“INDIA’S NEW URBAN WORRY — RISING OVERNUTRITION”
TOPIC: (GS2) SOCIAL JUSTICE: THE HINDU
A recent Nature study revealed that 84% of Hyderabad’s IT workers had fatty liver, highlighting the growing crisis of overnutrition and lifestyle-related diseases in India’s urban centres. The rising trend of obesity and metabolic illnesses is becoming a major public health concern.
Urban India’s Dual Nutrition Burden
- India faces a double challenge — undernutrition in some areas and overnutrition in cities.
- In 2021, India ranked second globally for obesity and overweight cases.
- The issue is sharply visible in IT hubs like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Pune.
- Easy access to unhealthy snacks and sedentary work culture worsen the problem.
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs): A Growing Risk
- As per WHO, NCDs caused 74% of all global deaths in 2019.
- These illnesses affect low and middle-income nations like India more.
- Working-age people are especially at risk due to urban lifestyles.
- South-East Asia may not meet the 2030 SDG targets on reducing early NCD deaths.
Tamil Nadu’s Health Crisis
- Chennai reports over 65% of deaths due to NCDs (2023–24 STEPS survey).
- Only 16% of treated hypertension cases have controlled BP; among youth (18–44 years), this drops to 9.3%.
- Less than 10% of young diabetics maintain proper sugar levels.
- Overweight affects 31.6%, obesity 14.2%; 94.2% eat too few fruits/vegetables.
Initiatives and Challenges
- Tamil Nadu’s Makkalai Thedi Maruthuvam has screened over 3.7 lakh workers since Jan 2024.
- Health walks and “Eat Right” challenges are being promoted.
- Still, growing fast food culture in cities hinders real progress.
Wider Population Impact
- NFHS-5 shows obesity increases with age and income.
- Among men, obesity rises from 7% (15–19 yrs) to 32% (40–49 yrs).
- Obesity is more common in the wealthier sections and urban areas.
- Waist-to-hip ratio, a risk factor, also rises significantly with age.
Food Industry and Regulation
- Ultra-processed foods dominate the market, offering low nutrition.
- FSSAI’s Eat Right India and “Aaj Se Thoda Kam” campaign aim to reduce sugar, salt, and fat.
- Proposals like Health Star Rating (HSR) on food labels face expert criticism.
- Supreme Court has asked for clear guidelines on food labelling.
Global Best Practice: Saudi Arabia
- Saudi Arabia taxes sugary and energy drinks, and limits sodium in food.
- It mandates calorie labels in restaurants and removed trans fats successfully.
- These measures are part of its Vision 2030 for better public health.
Conclusion
India’s urban health is at risk due to lifestyle changes and food habits. Strong policies, strict food regulations, and public awareness are vital to tackle overnutrition and prevent a future health emergency.
Mains Practice Question:
Q. India’s urban population is increasingly facing a new public health challenge of overnutrition, driven by sedentary lifestyles and ultra-processed diets. Discuss the socio-economic implications of this trend. Examine the role of government initiatives and suggest measures to address this emerging health crisis. (250 WORDS / 15 WORDS)
INDIA’S FARM TRADE AND FTAS WITH US, EU, UK
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: INDIAN EXPRESS
India is in talks for Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with the US, European Union, and UK, which could affect agricultural trade. While India currently exports more farm products than it imports, this surplus may shrink due to rising imports and tariff pressures.
Current Status of Agricultural Trade
- In 2024-25, India’s farm exports rose by 6.4% to $51.9 billion, while imports jumped 17.2% to $38.5 billion.
- The trade surplus in agriculture has reduced from $27.7 billion in 2013-14 to $13.4 billion in 2024-25.
- Overall, exports have grown modestly over the last decade, but imports have increased rapidly, especially of edible oils and pulses.
Main Export Commodities
- Marine Products: Mainly frozen shrimp exports to US, EU, and China; facing higher tariffs from the US.
- Rice: Basmati and non-basmati rice exports touched $12.5 billion in 2024-25, with major buyers in West Asia and Africa.
- Spices: India is a top exporter of chilli, cumin, turmeric, mint, etc., but has become a net importer of pepper and cardamom.
- Coffee & Tobacco: Gained from global supply shortages in Brazil, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
- Buffalo Meat: Crossed $4 billion in 2024-25, though below past peaks.
Major Import Items
- Vegetable Oils: Largest import item due to low oilseed productivity and weak procurement systems.
- Pulses: Imports hit $5.5 billion due to stagnant domestic production and low farmer incentives.
