18-February-2025-Daily-Current-Affairs

CONSTITUTIONAL MORALITY AND ITS ROLE IN JUDICIAL DECISIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU

Constitutional morality refers to the principles that guide the interpretation and implementation of the Constitution beyond its written text. It ensures a balance between adherence to constitutional provisions and the need for social change.

Significance of Constitutional Morality in Judicial Decisions

• Courts have increasingly used constitutional morality as a basis for interpreting laws and upholding fundamental rights.
• It serves as a safeguard against regressive social norms and ensures governance aligns with constitutional principles.
• Some view it as a necessary check on fluctuating public morality, while others consider it a judicial overreach.

Judiciary’s Use of Constitutional Morality

• The Supreme Court has applied constitutional morality in cases related to:
  • LGBTQ+ rights (e.g., decriminalization of Section 377).
  • Women’s rights (e.g., entry into religious places).
  • Free speech vs. national security concerns.
• It acts as a guiding principle to uphold justice, equality, and liberty.

Historical Roots of Constitutional Morality

• The concept was first introduced by George Grote, a British historian.
• He emphasized that a constitution’s effectiveness depends not just on its text but also on people’s respect for its values.
• Grote believed that for a constitution to endure, a society must foster a civic culture that follows its principles.

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar’s Perspective

• Dr. Ambedkar stressed that India lacked an ingrained sense of constitutional morality.
• He highlighted the need to cultivate it for democracy to function effectively.
• He warned that constitutional values could be eroded through improper administrative actions that contradict the spirit of the Constitution.

Balancing Constitutional Commitment with Reform

• Constitutional morality ensures that adherence to laws does not hinder social progress.
• It does not demand blind loyalty but rather promotes rational critique and reform through legal processes.
• This approach strengthens democratic governance by maintaining stability while allowing adaptability to evolving societal needs.

Conclusion

Constitutional morality serves as a pillar of democracy, guiding judicial interpretations and ensuring governance remains fair and just. Its application in courts has helped uphold rights-based issues while maintaining democratic values.

Mains Practice Question

1. Examine the significance of constitutional morality in contemporary judicial decisions. How does it impact rights-based issues and democratic governance in India? (150 WORDS / 10 MARKS)

GERMANY’S ECONOMIC SLOWDOWN: CAUSES AND LESSONS FOR INDIA

TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU

Germany, once a global leader in trade and manufacturing, is now facing a severe economic slowdown. Multiple factors, including energy issues, competition, and bureaucratic delays, have contributed to this decline.

Reasons for Germany’s Economic Decline

Energy Crisis and Dependence on Russian Gas

• Germany heavily relied on cheap Russian natural gas to power its industries.
• After the Ukraine conflict, Russia halted gas supplies, causing energy prices to soar.
• Key industries like steel, chemicals, and glass manufacturing suffered due to high costs.

Challenges in Transition to Renewable Energy

• Germany phased out nuclear energy in 2011 but could not develop renewables quickly enough.
• Local opposition to wind turbines slowed progress.
• Hydrogen-based energy infrastructure remains underdeveloped, leading to an energy gap.

Rising Competition from China

• Germany’s economy thrived on exports to China, especially in automobiles and machinery.
• However, Chinese companies, backed by state subsidies, have entered the same sectors.
• This has weakened Germany’s export dominance and reduced profits in key industries.

Delayed Infrastructure Investments

• Germany postponed spending on critical infrastructure, such as railways and internet networks, during its economic boom.
• This neglect has now slowed industrial and digital growth, affecting productivity.

Labor Shortages and Bureaucratic Hurdles

• The country faces a shortage of skilled workers, making it difficult for businesses to expand.
• Lengthy bureaucratic procedures and regulatory hurdles delay approvals for new projects and investments.

Lessons for India

• Energy Security: India must balance its energy transition while ensuring a stable and affordable energy supply.
• Investment in Infrastructure: Timely investment in transport, internet, and industrial growth is crucial.
• Reducing Bureaucratic Delays: Simplifying approval processes can help attract businesses and speed up economic activities.
• Boosting Domestic Production: India should focus on strengthening local manufacturing to reduce dependence on external markets.

Conclusion

Germany’s economic downturn highlights the risks of energy dependence, delayed infrastructure development, and rising global competition. India can learn from these challenges to build a resilient and self-reliant economy.

