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UPSC CARE 10th October 2025 Current Affairs

News at a Glance

Defence: India–Australia Sign Key Defence Agreements

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS 3-Defence

Context: India–Australia Key Defence Agreements

Why in News?

India and Australia signed key defence agreements in October 2025 to deepen cooperation across maritime, air, land, and defence industrial domains, reinforcing their strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific.

Introduction

  • A team India and Australia signed a series of key defence agreements in Canberra during the inaugural Australia–India Defence Ministers’ Dialogue, co-chaired by India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles.
  • The meeting marked five years of the India–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and represents a major step forward in the countries’ evolving security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Background and Strategic Context

  • India and Australia, as two major Indo-Pacific democracies, have steadily deepened their bilateral and multilateral engagements amid shifting regional dynamics. Their cooperation aligns with a shared commitment to maintaining a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, underpinned by respect for international law and freedom of navigation, as enshrined in UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).
  • The dialogue reflects growing strategic convergence between the two nations in response to increasing maritime challenges, technological disruptions, and regional security uncertainties.

Key Agreements Signed

The 2025 Defence Ministers’ Dialogue concluded with the signing of three major agreements:

  • (a) Agreement on Information Sharing: Enhances real-time exchange of intelligence and operational data to support coordinated defence activities and maritime domain awareness.
  • (b) MoU on Submarine Search and Rescue Cooperation: Establishes a framework for mutual support in submarine rescue operations. This builds upon the Implementing Arrangement on Mutual Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation, marking a significant advancement in undersea domain collaboration.
  • (c) Terms of Reference for Joint Staff Talks: Sets up structured mechanisms for regular consultations between the armed forces, improving interoperability and strategic coordination.

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Maritime and Air Cooperation

  • Both nations reaffirmed the centrality of maritime security to regional stability. The two sides discussed a Joint Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap, aimed at enhancing:
  • Maritime domain awareness (MDA)
  • Operational interoperability between navies
  • Joint exercises and information exchange
  • Australia also invited India to participate in its submarine rescue exercise “Black Carillon”, while India welcomed Australia’s participation in bilateral and multilateral military exercises such as:
    • Talisman Sabre
    • Austrahind
    • Puk Puk
  • In the air domain, the dialogue reviewed progress on operationalising the Air-to-Air Refuelling Agreement signed in 2024, which enhances logistical cooperation between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force.

Defence Industry and Technological Collaboration

  • Recognising the importance of defence industrial cooperation, the ministers announced:
  • Australia’s first Defence Trade Mission to India (7–10 October 2025)
  • The upcoming Australia–India Defence Industry Roundtable in Sydney
  • Under the Joint Working Group on Defence Industry, Research and Materiel, both countries reaffirmed cooperation in:
    • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
    • Unmanned systems
    • Secure communications
    • Defence innovation and start-ups
  • Australia also appreciated India’s offer to provide maintenance and repair facilities for Royal Australian Navy ships in Indian shipyards — an example of “Make in India, Make for the World” in defence manufacturing.

Human Resource and Educational Cooperation

  • Personnel exchanges and training are set to deepen:
  • More Indian officers will join the Australian Defence College in 2026.
  • A new slot at the Australian Defence Force Academy will open for Indian students in 2027.
  • These initiatives strengthen people-to-people defence linkages, fostering long-term institutional trust and operational understanding between the two militaries.

Multilateral and Regional Engagement

The dialogue reaffirmed India and Australia’s shared vision for a stable Indo-Pacific through:

  • The Quad (India, Australia, Japan, United States)
  • The Australia–India–Indonesia Trilateral Cooperation
  • Both sides emphasized adherence to international law, freedom of navigation, and peaceful resolution of disputes — aligning with their broader Indo-Pacific strategic frameworks.
AUSTRAHIND Exercise

 

  • The 3rd edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND (Nov 2024, Maharashtra) enhances India–Australia military cooperation and interoperability, focusing on counterterrorism, tactical drills, and joint planning.
  • Conducted in two phases, it reflects the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2020).
  • Other exercises include AUSINDEX and PITCHBLACK.
  • Cooperation is supported by the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement, and both nations participate in Quad, IORA, ASEAN Regional Forum, and East Asia Summits.