- Cotton & Rubber: India has become a net importer due to falling yields and stagnant output.
- Dry Fruits & Wines: Likely to increase with FTAs, especially from US and EU.
Impact of FTAs
- FTAs may lead to reduced tariffs, increasing the inflow of foreign agricultural goods.
- Pressure from US and EU to allow easier market access for GM crops like maize, soyabean, and cotton.
- Could impact domestic producers, especially small farmers, and further reduce the farm trade surplus.
Impacts of Free Trade Agreements (FTAs)
Better Market Access for Indian Products
- FTAs reduce import duties and trade barriers, helping Indian exporters reach new customers abroad.
- Example: India’s Basmati rice and marine products (like shrimp) get easier access to the EU and Middle East, boosting export volumes.
Improved Technology and Investment Inflow
- FTAs often lead to increased foreign investment and transfer of modern farming techniques, helping improve productivity.
- Example: Trade deals with the EU and US can bring in advanced technologies for food processing, cold storage, and value-added agriculture.
Consumer Benefit from Variety and Lower Prices
- Cheaper imports due to lower tariffs can increase product variety and reduce prices for Indian consumers.
- Example: Import of high-quality dry fruits, wines, and cheese from Europe becomes more affordable after FTAs.
Conclusion
As India negotiates FTAs with powerful economies, its farm trade balance faces risks. A cautious approach is needed to protect farmers while expanding export opportunities.
THE SILVER JUBILEE OF A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
India and Germany are marking 25 years of strategic partnership in 2025. This long-standing relationship is being strengthened across key areas like defence, economy, education, and green development.
India-Germany Strategic Partnership @ 25 Years
- India and Germany share a strategic partnership based on common values of democracy, peace, and sustainability.
- The partnership is built on four major pillars: Peace, Prosperity, People, and Planet.
Political and Defence Cooperation
- Both nations promote a rules-based global order and regional stability.
- They hold Intergovernmental Consultations, a high-level format of political dialogue.
- Defence ties have grown through:
- Joint military drills like Tarang Shakti (2024).
- Naval cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.
- Plans for closer defence industry collaboration.
Economic Growth and Technological Cooperation
- Around 2,000 German companies operate in India, providing jobs to over 7.5 lakh Indians.
- German expertise is visible in infrastructure projects like the Delhi-Meerut Rapid Rail, managed with Deutsche Bahn support.
- Indian firms are increasingly becoming part of German high-tech supply chains.
- The India-EU Free Trade Agreement, currently under discussion, could further deepen economic ties.
- Both nations work together on scientific research and technology development, especially in sectors like green energy.
People-to-People Connections
- Over 50,000 Indian students are studying in Germany, making them the largest foreign student group there.
- Many Indian professionals contribute to the German economy and culture, some return to India with experience, while others settle permanently.
- Interest in the German language is growing in India, with efforts to meet the demand for German teachers.
- The ambassador highlighted the need to encourage more Germans to study, work, and invest in India.
Green and Sustainable Development
- In 2022, Germany pledged €10 billion in loans and grants over 10 years under the Green and Sustainable Development Partnership (GSDP).
- Key areas of cooperation include: Renewable energy projects (solar and wind farms in Gujarat). Smart cities and biodiversity conservation.
- German technology supports India’s clean energy goals, contributing to a low-carbon future.
STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
A strategic partnership is a formal relationship between two countries where they cooperate in key areas of mutual interest such as defence, economy, science & technology, education, energy, and global governance — beyond routine diplomatic ties.
Key Features:
- Involves high-level political trust and regular engagement (like summits and ministerial meetings).
- Focuses on long-term cooperation in strategic areas like:
- Defence and security
- Trade and investment
- Science, tech and innovation
- Climate and energy
- People-to-people exchanges
Conclusion
The Indo-German partnership, rooted in shared goals, has grown significantly in the past 25 years and holds great promise for future collaboration in defence, economy, education, and green development.
EARLY ARRIVAL OF MONSOON IN INDIA
TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: THE HINDU
In 2025, the southwest monsoon arrived over Kerala on May 24, about a week earlier than usual. This early onset has raised questions about the reasons behind it, its implications, and the role of climate phenomena like El Niño and La Niña.
Monsoon Onset
- Normally, the southwest monsoon begins around June 1 in Kerala and then spreads across India.
- Early arrivals like this year’s (May 24) are uncommon but not unprecedented; the earliest recorded was May 19 in 1990.
