MISINFORMATION A BIGGER THREAT THAN COVID-19 UPTICK
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
COVID-19 cases in India have shown a slight increase recently, sparking media attention and public concern. Health experts emphasize that misinformation around COVID-19 poses a larger risk than the actual infection rates.
Background and Context
- India’s reported COVID-19 cases have risen from very low numbers to a few hundred daily since mid-May 2025.
- Wastewater testing also shows a higher presence of the virus in several cities.
- Countries like Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, and South Korea are also seeing similar trends.
The Circulating Variant
- The dominant variant behind the current cases is JN.1 (also known as Pirola), a sub-lineage of the Omicron variant first identified in Luxembourg in August 2023.
- JN.1 has been in India since late 2023; it hasn’t shown any significant differences in symptoms compared to earlier Omicron strains.
- Some new sub-lineages like LF.7 and NB.1.8 have emerged but haven’t caused severe illness
Reasons for the Uptick
- Seasonal Pattern: Respiratory viruses often follow seasonal cycles, influenced by temperature, humidity, human behaviour, and viral changes.
- RNA Virus Mutations: SARS-CoV-2, like other RNA viruses, changes frequently, leading to new sub-lineages that may contribute to mild case increases.
- Enhanced Surveillance: Testing has increased due to global monitoring, leading to the detection of more cases even if the virus was already present.
Immunity and Disease Severity
- Most people have developed “hybrid immunity” through vaccines and past infections, providing protection from severe disease.
- Even if infections occur, they are typically mild with no significant hospitalizations or deaths reported.
- Immune system memory cells can fight off reinfections effectively.
Perspective on the Numbers
- Compared to other diseases like tuberculosis (8,000 new cases daily) or deaths from chronic illnesses (30,000 daily), COVID-19 case numbers remain very low.
- Deaths from COVID-19 are minimal — about one or two a day — compared to TB and other respiratory diseases.
- Counting all positive cases as “active” cases inflates the perceived threat unnecessarily.
Vaccination Advisory
- No new COVID-19 vaccine doses are currently recommended in India.
- Nearly everyone has received primary vaccinations, and exposure to Omicron has strengthened immunity.
- Additional COVID-19 vaccines are not required unless a new variant of concern emerges.
- Vaccination for flu and other age-appropriate diseases is more beneficial.
Conclusion
The recent COVID-19 rise aligns with seasonal patterns and is not a major health crisis. The focus should be on factual reporting, avoiding panic and rumors that can cause unnecessary fear and overburden the health system.
NET FDI INFLOW PLUMMETS
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
The RBI highlighted a significant drop in net FDI inflows to just $353 million in 2024-25, despite headline gross inflows being reported as $81 billion. This decline, relative to GDP, raises concerns about India’s investment climate and foreign investor confidence.
Why FDI is important:
- Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) is a crucial indicator of investor confidence and plays a key role in enhancing a country’s productive capacity, technology transfer, and overall economic growth.
- However, recent data shows a worrying decline in net FDI inflows relative to India’s GDP, suggesting possible underlying challenges.
Decline in FDI Relative to GDP
- Gross FDI inflows fell from 3.1% of GDP in 2020-21 to 2.1% in 2024-25.
- Net FDI has shown an even sharper decline, from 1.6% of GDP to nearly zero in the same period.
- This indicates that outward FDI (Indian companies investing abroad) and disinvestment (foreign investors pulling out funds) are offsetting the inflows.
Rise of Outward FDI and Disinvestment
- Outward FDI often involves investments in foreign markets, sometimes including financial flows to tax havens like Singapore and Mauritius.
- These countries also feature among the largest sources of India’s FDI inflows, raising concerns about possible “round-tripping” or tax arbitrage.
- Some studies, like those by Blanchard and Acalin, highlight that measured FDI often reflects global financial movements rather than real investment in productive capacity.
Brownfield vs. Greenfield Investments
- The share of private equity (PE) and venture capital (VC) in FDI has grown significantly, from around 12% in 2009-10 to about 76% in 2020-21.