Significance

  • Strategic Convergence: The agreements indicate a maturing of India–Australia ties from transactional cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership, with greater emphasis on interoperability, joint research, and industrial integration.
  • Maritime Security Focus: Given Australia’s Pacific presence and India’s Indian Ocean role, their collaboration enhances Indo-Pacific maritime stability, particularly in the face of expanding regional naval activities.
  • Defence Industrial Synergy: Industrial collaboration reflects mutual interest in building resilient supply chains, reducing dependency on third countries, and promoting indigenous capabilities.
  • Technology and Training Integration: Focus on AI, unmanned systems, and training cooperation signals a move toward next-generation defence preparedness and knowledge sharing.
  • Regional Balancing: By strengthening bilateral and multilateral defence engagement, the two nations contribute to a balanced regional security architecture, reinforcing the Indo-Pacific’s “rules-based order.”

Conclusion

  • The 2025 India–Australia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue signifies a new era of strategic trust and operational cooperation.

CARE MCQ

Q1.  Consider the following statements regarding the India–Australia Defence Agreements 2025:

  1. India and Australia signed an MoU on submarine search and rescue cooperation.
  2. The agreements include enhanced personnel exchanges between Indian and Australian defence institutions.
  3. Both countries reaffirmed commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific and adherence to UNCLOS.
  4. The agreements primarily focus on trade and investment in civilian sectors.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer 1- A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is correct: India and Australia signed an MoU on submarine search and rescue cooperation, marking a major milestone in maritime collaboration.
  • Statement 2 is correct: The agreements include enhanced personnel exchanges, with more Indian officers joining the Australian Defence College in 2026 and a slot opening at the Australian Defence Force Academy in 2027.
  • Statement 3 is correct: Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific, upholding freedom of navigation and adherence to international law, including UNCLOS.
  • Statement 4 is incorrect: The agreements focus on defence and strategic cooperation, not primarily on civilian trade or investment.
  • Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q.  Consider the following countries: (2018)

  1. Australia
  2. Canada
  3. China
  4. India
  5. Japan
  6. USA

Which of the above are among the ‘free-trade partners’ of ASEAN?

(a) 1, 2, 4 and 5
(b) 3, 4, 5 and 6
(c) 1, 3, 4 and 5
(d) 2, 3, 4 and 6

Ans: (c)

India–U.K. Strategic Missile Deal and Major Investment Commitments

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS 3 Defence

Context: India–U.K. Strategic Missile Deal

Why in News?

India and the U.K. signed a £350-million missile deal, advanced naval electric engine collaboration, and secured £1.3 billion in Indian investments in the U.K.

Introduction

  • The India and the United Kingdom have taken a significant step forward in their strategic and economic partnership through a series of high-value agreements signed during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to India on October 9, 2025.
  • The visit, marked by a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mr. Starmer at Raj Bhavan, Mumbai, witnessed the conclusion of key defence and investment deals aimed at strengthening bilateral ties under the emerging framework of India–U.K. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Defence Cooperation: £350-Million Missile Deal

  • Core Agreement: India signed a £350-million deal with the U.K. to acquire Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), manufactured in Belfast, for the Indian Army.
  • Strategic Significance: This contract marks a major development in India’s efforts to modernize its defence arsenal and diversify its sources of advanced military technology. For the U.K., it aligns with its “Plan for Change,” reinforcing the country’s post-Brexit ambition to strengthen defence exports and establish global industrial partnerships.
  • Broader Implications: The missile purchase serves as a gateway to a wider “complex weapons partnership” currently under negotiation. Such collaboration may encompass co-development and co-production of advanced systems, aligning with India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives while bolstering the U.K.’s defence manufacturing sector.

Naval Collaboration: Electric Engines Initiative

  • New Frontier in Green Defence:
    • Alongside the missile deal, both sides agreed to advance cooperation in electric-powered naval engines, under an Implementing Arrangement worth £250 million.
    • This reflects a shared commitment to sustainable defence innovation, with electric propulsion expected to reduce emissions and improve stealth in future naval fleets.
  • The collaboration also positions India as a participant in next-generation naval technology, complementing its growing maritime ambitions under the Sagarmala and Maritime India Vision 2030 initiatives.

Economic and Investment Engagement

  • Indian Investments in the U.K.
    • A total of 64 Indian firms have committed to invest £1.3 billion (₹15,430 crore) in the U.K., signalling deepening commercial confidence between the two economies.
    • These investments are expected to create nearly 7,000 new jobs across the U.K., primarily in sectors such as engineering, technology, and creative industries.
  • Major Announcements:
    • TVS Motor Company: £250 million investment in Solihull to expand Norton Motorcycles operations and develop electric vehicles.
    • Cyient Ltd.: £100 million investment in semiconductors, geospatial technology, clean energy, and digital innovation, creating 300 jobs.
    • Muthoot Finance UK Ltd.: £100 million to expand its financial network to 20 branches across the U.K.
    • Hero Motors: £100 million over five years in e-mobility, e-bicycles, and aerospace sectors.
  • This surge in Indian investments underscores India’s emergence as a global investor, with its private sector actively expanding into international markets.
  • For the U.K., it supports regional growth post-Brexit and diversifies foreign investment sources beyond Europe.

