TGPSC Daily Current Affairs - 11th February 2026
Relevance:
TGPSC GR I Paper–II: History, Culture and Geography
For Prelims:
- Asmaka (Assaka) Mahajan pada, 16 Mahajan padas, Satavahana Dynasty, Satakarni I, Naganika, Kumara Hakusiri, Balikaya Hakusiri, Epigraphical Survey, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), 1st–5th Century CE Inscriptions, Bodan (Capital of Asmaka), Nizamabad, Buddhist Cave, Rock Paintings
For Mains:
- Archaeological Evidence vs Literary Sources, Early Historic Telangana, Mahajanapada Polity, State Formation in Ancient India, Satavahana Expansion in Deccan, Buddhist Patronage, Heritage Conservation, Protected Monument Status, Buddhist Tourism Circuit, Regional Identity and History, Centre–State Coordination in Heritage Protection
Why in News?
Historians and archaeologists have urged the Telangana government to protect and develop Sitamaloddi in the Gundaram reserve forest of Peddapalli district after inscriptions confirmed that the region formed part of the ancient Asmaka Mahajanapada, one of the 16 Mahajanapadas of early India.
Discovery of an Early Satavahana Site
An epigraphical survey conducted by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) uncovered an early Satavahana site at Sitamaloddi.
- 11 inscriptions dated between the 1st and 5th centuries CE were discovered.
- One inscription mentions Kumara Hakusiri, son of Satakarni I and Naganika, as the ruler of Asmaka Rajya.
- This inscription provides strong archaeological evidence that parts of present-day Telangana were under the Asmaka kingdom.
Another inscription found in Mukkataraopeta (2020) referred to Balikaya Hakusiri as a minor ruler of Asmaka Rajyam. However, the inscription was later damaged after estampage, according to ASI’s Director (Epigraphy), Dr. K. Muniratnam Reddy.
Asmaka Mahajanapada: Historical Context
The Asmaka (Assaka) Mahajanapada was one of the 16 Mahajanapadas that flourished in the 6th century BCE, alongside Magadha, Kosala, Kashi, Anga, and Vajji.
- The Asmaka region corresponds to present-day Karimnagar and Nizamabad districts.
- Bodan is believed to have been its capital.
Until now, references to Asmaka largely came from Puranic texts. The newly discovered inscriptions provide tangible archaeological validation of these literary sources.
The inscriptions also Evidence of Satavahana Patronage of Buddhism
shed light on the religious and cultural environment of the period.
- They indicate Satavahana patronage of Buddhism, including gifts and shelter provided to monks.
- The site contains a Buddhist cave, strengthening its potential inclusion in the Buddhist tourism circuit.
The area reportedly resembles the prehistoric rock shelters of Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh), suggesting long-term cultural continuity.
Call for Protection and Development
Historians have requested that the site be brought under the protection of either the ASI or the State Heritage Department.
Dr. D. Raja Reddy, Chairman of the Numismatic Society of India, emphasized that the discovery offers “strong archaeological evidence” confirming early historical traditions about the Mahajanapadas.
The site was first noticed by photojournalist Ravinder Reddy, who identified rock paintings and informed experts, leading to official recognition of its archaeological importance.
Significance
- Provides epigraphic confirmation of Telangana’s link to the Asmaka Mahajanapada.
- Strengthens evidence of early Satavahana rule in the region.
- Highlights Buddhist cultural patronage.
- Opens scope for heritage tourism and academic research.
The discovery underscores the need for immediate conservation to preserve Telangana’s ancient civilizational legacy for future generations.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to the recent epigraphical survey by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), consider the following statements:
Statement I:
An early Satavahana site yielded 11 inscriptions dated between the 1st and 5th century CE.
Statement II:
One inscription mentions Kumara Hakusiri, son of Satakarni I and Naganika, as the ruler of Asmaka Rajya, indicating that Telangana was part of the Asmaka kingdom.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
Explanation:
- Statement I is correct: The ASI’s epigraphical survey identified an early Satavahana site with 11 inscriptions dated between the 1st and 5th century CE.
