PRESIDENTIAL REFERENCE AND ARTICLE 143 OF THE CONSTITUTION
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: INDIAN EXPRESS
President Droupadi Murmu has approached the Supreme Court under Article 143 to seek its opinion on important constitutional questions related to the powers of the President and Governors over State bills. This move comes after a recent SC ruling imposed timelines on constitutional authorities.
What is a Presidential Reference under Article 143?
- A Presidential Reference is when the President seeks the Supreme Court’s advice on important legal or constitutional matters.
- This is done under Article 143 of the Indian Constitution.
- The Supreme Court’s opinion is advisory, not binding, but usually followed.
Constitutional Basis of Article 143:
- Allows the President to refer any issue of law or fact of public importance to the Supreme Court.
- The decision to refer a matter is taken with the advice of the Council of Ministers.
- According to Article 145, a minimum bench of five judges must hear such references.
Similar Mechanisms in Other Countries:
- Canada: The Canadian Supreme Court provides advisory opinions to governments.
- USA: The U.S. Supreme Court refuses such advisory roles to maintain strict separation of powers.
Current Issue and the 2024 Reference:
- The Supreme Court recently ruled that Governors and the President must act within a timeframe on Bills passed by State legislatures.
- The President has referred 14 questions to the SC for clarity on Articles 200 and 201, dealing with assent to Bills.
- The reference questions whether courts can enforce timelines not stated in the Constitution.
- It also asks whether such decisions by Governors and the President are open to judicial review.
PAST PRESIDENTIAL REFERENCES IN INDIA:
- Delhi Laws Act Case (1951): Clarified delegated legislation powers.
- Kerala Education Bill (1958): Balanced Fundamental Rights and Directive Principles.
- Berubari Case (1960): Territorial changes need a constitutional amendment.
- Keshav Singh Case (1965): Defined legislative privileges.
- Third Judges Case (1998): Strengthened the Collegium system.
- Special Courts Bill (1978): Court clarified it can reject vague or political references.
Conclusion
While the Supreme Court’s opinion under Article 143 is not binding, it holds high value in resolving constitutional uncertainties. This reference may help smoothen Centre-State ties and clarify executive powers.
PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q. With reference to Article 143 of the Indian Constitution, consider the following statements:
- Article 143(1) empowers the President to refer any question of law or fact of public importance, including matters like pre-Constitutional treaties, to the Supreme Court for its advisory opinion.
- Under Article 143(2), the President is required to refer all international treaties to the Supreme Court for approval before signing.
- The Supreme Court’s opinion under Article 143 is advisory in nature and not binding on the President.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Article 143(1) allows the President to seek the SC’s opinion on any question of law or fact that is of public importance, including historical or pre-Constitutional matters.
- Article 143(2) deals specifically with disputes arising out of pre-Constitutional treaties or agreements, but it does not mandate referral of all international treaties to the SC.
- The Supreme Court’s opinion under Article 143 is not binding; it is advisory in nature.
INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND (IMF) LOAN FOR PAKISTAN
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) recently approved a $2.4 billion loan for Pakistan. This has sparked debate on the risks and responsibilities linked with the loan, especially following India’s criticism of financial aid to Pakistan.
Why and How IMF Gives Loans to Governments
Why Does the IMF Give Loans?
- To Support Economic Stability: The IMF provides loans to countries facing economic difficulties, such as balance of payment problems, currency crises, or fiscal deficits, to help stabilize their economies.
- To Prevent Financial Crises: Loans help countries avoid economic collapse that could affect global markets or regional stability.
- To Promote Reforms: The IMF supports countries in implementing economic reforms needed for sustainable growth, including improving fiscal policies, governance, and financial systems.
- To Build Confidence: IMF loans signal international support, boosting investor and market confidence in a country’s economy.
How Does the IMF Give Loans?
- Assessment of Economic Situation: The IMF evaluates the country’s economic problems, risks, and reform plans through discussions with government officials.
- Loan Programs and Conditions: Loans are provided through programs like the Extended Fund Facility (EFF) or Stand-By Arrangements (SBA), often requiring the country to meet specific conditions or benchmarks aimed at economic reforms.
- Conditionality: The IMF sets structural benchmarks on fiscal policy, monetary policy, governance, and other sectors. The country must implement these reforms to continue receiving funds.
- Periodic Reviews: The IMF regularly reviews the country’s progress in meeting the conditions before releasing the next tranche of funds.
- Disbursement: Funds are disbursed in tranches after the country meets set milestones to ensure accountability and correct use of money.