- While an early monsoon arrival is often welcomed, it does not always guarantee a good rainfall season. Late monsoons beyond two weeks usually lead to rainfall shortages.
WHAT IS MONSOON?
Monsoon means a seasonal wind that changes direction during the year. It brings heavy rainfall during certain months, especially in South Asia.
How Does Monsoon Happen?
Sun Heats the Land and Sea Differently:
- During summer, the land (India) heats up faster than the sea (Indian Ocean).
- Hot air rises from the land, creating low pressure.
Air Moves From Sea to Land:
- Since the sea is cooler, the air pressure there is higher.
- Winds blow from high pressure (sea) to low pressure (land).
Moisture from the Sea:
- The wind from the ocean carries lots of water vapor (moisture).
- When this moist air reaches land and rises, it cools and forms clouds.
Heavy Rainfall:
- The clouds release the moisture as rain, causing the monsoon rains.
Challenges in Predicting Monsoon Onset
- The monsoon onset is influenced by complex weather systems, and scientists have not fully agreed on all the factors controlling its timing.
- The movement of the monsoon trough (a low-pressure zone) from the northwestern Pacific Ocean, through the Bay of Bengal, to Kerala plays a crucial role but remains difficult to predict.
- Factors like global warming, changing ocean temperatures, and atmospheric patterns add uncertainty to these predictions.
Role of Climate Phenomena: El Niño and La Niña
- El Niño (warming of Pacific Ocean) and La Niña (cooling of Pacific Ocean) affect monsoon rains but do not consistently predict the exact onset date.
- For example, in 2009, an early monsoon onset coincided with a mild El Niño year, but the season resulted in a severe drought.
- In 2025, the global temperature is higher than previous years, with unusual patterns in Pacific Ocean temperatures, complicating forecasts.
How the Monsoon Reaches Kerala
- The monsoon arrives when the trough moves into the Indian Ocean region. This movement can be influenced by tropical cyclones and low-pressure systems.
- Increased cyclones near the monsoon season, possibly linked to Arctic warming, have the potential to pull the monsoon trough forward, causing an earlier onset.
- External factors like typhoons in the Pacific can also affect moisture availability, sometimes delaying or advancing monsoon arrival.
Is the Early Onset a Sign of Future Trends?
- Studies suggest a slight delay in monsoon onset over decades, but natural variability means early arrivals will still occur occasionally.
- Climate change adds complexity, possibly altering traditional patterns of monsoon timing and intensity.
- The current forecasts predict a neutral year regarding El Niño and the Indian Ocean Dipole, which might mean 2025 behaves differently from years like 2009.
Changing Rainfall Patterns and Impacts
- Apart from onset timing, the distribution of rainfall during the monsoon is becoming more erratic, with alternating floods and droughts in various regions.
- The withdrawal of the monsoon is also shifting, sometimes overlapping with the northeast monsoon, causing changes in rainfall cycles.
Conclusion
The early monsoon arrival in 2025 highlights the complexity of predicting monsoon behavior due to many interacting factors like natural climate variability and global warming. While early onset is promising, it does not ensure a successful monsoon season. Continuous research and monitoring are essential to improve monsoon forecasts and manage water resources effectively.
Prelims Practice Question:
Q.Which of the following statements regarding the Indian Monsoon is/are correct?
- The differential heating of land and sea is a primary cause of the monsoon.
- The southwest monsoon winds bring rainfall to most parts of India during the summer.
- The retreating monsoon occurs during the winter season and is associated with heavy rainfall across the entire country.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
- 1 and 2 only
- 2 and 3 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- The monsoon is mainly caused due to the differential heating of land and sea.
- The southwest monsoon winds bring most of the annual rainfall to India during summer.
- The retreating monsoon occurs in autumn (not winter) and mainly causes rainfall in southeastern India, especially Tamil Nadu, not the entire country.
AS U.S. PULLS BACK, CHINA IS PRIMED TO EXPAND ITS SOFT POWER
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
With the U.S. stepping back from key global platforms like the WHO and the Paris Agreement, China is steadily increasing its financial support and global engagement, expanding its soft power influence worldwide.
China’s Growing Soft Power Amid U.S. Retreat
U.S. Withdrawal from Global Platforms
- Under Donald Trump’s presidency, the U.S. exited major global agreements, including:
- The World Health Organization (WHO)
- The Paris Climate Agreement under the UNFCCC
- The U.S. claimed these institutions were unfair and costly, and accused WHO of bias during the COVID-19 crisis.