- Statement II is correct: One inscription refers to Kumara Hakusiri, son of Satakarni I and Queen Naganika, as ruler of Asmaka Rajya, suggesting that parts of present-day Telangana were included within the Asmaka kingdom.
- The Satavahanas were among the earliest Deccan dynasties (c. 1st century BCE – 3rd century CE).
- Asmaka (Assaka) is one of the 16 Mahajanapadas mentioned in ancient texts.
- Epigraphical evidence plays a crucial role in reconstructing early Deccan political history.
Relevance:
Prelims: Trade agreements, tariffs, Section 232, TRQs, digital trade, semiconductor supply chains
GS Paper II: Bilateral relations, trade diplomacy, economic partnerships
GS Paper III: External sector, manufacturing, digital economy, supply chains
Important Keywords
For Prelims:
- India–US Trade Agreement, Reciprocal Tariffs, Section 232, Tariff Rate Quota (TRQ), Digital Trade, Semiconductor Supply Chains, Strategic Technology, Conformity Assessment, Current Account Deficit, Global Value Chains
For Mains:
- Export Competitiveness, Economic Statecraft, Technology Partnerships, Supply Chain Resilience, Trade Facilitation, Manufacturing Growth, Strategic Autonomy, Digital Economy, Energy-Technology Nexus
Why in News?
- India and the United States have concluded a Bilateral Trade Agreement that significantly reduces tariffs on Indian exports.
- The agreement provides preferential access to a USD 30-trillion U.S. market, strengthening India’s export-led growth strategy.
- It combines tariff rationalisation, digital cooperation, and technology partnerships while safeguarding sensitive domestic sectors such as agriculture and MSMEs.
Key Takeaways
- India secured preferential access to a USD 30 trillion U.S. market.
- Tariffs on textiles and apparel reduced from 50% to 18%, while silk gets 0% duty in a USD 113 billion market.
- Machinery tariffs reduced to 18%, opening opportunities in a USD 477 billion market.
- USD 1.36 billion of Indian agricultural exports receive zero additional U.S. duty.
- Products such as spices, tea, coffee, fruits, nuts and processed foods gain zero-duty treatment.
- Highly sensitive sectors including dairy, meat, poultry and cereals remain fully protected.
What India Gets
- 18% competitive rate on USD 900 billion worth of U.S. global imports.
- Zero duty on USD 150 billion worth of imports.
- No additional duty on USD 720 billion worth of imports.
- Continued exemption on USD 350 billion worth of imports.
- Preferential treatment on 232 tariffs.
How Tariff Changes Benefit Indian Exports
Reciprocal Tariff Relief
Reciprocal tariffs were previously as high as 50%, impacting USD 40.96 billion of exports.
- USD 30.94 billion: Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%.
- USD 10.03 billion: Tariffs reduced from 50% to zero.
This ensures a large share of Indian goods will enter the U.S. at significantly lower costs, improving price competitiveness.
Exemption Category
- Zero additional reciprocal duty on USD 1.04 billion of exports.
- Agricultural products worth USD 1.035 billion assured zero tariff, providing stability for exporters.
Section 232 (End-Use Basis)
- Zero reciprocal duty for USD 28.30 billion of exports.
- Additional duties that could reach 50% have been eliminated.
Structural Competitive Advantage
The agreement creates a tariff differential in favour of India. Competing suppliers such as China (35%), Vietnam (20%), Bangladesh (20%), Malaysia (19%) and others continue to face higher tariffs, strengthening India’s relative positioning and expanding export opportunities.
Sectoral Gains
Textiles & Apparels
Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%, while silk gains 0% duty access in a USD 113 billion market. Major beneficiaries include garments, carpets, cotton and man-made textiles, bed linen, curtains, yarn and blankets. The agreement is expected to boost production clusters, support job creation and reinforce India’s role in global textile value chains.