Mains Practice Question

Q: Examine the factors contributing to Germany’s economic stagnation in recent years. What lessons can India learn from Germany’s challenges for its own economic growth? (150 WORDS / 10 MARKS)

REDUCING THE POLLUTION BURDEN OF THERMAL POWER STATES

TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU

India relies heavily on thermal power for electricity generation, leading to a significant environmental burden on power-producing states. These states bear pollution while electricity-consuming states benefit, creating an imbalance that needs to be addressed.

Thermal Power and Its Environmental Impact

• India has committed to reducing carbon emissions and transitioning towards cleaner energy sources under its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
• Despite efforts to shift to renewables, thermal power still holds a major share in the energy sector.
• Power-producing states endure high pollution levels while consuming states receive electricity without environmental consequences.

Carbon Emissions from Thermal Power

• Coal-based power plants contribute a major share of carbon emissions in India.
• Power-rich states like Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Jharkhand produce electricity but face severe environmental consequences.
• Thermal power contributes over 73% of India’s total electricity, making it the largest polluting sector.

Disparity Between Producing and Consuming States

• States generating power do not necessarily consume most of it.
• Gujarat, Maharashtra, and Haryana are among the highest electricity importers.
• Producing states such as Chhattisgarh and Odisha face high pollution levels but have lower per capita electricity consumption.

Absence of Compensation Mechanisms

• No financial or environmental compensation is provided to states that produce thermal power.
• Electricity taxation is applicable only on consumption and sale, not on production.
• Thermal power-producing states are burdened with pollution without adequate monetary benefits.

Policy Gaps and Regulatory Challenges

• Electricity is a concurrent subject under the Constitution, allowing both central and state governments to legislate.
• States are restricted from taxing power generation, leading to revenue loss.
• The Ministry of Power has prohibited additional taxes on power production, limiting state revenue sources.

Proposed Solutions for Compensation

• Taxation on Thermal Power Generation: States hosting central sector power plants should be allowed to impose taxes on generation. Alternatively, the central government could collect and redistribute a generation tax.
• Compensation Through the Finance Commission: A dedicated financial mechanism should be introduced to compensate thermal power states. The Finance Commission can incorporate climate-related financial aid in its devolution formula.
• Stronger Environmental Protection Policies: The existing National Clean Energy Fund should be expanded to directly benefit high-pollution states. Additional funds should be allocated for pollution control measures and infrastructure development.

Conclusion

A fair compensation mechanism is crucial to balance the environmental and economic burdens of power-producing states. Policymakers must ensure that these states receive adequate financial and developmental support.

Mains Practice Question

1. Discuss the environmental and economic challenges faced by thermal power-producing states in India. Suggest policy measures to ensure fair compensation for their burden. (150 WORDS / 10 MARKS)

NEW ERA IN INDO-US TRADE RELATIONS

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: INDIAN EXPRESS

India and the US are working towards strengthening trade ties, aiming for a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) and a $500 billion trade target by 2030. This initiative is expected to reshape economic relations, addressing challenges in tariffs, trade barriers, and global policies.

Strategic Importance of Modi-Trump Meeting

• The recent meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump focused on key trade and economic concerns.
• It comes at a time of global trade uncertainties, influenced by protectionist policies.
• India is adjusting to evolving trade norms, balancing national interests with international partnerships.
• Trump’s “fair and reciprocal” trade approach signals a move towards stricter trade terms, requiring India to respond accordingly.

Mission 500: Aiming for a Stronger Trade Partnership

• India and the US plan to finalize a BTA by 2025 under the COMPACT framework, which promotes trade, technology, and military collaboration.
• The goal is to achieve $500 billion in trade by 2030, demanding reforms in trade structures.
• Both countries have significant trade potential in industries like chemicals, machinery, and automobiles.
• The US is expected to expand its market in plastics, metals, and precision tools, while India focuses on agricultural products, processed foods, and construction materials.
• A well-structured agreement could help reduce trade imbalances and promote economic cooperation.

Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) vs Free Trade Agreement (FTA)

• A BTA mainly focuses on reducing tariffs and easing trade barriers in selected sectors.
• Unlike an FTA, which promotes broader trade liberalization, a BTA is more flexible and specific.
• It does not cover “substantially all trade” and allows simplified Rules of Origin (RoO), making negotiations easier.
• The agreement grants preferential trade access, bypassing the Most-Favoured Nation (MFN) principle.

