TGPSC Daily Current Affairs - 22th December 2025
Source: Deccan Chronicle
Relevance:
GS Paper 2 – Government Policies & Collaboration; Education & Research Institutions
GS Paper 3 – Science & Tech; Cyber Security; Digital Economy; BFSI Innovations
Why in News?
The Institute for Development and Research in Banking Technology (IDRBT) and IIIT-Hyderabad signed an MoU to jointly advance research, innovation, and skill development in the Banking, Financial Services & Insurance (BFSI) sector.
About IDRBT–IIIT Hyderabad MoU
Purpose
To collaborate in academics, research, training, student exchange, and skill development for improving security, efficiency, and innovation in the BFSI domain.
Institutions Involved
- IDRBT – Apex institution for banking technology (established by RBI).
- IIIT-Hyderabad – India’s leading research-focused tech institute.
Leadership at Signing
- Prof. Sandeep Shukla – Director, IIIT-H
- Dr. Deepak Kumar – Director, IDRBT
- Presence of senior academic advisor Prof. H. Krishnamurthy (IISc)
Key Areas of Collaboration
- Digital Payments Research
UPI, CBDC integration, frictionless transactions. - Cyber Security & Vulnerability Management
- Threat modelling
- Secure architectures
- Fraud detection systems
- AI & ML for Banking Efficiency
Adoption of AI to improve customer experience, KYC, credit scoring. - Blockchain & Cryptography
- Blockchain audit frameworks
- Secure crypto protocols
- NFT and token systems research
- Standardisation & Validation of BFSI Technologies
Testing labs for banks and fintechs. - Domain-Specific SLMs (Specialised Language Models)
Building Indian BFSI-focused AI models. - Joint PhD & Academic Programs
Research scholars to work jointly on BFSI innovation.
Other Updates
1. Viksit Bharat PPT Challenge – Telangana
- 529 participants selected to represent the state at the National Youth Festival, New Delhi (Jan 10–12).
- Supervised by Ministry of Youth Affairs; evaluated by 20-member jury.
2. TGRERA Interim Order Against Vasavi Nirmaan
- Complaints of:
- Missing common washrooms
- Converting amenities into commercial space
- Blocking circulation areas
- Developer asked to file a counter-affidavit before Jan 23.
3. Telangana IPE Registrations Cross 10 Lakhs
- 9.91 lakh regular students + 10,000 private candidates.
- Highest registrations since Telangana formation.
- Govt allowed mixed-use (residential+commercial) junior colleges to register students.
4. Nursing Officer Recruitment – Rank List Ready
- 40,000 candidates scrutinised for 2,322 posts.
- Provisional list to be released; objections invited before final list.
- Joins expected in government hospitals by January.
5. Osmania University International Biotech Conference
- 200 research papers presented (21 oral, 177 poster).
- 490 participants; 500+ registrations.
- Focus: Biotechnological Innovations for Sustainable Development.
Significance of the MoU
- Strengthens India’s financial cyber security ecosystem.
- Bridges gap between academia and industry.
- Supports RBI’s fintech innovations (UPI, CBDC, reg-tech).
- Enhances India’s leadership in AI-based BFSI solutions.
Way Forward
- Create a FinTech Innovation Hub combining IDRBT & IIIT-H strengths.
- Encourage banks to adopt research outputs rapidly.
- Develop India-specific BFSI cyber security standards.
- Expand collaboration to include regulators, insurers, fintech startups.
Conclusion
The IDRBT–IIIT Hyderabad MoU marks a major step in modernising India’s BFSI sector by leveraging research-driven innovation in AI, blockchain, cybersecurity, and digital payments. This collaboration strengthens India’s digital economy and enhances banking resilience in an increasingly tech-driven world.
CARE MCQ
Q. Which institution functions as the apex research body for banking technology in India and is a key signatory to the recent BFSI innovation MoU?
(a) NABARD
(b) IDRBT
(c) NPCI
(d) SIDBI
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
IDRBT (established by RBI) is India’s apex institution for banking technology research and signed an MoU with IIIT-H for BFSI innovation.
Source: PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express
Relevance:
Quick facts about SHANTI BILL 2025
GS-2 (Governance, Transparency, Regulatory Bodies)
GS-3 (Energy, Nuclear Technology, Climate Change, Infrastructure)
Important Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
- SHANTI Bill 2025, Atomic Energy Act 1962 repeal, CLND Act 2010 repeal, NPCIL, AERB statutory status, Nuclear liability caps, Section 39 RTI exemption, Atomic Disputes Tribunal, Nuclear capacity targets (100 GW by 2047).
For Mains:
- Nuclear governance reforms, Energy security & clean transition, Private sector participation, Liability–safety–accountability issues, Transparency vs national security (RTI debate), AERB independence, Financing & project delays, Advanced nuclear technologies (SMRs/HTGR/MSR), Centre–State emergency coordination
Why in News?