China Steps Up Global Role
- China pledged an additional $500 million to WHO over five years.
- Its WHO funding share increased from 6.5% (2015–16) to 15% (2024–25).
- Though still behind the U.S.’s 20% share, China is narrowing the gap.
Climate Finance Shift
- The U.S. withdrew its financial commitments to the UNFCCC.
- China’s share in the UNFCCC’s core budget has grown to 17%, making it the second-largest contributor after the U.S.
Rise as a Global Lender
- China has become the largest bilateral lender globally.
- Its share in global bilateral debt rose from 1% (2003) to 26% (2023).
- In contrast, the U.S.’s share dropped from 36% (1973) to just 4% in 2023.
Changing Global Perceptions
- A Pew survey (2024) showed that over 60% of people in 21 countries believe China strongly impacts their economies.
- The Democracy Perception Index (2024) revealed:
- 76 out of 96 countries had a more favourable view of China than the U.S.
- China’s leadership has accepted that multilateral cooperation will continue without the U.S..
SOFT POWER
Soft power is the ability of a country to influence others and shape international outcomes through persuasion, attraction, and values rather than through force or coercion (which is known as hard power).
The term was coined by Joseph Nye, an American political scientist.
Features of Soft Power:
- Relies on culture, diplomacy, values, and foreign policy.
- It is non-coercive and works by winning hearts and minds.
- Builds trust and influence globally.
Examples of Soft Power:
China’s Global Aid and Investments:
- China provides loans and infrastructure through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
- It invests in global health (e.g., donations to WHO) and climate projects.
India’s Cultural Diplomacy:
- Promotion of Yoga, Ayurveda, and the International Day of Yoga.
- Global respect for India’s democratic values and education (e.g., IITs, ISRO’s space diplomacy).
U.S. Media and Education:
- Global popularity of Hollywood, American universities, and tech companies.
- Promotes values of freedom, democracy, and entrepreneurship.
Conclusion
China is using economic tools and global funding to fill the leadership void left by the U.S., strengthening its soft power and influence in multilateral institutions.
MADDEN-JULIAN OSCILLATION (MJO) AND EARLY MONSOON ONSET
TOPIC: (GS1) GEOGRAPHY: INDIAN EXPRESS
In May 2025, the southwest monsoon reached Kerala and Mumbai unusually early. According to IMD, one of the main reasons for this early arrival is the active phase of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO).
What is the MJO?
- The Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) is a moving weather pattern near the equator.
- It affects rainfall and wind patterns and plays a major role in the timing and intensity of the Indian monsoon.
- The MJO is a system of clouds, winds, and pressure changes that moves from west to east around the equator.
- Named after Roland Madden and Paul Julian, who discovered it in 1971.
- Travels at a speed of 4–8 meters per second.
- Usually completes one cycle around the Earth in 30–60 days, though it may take up to 90 days.
How MJO Works:
- MJO has two phases:
- Active phase: Brings increased cloud cover and higher rainfall.
- Suppressed phase: Reduces cloud formation and leads to less rainfall.
- These phases alternate, and the impact is felt mainly in tropical regions (30° North to 30° South), including India.
- It can influence global weather patterns even beyond the tropics.
Link with Indian Monsoon:
- When the MJO is active over the Indian Ocean, it enhances rainfall and promotes the onset of the monsoon.
- Its active phase encourages cyclonic systems and moisture flow into the Indian subcontinent.
- In June 2015, MJO activity led to nearly 20 days of heavy rainfall in India.
MJO and El Niño Connection:
- Studies show some connection between MJO and El Niño (Pacific Ocean warming).
- A strong El Niño often reduces monsoon rainfall, but may still allow for active MJO events.
- This year, despite a strong El Niño, the MJO was strong, aiding early monsoon onset.
Impact in 2025:
- Monsoon arrived in Kerala on May 24, 8 days early.
- It reached Mumbai by May 26, the earliest ever recorded.
- MJO activity was a key factor behind this early arrival.
THE GENERAL ONSET TIME OF THE MONSOON IN INDIA
Kerala (Southwest coast): Around 1st June
It gradually advances northward and covers:
-
- Mumbai: Around 10th June
- Delhi: Around 27th June
- Entire country: By 15th July
Conclusion
The Madden-Julian Oscillation is a crucial short-term climate driver for tropical rainfall. Its active phase can significantly influence India’s monsoon onset and intensity.
