TGPSC Daily Current Affairs - 2nd December 2025
Source: Telangana Today
Relevance: TGPSC Paper-III – Indian Society, Structure, Issues and Social Movements
Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
Aahwahan Foundation, Happiness Kit Programme, Educational Kits / School Essentials, Underprivileged Children
For Mains:
- Education for All, Equity in Education, Social Justice, Child Welfare & Inclusive Development
Why in News?
Aahwahan Foundation, in collaboration with BDO Rise Pvt. Ltd., has launched the ‘Happiness Kit Programme’ in Hyderabad to support underprivileged children with essential study materials and school supplies. The initiative is part of a larger nationwide effort aimed at improving educational access for over 10,000 children across India.
About the Happiness Kit Programme
The Happiness Kit Programme is an annual philanthropic initiative designed to reduce the financial burden on low-income families by ensuring that children receive a complete year’s worth of educational essentials.
Key Features
- Distributed across almost every Indian State
- Over 1,000 students in Hyderabad to benefit immediately
- Nationwide impact: 10,000+ children targeted
- Kits include:
- Notebooks and stationery
- Colours and geometry boxes
- School bags
- Sweaters
- Tiffin boxes and water bottles
- Other year-long study essentials
The programme aims to ensure that no child is pushed out of learning due to a lack of basic educational tools.
Objectives of the Programme
- Educational Support: Provide children with the basic materials required for schooling.
- Reducing Financial Burden: Assist economically weaker families by supplying year-long essentials at no cost.
- Promoting Equal Opportunity: Help bridge the gap between privileged and underprivileged students.
- Nationwide Expansion: Implement interventions across multiple states to scale the impact.
- Encouraging School Attendance: Ensure that lack of books or supplies does not hinder learning continuity.
Statement from Aahwahan Foundation
Braja Kishore Pradhan, CEO & Founder, stated:
“Every child carries a dream in their heart, and no dream should fade because of lack of basic tools. With each Happiness Kit, we hope to place opportunity directly in the hands of these young minds.”
The message underscores the programme’s intention to empower children through access to essential resources.
Significance of the Initiative
1. Strengthening Educational Equity
Supports students in low-income households who often struggle to afford school supplies.
2. Enhancing Learning Readiness
Children equipped with proper materials have higher attendance and better academic outcomes.
3. Nationwide Reach
Targets diverse socio-economic backgrounds across rural and urban India.
4. Encouraging CSR and Community Support
Represents effective collaboration between NGOs and private-sector partners like BDO Rise Pvt. Ltd.
5. Supports NEP 2020 Goals
Aligns with India’s push for inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all children.
Conclusion
The Aahwahan Foundation’s Happiness Kit Programme is a meaningful step towards bridging educational inequalities and empowering underprivileged students. By offering essential school supplies, the initiative not only reduces the financial pressure on vulnerable families but also nurtures children’s dreams and supports their long-term educational journey.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Happiness Kit Programme’:
- It has been launched by Aahwahan Foundation in partnership with BDO Rise.
- The programme aims to provide educational kits to 10,000 underprivileged children across India.
- Under the initiative, over 1,000 students in Hyderabad will benefit from the kits.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Correct Answer: (c) All three
Explanation :
- Statement 1 – Correct: The programme is jointly launched by Aahwahan Foundation and BDO Rise.
- Statement 2 – Correct: It is a nationwide initiative targeting 10,000 children.
- Statement 3 – Correct: Over 1,000 students in Hyderabad will receive the Happiness Kits as part of the first rollout.
Source: The Hindu
Relevance: GS-III – Defence Technology, Internal Security, Indigenisation, International Relations
Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
- Heron Mk II • MALE UAV • Satellite Communication (SATCOM), Electro-Optics • SAR Radar , Emergency Procurement • IAI, Endurance UAV • Indo-Israel Defence Cooperation
For Mains:
- Defence Indigenisation • UAV Capability Enhancement, Technological Self-Reliance • Border Surveillance, India–Israel Defence Partnership
Why in News?
The Indian armed forces have signed contracts for additional satellite-linked Heron Mk II Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) under emergency procurement after Operation Sindoor.
According to Israeli defence industry sources:
- Army and Air Force have placed new orders
- Indian Navy is procuring Heron Mk II for the first time
- Navy will transition from older Searcher UAVs to this more advanced platform
Under emergency procurement rules, the armed forces can acquire systems up to ₹300 crore swiftly to address immediate operational needs.