- These funds often invest in existing firms and aim to sell their stakes during stock market booms for quick returns.
- Such investments contribute less to new production capacity or technology transfer compared to greenfield FDI, which involves building new plants and facilities.
Impact on Domestic Investment
- FDI inflows have contributed modestly to India’s gross fixed capital formation (GFCF), peaking at about 7.5% in FY21 and declining since then.
- This suggests that despite high headline inflows, FDI’s role in expanding India’s productive base remains limited.
- The decline in net FDI also reflects broader concerns about India’s industrial competitiveness and domestic investment climate.
What is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)?
- FDI is when a foreign company or individual invests directly in a business in another country (like building factories, setting up operations, or acquiring a local company).
- It involves long-term commitment and management control.
Difference from Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI)
- FDI involves direct ownership and management of a business.
- FPI is about buying shares, bonds, or financial assets without taking control of the company.
- FPI is easier to pull out quickly (short-term), while FDI is more stable.
Conclusion
The sharp drop in net FDI relative to GDP points to deeper structural issues, including a reliance on financial flows and tax-driven investments. Policymakers may need to reform FDI regulations to ensure foreign investments align with India’s development priorities and strengthen domestic industrial capacity.
PRESIDENT’S RULE: IMPOSITION, PROCEDURE, AND JUDICIAL OVERSIGHT
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Manipur has been under President’s Rule since February 2025 due to political instability and security challenges. Recently, 10 MLAs met the Governor requesting the formation of a stable government.
What is President’s Rule?
- President’s Rule refers to the suspension of a state’s elected government and direct governance by the Centre.
- It is imposed when the state government cannot be run according to the provisions of the Constitution.
Constitutional Provisions and Articles
- Article 356: Allows the President to assume control of a state’s governance if there is a failure of constitutional machinery. Based on the Governor’s report or otherwise, the President can issue a proclamation.
- Article 365: States that if a state fails to follow directions from the Union, it is deemed that governance cannot be carried on per the Constitution.
- Article 357: Permits Parliament to confer powers on the President or other authorities to perform state functions during President’s Rule.
- Article 365 often acts as a trigger for Article 356, particularly when the state does not comply with central directions.
Parliamentary Approval and Duration
- The proclamation must be approved by both Houses of Parliament within two months by a simple majority.
- Initially valid for six months; can be extended every six months with parliamentary approval.
- Cannot extend beyond three years in total.
- After three years, President’s Rule can only continue if:
- A national emergency is in operation, or
- The Election Commission certifies that elections cannot be held.
Revocation of President’s Rule
By the President’s Proclamation
- Article 356(3): President’s Rule can be revoked at any time by the President, simply by issuing another proclamation stating that it no longer applies. No parliamentary approval is required for revocation.
Automatic Revocation on Expiry
- Article 356(4) and (5): President’s Rule ceases to operate after 6 months unless both Houses of Parliament approve its continuation.
- It can be extended every 6 months with parliamentary approval, up to a maximum of 3 years (Article 356 and Article 356(5)).
Judicial Review
- Under S.R. Bommai case (1994), the Supreme Court ruled that the imposition or continuation of President’s Rule is subject to judicial review.
- If found unconstitutional, the Court can order revocation.
Historical Context and Misuse
- Dr. B.R. Ambedkar hoped that Article 356 would remain a “dead letter,” but it has been frequently misused.
- Often imposed for reasons like loss of majority, political differences, or electoral defeats in Parliament rather than genuine constitutional breakdown.
- Different Governors adopted varying approaches regarding dissolution:
- In Kerala (1970) and Punjab (1971), assemblies were dissolved on advice from a Chief Minister with doubtful majority.
- In other states (Punjab 1967, UP 1968), efforts were made to find alternate governments rather than immediate dissolution.
Supreme Court’s Stance
- Initially, courts avoided intervening in the imposition of President’s Rule.
- S.R. Bommai Case (1994):
- Imposition is subject to judicial review.
