THE ROLE OF THE INTERNET IN SPREADING MISINFORMATION
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
A recent has revealed that many social media users do not trust the news they see online. During the India-Pakistan crisis, false videos and images spread rapidly on digital platforms, causing fear and confusion.
Spread of Misinformation during Crises
- Unconfirmed visuals and fake news about military attacks circulated widely during the India-Pakistan conflict.
- Some mainstream media channels aired this content without checking its authenticity, worsening the problem.
Findings from Lokniti-CSDS Survey
- The survey titled “Media in India: Access, Practices, Concerns and Effects” highlighted rising concern over online misinformation.
- A large number of active Internet and social media users admitted they had seen fake news online.
Experience of Internet and Social Media Users
- Around 50% of users reported being exposed to false news at least once.
- Many said it happened a few times or occasionally.
- Nearly 40% of users had forwarded or shared fake content unknowingly, realizing the mistake later.
Level of Concern Among Users
- 21% of Internet users and 20% of social media users said they were highly worried about encountering false news.
- Another 31% and 32% were somewhat concerned.
- People who had previously shared or believed fake news showed more concern than those who had not.
Awareness and Trust Issues
- Even users who hadn’t shared or fallen for fake news showed moderate concern (39–44%).
- This suggests that awareness of misinformation is growing across all user groups.
- A large portion of users expressed low or no trust in online news — 21% of X (formerly Twitter) users had very little trust, and 12% had none at all.
Changing News Consumption Trends
- As per the Reuters Institute’s 2024 Digital News Report, over 70% of Indians now get news online.
- Platforms like YouTube (54%) and WhatsApp (48%) are popular sources.
- This shows the importance of media education and digital literacy to prevent the spread of false information.
WHAT IS MISINFORMATION?
Misinformation refers to false or incorrect information that is spread without the intent to deceive.
- It often arises from misunderstandings, lack of verification, or carelessness, rather than from deliberate lies.
Key Features:
- It is inaccurate or misleading.
- It is not shared intentionally to harm, unlike disinformation.
- People often believe it to be true and share it unknowingly.
How to Address Misinformation on Social Media
Promote Digital and Media Literacy
- Teaching users how to identify reliable information online.
- Data: According to the Reuters Institute Digital News Report 2024, over 70% of Indians get news online, and nearly half rely on social media platforms like YouTube (54%) and WhatsApp (48%).
- Solution: Introduce digital literacy programs in schools, colleges, and public campaigns.
Use of Fact-Checking Platforms
- Fact-checking organizations like Alt News, BOOM Live, and Factly play a key role in verifying viral claims.
- According to Lokniti-CSDS, about 40% of Internet users had unknowingly shared misinformation and regretted it later.
- Encouraging the use of fact-checking before forwarding content helps break the misinformation chain.
Platform Accountability
- Social media companies like Meta, X (formerly Twitter), and YouTube have started labeling or removing misleading content.
- For example, WhatsApp limits message forwards to only 5 users at a time to curb viral misinformation.
Community Flagging and Reporting
- Platforms allow users to report suspicious posts or accounts.
- Meta reports that in 2023, they removed 1.3 billion fake accounts in a single quarter.
- User participation helps platforms detect and remove harmful content faster.
Conclusion
The growing use of social media for news highlights the need for strong measures to fight misinformation. Promoting fact-checking habits, digital awareness, and responsible media practices is essential to build public trust.
INDIA–UK FREE TRADE AGREEMENT (FTA):
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
India and the United Kingdom have finalized a historic Free Trade Agreement. The agreement promises duty-free access for nearly 99% of Indian exports to the UK. It is being hailed as a blueprint for India’s future trade deals.
Significance of the FTA for India
- Level playing field: Removes tariff disadvantages Indian exporters faced in sectors like apparel, leather, and marine products.
- Tariff elimination: UK will allow zero-duty access to 99% of Indian tariff lines.
- Competitiveness: Helps Indian goods compete better against exports from Bangladesh, China, EU, and CPTPP nations.
Strategic Approach of India
- Balanced concessions: India will allow phased duty-free access to 85% of UK goods over 10 years.