Challenges to the MFN Trade Framework

• Trump’s trade policies have raised concerns about weakening the MFN principle, a core rule under the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT).
• The WTO database shows that over 80% of global trade follows MFN rules, but unilateral US tariffs have caused disputes, particularly with China.
• China’s WTO complaint against US tariffs highlights rising trade conflicts, affecting global trade stability.

India’s Strategic Approach

1. Enhancing Institutional Efficiency – India must adopt a proactive approach, with the Prime Minister’s Office leading reforms to boost trade engagement.
2. Overcoming Trade Barriers through COMPACT – India should reduce non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and adopt trade mechanisms like tariff-rate quotas (TRQs).
3. Advocating for MFN and Fair Trade – India, alongside other developing nations, should push for balanced trade rules while securing beneficial agreements.

Concerns in BTA Negotiations

• Limited Scope – Unlike FTAs, BTAs focus only on specific sectors rather than full trade liberalization.
• Stringent US Demands – The US may impose stricter standards and non-tariff barriers, increasing pressure on India.
• Trade Balance Concerns – The agreement may Favor the US, as India might lower its tariffs, while US tariffs are already minimal.
• Negotiation Challenges – India’s higher tariff rates compared to other nations make it harder to secure favourable trade terms.

Conclusion

The proposed BTA is a significant step in Indo-US trade relations but presents challenges in negotiations and global commitments. India must balance preferential trade agreements with long-term economic interests to ensure sustainable growth.Top of Form

DEPORTATION OF INDIANS FROM THE U.S.

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

A significant number of Indians, particularly from Punjab, Haryana, and Gujarat, have been deported from the U.S. in recent years due to illegal immigration. Many of them were deceived by agents who promised them better opportunities abroad.

Key Trends in Deportation

• In 2025, 332 undocumented Indians were deported from the U.S.
• The majority were from Punjab (38%), Haryana (33%), and Gujarat (22%).
• Other deportees belonged to Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh.

Rise in Asylum Seekers

• A study by Johns Hopkins University found that from 2001 to 2022, 66% of Indian asylum seekers in the U.S. were Punjabi speakers.
• Other asylum seekers included Hindi speakers (14%), English speakers (8%), and Gujarati speakers (7%).
• The number of Indian asylum seekers surged after 2016, with Punjabis forming the majority.

Controversy Over Deportation Flights

• In 2025, all deportation flights landed in Amritsar, sparking a political row.
• The Punjab CM alleged this was an attempt to defame the state, while the Centre clarified that Amritsar was the nearest international airport.

Past Deportations and Increasing Illegal Migration

• Since 2009, nearly 15,897 undocumented Indians have been deported.
• The highest deportations were recorded in 2019 (2,042), followed by 2020 (1,889) and 2024 (1,368).
• The number of Indians trying to enter the U.S. illegally has increased drastically, with 96,917 stopped in 2023 and 90,415 in 2024.

Role of Illegal Immigration Agents

• Many Indians fall victim to fraudulent agents promising U.S. entry for huge sums.
• The cost of illegal migration ranges between ₹20 lakh to ₹1.25 crore.
• By June 2024, 3,042 illegal agents were identified, mostly in Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra.
• 4,361 complaints were filed against fraudulent recruiters in the last four years.

Challenges Faced by Illegal Migrants

• Many take dangerous journeys via forests, seas, and unsafe routes.
• The “donkey route” is a common way for illegal entry through Panama, Colombia, and Mexico.
• Some cross into the U.S. via the Canadian border, leading to a rise in illegal migration from the north.

Visa Overstays

• Many Indians enter the U.S. legally but overstay their visas for business, education, or tourism.
• While overstays declined post-pandemic, around 17,000 Indians still overstay their visas annually.

Conclusion

The increasing cases of deportation highlight the dangers of illegal migration and the need for stricter regulations to prevent human trafficking.

US SHIFT ON UKRAINE-NATO POLICY

TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU

The United States has signalled a major shift in its stance on Ukraine’s NATO membership, with President Donald Trump rejecting the idea as “impractical.” This change alters America’s long-standing position on NATO expansion and has significant geopolitical consequences.