Educational and Innovation Partnerships

  • The University of Lancaster and University of Surrey have been granted approval to establish campuses in India, marking a landmark development in educational cooperation.
  • Imperial College London has partnered with Science Gallery Bengaluru to foster research and innovation linkages, deepening the knowledge diplomacy dimension of bilateral relations.
  • Significance:
    • This academic engagement caters to India’s booming demand for higher education and enhances the U.K.’s academic presence in the Indo-Pacific. It also promotes cross-border mobility of talent, research collaboration, and skill development — key pillars in both countries’ innovation ecosystems.

Trade and Investment Symmetry: Missing Data on U.K. Investments

  • While the U.K. government highlighted Indian investment inflows, similar data on U.K. investments into India remains undisclosed by the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
  • However, statements from Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic indicating ambitions to “develop India as a home for Rolls-Royce” point to the likelihood of future industrial collaboration, particularly in aerospace and marine engineering sectors.

Recent Developments in India–UK Defence Ties

  • Defence Partnership – India (DP-I):
    • India and the U.K. have launched the Defence Partnership–India (DP-I), aimed at strengthening and streamlining bilateral defence collaboration across technology, manufacturing, and strategic operations.
  • Defence Manufacturing Collaboration:
    • The two countries have signed contracts to supply Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), starting with the initial delivery of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and associated launchers.
    • Additionally, both nations will jointly produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs), integrating Indian industries into the U.K.’s global defence supply chain.
    • India will also host its first Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and testing facility in Hyderabad, supporting fighter jet modernization and potential global exports.
  • Electric Propulsion Systems:
    • India and the U.K. have agreed to develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet, with an expected delivery timeline by 2030.
    • This marks a step toward modernising India’s naval capabilities with sustainable and advanced technologies.

How the U.K. Can Strengthen India’s Defence

  • Access to Advanced Technologies: Under the India–UK 2030 Roadmap, the U.K. is providing critical technologies such as jet engine development and electric propulsion systems, enabling India to co-develop next-generation defence capabilities.
  • Promoting Self-Reliance: These collaborations align with India’s ‘Make in India, Make for the World’ initiative, enhancing indigenous production while integrating global standards and expertise.
  • Strategic Military Presence: The partnership includes the establishment of a Littoral Response Group in the Indian Ocean for joint exercises, leveraging bases in Oman, Nepal, Brunei, Diego Garcia, and Singapore, thereby strengthening India’s maritime security and strategic reach.

Strategic Context: Beyond Bilateralism

  • The current round of agreements fits within the broader framework of India–U.K. strategic alignment across defence, economy, climate, and education.
  • It also complements ongoing discussions on the India–U.K. Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which, once concluded, could further liberalize trade and strengthen the Indo-Pacific partnership.
  • Defence Dimension: These deals reinforce India’s diversification away from traditional suppliers, expanding its defence diplomacy with democratic partners.
    Economic Dimension:
  • The reciprocal flow of investments signifies a maturing economic interdependence between the two nations.
  • Education and Innovation: The institutional presence of U.K. universities in India represents a soft power bridge, enhancing human capital cooperation.

Conclusion

  • The £350-million missile deal and the accompanying economic and educational agreements signal a comprehensive deepening of India–U.K. relations.

CARE MCQ

Q2.   Consider the following statements regarding the recent India–U.K. engagements:

  1. India signed a deal with the U.K. to procure Lightweight Multirole Missiles for the Indian Army.
  2. The Indian government officially disclosed that U.K. companies committed equal investments in India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  1. Only 1
    B) Only 2
    C) Both 1 and 2
    D) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer 2- A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is correct: India signed a £350-million deal with the U.K. to procure Lightweight Multirole Missiles for the Indian Army, marking a significant step in defence cooperation and modernization.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect: The Indian government has not shared official data on U.K. investments in India. While the U.K. government has reported Indian investments in the U.K., any claim of “equal investments” by U.K. companies in India is unverified and inaccurate.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q. Consider the following pairs: (2022)

 CountryImportant reason for being in the news recently
1.ChadSetting up of permanent military base by China
2.GuineaSuspension of Constitution and Government by military
3.LebanonSevere and prolonged economic depression
4.TunisiaSuspension of Parliament by President

How many pairs given above are correctly matched?

