Digital Integration and Safety
• Integrated with national digital platforms like DigiLocker, UMANG, and API Setu.

• Ensures secure authentication, data protection, and transparency in operations.


Objective and Impact
• Strengthens cooperative movement in the service sector.

• Promotes fair competition, financial inclusion, and ethical digital mobility.


Syllabus: GS Paper 1 – Modern Indian History

India marked the 200th birth anniversary of Dadabhai Naoroji, remembering his pioneering role in shaping India’s nationalist movement, economic thought, and early political institutions during the colonial period.

Early Life and Education
• Born in 1825 in Bombay (now Mumbai) into a Parsi family.

• Educated at Elphinstone Institute, later becoming its first Indian professor.


Economic Thought and the Drain Theory
• Propounded the Drain of Wealth Theory, exposing how British policies drained India’s wealth through salaries, pensions, and trade imbalance.

• Authored landmark works like Poverty and Un-British Rule in India and Poverty of India.

• His ideas laid the foundation for economic nationalism in India.


Political Contributions
• Founding member of the Indian National Congress (INC) and served as its President in 1886, 1893, and 1906.

• Elected as the first Indian Member of the British Parliament (1892) from Finsbury Central.

• Advocated constitutional reforms, self-governance, and Indian representation in governance.


Role in National Movement
• Coined and popularised the idea of Swaraj (self-rule).

• Played a unifying role between moderates and extremists in the INC.

• Mentored national leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, and Mahatma Gandhi.


Social and Educational Reforms
• Supported women’s education and social reform.

• Founded Rast Goftar, a Gujarati journal promoting reformist ideas.

• Contributed to educational policy discussions through the Hunter Commission.


Legacy and Recognition
• Known as the “Grand Old Man of India.”

• Regarded as India’s first economic nationalist and a pioneer of constitutional agitation.

• His work laid the intellectual foundation for India’s freedom movement.