What is the Heron Mk II?
The Heron Mk II is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
It is an upgraded version of the original Heron UAV, designed for:- Long-range reconnaissance
- Signals intelligence
- Border surveillance
- Multi-sensor missions
A Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), commonly called a drone, is an aircraft that flies without a pilot onboard. It is operated either remotely by a human or autonomously using onboard computers. UAVs can carry cameras, sensors, communication systems, or weapons, and are widely used for surveillance, mapping, and military missions. Because they do not carry a crew, UAVs can fly longer, farther, and more efficiently than manned aircraft.
This platform is already operational with the Israeli Air Force and over 20 global militaries.
Key Features of Heron Mk II
Endurance
- Capable of flying 24–45 hours continuously
- Suitable for persistent surveillance missions
Altitude
- Operates up to 35,000 ft, ideal for high-altitude border areas
Speed
- Maximum speed: 150 knots
Payload Capacity
- Up to 500 kg (half a tonne)
- Supports multiple payloads simultaneously
Sensors & Intelligence Systems
- EO/IR (Electro-Optical) sensors for day-night monitoring
- Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) for high-resolution imaging
- ELINT, COMINT, SIGINT sensors for electronic intelligence
- Communication relay systems
- Encrypted satellite communication (SATCOM)
Flight Automation
- Fully automated take-off and landing
- Operable beyond line-of-sight due to satellite link
Operational Capabilities
- Performs reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition
- Conducts electronic warfare and signals monitoring
- Provides real-time intelligence to Army, IAF, and Navy
- Can operate from remote ground stations
- Excellent performance in deserts, mountains, and maritime zones
Current Deployment in India
- The Indian Army has already deployed Heron Mk II at forward bases in the northern sector
- The Air Force uses them for high-altitude ISR missions
- The Navy will now deploy them for:
- Maritime surveillance
- Anti-piracy operations
- Coastal security
- Monitoring Chinese and Pakistani naval activities
Heron Mk II is becoming a critical component of India’s border management and maritime domain awareness.
Strategic Significance for India
1. Strengthening High-Altitude ISR
Heron Mk II is ideal for surveillance along:
- LAC (China)
- LoC (Pakistan)
- Maritime boundaries
2. Enhanced Situational Awareness
Real-time intelligence strengthens:
- Anti-infiltration operations
- Counter-terror grid
- Maritime surveillance
3. Improves Jointness
Army, Navy, Air Force using the same platform strengthens inter-operability.
4. Boosts Long-Endurance ISR Capability
Critical in Ladakh, Arunachal Pradesh, Western desert, and vast maritime zones.
Emergency Procurement Rules
Under current MoD guidelines:
- Armed forces can procure systems worth up to ₹300 crore
- Purchases are fast-tracked to address urgent operational requirements
- Operation Sindoor triggered a need for enhanced unmanned ISR capability
Future Plans & Indo-Israel Collaboration
- India and IAI are examining co-production of Heron Mk II
- Plans to upgrade older Heron systems into the more advanced Mk II SATCOM version
- Joint development may lead to export-capable systems
Drone in India
India’s UAV journey began in 1998 with the induction of the Israeli Searcher Mark-I. Since then, most defence drones have been imported from Israel and the US. The Indian drone market, valued at ₹29 billion (2020), is projected to surge to ₹1.5 trillion by 2026, reflecting rapid growth and diversification.
India now aims to become a global drone hub by 2030, focusing on indigenous manufacturing, innovation, and simplified regulations.
Key Government Initiatives
1. Make in India for Drones
Promotes domestic production and reduces reliance on imports.
2. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
Financial incentives for drone and drone-component manufacturers, including software firms.
3. Drone (Amendment) Rules, 2022
- Major simplification of regulations
- Fewer approvals and licences
- No DGCA pilot licence needed for non-commercial flight of nano & micro drones
- Other drone operations require prior approval
4. Digital Sky Platform
A single-window online portal for:
- Flight permissions
- Licensing
- Manufacturing authorisation
- Drone airspace maps (Green/Yellow/Red zones)
Challenges
- Dependence on foreign UAV technology until Indian alternatives mature
- SATCOM bandwidth limitations in high-density operations
- Need for better anti-jamming protection
- Potential vulnerability to enemy air defence or EW systems
- Training and logistical integration for the Navy
Conclusion
The procurement of Heron Mk II UAVs marks a major enhancement in India’s ISR, surveillance, and electronic intelligence capabilities.With their long endurance, advanced sensors, and SATCOM link, these UAVs strengthen India’s preparedness along the LAC, LoC, and in maritime domains.