  1. Only one pair
  2. Only two pairs
  3. Only three pairs
  4. All four pairs

Ans: (b)

U.S. Immigration Policies and the Brain Drain of STEM Talent

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS3 Science and Technology

Context: H1-B visa and STEM

Why in News?

The U.S.’s $100,000 H-1B visa fee risks discouraging foreign STEM talent, potentially slowing growth in IT, healthcare, and science sectors.

Introduction

  • The United States has long relied on foreign-born talent, particularly in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, to fuel its innovation and economic growth.
  • However, recent policy changes, notably the $100,000 H-1B visa fee introduced under the Trump administration, raise concerns about whether the U.S. risks undermining its competitive edge by discouraging skilled foreign workers.

STEM: Overview and Significance

  • The acronym STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) was introduced in 2001 by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). Earlier, the term used was SMET.
  • STEM represents an interdisciplinary and applied approach to education, integrating knowledge and skills from the four disciplines to prepare students for complex problem-solving.

Global and Indian Context:

  • India ranks among the top countries in producing scientists and engineers, and the emphasis on STEM education has grown significantly in recent years.
  • Constitutional Mandate: Under Article 51A of the Indian Constitution, it is a citizen’s duty to develop scientific temper, humanism, and a spirit of inquiry.

Significance of STEM Education:

  • Encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation, preparing the next generation for advanced technological challenges.
  • According to the NSF, 80% of jobs in the next decade will require some level of math or science skills, underscoring STEM’s relevance to economic growth and workforce development.

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Current Role of Foreign-Born Talent in the U.S. Economy

  • IT Sector Dependence:
    • Between 2016 and 2024, jobs in the U.S. IT sector—defined as “computer and mathematical occupations”—grew by approximately 40%, making it one of the fastest-growing segments of the labor market. Other sectors with strong growth include healthcare support and life/physical/social sciences.
  • Foreign-Born Workforce Share:
    • About 25% of the workforce in these sectors in 2024 comprised foreign-born professionals, a proportion that has remained largely unchanged since 2016.
    • This highlights the stagnation in domestic STEM participation despite overall job growth and underscores the U.S. economy’s reliance on foreign talent.
  • Future STEM Demand:
    • STEM occupations are projected to grow by over 8% in the next decade, compared to just 2.7% for non-STEM jobs, emphasizing the critical need for a skilled workforce. Current trends indicate that U.S. residents are not producing enough STEM graduates to meet this demand.
    • Between 2011–12 and 2020–21, non-residents earning STEM bachelor’s degrees rose by 148%, while growth among U.S. residents was only 47%. At the Master’s level, only 55% of graduates were residents, highlighting dependence on international students for future innovation capacity.

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Implications of the $100,000 H-1B Visa Fee

  • Disincentivising Foreign Talent: The fee disproportionately affects Indian STEM professionals, who form a substantial portion of H-1B visa holders. Beyond IT outsourcing firms, American tech giants like Apple, Microsoft, and Meta also rely heavily on H-1B talent.
  • Potential Talent Diversion: Several competing nations have responded proactively:
    • China: Promoting its “K visa” as an alternative.
    • U.K.: Considering reduced visa fees for STEM workers.
    • Germany, South Korea, Japan: Actively courting foreign professionals.
  • These initiatives suggest that if the U.S. continues to impose high barriers, global STEM talent may increasingly choose other destinations, potentially slowing innovation and job growth domestically.

Challenges in Domestic STEM Production

  • The slower pace of STEM education uptake among U.S. residents—especially at advanced degree levels—indicates that homegrown talent alone cannot meet projected demand.
  • Policies that deter foreign students and professionals thus risk creating critical skill shortages, particularly in high-growth sectors such as IT, life sciences, and advanced engineering.

Indian Government Initiatives to Promote Women in STEM

  1. Women in STEMM (WiS) Program:
    • Launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
    • Provides scholarships, fellowships, research grants, mentorship, and networking opportunities for women in STEM.
  2. Vigyan Jyoti:
    • Introduced in 2019–20 to encourage girls in classes 9–12 to pursue higher education and careers in STEM.
    • Offers workshops, mentoring, and resources for young women, supporting them from school to PhD-level education.
  3. Women in Science and Engineering – KIRAN (WISE-KIRAN):
    • Encourages women scientists to engage in research in frontier areas of science and engineering.
    • Promotes S&T-based internships, entrepreneurship, and societal problem-solving.
    • Specifically addresses challenges faced by women taking career breaks due to motherhood or family responsibilities, providing opportunities for those aged 27–57 to re-enter mainstream research and technology work.