- Protection of sensitive sectors: India has shielded key areas such as: Dairy, Apples, Edible oils, Smartphones, Medical devices
- Focus on Make in India: The agreement safeguards domestic industry and employment-intensive sectors.
Boost to the Services Sector
- Enhanced access: Opens UK markets for Indian: IT and telecom firms, Education and financial services
- Professional mobility: Eases work permits and short-term assignments. Recognition of Indian degrees and professional qualifications.
- Social security relief: Indian professionals are exempt from UK social security payments during temporary stays.
Scope for Innovation and Investment
- Joint R&D: Encourages cooperation in design, research, and advanced manufacturing.
- Co-manufacturing: Fosters joint ventures and technology transfer.
- Value chain partnerships: UK is now seen not just as a buyer, but as a partner in co-developing global products.
Inclusion of Progressive Values
- First Indian FTA to include dedicated chapters on:
- Labour rights
- Environmental standards
- Consumer protection
- Gender equity
- Anti-corruption
- Indicates India’s maturity and readiness to align with global ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) norms.
Action Plan for Indian Industry
- UK-specific strategies: Understand consumer needs and localize branding.
- Regulatory compliance: Invest in certifications and product innovations as per UK norms.
- Talent readiness: Train professionals in legal, supply chain, and financial operations relevant to the UK.
- Build partnerships: Collaborate with UK firms for R&D, manufacturing, and market feedback.
Challenges and Way Forward
- Shift in mindset needed: Move from bulk commodity exports to branded, premium offerings.
- Invest in quality: Ensure Indian goods and services meet UK standards in quality and compliance.
- Focus on sustainability: Align with environmental and labour benchmarks in international trade.
WHAT IS A FREE TRADE AGREEMENT (FTA)?
FTA is a pact between two or more countries to reduce or remove tariffs, taxes, and trade barriers on goods and services traded between them.
- It helps countries trade more easily, boosting business, jobs, and economic growth.
- Key Features:
- Reduced or zero customs duties on most goods.
- Easier market access for services and investments.
- Rules for protecting intellectual property rights.
- Mechanisms to resolve trade disputes.
- Benefits:
- Cheaper imports and exports.
- Encourages foreign investments.
- Provides consumers with more choices.
- Helps domestic companies become more competitive globally.
India’s Free Trade Agreement (FTA) Partners
India has signed FTAs with several countries and regional groups, including:
- ASEAN Countries (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) – 10 countries like Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, etc.
- Japan, South Korea,. Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Chile, Mauritius, Afghanistan
- MERCOSUR (South American trading bloc including Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay) – Under Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA)
Conclusion
The India–UK FTA represents a turning point in India’s trade journey. It supports the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’ by boosting exports, innovation, and employment. This is not just a trade deal, but a step toward India’s leadership in global economic growth.
KURMA MELA: MASS NESTING OF OLIVE RIDLEY TURTLES
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
A record 7 lakh Olive Ridley turtles nested at Odisha’s Rushikulya beach in March 2024. While this mass nesting event raised hopes, it also raised concerns about the long-term impact of human activity on turtle conservation.
Olive Ridley turtle
- The Olive Ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) is a vulnerable marine species known for its unique mass nesting behavior, called arribada.
- Odisha is a globally important nesting site for these turtles, with mass nesting beaches like Gahirmatha, Devi, and Rushikulya.
- Despite conservation efforts, several ecological and human-related challenges persist.
Unique Nesting Behaviour
- Arribada refers to synchronized, large-scale nesting where thousands of female turtles come ashore to lay eggs.
- This behaviour is influenced by philopatry, where turtles return to the same beach where they were born using magnetic field memory.
- These nesting sites become more popular over generations due to a multiplier effect of returning females.
Factors Influencing Nesting Sites
- Turtles prefer areas with specific environmental features like: Cold-core eddies (nutrient-rich ocean areas) Safe beaches with gentle slopes, Low predator risk, appropriate rainfall, and salinity
- New nesting sites are sometimes formed if turtles can’t reach their birthplace, helping the population expand.
Challenges During Mass Nesting
- Overcrowding on beaches leads to turtles unknowingly destroying existing nests, breaking eggs laid earlier.
- Broken eggs release scents that attract predators, worsening egg survival.