Background of Ukraine’s NATO Aspirations

• In 2008, NATO’s Bucharest Summit welcomed Ukraine’s and Georgia’s aspirations to join the alliance.
• Since then, Ukraine has consistently sought NATO membership, which has been a key issue in its conflict with Russia.
• Russia has long considered NATO’s expansion a security threat, using it as justification for its actions against Ukraine.

Recent Developments

• February 12, 2025: US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth stated that Ukraine’s NATO membership is not a realistic outcome of peace talks.
• Same Day: Trump, in a phone call with Putin, dismissed Ukraine’s NATO bid as impractical, signaling a policy shift.
• This change indicates a potential softening of US support for Ukraine’s NATO ambitions.

Historical Context: NATO’s Eastward Expansion

• In 1990, US Secretary of State James Baker reportedly assured Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev that NATO would not expand eastward.
• However, NATO expanded in the following decades:
  • 1999: Czechia, Hungary, Poland joined.
  • 2004: Bulgaria, Slovakia, Romania, and former Soviet republics Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania became members.
  • 2009-2020: Albania, Croatia, Montenegro, and North Macedonia joined.
• This expansion placed NATO directly near Russia, escalating tensions.

Russia’s Perspective and Security Concerns

• Russia sees NATO as a Western tool for exerting influence and views its expansion as a threat.
• The security dilemma: NATO’s expansion is seen by Russia as a direct challenge, prompting countermeasures.
• Moscow has warned that Ukraine’s NATO membership would be a red line, even calling it an act of war.

The Trump Administration’s Shift

• Unlike past US leaders, Trump seems unwilling to maintain unconditional support for Ukraine’s NATO aspirations.
• In 2024, NATO had reaffirmed Ukraine’s path to membership, but the US is now reconsidering this stance.
• Trump’s administration is focused on reducing US commitments to NATO and pressing European nations to take on more responsibility.

Geopolitical Impact

• The shift could weaken NATO’s unity and embolden Russia.
• It might force Ukraine to seek alternative security arrangements.
• The upcoming US-Russia talks in Riyadh may offer insights into how this policy will evolve.

Conclusion

The US reversal on Ukraine’s NATO membership marks a strategic shift with far-reaching consequences for European security, US-Russia relations, and the future of NATO’s role in global geopolitics.

DELHI’S SEISMIC RISK: A REMINDER FROM RECENT TREMORS

TOPIC: (GS3) DISASTER MANAGEMENT: THE HINDU

A magnitude 4 earthquake struck Delhi, the strongest local tremor in five years, emphasizing the city’s vulnerability to seismic events. Though not destructive, it highlights the need for preparedness due to Delhi’s location in an earthquake-prone zone.

About Earthquakes

• Earthquakes occur due to the sudden release of energy in the Earth’s crust, creating seismic waves.
• This energy release happens along faults, which are fractures in the Earth’s surface.
• The primary cause of earthquakes is tectonic plate movement, but they can also be triggered by volcanic activity or human actions like mining.

Delhi’s Seismic Activity

• Tremors in Delhi are often caused by distant earthquakes, but this recent quake originated within the city.
• It was the strongest local tremor in five years, recorded near Dhaula Kuan.
• While the intensity was low, it serves as a reminder of Delhi’s seismic risks.

Why is Delhi Prone to Earthquakes?

• Delhi falls under Seismic Zone IV, indicating a high risk of moderate to severe earthquakes.
• The city is vulnerable due to its dense population and infrastructure, which may not be fully earthquake-resistant.
• Local geology plays a role, as soil composition can amplify seismic waves.

Geological Factors: The Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt

• Delhi is part of the Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt, a geological region extending from Rajasthan to Haryana.
• Ancient fault lines in this zone sometimes reactivate, leading to tremors.
• Unlike the Himalayan region, where active tectonic movement generates frequent quakes, Delhi’s earthquakes are less frequent but still a concern.

Unusual Sounds During the Earthquake

• Some residents reported hearing loud noises during the tremor.
• Earthquakes can produce sound waves, but they are usually beyond human hearing.
• The noises were likely due to buildings and structures vibrating rather than the quake itself.

Can a Major Earthquake Strike Delhi?