- The Union Government introduced the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025 in the Lok Sabha.
- This landmark Bill replaces the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, opening the door for the first-ever private and foreign participation in India’s nuclear power generation.
What is Nuclear Energy?
Nuclear energy is the use of controlled atomic reactions to produce power. At its core, it relies on splitting atoms in a process called fission, which releases large amounts of heat. This heat is then used to generate electricity without producing greenhouse gases. Globally, nuclear energy is valued as a clean, dependable source that complements renewable options like solar and wind.
The Bill aims to accelerate India’s energy transition, expand nuclear capacity to meet climate goals, and overhaul the regulatory, liability, and transparency framework.
Evolution of India’s Nuclear Laws
India’s nuclear power journey has been guided by a series of landmark legislations that ensured the peaceful use of atomic energy while safeguarding national interests. Each step reflected the country’s growing confidence and maturity in managing nuclear technology responsibly.
- The Atomic Energy Act, 1962, replaced the earlier 1948 law and laid down the foundation for India’s nuclear programme. It empowered the government to regulate atomic energy for peaceful purposes, ensuring strict control over research, development, and use of nuclear materials.
- Amendments in 1986, 1987, and 2015 in the Atomic Energy Act of 1962 gradually opened the sector beyond the Central Government, allowing government companies and joint ventures to participate in nuclear power generation. The amendments reflected India’s intent to expand capacity while keeping strategic oversight intact.
- The Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010, introduced a no-fault liability regime, ensuring compensation in case of nuclear incidents. This law provided clarity on responsibility and built public trust by prioritizing safety and accountability in nuclear operations.
Nuclear Energy Mission
- Announced in Union Budget 2025-26, it allocates ₹20,000 crore to drive design, development, and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).
- Target: At least five indigenously designed SMRs to be operational by 2033, strengthening India’s clean energy roadmap.
- Initiatives by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC):
- 200 MWe Bharat Small Modular Reactor (BSMR‑200)
- 55 Mwe (Megawatt electrical) SMR‑55
- Up to 5 MWth (Megawatt thermal) High‑temperature gas‑cooled reactor for hydrogen generation.
- Strategic aim: Position India as a leader in advanced nuclear technologies while ensuring sustainable energy security.
Key Provisions of SHANTI Bill 2025
1. Repeal & Consolidation of Nuclear Laws
- Replaces:
- Atomic Energy Act, 1962
- Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLND), 2010
- Creates one unified legal framework for nuclear power generation, safety, liability, and regulation.
2. Private & Foreign Participation Allowed for First Time
- Ends monopoly of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL).
- Private Indian firms, global nuclear companies, and joint ventures can:
- Build nuclear power plants
- Own them
- Operate them
- Decommission them
This is the biggest structural change in India’s nuclear sector since 1947.
3. Strategic Functions Retained by Government
Despite private entry, the following remain entirely under state control:
- Nuclear fuel production
- Heavy water manufacturing
- Radioactive waste management
- Enrichment and reprocessing
- Transport of sensitive materials
This protects national security & non-proliferation commitments.
4. AERB Gets Statutory Status
- The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) becomes a statutory, independent regulator.
- Accountable directly to Parliament.
- Mandated to regulate:
- Safety
- Security
- Environmental compliance
- Reactor licensing
- Decommissioning
- Expected to be strengthened with technical & financial autonomy.
5. New Nuclear Liability Structure
Major change:
- Supplier liability removed
- Operator liability capped and linked to reactor capacity
- Aligns India with international conventions, attracting global suppliers
Critics argue:
- May weaken accountability
- Liability based on plant size ≠ actual damage
- Shifts long-term risks to State and citizens
- Defies “polluter pays” principle
Supplier Liability
- The company that supplies nuclear equipment/components is responsible if an accident happens because of faulty parts.
Operator Liability
- The company that runs the nuclear plant is responsible for paying compensation if an accident happens.
6. Creation of Atomic Disputes Tribunal
- Specialised tribunal for nuclear disputes
- Faster resolution vs normal courts
- Improves investor confidence & clarity
7. Support for Advanced Technologies
Bill enables adoption of:
- Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)
- Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs)
- Molten Salt Reactors
- Advanced High-Temperature Reactors
India aims for:
- 5 SMRs by 2033
- 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047
8.Claims Commissioner Appointment
- Empowers the Central Government to appoint Claims Commissioners for adjudicating compensation claims related to nuclear damage.
Need for Nuclear Governance Reforms
1. Massive Capacity Targets
- Current capacity: 8.18 GW
- Goal:
- 22 GW by 2032
- 100 GW by 2047
NPCIL alone cannot meet these targets.