The ongoing Indo-Israel industrial partnership further boosts India’s journey toward self-reliance in defence UAV technology.
UPSC PYQ
Q. With reference to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), consider the following statements:
(UPSC Prelims 2025)
- All types of UAVs can do vertical landing.
- All types of UAVs can do automated hovering.
- All types of UAVs can use battery only as a source of power supply.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
a) Only one
b) Only two
c) All three
d) None
Correct Answer: (d) None
Explanation:
Statement 1: All UAVs can do vertical landing — Incorrect
• Only VTOL UAVs (rotary-wing, multirotor, helicopter drones) can land vertically.
• Fixed-wing UAVs cannot do vertical landing—they require a runway, catapult, or arresting gear.
Statement 2: All UAVs can hover — Incorrect
• Multirotor and helicopter-type UAVs can hover in place.
• Fixed-wing UAVs cannot hover; they need continuous forward motion to generate lift.
Statement 3: All UAVs use only battery power — Incorrect
• UAVs use multiple power sources:
– Lithium batteries (small drones)
– Gasoline/diesel engines (Heron, Predator, Reaper)
– Hybrid systems, solar power, fuel cells
• Large military UAVs do not rely on batteries alone.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following characteristics related to the Heron Mk II Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV):
- It can reach an altitude of 35,000 feet and stay airborne for up to 45 consecutive hours.
- It belongs to the Military Aircraft group and is used in both Air and Naval domains.
- It is designed only for short-range reconnaissance and cannot carry multiple sensors.
How many of the above statements are correct?
(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None
Correct Answer: (b) Only two
Explanation
Statement 1 – Correct
The Heron Mk II can operate at 35,000 feet, fly at 150 knots, and stay airborne for up to 45 hours, giving it long-endurance capability.
Statement 2 – Correct
It falls under the Military Aircraft group and is deployed in both Air and Naval domains, making it a multi-service UAV.
Statement 3 – Incorrect
The Heron Mk II is not a short-range UAV.
It can carry multiple advanced sensors simultaneously, such as radars, EO/IR systems, and SIGINT payloads, enabling long-range surveillance and multi-mission flexibility.
Source: The Hindu
Relevance: GS Paper 2: Polity & Governance – Judiciary, Separation of Powers, Appointment to Higher Judiciary, Judicial Reforms
Key Concepts for Prelims and Mains:
For Prelims:
- Chief Justice of India, National Judicial Appointments Commission, Collegium system
For Mains:
- Appointment process for higher judiciary: Collegium system vs NJAC, judicial policy.
Why in News?
Chief Justice of India Surya Kant has:
- Called for a National Judicial Policy to reduce wide divergence in functioning across courts.
- Indicated that the Supreme Court will examine a plea seeking revival of the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC), questioning the existing Collegium system.
Background / Present Status
Present system:
- Appointments to SC & HCs are made through the Collegium system (judges recommending judges).
- NJAC + 99th Constitutional Amendment (2014), which tried to replace the Collegium, were struck down by SC in 2015 (Fourth Judges Case) as violative of the basic structure – judicial independence.
Judicial performance concerns:
- Pendency of >5 crore cases, large vacancies, and infrastructure gaps.
- Divergent HC judgments on issues like bail, reservations, personal laws, creating uncertainty and forum shopping.
Why is a National Judicial Policy Being Demanded?
Resolve Divergent Judgments
- Different HCs/SC benches often give conflicting rulings.
- A policy could standardise principles, promote consistent use of precedent, and improve predictability for citizens and businesses.
Bridge Access-to-Justice Gaps
- Delays, high costs, long distance to courts, language barriers hurt marginalised sections.
- Policy can push uniform norms for legal aid, local language facilities, ADR, e-courts, etc.
Address Structural & Infrastructure Deficits
- Around one-third of HC posts vacant; poor court infrastructure at district level.
- Policy can guide capacity-building, staffing norms, court infrastructure standards.
Standardise Technology & Case Management
- Uneven adoption of e-filing, virtual hearings, digitisation across states.
- Policy could create common minimum tech standards and data-based case management.
Promote Judicial Harmony While Preserving Independence
- Common framework to uphold constitutional values while respecting HC autonomy.