- Human interference, such as artificial lights, selfies, or disturbing nesting turtles, further disrupts nesting.
Climate Change Impact
- Turtle hatchling sex is temperature-dependent — warmer sands produce more females.
- This skewed sex ratio may affect long-term species balance, even if female numbers rise for now.
Role of Conservation and Communities
- Conservation efforts such as egg protection and artificial incubation have improved survival rates.
- However, saving every turtle may reduce natural selection, affecting genetic strength.
- Local communities (fisherfolk, villagers) play a key role in nest protection and awareness.
Concerns Over Turtle Tourism
- While tourism helps spread awareness, excessive and unethical practices (flashlights, handling turtles) harm their nesting instincts.
- Disruption during nesting can cause turtles to avoid the beach in the fut
Nesting Grounds of Olive Ridley Turtles in India
Odisha – Major Nesting State (East Coast)
Odisha hosts some of the world’s largest mass nesting (arribada) sites.
Gahirmatha Beach (Kendrapara district)
- Most important and largest mass nesting site globally.
- Located between Brahmani and Baitarani river mouths.
- Declared a marine wildlife sanctuary in 1997.
Rushikulya River Mouth (Ganjam district)
- Discovered in the 1990s as a nesting site.
- Not a protected sanctuary, but supports lakhs of turtles during arribada.
- Known for community-based conservation.
Devi River Mouth (Puri district)
- 100 km south of Gahirmatha.
- Also a major nesting site, though less frequented than the other two.
- Faces challenges like predation and human disturbance.
Andhra Pradesh – Emerging Nesting Zone
Andhra Pradesh has several sporadic nesting spots, mostly individual nesting (not mass nesting like Odisha).
Hope Island (Kakinada)
- Located in East Godavari district.
- Known for sporadic Olive Ridley nesting.
- Near the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary.
Uppada and Srikakulam Beaches
- Occasionally report turtle nesting activity.
- Conservation efforts are increasing with NGO and government support.
Conclusion
Olive Ridley turtles have adapted through major changes in Earth’s history, but they now face modern threats from climate change and human behavior. It is our ethical responsibility to protect nesting beaches and balance conservation with mindful tourism to ensure the species’ survival.
SCHEME-BASED WORKERS: THE STRUGGLE FOR AN IDENTITY
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Scheme-based workers (SBWs) like Anganwadi workers and ASHAs are actively demanding recognition as government employees with rights such as minimum wages and social security. Their ongoing struggles have gained attention amid government delays and resistance.
Who are Scheme-Based Workers (SBWs)?
- Millions of workers are employed under government social welfare schemes like the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), and Mid-Day Meal Scheme.
- Major SBWs include:
- Anganwadi Workers (AWWs): Over 13.5 lakh workers
- Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs): Over 9.2 lakh workers
- Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs): Over 10.5 lakh workers
- Mid-Day Meal Workers (MDMWs): Over 25 lakh workers
- These workers provide essential services such as child care, nutrition, health outreach, and education support.
Challenges Faced by SBWs
- Despite recognition by leaders and organizations like WHO, SBWs lack basic labour rights:
- They are not officially classified as “workers” or government employees.
- They do not receive minimum wages or social security benefits like pensions or health insurance.
- Their payments are often called honorariums rather than wages, leading to job insecurity.
- State governments’ responses vary based on politics and union strength, leading to irregular wage revisions.
Struggles and Strategies of SBWs
- SBWs have used three main methods to fight for their rights:
- Strikes and protests: Large-scale and sometimes prolonged strikes, such as the 13-day strike by Kerala Anganwadis in 2025.
- Legal action: Approaching courts for recognition and benefits. For example, courts have granted gratuity rights and directed governments to regularize these workers.
- Social dialogue: Trade unions push issues at forums like the Indian Labour Conference (ILC), demanding wages, pensions, and social security.
Judicial Developments
- In 2006, the Supreme Court denied worker status to Anganwadi workers, stating they do not hold government posts.
- Later rulings have been more favorable:
- In 2022, the Supreme Court granted gratuity benefits to Anganwadi workers.
- In 2024, Gujarat High Court ordered governments to frame policies to regularize these workers as Class III and IV employees and pay minimum wages until then.