Conclusion

  • The $100,000 H-1B visa fee presents a paradox: while intended to prioritize domestic employment, it may undermine the U.S.’s long-term competitiveness in STEM sectors.
  • With global competitors actively courting skilled professionals, the U.S. risks losing both current and future STEM talent.

CARE MCQ

Q3.  Consider the following statements regarding the impact of the U.S. H-1B visa fee on STEM talent:

  1. The newly introduced H-1B visa fee disproportionately affects Indian STEM professionals.
  2. U.S. domestic STEM graduates alone are sufficient to meet the projected demand in high-growth sectors.
  3. Countries like China, the U.K., and Germany are actively positioning themselves to attract global STEM talent.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer 3: B

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is correct: The H-1B visa fee particularly affects Indian STEM professionals, who constitute a significant portion of foreign talent in the U.S., especially in IT and technology sectors.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect: Data indicate that U.S. residents are producing STEM graduates at a slower pace compared to non-residents, making domestic talent insufficient to meet projected demand in high-growth sectors.
  • Statement 3 is correct: In response to restrictive U.S. policies, countries such as China, the U.K., and Germany are actively attracting foreign STEM talent through incentives like visa facilitation and reduced fees.
  • Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q. “Membrane Bioreactors” are often discussed in the context of: (2024)

(a) Assisted reproductive technologies

(b) Drug delivery nanotechnologies

(c) Vaccine production technologies

(d) Wastewater treatment technologies

Ans: (d)

Hungarian Master of Apocalypse Gets 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature

Source: Indian Express

UPSC Relevance: GS1 Awards and Honours

Context: 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature

Why in News?

László Krasznahorkai, a Hungarian novelist known for his apocalyptic literary style, won the 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature for his “singular prose that reaffirms the power of art amid existential crises

Introduction

  • The 2025 Nobel Prize in Literature has been awarded to László Krasznahorkai, a 71-year-old Hungarian novelist and screenwriter, for his “singular prose that, in the midst of apocalyptic terror, reaffirms the power of art.”
  • He becomes the second Hungarian after Imre Kertész (2002) to receive this prestigious recognition. Krasznahorkai’s oeuvre is distinguished by its philosophical depth, long-form sentences, and focus on existential, historical, and societal crises.

Early Life and Literary Journey

  • Born: 1954, Gyula, Hungary, near the Romanian border.
  • Background: Raised in a Jewish, rural, and repressive environment during the long twilight of state socialism, his early life sensitized him to history, memory, and human resilience.
  • Education: Studied law and literature in Budapest, blending rigorous academic training with literary experimentation.
  • Debut Novel: Sátántangó (1985), set in a dying collective farm, became an immediate sensation for its philosophical insight and narrative innovation.
  • Collaborations: His long-term partnership with filmmaker Béla Tarr, who adapted Sátántangó into a seven-hour cinematic masterpiece, cemented his reputation as a chronicler of existential and societal collapse.

(Image Source: Indian Express)

Themes and Literary Style

  • Apocalypse and Human Resistance: Krasznahorkai’s works often explore the tension between societal collapse and human agency, portraying moral, spiritual, and institutional decay. Key works include:
    • The Melancholy of Resistance (1989): Depicts the collapse of order in a small town disrupted by a traveling circus.
    • War and War (1999): Follows a Hungarian archivist determined to preserve a transcendent manuscript amidst societal disintegration.
    • Seiobo There Below (2008) and Destruction and Sorrow Beneath the Heavens (2004): Reflect his engagement with Asian art, philosophy, and cultural pilgrimage.
  • Literary Style – Sentence as Architecture: Krasznahorkai is known for long, recursive sentences that often span multiple pages, creating an immersive experience.
    • His prose requires patience and sustained attention, allowing readers to engage deeply with existential themes. He described his approach as:
    • “Letters; then from letters, words; then from these words, some short sentences; then more sentences that are longer… Beauty in language. Fun in hell.”
  • Philosophical Underpinnings: His works interrogate moral collapse, memory, history, and hope, portraying art as both a witness and a defense against societal decay. He is lauded for combining Central European literary traditions (Kafka, Beckett, Musil) with a global, especially Asian, perspective.

Significance of the 2025 Nobel Award

  • Recognition of Existential Literature: By awarding Krasznahorkai, the Swedish Academy highlights literature that engages with existential dread, climate crises, conflict, and historical consciousness, resisting the pressures of populism or commercial trends.
  • Faith in Human Agency: Krasznahorkai’s work emphasizes resilience and human dignity, offering a philosophical framework for interpreting contemporary global challenges.
  • Defiance of Literary Conventions: The award celebrates experimental narrative forms, where the prose itself becomes an instrument of meaning, showing that literature need not conform to short, market-friendly formats to remain impactful.