IMPEACHMENT OF JUDGES
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
The impeachment of judges is a constitutional process to remove judges of the Supreme Court or High Courts for proven misconduct or incapacity. It ensures judicial accountability while maintaining the independence of the judiciary, which is vital for upholding the Constitution and rule of law.
Constitutional Provisions
- Article 124(4): Deals with the removal of a Supreme Court judge.
- Article 124(5): Empowers Parliament to make a law regulating the removal process.
- The same provisions apply to High Court judges under Article 217 read with Article 124.
Grounds for Removal
A judge can be removed only on:
- Proved misbehaviour
- Incapacity
Procedure for Impeachment
Initiation of Motion:
- A removal motion must be signed by at least 100 Lok Sabha members or 50 Rajya Sabha members.
- It is submitted to the Speaker (Lok Sabha) or Chairman (Rajya Sabha).
Scrutiny Committee:
- If accepted, a three-member inquiry committee is formed.This includes a Supreme Court judge, Chief Justice of a High Court, and a distinguished jurist.
- The committee investigates and submits a report.
Parliamentary Approval:
- If the committee finds the judge guilty, both Houses of Parliament must pass the motion with:
- Majority of total membership, and
- Two-thirds majority of members present and voting.
Presidential Order:
- Once passed by both Houses, the President issues the removal order.
Conclusion
The impeachment process is detailed and rigorous, ensuring fair trial and checks. However, no judge has ever been successfully impeached in India so far.
PRELIMS PRACTICE QUESTION:
Q. With reference to the impeachment of a Judge of the Supreme Court in India, consider the following statements:
- The motion for impeachment can only be introduced in the Lok Sabha.
- The charge against the judge must be for proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
- The process of investigation is conducted by a committee comprising a Supreme Court judge, a High Court Chief Justice, and an eminent jurist.
- Once both Houses pass the impeachment motion by a special majority, the President is bound to remove the judge.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
- 1, 2 and 3 only
- 2, 3 and 4 only
- 1 and 4 only
- 2 and 4 only
Answer: B
Explanation:
- The motion for impeachment can be introduced in either House of Parliament.
- Article 124(4) provides for removal only on the grounds of proved misbehaviour or incapacity.
- The Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968 mandates a 3-member committee comprising:
- A Supreme Court judge,
- A Chief Justice of a High Court, and
- An eminent jurist.
- Once the motion is passed in both Houses by a special majority, the President must issue the order for removal.
SENKAKU ISLANDS
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Japan has raised serious concerns about the prolonged presence of Chinese Coast Guard vessels near the Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea, marking one of the longest incursions into Japanese territorial waters. This has intensified the ongoing territorial dispute between Japan and China.
Location and Geography
- The Senkaku Islands are a small, uninhabited group of islands located in the East China Sea.
- They lie about 90 nautical miles north of Japan’s Yaeyama Islands in Okinawa Prefecture and roughly 120 nautical miles northeast of Taiwan.
- The islands include Uotsuri Island, Kuba Island, Taisho Island (also known as Kumeakashima), Kitakojima Island, Minamikojima Island, Tobise Island, Okinokitaiwa Island, and Okinominamiiwa Island.
- The total land area is approximately 6.3 square kilometers, with Uotsuri Island being the largest at about 3.6 square kilometers.
Geological Features
- The islands are made up of different rock types such as sandstone, conglomerate, tuff, and andesite lava, with coral formations raised during the Holocene period.
- The surrounding region is volcanically active and shaped by geological faults, which continue to influence the islands’ land formation.
Territorial Dispute
- The Senkaku Islands are claimed by Japan, China, and Taiwan, each referring to them by different names: Japan calls them Senkaku, China calls them Diaoyu, and Taiwan calls them Diaoyutai.
- The dispute centers on sovereignty rights and control over the surrounding maritime resources and strategic location.
Historical and Administrative Background
- Japan formally incorporated the islands into its territory in 1895, and they have not been administered by any other country before this.
- Presently, Japan administers the islands as part of Ishigaki City in Okinawa Prefecture and maintains effective control over them.
Recent Developments
- Chinese Coast Guard ships have recently made extended incursions near the islands, causing diplomatic tensions with Japan.
- This persistent presence is one of the longest such intrusions recorded, raising concerns over regional security and maritime sovereignty.
Conclusion
The Senkaku Islands remain a sensitive geopolitical issue in East Asia, with overlapping claims by Japan, China, and Taiwan. The recent increased Chinese activities near the islands have escalated tensions, making it a critical focus in regional diplomacy and security.
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