Leather & Footwear
- Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%.
- Access improved in a USD 42 billion market.
- Benefiting products: finished leather, footwear and components.
Given the labour-intensive nature of the industry, expanded market access is likely to support manufacturing growth and employment, particularly among MSMEs.
Gems & Jewellery
- Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%.
- 0% duty secured for diamonds, platinum and coins (USD 29 billion market).
- Benefiting exports include cut and polished diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, coloured gemstones and precious metal articles.
Home Décor
Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%, opening a USD 52 billion market. Products such as furniture, cushions, quilts and lamps benefit. Additionally, seats, chandeliers and illuminated signs receive 0% duty covering a USD 13 billion market.
Toys
- Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%.
- Access to a USD 18 billion market improves.
- MSMEs expected to scale production and integrate into global supply chains.
Machinery and Parts (Excluding Aircraft Parts)
Tariffs reduced from 50% to 18%, enhancing access to a USD 477 billion market. With current exports at USD 2.35 billion, the revised tariff structure strengthens competitiveness and supports India’s manufacturing ambitions.
Agriculture: Expanding Opportunities While Safeguarding Farmers
India maintains a USD 1.3 billion agricultural trade surplus, with exports at USD 3.4 billion and imports at USD 2.1 billion.
Zero Duty Access
Exports worth USD 1.36 billion will face zero additional duty. Key products include:
- Spices
- Tea and coffee
- Coconut products
- Nuts (cashew, areca, Brazil nuts)
- Fruits and vegetables (mango, banana, kiwi, papaya)
- Bakery and cocoa products
- Sesame and poppy seeds
- Processed foods such as fruit pulp, juices and jams
Within this, products valued at USD 1.035 billion are assured zero reciprocal tariff.
Calibrated Market Opening
Market access is structured using multiple mechanisms:
- Immediate duty elimination
- Phased elimination (up to 10 years)
- Tariff reduction
- Margin of preference
- Tariff rate quotas
Fully Protected Sectors
Highly sensitive sectors remain protected, including:
- Dairy and poultry
- Meat and GM foods
- Millets, maize and cereals
- Pulses and oilseeds
- Certain fruits
- Animal feed products
- Honey, starch, ethanol and tobacco
Selective tariff reductions and quotas ensure domestic producers remain safeguarded while allowing limited imports.
Zero-Duty Access for Industrial Exports (USD 38 Billion)
Zero additional duty applies to several categories:
- Aircraft parts
- Machinery and components
- Generic drugs and pharmaceutical ingredients
- Elementary auto parts
- Diamonds and platinum
- Chemicals and instruments
- Paper, plastics, wood articles and natural rubber
Non-Agriculture Market Opening with Safeguards
Market access for industrial goods is structured strictly on product sensitivity through immediate elimination, phased reduction and quota-based access.
- Automobiles liberalised via quotas and duty reductions.
- Medical devices placed under long, staggered phasing schedules.
- Precious metals managed through quota-based tariff lowering.
These safeguards ensure liberalisation strengthens competitiveness without harming domestic manufacturing or employment.
Strengthening Trade Facilitation and Quality Ecosystems
The agreement advances trade facilitation by addressing non-tariff barriers while preserving India’s regulatory rights.
Key benefits include:
- Recognition of conformity assessments to reduce double testing.
- Alignment with international standards.
- Lower compliance costs for exporters.
- Deeper integration into global value chains, including the EU, UK and Japan.
ICT, Semiconductors and Digital India
The agreement strengthens India’s digital backbone by facilitating access to advanced semiconductor chips, server components and critical technology inputs required for expanding data centres and supporting the Digital India initiative. Streamlined licensing improves transparency, reduces administrative friction and enhances supply chain efficiency while preserving national security safeguards.
Health and Medical Infrastructure
Improved access to high-end diagnostic and surgical equipment will help scale advanced healthcare infrastructure, enhance affordability and accessibility, and improve patient outcomes.