IMF Loan to Pakistan:
Loan Approval and Conditions:
- IMF approved two tranches totaling $2.4 billion under the Extended Fund Facility (EFF).
- Pakistan must meet 11 new structural benchmarks covering fiscal discipline, governance, energy tariffs, trade liberalization, and financial sector reforms before the next IMF review in September 2025.
Structural Benchmarks Include:
- Parliamentary approval of Pakistan’s FY26 budget aligned with IMF targets.
- Legislation to remove limits on debt service surcharges by June 2025.
- Trade reforms, such as lifting restrictions on used vehicle imports by July 2025.
- Energy tariff adjustments to reflect cost recovery by July 2025.
- Permanent adoption of the captive power levy ordinance by May 2025.
- Phasing out industrial incentives in Special Technology Zones by 2035.
- A financial sector strategy plan for post-2027 reforms due by mid-2026.
Rising Enterprise and Reputational Risks
- The IMF highlighted increased enterprise risks due to ongoing India-Pakistan tensions, which could threaten Pakistan’s fiscal and reform goals.
- There are also reputational risks for the IMF if funds are perceived to be misused.
- The Fund stressed the importance of neutral communication to avoid misinterpretations about its lending role.
India’s Position and Concerns
- India abstained from voting on the IMF loan, citing Pakistan’s poor track record with IMF programs.
- India views financial aid to Pakistan as indirectly supporting terrorism, as stated by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
- India’s officials urge the IMF to carefully assess the risk of misuse before providing funds.
Responsibility and Transparency Demanded by IMF
- The new conditions place a strong responsibility on Pakistan to implement reforms transparently and efficiently.
- The benchmarks encourage Pakistan to improve governance, fiscal discipline, and energy sector stability.
- Publishing clear plans and legislative reforms aims to ensure openness and accountability to both IMF and global stakeholders.
- These measures are intended to support Pakistan’s economic stability and sustainable growth, while minimizing risks of fund misuse.
Conclusion
The IMF’s latest loan to Pakistan comes with strict conditions that demand financial discipline, transparency, and reforms. Amid geopolitical tensions, these conditions aim to balance support with accountability, ensuring funds are used responsibly to stabilize Pakistan’s economy.
PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTION
Q. Consider the following statements about the International Monetary Fund (IMF):
- The IMF provides financial assistance to member countries facing balance of payments problems.
- IMF loans are unconditional and do not require any economic reforms by the borrowing country.
- The IMF’s Extended Fund Facility (EFF) is aimed at helping countries with long-term structural reforms.
- India is not a member of the IMF.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 and 3 only
- 2 and 4 only
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: A
Explanation:
- IMF provides financial assistance to countries facing balance of payments issues.
- IMF loans are conditional and require countries to implement economic reforms.
- The EFF helps countries with medium to long-term structural reforms.
- India is a member of the IMF since 1945.
ISRO PSLV-C61 MISSION FAILURE
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: INDIAN EXPRESS
The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) 101st satellite mission failed on May 18, 2025. The PSLV-C61 rocket, carrying Earth Observation Satellite EOS-09, faced issues in its third stage, marking a rare setback.
PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle)
- PSLV is one of ISRO’s main launch vehicles, introduced in the 1990s.
- It is used to place satellites in different orbits such as polar, geostationary, and navigation.
- Known for its high reliability, it has launched major missions like Chandrayaan-1 (2008) and Mars Orbiter Mission (2013).
- PSLV is also affordable and used by other countries to send their satellites via ISRO.
Structure of PSLV
- PS1 (First Stage): Solid booster with 6 strap-on motors.
- PS2 (Second Stage): Liquid engine called the Vikas engine.
- PS3 (Third Stage): Solid engine giving thrust outside the atmosphere.
- PS4 (Fourth Stage): Two small liquid engines for final orbit insertion.
What Went Wrong in PSLV-C61 (2025)?
- The mission aimed to place a 1,700-kg Earth observation satellite (EOS-09) into a sun-synchronous orbit at 597 km altitude.
- The satellite had a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), meant for imaging in all weather.
- ISRO reported that a technical fault occurred in the third stage, leading to mission failure.
- It is ISRO’s second consecutive failure, following a GSLV setback in February 2025.
Previous PSLV Failures
First Failure – PSLV-D1 (1993)
- PSLV’s first developmental flight aimed to place IRS-1E in low Earth orbit.
- A software error caused the rocket to lose control and crash into the sea.
Second Failure – PSLV-C39 (2017)
- Mission planned to launch IRNSS-1H, a navigation satellite.
- A heat shield failed to detach, trapping the satellite inside.