Government’s Position and Concerns
- The government is worried about the financial burden of regularizing millions of scheme-based workers.
- Officials have delayed policy decisions, with no fixed timelines for implementation.
- Attempts to privatize schemes like ICDS have also raised concerns among worker groups.
Conclusion:
Scheme-based workers are fighting not for charity, but for recognition as formal workers with fair wages and benefits. Their struggle reflects a larger issue of labour rights for informal and gig workers in India
HOW TO TRUMP-PROOF INDIA-US RELATIONS
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Amid Donald Trump’s recent comments and erratic policy shifts on Kashmir and Pakistan, India is facing uncertainty in its relations with the US. Experts suggest that India needs a clear, strategic approach to safeguard long-term India-US ties.
India-US Strategic Partnership
- Since 1999 (Kargil War), US gradually moved away from its pro-Pakistan stance and began recognizing India’s role in regional stability.
- The Trump administration (first term) helped strengthen this relationship, supporting India diplomatically on issues like Balakot and Article 370.
- Over time, India and the US moved towards a “de-hyphenated policy”—treating India and Pakistan as separate partners.
The Current Concern: Trump’s Unpredictability
- Trump recently made confusing remarks about his role in the India-Pakistan ceasefire and linked trade ties with peace.
- He equated India’s economy (GDP ~$4 trillion) with Pakistan’s much smaller economy, showing a lack of strategic clarity.
- His second term lacks experienced staff and policy-making institutions, with Trump taking solo decisions.
- Concerns are also rising about Trump’s personal business interests in Pakistan possibly influencing foreign policy.
How Should India Respond?
Stay Calm and Strategic
- India has faced bigger challenges in the past (e.g., Clinton-era pressure on Kashmir, nuclear sanctions).
- Delhi should not overreact to every Trump statement; the country is now economically and diplomatically stronger.
Avoid Direct Political Arguments
- Engaging in daily rebuttals with Trump is unnecessary.
- India must continue issue-based engagement while projecting its status as a global power.
Engage Beyond the White House
- The US system includes Congress, business lobbies, and civil society—India should work with these actors.
- American corporations influence policy; deeper ties with them can help safeguard India’s interests.
Diversify Global Partnerships
- The US is important, but not India’s only strategic partner.
- European countries like France, Greece, and Denmark have supported India on Kashmir.
- India should align with nations that are also unhappy with Trump’s policies.
Way Forward
- India must invest in domestic reforms, industrial growth, and technological progress.
- A strong, self-reliant India will be better equipped to handle external uncertainties.
- Protecting strategic ties while expanding new partnerships is key to stable foreign policy.
Conclusion
India must stay focused on long-term strategic goals, using internal strength and diplomatic balance to manage unpredictable external challenges like Trump’s foreign policy.
JAROSITE: A NATURAL CLOCK ON MARS
TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU
Researchers from India have discovered that jarosite, a mineral found on Mars and in Gujarat’s Kachchh region, could act as a natural geological clock to date surface events on the Red Planet.
What is Jarosite?
- Jarosite is a yellowish-brown mineral made up of potassium, iron, and sulphate.
- It forms in acidic and salty environments, typically in arid regions on Earth and Mars.
- It was first identified on Mars by NASA’s Opportunity Rover in 2004.
Key Findings from Indian Study
- A team of Indian scientists studied six jarosite samples from Kachchh, Gujarat, a region with climatic and soil conditions similar to Mars.
- Researchers examined the mineral’s ability to glow (luminescence) after exposure to natural radiation.
How the Experiment Worked:
- Grains of jarosite were washed with mild acid, then subjected to cycles of radiation, heating, and cooling.
- They emitted light (glow) at consistent temperatures: 100°C, 150°C, 300°C, and 350°C.
- Even after heating up to 450°C, the mineral retained its luminescence, proving it can survive Mars-like conditions or heat from a rover’s drill.
Jarosite as a Geological Clock
- Luminescence helps estimate how long a mineral has been exposed to radiation, acting like a natural timer.
- Jarosite glows more with increasing radiation up to saturation (590–2,600 gray).
- Mars receives around 65 milligray per year, so jarosite can track events up to 25,000 years old.
Why is it Important for Mars Missions?