- Should be applied only for breakdown of constitutional machinery, not mere law and order issues.
- Till Parliament approval, the Legislative Assembly cannot be dissolved but kept under suspended animation.
- Post-Bommai, courts have checked misuse in cases like Bihar (2005), Uttarakhand (2016), and Arunachal Pradesh (2016).
Revocation of President’s Rule
- Typically revoked after elections when a new government with a majority is formed.
- In Manipur, the assembly’s term lasts till March 2027, so a government with assembly support can still be formed.
Unitary Features of President’s Rule
Central Control over State – During President’s Rule, the centre directly controls the administration of the state, showcasing the unitary tilt of the Indian Constitution in times of emergency.
No Elected Government – The elected government is dismissed, and the President’s Rule makes the state machinery accountable to the Centre instead of its own assembly.
Conclusion
President’s Rule is a constitutional safeguard but has been misused for political reasons. Judicial scrutiny and political maturity are essential to uphold federalism and constitutional principles.
IMPACT OF HEATWAVES ON INDIA’S LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY
TOPIC: (GS3) ECONOMY: THE HINDU
Heatwaves in India are intensifying, with record-breaking temperatures reported in early April 2025.Recent reports by the International Labour Organization (ILO) and World Bank highlight massive productivity losses and health risks
What are heat wawes?
- Heatwaves are extended periods of abnormally high temperatures, mainly between March and June.
- India’s vulnerability to heatwaves is rising due to climate change and rapid urbanization, affecting the economy and workers’ well-being.
- A heat wave is declared in India when: (IMD guidelines) The maximum temperature recorded at a station reaches at least 40°C in plains, 37°C in coastal areas, and 30°C in hilly regions.
Economic Impact
- A 2024 ILO report estimated that India lost around $100 billion due to reduced productivity from heat stress.
- Small businesses and informal sector workers, such as construction workers, street vendors, and farmers, are worst affected.
- Excessive heat can also lower agricultural output. For example, just a 1°C increase can reduce wheat yields by around 5%.
Labour Force at Risk
- According to the World Bank, about 75% of India’s workforce—roughly 380 million people—are engaged in heat-exposed jobs.
- India accounts for 34 million of the 80 million global job losses projected due to heat stress.
- Informal workers often lack protection from heat, leading to health issues and reduced income.
Health and Productivity Effects
- Informal sector workers in cities like Delhi earned 40% less during heatwave days compared to other days.
- Many reported reduced sleep quality, increased sickness in families, and difficulty attending work.
- Factory workers also showed lower productivity and more absenteeism during hot days; a 1°C rise in temperature can reduce manufacturing output by around 2%.
Rural Impact
- Though agricultural work slows down in peak summer, many farmers shift to non-farm jobs like construction and road building, exposing them to severe heat risks.
- Livestock also suffer during heatwaves, impacting rural incomes.
Measures Taken
- The National Disaster Management Authority and Union Ministry of Home Affairs have released guidelines to protect workers, including ensuring water, medical care, appropriate clothing, and adjusted work hours.
- Most focus is on urban areas, but rural areas need better healthcare infrastructure to reduce heat-related illnesses.
International Labour Organization (ILO)
- Founded in 1919, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland — the oldest UN agency focused on labour rights and social justice.
- Tripartite Structure — uniquely includes representatives from governments, employers, and workers.
- Sets international labour standards — through conventions and recommendations on issues like child labour, minimum wages, and decent work.
- India is a founding member — and ratifies key conventions like C138 (Minimum Age) and C182 (Worst Forms of Child Labour).
Conclusion
Heatwaves significantly harm India’s workforce, economy, and agriculture. Effective action plans and protection measures are essential to safeguard workers and sustain productivity.
EVOLUTION OF BATTLEFIELD TECHNOLOGIES
TOPIC: (GS3) SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY: THE HINDU
World War I: Introduction of Machine Guns
- The invention of the machine gun revolutionized warfare by enabling a single weapon to fire hundreds of rounds per minute, leading to devastating defensive capabilities.