- Without separation, the satellite couldn’t be deployed and the mission was declared unsuccessful.
EARTH OBSERVATION SATELLITES (EOS)
EOS are used for monitoring weather, agriculture, forests, water bodies, urban planning, and disasters.
- They provide high-resolution images and data for both civilian and strategic uses.These satellites help in disaster management, border surveillance, and resource mapping.
For Civilian Purposes:
Cartosat Series
- High-resolution imaging for urban planning, infrastructure development, and cartography.
- Cartosat-2, 2C, 2D, etc. are notable examples.
Resourcesat Series
- Focuses on agriculture, forestry, water resources, and soil monitoring.
- Resourcesat-1, 2, and 2A provide multispectral imagery.
RISAT-1 (Radar Imaging Satellite)
- Uses Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) to capture images day and night and in all weather conditions.
- Mainly for agriculture and disaster management.
Oceansat Series
- Monitors ocean colour, chlorophyll concentration, and wind speed.
- Useful for fisheries, oceanography, and climate studies.
INSAT-3D/3DR
- Meteorological satellites that provide weather forecasting and disaster warning.
For Military and Strategic Purposes:
RISAT-2 and RISAT-2B/2BR1
- Designed for surveillance, reconnaissance, and border monitoring.
- Can track movements even under cloud cover and at night.
EMISAT
- Dedicated to electronic intelligence (ELINT).
- Monitors enemy radar and communication signals.
Cartosat-2C and 2F (Dual-use)
- Although mainly civilian, these offer sub-meter resolution useful for military mapping and surveillance.
GSAT-7A (Though not EOS, important)
- Provides communication support for the Indian Air Force and other defense units.
Conclusion
The PSLV-C61 failure is a rare event in ISRO’s otherwise consistent track record. Lessons from such missions help improve reliability and strengthen India’s future space efforts.
“A CASTE CENSUS IS NOT A SILVER BULLET FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE”
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The government has announced caste enumeration in the upcoming Census. This move has reignited debates on whether data alone can ensure social justice for backward communities.
What is Caste Census?
- A caste census collects data on various castes in the population, especially Other Backward Classes (OBCs), to understand their socio-economic status.
- Unlike the decadal Census, which only records SCs and STs, a full caste census would include OBCs and general caste groups as well.
How Reservation is Related to Caste Census
- Evidence-Based Policy: Caste census provides accurate data on backward classes, helping to justify or revise reservation quotas based on current needs, not outdated data.
- Ensures Equitable Distribution: Helps in identifying underrepresented castes within OBCs and others, allowing for better targeting of reservation benefits.
Caste Census and Its Role in Social Justice
- Census data in India has been a key source for planning in areas like health, education, and housing.
- The demand for a caste-based census is rising to better address the needs of Other Backward Classes (OBCs).
Arguments in Support of Caste Census:
- Helps understand the actual economic and social conditions of different caste groups, especially OBCs.
- Can guide more focused affirmative action policies.
- Offers legitimacy to welfare schemes in courts by providing solid evidence.
- Intra-OBC analysis can identify disparities within the group (like Extremely Backward Classes).
Limitations of Relying Only on Caste Census:
- Census should be a neutral data collection tool, not a policymaking body.
- Treating census as the main solution risks politicizing the process.
- Expecting policy change only after data is gathered delays necessary reforms.
Existing Data Already Highlights Inequality:
- SCs and STs have been included in Census data for decades.
- National surveys (NSSO, NFHS) show continued disadvantages in education, income, and health for these groups.
- Crime data show rising violence against SCs and STs under relevant Acts.
- Bihar caste survey and SECC have already exposed deep inequality among OBCs.
Policy Actions Don’t Always Follow Data:
- Past reforms like land redistribution or Mandal Commission were driven by political movements, not detailed data.
- Reservation for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) was introduced without strong data support.
- Despite available statistics, OBCs and SCs/STs are underrepresented in sectors like media, corporates, IT, judiciary, and higher bureaucracy.
Need for Political Will and Moral Responsibility:
- Data can highlight the problems but cannot solve them.
- Effective welfare policies depend on the intent of political leaders and public demand.
- For real inclusion, the government must act with urgency and determination, not wait endlessly for new numbers.
INSTANCES OF CASTE CENSUS IN INDIA:
1931 Census:
- The last full caste-based census in British India.
- Forms the basis for current OBC population estimates.
Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011:
- Conducted under UPA-II, it included caste data, but results were never officially released due to data inaccuracies.
Bihar Caste Survey 2022–23:
- Carried out by the Bihar government. Revealed that OBCs and EBCs constitute over 60% of the state’s population.