• Historical records mention significant earthquakes in 1720 and 1803, but these likely originated outside Delhi.
• Scientific studies suggest Delhi lacks the necessary stress buildup for a major earthquake.
• However, a strong earthquake from another region could impact Delhi significantly.

Conclusion:

Delhi’s recent tremor highlights the city’s ongoing seismic vulnerability. While a major earthquake is unlikely, preparedness is crucial given the city’s population density and infrastructure challenges.

SOCIAL JUSTICE BEYOND QUOTAS

TOPIC: (GS3) DISASTER MANAGEMENT: THE HINDU

The debate over Muslim reservation in India highlights the need for affirmative action while questioning the reliance on quotas as the sole method of social justice. Instead of exclusive reservations, a broader approach is necessary to uplift disadvantaged Muslim communities.

The Debate on Muslim Reservation

• The idea of reservations for Muslims is complex—while they face socio-economic disadvantages, religious-based quotas are not ideal.
• Social justice in India is primarily seen through the lens of quotas, limiting policy alternatives.
• Various groups demand reservations as the primary solution, showing the need for a diversified approach.

Context of Muslim Reservation Demand

• The demand intensified after the Sachar Committee Report (2006) highlighted educational and economic backwardness among Muslims.
• The National Commission for Linguistic and Religious Minorities (2007) recommended a 10% quota within a 15% minority reservation framework.
• Political opposition makes implementing Muslim reservations difficult, yet the issue remains central to justice discussions.

A New Perspective on Affirmative Action

A report by Hilal Ahmed, Mohd Sanjeer Alam, and Nazima Parveen suggests an alternative strategy:

• Recognizing the necessity of affirmative action for Muslims.
• Rejecting blanket reservations for the entire Muslim community.
• Advocating for targeted policies addressing specific disadvantages.

Challenges with Exclusive Muslim Reservations

Legal and Constitutional Barriers

• The Constitution does not permit reservations based solely on religion.
• Courts have ruled against classifying an entire religious group as socially and educationally backward.

Sociological Diversity

• Muslims are divided into various sub-castes (biradaris) with differing economic conditions.
• Treating all Muslims as a single disadvantaged group ignores internal disparities.

Political Opposition

• Religious-based quotas may trigger communal tensions and political resistance.
• Such demands could backfire, weakening support for Muslim welfare initiatives.

Alternative Policy Proposals

• Reforming the OBC Quota System: Backward Muslim communities should be fully included in OBC reservations. Over 75% of Muslims meet OBC criteria, yet only half currently benefit. States like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and West Bengal have already expanded Muslim OBC inclusion.
• Restructuring OBC Categories: Dividing OBCs into “extremely backward” and “backward” groups can ensure better representation. However, separate Muslim sub-quotas should be avoided, as seen in Kerala and Karnataka.
• SC Status for Dalit Muslims and Christians: Lifting the ban on their SC classification would allow access to necessary benefits. It would correct historical injustices where religious identity denies rightful protections.
• Anti-Discrimination Measures: A national anti-discrimination law is needed to prevent bias in jobs and education. Establishing an Equal Opportunity Commission can ensure fair treatment.

Developmental Strategies Beyond Reservation

• Regional Focus: Investments in Muslim-majority areas can improve education, healthcare, and infrastructure. Better implementation of existing schemes is necessary to prevent diversion of resources.
• Industry-Specific Support: Government aid should strengthen Muslim-dominated sectors like weaving, brass work, and carpet-making. Skill development programs can enhance employment opportunities.
• Private Sector Inclusion: Instead of quotas, corporate diversity guidelines can promote fair hiring practices.
• Civil Society Role: NGOs, self-help groups, and community organizations can drive grassroots-level economic and social development.

Conclusion

Instead of relying solely on quotas, a comprehensive strategy focusing on economic and educational upliftment is needed. A legally viable and politically acceptable framework can ensure inclusive growth without triggering religious divisions.

How Indian States Have Addressed Muslim Quotas

• Kerala (1952): Included Muslims in the OBC list.
• Karnataka (1995): Reserved 4% within the OBC quota for 36 Muslim sub-groups.
• Tamil Nadu (2007): Created a 3.5% Muslim sub-quota within the 30% OBC reservation.
• Andhra Pradesh (2004): Provided a 5% Muslim quota, later struck down by the court.
• Telangana (2017): Proposed 12% OBC reservation for Muslims, pending central approval.