About the Nobel Prizes

  • Origin:
    • Established in 1895 in the will of Alfred Nobel, a Swedish industrialist and inventor of dynamite.
    • Nobel Prizes are awarded in Peace, Literature, Physics, Chemistry, Medicine, and Economic Sciences.
  • Significance:
    • Recognizes outstanding contributions to humanity in scientific, cultural, and humanitarian fields.
    • Awards include a medal, diploma, and cash prize.
    • Serve as a global benchmark for excellence, influencing public discourse, policy, and research priorities.
  • Nobel Prize in Literature:
    • Awarded by the Swedish Academy.
    • Recognizes authors whose work exhibits idealistic, artistic, and intellectual contributions to literature.
    • Past Hungarian laureates include Imre Kertész (2002).

Conclusion

  • László Krasznahorkai’s Nobel Prize reflects a commitment to literature that confronts despair with intellectual rigor and moral reflection.

CARE MCQ

Q4.  Consider the following statements regarding the Nobel Prize in Literature 2025:

  1. László Krasznahorkai is the second Hungarian author to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.
  2. His literary style is characterized by long, recursive sentences that often span multiple pages.
  3. Krasznahorkai’s works focus solely on European historical events, with little engagement with non-European cultures.
  4. The Nobel Prize in Literature is awarded by the Swedish Academy for outstanding contributions to literature.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1, 2, and 4 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) All of the above

Answer 4- B

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is correct: Krasznahorkai is the second Hungarian, after Imre Kertész (2002), to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature.
  • Statement 2 is correct: His hallmark is long, dense, recursive sentences, creating an immersive reading experience.
  • Statement 3 is incorrect: While grounded in Central European tradition, his later works engage with Asian cultures, including Japan and China.
  • Statement 4 is correct: The Swedish Academy awards the Nobel Prize in Literature to authors with outstanding literary contributions.
  • Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021)

  1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India.
  2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once.
  3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year.

Which of the above statements are not correct?

  1. 1 and 2 only
  2. 2 and 3 only
  3. 1 and 3 only
  4. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d)

SC allows junior judges to be directly elevated as district judges

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance

Context: District judges – Supreme Court of India

Why in News?

The Supreme Court of India, in Rejanish KV vs K Deepa (2025), ruled that serving judicial officers can directly compete for district judge posts, overturning earlier precedents that restricted this route to advocates.

Introduction

  • In a landmark verdict on October 9, 2025, the Supreme Court of India, through a five-judge Constitution Bench led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, ruled that judicial officers serving in the subordinate judiciary are eligible to compete for the post of district judge through direct recruitment.
  • This ruling overturns previous Supreme Court precedents that had restricted this channel exclusively to advocates with at least seven years of experience at the bar.
  • The judgment, delivered in the case of Rejanish KV vs K Deepa, reinterprets Article 233 of the Constitution, redefining the eligibility framework for higher judicial appointments.

Background

  • Traditionally, the career path for district judges in India has been bifurcated:
    • Advocates: Eligible for direct recruitment after seven years of practice.
    • Lower Court Judges: Civil judges or judicial magistrates could ascend to district judge positions only through promotion based on seniority or limited competitive examinations.
  • The case arose when Rejanish KV, initially a practising lawyer who qualified under the direct recruitment quota, became a junior judge in Kerala. His subsequent appointment as a district judge raised a legal question: could a serving judicial officer still compete under the advocate quota?
  • The Kerala High Court annulled his appointment, citing the Supreme Court’s 2020 decision in Dheeraj Mor vs High Court of Delhi, which barred judicial officers from direct recruitment.

(Image Source: Indian Express)

Subordinate Judiciary in India:

  • Subordinate courts constitute the lower tier of a state’s judicial system, operating under the supervision of the respective High Court.
  • They primarily function at the district and sub-district levels, ensuring access to justice for civil and criminal matters.
  • Constitutional Basis: The organization, powers, and independence of subordinate courts are enshrined in Articles 233 to 237 of Part VI of the Constitution. These provisions aim to maintain judicial independence from the executive while outlining the framework for appointments and functioning.

Appointment of Judges:

  • District Judges: Appointed, posted, and promoted by the Governor in consultation with the High Court.
  • Other Judicial Officers (below District Judge): Appointed by the Governor after consulting both the State Public Service Commission and the High Court.

Eligibility for District Judge:

  • Must not be in central or state government service at the time of appointment.
  • Must have served as an advocate or pleader for at least seven years.
  • Must be recommended by the High Court.