2. Financing Gaps
- 100 GW needs Rs 15 lakh crore
- Budget 2025–26 allocated only Rs 20,000 crore
Private capital is essential.
3. Chronic Delays
- Kudankulam Units 3–6 are years behind schedule
- Private EPC players can improve execution
4. Fuel Constraints
- Limited domestic uranium
- Need diversified imports
- Need private partnerships in non-sensitive mining operations
5. Climate & Energy Security Goals
- Nuclear = reliable baseload power
- Helps balance renewable-heavy grids
- Essential for Net Zero 2070
Concerns Around SHANTI Bill 2025
1. Liability Dilution
- Removal of supplier liability is controversial
- Capped operator liability may under-compensate victims
- Memories of Bhopal Gas Disaster shape public perception
2. Transparency Challenges: Section 39 & RTI Override
Section 39:
- Allows Centre to declare any nuclear-related info as “restricted”
- Completely overrides RTI Act
- No appeals or public-interest override
- Applies to:
- Reactor designs
- Fuel data
- Regulatory submissions
- Siting & construction details
Concerns:
- Breaks India’s transparency architecture
- Weakens democratic oversight
- May deter whistleblowers
- Public cannot access crucial safety information
India’s Current Nuclear Landscape (2025)
- 20+ reactors operational
- NPCIL sole operator
- 12+ reactors in various stages of planning
- SMR R&D mission underway
- India exploring indigenous thorium-based reactors
Measures Needed to Strengthen Nuclear Governance
1. Ensure True Independence of AERB
- Transparent appointments
- Financial autonomy
- Power to shut down unsafe reactors
- Adequate staffing (engineers, radiation experts)
2. Rebalance Liability Structure
- Review caps regularly
- Nuclear Insurance Pool 2.0
- Retain limited supplier liability for defective reactor components
- Preserve “polluter pays” principle
3. Build Transparency & Public Trust
- Mandatory safety audit disclosures
- Public hearings on new plants
- Real-time radiation monitoring dashboards
- Independent accident investigation framework
4. Strengthen Emergency Preparedness
- Clear Centre–State coordination mechanism
- Mock drills involving public
- Emergency medical teams trained in radiation response
- Iodine tablet protocols and evacuation plans
5. Waste Management Framework
- Deep geological repository roadmap
- Strict rules for spent fuel transport
- Mandatory decommissioning fund from Day 1
- GPS-based tracking of waste containers
6. Expand Fuel Security
- Diversify uranium import partnerships
- Enhance domestic mining
- Create strategic uranium reserves
7. Boost R&D and Human Capital
- Dedicated Nuclear Innovation Fund
- Expand BARC, IGCAR and DAE capacity
- Nuclear engineering courses in IITs
- Training academies for private operators
8. Strengthen Public Communication System
- Clear messaging during emergencies
- Community benefits in plant areas
- Address fears about radiation & safety
Conclusion
The Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India (SHANTI) Bill, 2025, stands as a pivotal step in shaping the next phase of India’s nuclear journey. By modernising the legal framework and strengthening institutional oversight, it creates the foundation for a more efficient, innovative, and secure nuclear ecosystem. The Bill supports India’s long-term vision of expanding clean, reliable energy while ensuring that strategic interests remain fully protected. As the country moves toward greater energy independence and technological advancement, this legislation can play a defining role in driving the growth of India’s nuclear power and broader energy landscape.
UPSC PYQ
Q. In India, why are some nuclear reactors kept under “IAEA safeguards” while others are not? (2020)
(a) Some use uranium and others use thorium
(b) Some use imported uranium and others use domestic supplies
(c) Some are operated by foreign enterprises and others are operated by domestic enterprises
(d) Some are State-owned and others are privately owned
Ans: (b)
Q. Consider the following statements: (2017)
- The Nuclear Security Summits are periodically held under the aegis of the United Nations.
- The International Panel on Fissile Materials is an organ of the International Atomic Energy Agency.
CARE MCQ
Q. The SHANTI Bill 2025 is significant because it allows, for the first time in India’s history, which of the following?
(a) Import of foreign uranium
(b) Private and foreign companies to operate nuclear power plants
(c) India to join international nuclear liability conventions
(d) Establishment of nuclear parks under state governments
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
The SHANTI Bill ends NPCIL’s monopoly and permits private & foreign companies to build and operate nuclear power plants for the first time.
Uranium imports already existed (Kazakhstan, Russia, Canada).
India has still not joined international liability conventions.
Nuclear parks are already being developed under central agencies.