- Traditional offensive tactics became obsolete, resulting in trench warfare and prolonged stalemates.
World War II: Emergence of Tanks and Aircraft
- Germany’s “Blitzkrieg” strategy combined fast-moving tanks and aircraft to execute rapid, coordinated attacks, bypassing static defenses like France’s Maginot Line.
- This marked a transition to highly mobile and dynamic battlefronts.
Cold War Era: Development of Missiles
- The launch of Germany’s V-2 rocket in 1944 introduced long-range ballistic missiles, allowing attacks from great distances without risking pilot lives.
- Missiles became central to strategic deterrence and power projection.
21st Century: Rise of Drones
- Drones offer real-time control, surveillance, and precision strikes without endangering human operators.
- They have become cost-effective tools for both state and non-state actors, altering traditional warfare dynamics.
Operation Spider Web: A Paradigm Shift
- Ukraine’s innovative use of drones, launched from within Russian territory, demonstrated the potential of low-cost technology to inflict significant damage on a superior military force.
- The operation challenged existing air defence doctrines and highlighted vulnerabilities in traditional military infrastructures.
- Ethical and Legal Considerations: Reflect on the challenges posed by unmanned and autonomous weapons in terms of accountability and international law.
- Future of Warfare: Anticipate how emerging technologies like AI and drone swarms may further redefine combat scenarios.
UKRAINE’S ‘OPERATION SPIDER WEB’ AND ITS IMPACT ON DRONE WARFARE
TOPIC: (GS2) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: THE HINDU
Ukraine carried out a bold drone strike named ‘Operation Spider Web’ on June 1, 2025, targeting multiple Russian airbases deep inside Russia, destroying many strategic bombers. This attack has changed the way drone warfare is viewed globally.
Background of Operation Spider Web
- Ukraine planned this operation for over 18 months to attack Russian airbases far from the frontline.
- The strike hit at least five Russian airbases, including one in Siberia, around 4,000 km away from the conflict zones.
- Ukraine claimed the attack caused damage worth $7 billion and destroyed 41 bomber aircraft.
- President Zelenskyy hailed the operation as a historic success.
Method of Attack: Trojan Horse Strategy
- Small FPV (First-Person View) drones were secretly smuggled into Russia inside mobile wooden cabins mounted on trucks.
- These cabins had remotely operated roofs that opened to launch the drones near the airbases.
- FPV drones are equipped with front cameras that send live video back to the operator, allowing precise control.
- The operation’s success partly relied on using Russian mobile networks for communication.
- It is believed some truck drivers were unaware of the drone cargo they were carrying.
Significance of the Attack
- The drones successfully destroyed a significant portion (about one-third) of Russia’s strategic bomber fleet, including rare and hard-to-replace models like A-50 early-warning planes and Tu-22M3 and Tu-95 bombers.
- Russia had fewer than 100 such bombers, making the damage substantial.
- This attack demonstrated the capability to carry out deep strikes inside enemy territory with low-cost drones.
How Operation Spider Web Changes Warfare
- Unlike previous drone attacks closer to the frontline, this operation used small drones far inside enemy borders during daytime.
- The use of swarm drones in hidden containers showed how easily drones can be deployed covertly.
- It revealed vulnerabilities in traditional military defenses against small, mobile, and precise drone attacks.
- Experts say such tactics could be replicated anywhere, with drones launched from trucks, ships, or containers to target key military assets globally.
Key Takeaways
- Innovative Warfare: Operation Spider Web is a new example of how drones can be used for surprise, precise, and large-scale attacks.
- Asymmetric Advantage: Even smaller or less equipped forces can damage powerful militaries using drones creatively.
- Strategic Impact: It forces militaries worldwide to rethink airbase defenses and prepare for drone swarm threats.
- Future Warfare Trends: This highlights the growing importance of drones and unmanned systems in modern and future conflicts.