Control and Supervision: The High Court exercises administrative control over subordinate courts, including postings, promotions, and leave of judicial officers below the level of District Judge.

Structure and Jurisdiction: While specific titles and structures vary across states, the subordinate judiciary generally follows a three-tier system:

  1. District and Sessions Courts:
    • Highest judicial authority at the district level.
    • Exercises both original and appellate jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters.
    • Sessions Judges can impose life imprisonment or death penalty, with death sentences requiring High Court confirmation.
  2. Subordinate Civil and Criminal Courts:
    • Civil Side:
      • Subordinate Judges: Unlimited pecuniary jurisdiction.
      • Munsiffs: Limited pecuniary jurisdiction.
    • Criminal Side:
      • Chief Judicial Magistrate: Cases punishable up to 7 years of imprisonment.
      • Judicial Magistrate: Cases punishable up to 3 years of imprisonment.
  3. Special Courts:
    • Metropolitan Areas: City civil courts handle civil matters; metropolitan magistrate courts deal with criminal matters.
    • Small Causes Courts: Handle low-value civil cases summarily; decisions are final but subject to High Court revision.
    • Panchayat Courts (e.g., Nyaya Panchayats, Gram Kutchery): Deal with petty civil and criminal cases in rural areas.

Supreme Court’s Ruling

The Constitution Bench Re-examined Article 233(2), which states that “a person not already in the service of the Union or of the State” shall be eligible for direct recruitment as a district judge only if they have seven years of practice at the bar.

  • Majority Opinion (CJI Gavai et al.): The court held that the earlier interpretation was narrow and incorrect. The clause sets a minimum qualification for bar candidates but does not prohibit serving judicial officers from competing. Excluding them was discriminatory and undermined the objective of attracting the best talent to the higher judiciary. The bench emphasized that judicial experience is invaluable and broadens the talent pool.
  • Concurring Opinion (Justice Sundresh): Justice Sundresh highlighted the principle of judicial independence and the doctrine of constitutional silence, arguing that the framers deliberately left eligibility criteria for judicial officers open-ended. An absolute bar would create an unconstitutional quota for advocates, violating Article 14.
  • Overruling Precedent The bench overruled a long line of prior decisions, including:
    • Satya Narain Singh vs High Court of Judicature at Allahabad (1984, 2-judge bench)
    • Dheeraj Mor vs High Court of Delhi (2020, 3-judge bench)
  • The bench reasoned that these decisions had caused decades of injustice to judicial officers and failed to align with the Constitution’s text and public interest.
  • Key Directives and Changes
    • Eligibility: Serving judicial officers can now apply under direct recruitment.
    • Experience Requirement: A minimum of seven years continuous experience is mandatory, which can include both years as a practising advocate and as a judicial officer. Gaps in continuous professional association render candidates ineligible.
    • Minimum Age: Uniform 35 years for all candidates.
    • Assessment: Eligibility is assessed at the time of application, not appointment.
    • State Amendments: All state governments and High Courts must amend judicial service rules within three months.
    • Prospective Application: The ruling applies only to future recruitments and not retroactively.
  • Implications
    • Merit-Based Selection: Expands the talent pool and fosters healthy competition between advocates and judicial officers.
    • Judicial Efficiency: Experienced lower court judges bring practical insights, potentially enhancing the quality and efficiency of district judiciary functioning.
    • Equality and Non-Discrimination: Upholds Article 14 by removing an arbitrary bar based solely on professional status.
    • Policy Reform: Sets a precedent for uniform eligibility criteria and more transparent recruitment practices in higher judiciary appointments.

Conclusion

  • The Supreme Court’s decision marks a transformative step in India’s judicial recruitment framework, aligning with the constitutional mandate of equality and meritocracy.
  • By allowing junior judicial officers to compete directly with advocates, the verdict broadens access, strengthens judicial quality, and addresses long-standing structural inequities in career progression within the judiciary.