India–U.S. Digital Trade Partnership
- Global digitally delivered services exports rose from USD 4.35 trillion (2023) to USD 4.78 trillion (2024).
- India’s digital exports reached USD 0.28 trillion, growing 10.3% year-on-year.
- India ranks 5th in exports and 11th in imports, while the U.S. ranks first in both.
A structured digital trade framework reduces regulatory uncertainty, lowers compliance friction and enables smoother cross-border service delivery. It is expected to boost SME participation, encourage U.S. investment and accelerate growth in AI, fintech, cloud computing and health-tech sectors.
Consumer Welfare
The agreement enables calibrated access to select imports that bridge demand gaps without disrupting domestic supply.
Key categories include:
- Tree nuts
- Fresh and processed fruits (berries)
- Premium oils
- Processed foods
- Wine and beverages
- Pet food
- Frozen fish such as salmon and cod
Limited access ensures imports supplement rather than replace domestic production, contributing to price stability and greater variety.
Intermediate Goods Strengthening Manufacturing
Access is facilitated for critical inputs that power India’s export engine, including rough diamonds, specialty chemicals, APIs, semiconductor wafers, electronic components, carbon fibres, precision tools, aerospace components, battery materials and fertilizer inputs. This supports value-added manufacturing and strengthens India’s role in global supply chains.
High Technology Imports
The agreement supports technological advancement through access to:
- Advanced medical devices
- AI chips and high-performance processors
- Semiconductor manufacturing equipment
- Cloud and telecom infrastructure
- Cybersecurity hardware
- Clean energy technologies
- Biotechnology and quantum research equipment
- Satellite and space components
- Advanced laboratory and testing equipment
A Forward-Looking Strategic Partnership
The India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement represents a transformative step in strengthening economic ties between two major global economies. By unlocking access to a USD 30 trillion market, rationalising tariffs, securing zero-duty benefits and reinforcing digital and strategic technology cooperation, the framework enhances India’s global trade positioning while safeguarding farmers, MSMEs and domestic industry. It balances growth with protection, competitiveness with resilience and expansion with national interest, positioning India for sustained economic progress.
CARE MCQ
Q. With reference to the India–U.S. Bilateral Trade Agreement, consider the following statements:
- Section 232 allows the U.S. to impose trade restrictions on national security grounds.
- Tariff Rate Quotas allow unlimited imports at concessional tariffs.
- Highly sensitive agricultural sectors such as dairy remain protected under the agreement.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 1 – Correct. Section 232 allows the U.S. to impose trade restrictions on national security grounds.
- Statement 2 – Incorrect (TRQs are quantity-limited)
- Statement 3 – Correct. Highly sensitive agricultural sectors such as dairy remain protected under the agreement.
Relevance:
GS Paper III (Infrastructure, Transport, Economic Development, Regulatory Framework)
For Prelims:
- FDTL norms, DGCA, ATF, UDAN scheme, Aviation Turbine Fuel, Duopoly, NOC (No Objection Certificate), Pilot-to-Aircraft Ratio, Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL), Market Concentration
For Mains:
- Infrastructure Stress, Regulatory Capacity, Aviation Safety Oversight, Market Concentration Risk, Economic Viability of Airlines, Transport Infrastructure, Public Policy Reform, Crisis Management vs Structural Reform, Regional Connectivity, Cost Volatility
Why in News?
India’s civil aviation sector has faced a turbulent year marked by safety incidents, large-scale flight disruptions, pilot shortages, and declining profitability at major carriers. With new regional airlines entering the market and domestic air traffic expanding rapidly, structural weaknesses in the system have come under sharp scrutiny.
India’s Aviation Boom: Growth with Fragility
- India is the third-largest domestic aviation market in the world.
- Operates 840+ aircraft and carries 350+ million passengers annually.
- Rapid expansion has increased connectivity but also strained system capacity.
- The June 2025 Ahmedabad crash highlighted serious safety concerns.