GOA HAS RECENTLY ACHIEVED FULL LITERACY
TOPIC: (GS2) INDIAN POLITY: THE HINDU
Goa has recently achieved full literacy under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, highlighting progress towards India’s goal of achieving complete literacy by 2030.
Introduction
- ULLAS stands for Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society.
- It is a centrally sponsored programme started in 2022 and will run until 2027.
- The scheme aims to promote adult education, particularly for people aged 15 years and above who missed formal schooling.
Objectives
- To enable adults to become literate and integrate into society.
- To help them actively contribute to India’s growth story.
- To align adult education efforts with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
Key Components
- Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: Basic reading, writing, and calculation skills.
- Critical Life Skills: Includes health, financial literacy, and digital skills.
- Basic Education: Covers education up to class 8 level.
- Vocational Skills: Skills for employability and self-employment.
- Continuing Education: Encourages lifelong learning through libraries and online resources.
Implementation
- The programme follows a volunteer-based model.
- The ULLAS app allows learners and volunteers to register either directly or through surveyors.
- Learners can access study materials via the DIKSHA portal developed by NCERT.
Significance
- Reflects the spirit of Kartavya Bodh (sense of duty) towards nation-building.
- Supports the vision of making every citizen literate: “Jan Jan Saakshar.”
- Helps bridge the literacy gap and promote inclusive growth in the country.
NALSAROVAR BIRD SANCTUARY
TOPIC: (GS3) ENVIRONMENT: THE HINDU
Recently, the Sabine’s Gull, a rare Arctic seabird, was observed at Gujarat’s Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary. This is the first time it has been sighted in India since 2013, when it was seen in Kerala.
Geographical features:
- Nalsarovar Bird Sanctuary is a major wetland habitat located in Gujarat, about 64 km west of Ahmedabad.
- It is known for its rich biodiversity, especially for attracting a variety of migratory and resident bird species.
- Nalsarovar is a large freshwater lake, characterized by shallow waters and numerous small islands (around 360 islets).
- It covers an area of approximately 120.82 square kilometers.
- The sanctuary’s landscape is a mix of marshes, mudflats, and open water, making it ideal for bird habitats.
Historical Background
- The lake originated in the 15th century when a check dam was constructed across the Sabarmati River.
- Initially, it served irrigation and drinking water needs for surrounding villages.
- Gradually, locals noticed its importance for bird species, which led to conservation efforts.
- Under British rule in the early 20th century, its value as a wetland ecosystem was recognized.
- In 1969, the Gujarat government officially declared it a bird sanctuary.
- In 2012, it was designated a Ramsar site, highlighting its significance as a wetland of international importance.
Biodiversity
Flora
- The sanctuary supports 48 types of algae and 72 species of flowering plants.
- Common plants include Cyperus, Scirpus, Typha ungustata, Eleocharis, Ruppia, Potamogeton, Vallisneria, Naias, and Chara.
Fauna
- Home to over 250 bird species:
- Greater and lesser flamingos, pelicans, ducks, geese, cranes, cormorants, herons, egrets, ibises, spoonbills, teals, sarus cranes, moorhens, and various waders.
- Other animals include small herds of wild ass (southwest fringe), mongoose, jungle cat, Indian fox, jackal, wolf, and hyena.
Sabine’s Gull
- Scientific name: Xema sabini (also known as the fork-tailed gull or xeme).
- Habitat: Breeds in the subarctic and high Arctic regions of North America, Russia, Greenland, and Svalbard.
- Identification:
- Distinctive black-and-white wing pattern.
- Adults have a pale grey back, black primary feathers, white secondaries, and a forked white tail.
- IUCN Status: Least Concern.
Conclusion
The sighting of the Sabine’s Gull at Nalsarovar highlights the sanctuary’s significance as a crucial habitat for both resident and migratory birds. Conservation efforts should continue to protect its unique ecosystem and biodiversity.
The post Daily Current Affairs 03-June-2025 first appeared on Ekam IAS Academy.