Source: Indian Express
Relevance: GS Paper – 2, Education- Government Policies & Interventions
Important Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
- ULLAS Scheme, PLFS Literacy Data, NEP 2020 Adult Education, Literacy Definition 2024, Akshar Anchal Scheme (Bihar)
For Mains:
- Adult literacy challenges • Centre–State coordination • NEP 2020 & Lifelong Learning • Gender gap in literacy • Fund utilisation issues • Policy governance failures • Bihar’s literacy lag • Scheme convergence & cooperative federalism
Why in News?
India aims to achieve 100% literacy by 2030, aligned with NEP 2020 and SDG-4 (Quality Education).
However, the Union Government’s flagship literacy scheme ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) is facing a major roadblock due to Bihar’s refusal to participate, despite the State having one of India’s highest illiteracy burdens.
Overview of ULLAS Scheme
- Launched: 2022 by Union Education Ministry
- Target group: Non-literate persons aged 15+ years
Implementation Approach:
- Door-to-door identification of non-literates
- Basic literacy + numeracy up to Class 3 level
- Online/offline learning modules
- Mandatory test → certification
- These individuals must then take a test, and those who clear it are certified as literate
Expanded Definition of Literacy (2024):
- Reading, writing, numeracy
- Digital & financial literacy
- Life skills with comprehension
Benchmark:
- 95% literacy = 100% literacy for certification purposes
Progress Under ULLAS
- Declared Fully Literate (100%):
Himachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, Ladakh - Likely Soon: Two southern States + one UT
- Impact Measurement: Expected in upcoming Census
Bihar: The Major Challenge
1. Bihar’s Low Literacy Levels
PLFS 2023–24
- Overall: 74.3% (2nd lowest after Andhra Pradesh – 72.6%)
- Male literacy: 82.3%
- Female literacy: 66.1%
- Non-literates (15–59 age group): ~2 crore, incl. 1.32 crore women
- Historical: Census 2011 → literacy 61.8% (lowest in India)
2. Administrative & Financial Issues
Funds sanctioned (2023–24): ₹35 crore
- Centre: ₹21 cr
- State: ₹14 cr
Issues flagged by Centre:
- Funds not transferred to Single Nodal Agency (SNA)
- No annual plan submitted
- Zero utilisation of funds
- 7% interest penalty on delayed transfer
Union Education Minister wrote twice urging immediate action.
Bihar’s Argument – Akshar Anchal Scheme
- State-run adult literacy programme operational for 15 years
- Focus groups: Dalits, Mahadalits, minorities, EBCs, Women (15–45 years)
- Features:
- Basic literacy + numeracy
- Bi-annual literacy tests for women
- Claim:
- Higher financial outlay than ULLAS
- Existing system adequate
- ULLAS is redundant
Challenges in Achieving 100% Literacy
- Centre–State Coordination Deficit
Bihar’s non-participation slows progress towards national target. - Duplication vs. Convergence of Schemes
Need to integrate Akshar Anchal with ULLAS to avoid parallel systems. - Gender Gap in Literacy
Bihar’s low female literacy is a major barrier. - Underutilisation of Central Funds
Suggested: performance-based incentives. - Political & Administrative Inertia
Cooperative federalism needed in education governance. - Monitoring & Learning Gaps
Require: - Digital learning systems
- Community-based models
- Third-party evaluations
Way Forward
- Improve Centre–State collaboration, especially with low-literacy states.
- Align Akshar Anchal with ULLAS standards for national uniformity.
- Focus on female literacy as a key social multiplier.
- Mandatory utilisation and auditing of literacy funds.
- Strengthen monitoring through community volunteers, digital apps, and independent assessments.
Conclusion
Achieving 100% literacy by 2030 depends critically on mobilising states with high illiteracy, especially Bihar. ULLAS reflects NEP 2020’s vision of lifelong learning, but real success requires political will, fiscal accountability, and cooperative federalism.
Literacy must be treated not as a statistic but as a social transformation tool.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Which one of the following statements is NOT correct regarding the National Education Policy 2020 in India? (UPSC ESE 2021)
- It proposes sweeping changes in the education system from pre-primary to PhD and skill development
- It states that universities from among top 100 in the world will be able to set up campuses in India
- It expects that India will achieve 60% GER by 2030
- It suggests NAAC to be merged with UGC and AICTE
Answer: C
CARE MCQ
Under the ULLAS (Understanding Lifelong Learning for All in Society) scheme, achieving which literacy benchmark is treated as equivalent to 100% literacy?
(a) 90% literacy
(b) 92% literacy
(c) 95% literacy
(d) 98% literacy
Answer: (c)
Explanation:
- The Union Education Ministry (Aug 2024 guidelines) notified that 95% literacy shall be considered equivalent to 100% literacy for declaring a State/UT as “fully literate.”
- Literacy under ULLAS includes reading, writing, numeracy with comprehension, plus digital, financial, and life-skills literacy.
- States like Himachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Goa, Tripura, and Ladakh have already declared themselves fully literate following this benchmark.