- The December 2025 IndiGo mass disruptions exposed operational weaknesses.
- These events were not isolated incidents but signs of deeper structural stress.
- Initial perception of airline-specific failure evolved into recognition of sector-wide vulnerabilities.
- Key issues include:
- Pilot shortages
- Regulatory bottlenecks
- High aircraft utilisation
- Limited spare capacity
- Tighter operational norms (e.g., duty time regulations) are increasing pressure on airlines.
- Peak travel seasons may further expose systemic fragility.
- Core warning: Rapid growth without parallel institutional strengthening risks long-term instability.
The Pilot Bottleneck: A Structural Weakness
The December disruption highlighted a severe pilot-to-aircraft mismatch.
- IndiGo operated over 360 aircraft with around 5,038 pilots, translating to a ratio of roughly 14 pilots per aircraft, below the global benchmark of 18–20 pilots for fatigue-mitigated operations.
- Implementation of revised Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms — reducing night duties and increasing mandatory rest — rendered existing schedules unsustainable.
- India requires an estimated 7,000 pilots (2024–26) and potentially 25,000–30,000 over the next decade.
- Between 2020 and 2024, only about 5,700 Commercial Pilot Licences (CPLs) were issued.
Training bottlenecks, simulator shortages, high costs, and regulatory delays have constrained supply. Airlines have resorted to foreign pilots, but these remain temporary and expensive stopgaps.
Compounding the issue is regulatory capacity. Nearly half of DGCA’s sanctioned technical posts remain vacant, weakening oversight in a rapidly expanding sector.
The Duopoly Problem: Concentration Risk
India’s domestic aviation market is highly concentrated:
- IndiGo controls ~63–65%
- Air India group holds ~27–28%
- Together, they account for nearly 90% of the domestic market
IndiGo operates as the sole carrier on approximately 60% of domestic routes. Disruptions at such a dominant carrier do not merely shift passengers to competitors; they eliminate connectivity altogether.
This concentration transforms operational stress at one airline into a systemic risk affecting national connectivity and fare stability.
New Regional Entrants: Opportunity or Risk?
In December 2025, the government issued No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to:
- Shankh Air (Noida region)
- Al Hind Air (Kochi-based regional network)
- FlyExpress (Telangana low-cost operator)
These entrants aim to strengthen regional connectivity under the UDAN scheme, which has operationalised 625 routes and 85 airports.
UDAN Scheme (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik)
1. Launch & Vision
- Launched: 21 October 2016
- First Flight: Shimla–Delhi (27 April 2017)
- Objective: Enhance regional air connectivity and make air travel affordable for the common citizen.
- Tagline idea: “Hawai chappal to hawai jahaz” – democratization of aviation.
2. Key Objectives
- Operationalise unserved & underserved airports
- Make flying affordable through fare caps and subsidies
- Promote balanced regional development
- Boost tourism, trade, healthcare access
- Encourage private sector participation
3. Major Achievements (2016–2025)
- 625 routes operationalised
- 90 airports connected
- 15 heliports
- 2 water aerodromes
- 1.49+ crore passengers benefited
- 3 lakh+ UDAN flights operated
- Airport network expanded from 74 (2014) to 159 (2024)
- ₹4,023.37 crore disbursed under Viability Gap Funding (VGF)
- 2024: 102 new routes launched (including 20 in Northeast)
4. Key Components
- Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Financial support to airlines
- Airfare Cap: Affordable ticket pricing
- Collaborative Federal Model: Centre–States–AAI–Private operators
5. Incentives Framework
For Airlines
- Financial subsidy (VGF)
- Code-sharing flexibility
For Airport Operators
- Waiver of landing & parking charges
- No TNLC charges by AAI
- Discounted RNFC
For State Governments
- VAT on ATF reduced to 1% or less (for 10 years)
- Reduced charges on security, fire, and utilities
For Centre
- Excise duty on ATF capped at 2% (first 3 years)
However, India’s aviation history shows repeated failures — Kingfisher, Jet Airways, Go First, TruJet — driven by high ATF costs, weak demand, poor management, and infrastructure constraints.