- Sparked demands for nationwide caste-based census and revised reservation policies.
Caste Census in Telangana:
- Telangana has recently completed a comprehensive caste survey, revealing that Backward Classes (BCs) constitute 56.33% of the state’s population.
Conclusion
A caste census is useful for understanding inequality, but it is not enough. Social justice needs strong political commitment, not just statistics.
NORTHEAST-KOLKATA LINK VIA MYANMAR
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
India has fast-tracked the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) to connect the Northeast via Myanmar, amid worsening ties with Bangladesh after Sheikh Hasina’s exit. This route aims to reduce dependence on the narrow Siliguri Corridor.
- The Kaladan project is part of India’s ‘Act East Policy’ to improve Northeast connectivity.
- A new four-lane highway between Shillong and Silchar is being planned to support this alternative trade route.
Current Connectivity Challenge
- The Siliguri Corridor or “Chicken’s Neck” is the only land link between the Northeast and the rest of India.
- This narrow strip (20 km at its thinnest) is vulnerable to disruptions and creates a strategic bottleneck.
Impact of Changed Ties with Bangladesh
- Bangladesh’s new leadership is seen as less India-friendly compared to former PM Sheikh Hasina.
- Recent remarks by the interim Bangladeshi leader calling Northeast India “landlocked” and Bangladesh the “only ocean guardian” raised concerns in New Delhi.
- India had earlier planned to use routes through Bangladesh to access the Northeast more easily.
Kaladan Project: A Strategic Alternative
- To connect Kolkata to Mizoram through Myanmar using sea, river, and road transport.
- Route Details:
- Sea: Ships will carry goods from Kolkata to Sittwe port (Myanmar) — 539 km.
- River: Barges travel on the Kaladan river from Sittwe to Paletwa (158 km).
- Road: A 108 km highway from Paletwa to Zorinpui on the India-Myanmar border.
- India leg: Zorinpui to Aizawl and onward to Silchar-Shillong.
Delays and Issues
- Work began in the 2000s, but civil unrest in Myanmar’s Rakhine State stalled progress.
- Myanmar is facing internal conflicts with several ethnic groups after the 2021 military coup.
- Arakan Army controls much of the Rakhine region and is seen as a rebel group by the Myanmar government.
- India signed a new deal in 2022 with IRCON to complete pending road construction, but work remains slow due to security and logistical challenges.
Strategic Importance
- Strategic and Economic: Offers an alternative access route to the Northeast, reducing dependence on Bangladesh and the vulnerable Siliguri Corridor (also called “Chicken’s Neck”).
- Shortens Distance: Cuts travel distance by about 1,000 km and reduces travel time by 3-4 days.
- Part of Act East Policy: Strengthens India’s ties with Myanmar and promotes regional development.
- Boosts Northeast Growth: Facilitates trade, transport, and economic development in underdeveloped Northeastern states.
Conclusion
The Kaladan route is vital for India’s Northeast development and strategic autonomy. Though delayed, it offers a critical backup link amid regional geopolitical shifts.
MAKING WAVES IN THE ORANGE ECONOMY
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
At the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (Waves), Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the growing importance of the orange economy. Creators like Akash Jadhav showed how digital platforms like YouTube help ordinary people become stars and build businesses.
What is the Orange Economy?
- It refers to the creative industries including media, entertainment, arts, and digital content.
- This economy thrives on creativity, innovation, and cultural content.
- India is emerging as a global leader in this space, especially through platforms like YouTube.
Role of Digital Platforms in Creator Economy
- YouTube CEO Neal Mohan called India the “Creator Nation” due to the large number of content creators.
- Indian content on YouTube has accumulated 45 billion hours of watch time outside India.
- YouTube has paid ₹21,000 crore to Indian creators and companies in the last three years.
- YouTube plans to invest ₹850 crore more to boost the orange economy.
Success Story: Indian Farmer Channel
- Started in 2018 by Akash and Santosh Jadhav from rural Maharashtra with a goal to promote sustainable and profitable farming.
- The channel, mostly in Hindi, has about 10 million followers worldwide; only 15-20% are from India.
- Revenue comes mainly (80%) from brand partnerships with agriculture, manufacturing, and digital farming companies, plus government collaborations.
- Remaining revenue is from YouTube ads and Facebook monetization.
Challenges in Monetisation
- Facebook monetization was stopped two years ago for their page, affecting revenue.
- YouTube ad revenue alone is limited and unpredictable.
- Paid courses on agriculture provided steady income and deeper engagement than viral videos.