- Since jarosite is common on Mars, it could help:
- Date past dust storms, volcanic ash, or ancient floods.
- Be used in future Mars rovers with simple LEDs and heating systems.
- It offers a low-cost, reliable method to study the Martian surface history.
ALTERNATIVE INVESTMENT FUNDS (AIFS)
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: PIB
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently issued updated draft guidelines on investments made by Regulated Entities (REs) in Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs). This move aims to strengthen the regulatory framework around these investments and ensure financial stability.
What are Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs)?
- AIFs are private investment funds formed in India that pool money from wealthy individuals and institutions.
- They invest in various types of assets, such as startups, infrastructure, real estate, and more.
- AIFs are regulated by SEBI under the SEBI (Alternative Investment Funds) Regulations, 2012.
- They can be set up as companies, trusts, limited liability partnerships (LLPs), or other legal entities.
Categories of AIFs (According to SEBI)
Category I AIFs
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- Focus on investments in socially or economically beneficial sectors like startups, small businesses, social ventures, and infrastructure.
- Examples include Venture Capital Funds, Angel Funds, and Social Venture Funds.
Category II AIFs
-
- Do not fall under Category I or III.
- Cannot use borrowing or leverage except for operational purposes.
- Examples include Private Equity Funds, Debt Funds, Real Estate Funds, and Distressed Asset Funds.
Category III AIFs
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- Use advanced trading methods and can use leverage including derivatives.
- May be open-ended or close-ended funds.
- Examples are Hedge Funds and PIPE Funds.
Who are Regulated Entities (REs)?
- Institutions supervised by regulators like RBI, SEBI, IRDAI to maintain financial system stability and compliance.
- Examples include banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs), insurance companies, etc.
- RBI’s new draft guidelines focus on how these entities invest in AIFs.
Importance of the RBI’s Draft Guidelines
- To ensure that investments by regulated institutions in AIFs are safe and transparent.
- To prevent financial risks such as fraud or money laundering.
- To support a balanced growth of the alternative investment sector while protecting the broader financial system.
OVERSEAS CITIZEN OF INDIA (OCI)
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The Union Home Minister recently launched the new Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Portal in New Delhi to ease the application process and improve services for OCI cardholders.
What is Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)?
- OCI is a scheme introduced in 2005 by amending the Citizenship Act, 1955.
- It allows certain foreign nationals with Indian origin to register as OCI cardholders, giving them lifelong visa and many rights in India.
- OCI is not the same as dual citizenship but offers several benefits similar to those of Non-Resident Indians (NRIs).
Who is Eligible for OCI?
- Foreign nationals who were Indian citizens anytime after January 26, 1950.
- Persons eligible to be Indian citizens on January 26, 1950.
- Those belonging to areas that became part of India after August 15, 1947.
- Children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren of such Indian citizens.
- Minor children of above persons.
- Foreign spouse of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders, married for at least two years before applying.
Note:
- Persons with parents, grandparents, or great-grandparents from Pakistan, Bangladesh, or other notified countries are generally not eligible.
- Applicants must be “ordinarily resident” in India or the foreign country for at least six continuous months.
Benefits of OCI Card
- Multiple entry, multi-purpose lifelong visa for India.
- No need to register as foreigners regardless of length of stay.
- Economic, financial, and educational rights similar to NRIs.
- Equal treatment in domestic airfare, national park entry fees, and inter-country adoption.
- Professional opportunities in fields like medicine, law, architecture, etc., subject to eligibility tests.
Limitations of OCI
- OCI is not dual citizenship and does not grant political rights like voting or holding public office.
- OCI holders cannot hold constitutional posts or government jobs normally.
- Prior government permission is required for missionary work, journalism, mountaineering, etc.
- OCI holders require permits to enter protected or restricted areas in India.
Renunciation and Cancellation
- OCI cardholders can renounce their OCI status voluntarily by making a declaration.
- The government can cancel OCI registration if it was obtained fraudulently or if the OCI shows disaffection towards India’s Constitution or engages in activities against India during war times.
- Cancellation of OCI for adults leads to cancellation for their minor children as well.
The post Daily Current Affairs 21-May-2025 first appeared on Ekam IAS Academy.