Without structural reforms, new entrants may simply redistribute fragility rather than enhance resilience.
Fuel Costs and Financial Strain
Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF), linked to global crude prices and the U.S. dollar, remains a persistent cost pressure. High volatility exposes airlines to external shocks, affecting ticket prices and profitability.
Despite record passenger numbers, profits at major carriers have plunged, suggesting growth without financial cushioning.
Safety Concerns and Regulatory Gaps
By late 2025, DGCA had issued 19 safety violation notices, citing:
- Breaches of FDTL norms
- Lapses in quality assurance
- Unauthorised cockpit access
- Expired emergency equipment
Globally, airlines maintain 20–25% spare crew capacity to absorb shocks. Indian carriers operate at near-total utilisation, allowing minor disruptions to cascade across networks.
This pattern reflects a shift from proactive regulation to reactive crisis management.
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)
- Institutional Status:
- An attached office of the Ministry of Civil Aviation.
- Role:
- The regulatory body in the field of Civil Aviation in India.
- Primarily deals with aviation safety issues.
- Key Responsibilities:
- Regulation of air transport services (to/from/within India).
- Enforcement of civil aviation regulations.
- Ensuring air safety and airworthiness standards.
- Coordination of regulatory functions with the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
- Headquarters:
- Located in New Delhi.
- Administrative Presence:
- Has regional offices in various parts of India.
The Way Forward: Systemic Reform
India’s aviation sector requires structural correction rather than episodic fixes:
- Expand pilot training capacity and simulator infrastructure
- Fill DGCA vacancies to strengthen oversight
- Improve Tier-2 and Tier-3 airport infrastructure
- Consider ATF tax rationalisation and hedging mechanisms
- Encourage measured de-concentration without over-fragmentation
With domestic demand projected to reach 715 million passengers by 2030, failure to address systemic weaknesses could convert growth into recurring instability.
Conclusion
India’s aviation sector stands at a crossroads. Rapid expansion has propelled it into global prominence, but operational overstretch, regulatory gaps, pilot shortages, and high market concentration threaten sustainability.
The December disruptions were not aberrations but early warnings. Without structural reforms in manpower, regulation, cost management, and market design, India’s aviation success story risks becoming a cycle of recurring crises borne ultimately by passengers.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Consider the following statements about ‘Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN)’ scheme: (NDA-II 2022)
- It is an innovative scheme to develop the regional aviation market.
- It creates affordability yet economically viable and profitable flights on regional routes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- 1 only
- 2 only
- Both 1 and 2
- Neither 1 nor 2
Answer: C
Explanation:
Statement 1 – Correct
UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) is a flagship regional connectivity scheme launched in 2016 under the Ministry of Civil Aviation to develop the regional aviation market. It aims to operationalize unserved and underserved airports across India.
Statement 2 – Correct
The scheme ensures affordability through airfare caps while maintaining airline viability through Viability Gap Funding (VGF) and other concessions (e.g., tax benefits, reduced airport charges).
- VGF is funded via the Regional Connectivity Fund (Centre–State sharing).
- This makes even low-demand regional routes economically sustainable for airlines.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagarik) :
- Launched in October 2016.
- First flight: Shimla–Delhi.
- Boosted tourism, healthcare and trade in Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities.
Which of the statements are correct?
- 1 only
- 1 and 2 only
- 1 and 3 only
- 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation:
Statement 1 – Correct:
The UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme was launched on 21st October 2016 to enhance regional air connectivity and make flying affordable for common citizens.
Statement 2 – Correct:
The first UDAN flight operated between Shimla and Delhi on 27th April 2017, marking the operational rollout of the scheme.
Statement 3 – Correct:
UDAN improved connectivity to underserved and remote regions, thereby strengthening regional tourism, healthcare access, and trade, and catalysing economic growth in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.