- Use of AI by social media platforms has not significantly benefited the channel.
Key Lessons for Content Creators
- Content creation is uncertain and risky; income can change suddenly.
- Monetization depends on clear value, not just followers.
- Creators should think like entrepreneurs, with clear business plans and systems for long-term success.
- Structured content and brand collaborations build credibility and financial stability.
Conclusion:
The orange economy offers huge opportunities, but creators must be strategic and business-savvy to sustain success amid changing digital platforms and monetization challenges.
CORAL REEFS
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
Scientists at the University of California San Diego have created a bio-ink called SNAP-X, which helps coral larvae attach to surfaces 20 times more effectively, offering hope for coral reef restoration amidst rising climate threats.
Coral reefs
- Coral reefs are vibrant underwater ecosystems made by tiny marine animals called coral polyps, which release calcium carbonate to form hard structures.
- These reefs are usually found in warm, shallow, and clear waters of tropical seas.
Key Features of Coral Reefs
- Made up of calcium carbonate skeletons secreted by corals.
- Host to a huge variety of marine life, making them one of the world’s most diverse ecosystems.
- Act as natural barriers protecting coasts from waves and storms.
- Support fishing and tourism industries, benefitting local economies.
Types of Coral Reefs
- Fringing Reefs: Form directly along coastlines. Separated from the shore by narrow, shallow lagoons. Most common reef type.
- Barrier Reefs: Located further offshore than fringing reefs. Divided from land by wide and deep lagoons. Example: Great Barrier Reef, Australia.
- Atolls: Ring-shaped reefs surrounding central lagoons. Usually formed around sunken volcanic islands. Found mostly in Indian and Pacific Oceans.
Conditions Needed for Coral Growth
- Warm Water: Around 20°C or more, mainly between 30°N and 30°S latitude.
- Shallow Seas: Depth less than 55 meters to ensure sunlight reaches corals.
- Clean, clear saltwater: Low in nutrients for better sunlight penetration.
- Low pollution: Corals are highly sensitive to dirty water and chemicals.
- Food supply: Plankton is a key food source for coral polyps.
E-PASSPORTS
TOPIC: (GS2) POLITY: THE HINDU
India has begun issuing biometric e-passports, joining over 120 countries in adopting secure and globally accepted travel documents. These e-passports will improve identity protection, speed up airport checks, and comply with international standards.
What is an E-Passport?
- An e-passport, also known as an electronic or biometric passport, is a modern version of the traditional paper passport.
- It contains a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in the back cover, storing personal and biometric data of the passport holder.
- While it looks like a regular passport, the embedded chip adds a layer of digital security.
Data Stored in E-Passports
The RFID chip securely stores:
- Name, date of birth, gender, and passport number.
- Digital photograph and biometric data (like fingerprints).
- A digital signature to verify the authenticity of data.
- Nationality and expiry date of the passport.
- This data is digitally encrypted, making it harder to fake or duplicate.
Advantages of E-Passports
- Higher Security: Harder to forge or duplicate due to digital signatures and encryption. Protects against identity theft and illegal document tampering.
- Faster Immigration Processing: E-passports allow use of automated e-gates at airports. Reduces queues and manual document checks, saving time.
- Global Recognition: Follows ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards. Helps in easier visa approvals and hassle-free international travel.
- Improved Privacy: Residential address is no longer printed. Address and other sensitive details are stored digitally, accessible only to authorised personnel.
- Data Protection: Biometric and personal information is stored in an encrypted format.
India’s Progress on E-Passports
- The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is rolling out e-passports in phases.
- The first trial e-passport in India was issued to the President of India in 2008.
- The current initiative aims to: Upgrade passport infrastructure. Set up chip-enabled systems at passport offices and airports.
- Indian Security Press (Nashik) has been tasked with printing these passports.
Global Context
- Countries like Germany, USA, UK, and Singapore already use e-passports.
- E-passports are key to safer international travel, especially in a post-pandemic world.
Challenges and Concerns
- Data Privacy: Needs strict rules on who can access biometric data.
- Cybersecurity: Systems handling e-passport data must be well-protected from hacking.
- Cost of Implementation: Upgrading infrastructure for biometric verification can be expensive.
- Public Awareness: Citizens need to be educated on the benefits and usage of e-passports.
Conclusion
India’s move towards e-passports is a significant step in modernizing travel documents, enhancing security, and aligning with global standards. With proper safeguards, they can streamline immigration, reduce forgery, and boost trust in India’s identity verification systems.
The post Daily Current Affairs 19-May-2025 first appeared on Ekam IAS Academy.