Constitutional Provisions – Appointment of Judges
- Art. 124: Appointment of SC judges by President after consultation with CJI & other judges.
- Art. 217: Appointment of HC judges by President after consultation with CJI, Governor, and HC Chief Justice.
- Art. 126: Acting CJI.
- Art. 127: Ad hoc SC judges from HCs.
- Art. 128: Retired SC judges can sit & act as judges.
Concerns / Criticism about a National Judicial Policy
- One-size-fits-all risk: States differ in caseload, infrastructure, digital readiness.
- Fear of Executive Influence: If policy is steered by government, may affect separation of powers and judicial independence.
- Implementation Constraints: Many courts lack staff, funds, IT systems, making uniform standards difficult.
- High Court Autonomy: Under Articles 214–226, HCs control their own procedure & administration; may resist centralised norms.
- Weak Data Systems: Poor, non-standard judicial statistics make evidence-based policy difficult.
What is the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC)?
- Created by 99th Constitutional Amendment Act, 2014 to replace the Collegium.
- Composition (6 members):
- Chief Justice of India (Chairperson)
- Two senior-most SC judges
- Union Law Minister
- Two “eminent persons” (chosen by committee of PM + CJI + LoP in Lok Sabha).
- Role: Recommend appointments & transfers of SC and HC judges.
Why was NJAC Struck Down? – Fourth Judges Case (2015)
- Executive & non-judicial veto (any 2 members could block a name) → undermined judicial primacy.
- Criteria for eminent persons vague → risk of political capture.
- Govt is the largest litigant → executive influence in appointments seen as threat to impartiality & basic structure.
- Result: NJAC + 99th Amendment declared unconstitutional; Collegium restored.
Difference between Collegium vs NJAC
| Aspect | Collegium System | NJAC |
| Primacy | Judiciary has effective primacy. | Shared with executive & eminent persons. |
| Transparency | Criticised as opaque, no published criteria, “judges appointing judges”. | Promised broader participation & potential for more transparent procedures. |
| Veto | No formal veto; government can return names once. | Any two members (incl. non-judges) could veto. |
| Main Risk | Nepotism, lack of accountability. | Political interference, erosion of independence. |
Measures to Strengthen Judiciary
a) Judicial Policy with Flexibility
- Broad national standards + regional adaptability.
b) Case Management Reforms
- Uniform rules for filing, adjournments, disposal timelines.
c) Fill Vacancies Time-bound
- Transparent, criteria-based appointments (within Collegium or revised system).
d) Improve Access to Justice
- Regional courts, local-language services, legal aid, mobile courts.
- Strengthen ADR, especially mediation.
Conclusion
A National Judicial Policy can strengthen coherence, reduce delays, and improve justice delivery.
However, reforms must avoid risks to judicial independence—a core element of the Constitution’s basic structure—especially as NJAC revival debates re-emerge. The future lies in balanced reforms that combine efficiency with independence.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Consider the following statements: UPSC (2019)
- The 44th Amendment to the Constitution of India introduced an Article placing the election of the Prime Minister beyond judicial review.
- The Supreme Court of India struck down the 99th Amendment to the Constitution of India as being violative of the independence of judiciary.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans: (b)
Explanation
Statement 1 — Incorrect
- The 44th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1978 did NOT place the election of the Prime Minister beyond judicial review.
- What it actually inserted was Article 329A, but only for election disputes involving the Prime Minister and Speaker, and that too was later deleted.
- Therefore, the claim in the statement is incorrect.
Statement 2 — Correct
- In Supreme Court Advocates-on-Record Association vs Union of India (2015), the Supreme Court struck down the 99th Constitutional Amendment Act, which created the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC).
- Reason: It violated the Basic Structure, particularly judicial independence.
- Therefore, statement 2 is correct.
Hence, the answer is (b) 2 only.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements:
- The Supreme Court has held judicial independence to be a part of the Basic Structure of the Constitution.
- The National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) was upheld by the Supreme Court in 2015.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Correct Answer: (a)
Explanation
- Statement 1 — Correct
Judicial independence was declared part of the Basic Structure in Kesavananda Bharati (1973) and reaffirmed in multiple judgments including the 4th Judges Case (2015). - Statement 2 — Incorrect
The NJAC Act (2014) and 99th Amendment were struck down, not upheld.
The Supreme Court held NJAC unconstitutional for compromising judicial independence.