CARE MCQ

Q5.  Consider the following statements regarding the Supreme Court’s 2025 verdict on district judge appointments:

  1. The ruling allows junior judicial officers to compete for direct recruitment as district judges.
  2. Advocates with less than seven years of practice are now eligible under the same quota.
  3. A minimum of seven years of continuous experience, including both advocacy and judicial service, is required for eligibility.
  4. The judgment applies retrospectively to all past appointments and selections.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 3 and 4 only
D) All of the above

Answer 5- A

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is correct: The Supreme Court ruling allows serving judicial officers to directly compete for the post of district judge, overturning earlier restrictions that reserved this route exclusively for advocates.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect: The verdict does not reduce the seven-year minimum practice requirement for advocates; they must still meet this criterion to be eligible.
  • Statement 3 is correct: The court mandates a minimum of seven years of continuous experience, which can include a combination of years as an advocate and years in judicial service, for eligibility under direct recruitment.
  • Statement 4 is incorrect: The judgment applies prospectively and does not impact appointments or selection processes completed before the ruling.
  • Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q.  With reference to the Indian judiciary, consider the following statements: (2021)

  1. Any retired judge of the Supreme Court of India can be called back to sit and act as a Supreme Court judge by the Chief Justice of India with the prior permission of the President of India.
  2. A High Court in India has the power to review its own judgement as the Supreme Court does.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither I nor 2

Ans: (c)

India’s Evolving Diplomatic Engagement with Afghanistan’s Taliban

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: Indian Taliban Relations

Why in News?

Afghan Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi is on visit to India from October 9–16, 2025, marking the first official visit by a top Taliban leader since their return to power in 2021.

Introduction

  • The visit highlights India’s cautious engagement strategy with the Taliban, aimed at securing strategic space in Afghanistan while balancing ethical and security concerns.

Background

  • India-Taliban interactions are not new. Initial contact dates back to the late 1990s, notably during the IC-814 hijacking crisis in 1999–2000.
  • However, India’s engagement was limited due to the Taliban’s strong alignment with Pakistan and its regressive policies, particularly toward women and minorities.
  • Post-2021, following the Taliban takeover of Kabul, India adopted a “cautious engagement” approach. The reopening of the technical mission in June 2022 signaled India’s intent to maintain a foothold in Afghanistan, primarily through humanitarian and development assistance.
  • Despite this, India has been slow to provide visas or engage extensively in bilateral trade and investment, reflecting a policy inertia rooted in the recognition vs engagement debate.

Objectives of India’s Engagement

  • Humanitarian Assistance: India has consistently provided aid to Afghanistan, including wheat, medicines, vaccines, and disaster relief. The focus is on alleviating the hardships of Afghan citizens rather than endorsing Taliban governance.
  • Strategic Presence: By engaging with the Taliban, India aims to secure strategic space in Afghanistan, ensuring that it is not entirely dominated by rival powers such as China and Pakistan. The visit is timely as shifting geopolitical dynamics—Pakistan’s deteriorating position, China’s diplomatic outreach, and US strategic recalibration—create an opportunity for India.
  • Infrastructure and Development Support: India seeks to provide technical and institutional assistance in agriculture, industry, water management, health, and MSME development. Emphasis is on promoting sustainable development through Small Development Projects (SDPs) and facilitating trade via Chabahar port.
  • Regional Cooperation and Stability: India aims to engage in dialogue to strengthen Afghanistan’s connectivity with South and Central Asia, positioning the country as a land bridge that supports regional trade and transit.

Challenges and Constraints

  • Recognition Dilemma: India does not officially recognize the Taliban regime due to its domestic and international legitimacy issues, especially concerning human rights, women’s education, and minority representation.
  • Security Concerns: There is apprehension regarding Afghan visa issuance due to security risks, which limits the mobility of Afghan students, professionals, and patients.
  • Policy Inertia: Despite years of engagement, India’s diplomatic footprint in Afghanistan remains limited, with minimal staff and a technical mission that struggles to implement development projects effectively.
  • Competing Regional Interests: China, Pakistan, Iran, Russia, and the US are all active in Afghanistan, creating a complex geopolitical environment. India must navigate these pressures while safeguarding its strategic and economic interests.

(Image Source: Indian Express)

Significance

  • India’s engagement strategy reflects a realist approach, balancing national interest with ethical considerations.
  • The Taliban’s outreach, including Muttaqi’s visit, provides India an opportunity to secure influence in Afghanistan without formal recognition. Humanitarian aid and development projects serve as instruments of soft power, building goodwill among the Afghan population.
  • However, lessons from the two decades of engagement with the previous Afghan government highlight the need for institution-building, accountability, and sustainability in aid delivery.
  • India’s current cautious posture may result in missed opportunities if other powers deepen their presence in Afghanistan.
  • A calibrated approach combining strategic engagement, economic cooperation, and people-centric initiatives could help India maintain influence while adhering to its values.

India-Taliban Relations

Taliban Rule (1996–2001):

  • During the Taliban’s first regime, India did not establish formal diplomatic ties. Instead, it supported the Northern Alliance, the main opposition group.
  • The Taliban, however, assisted India during the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight 814, enabling the safe release of hostages.

Pre-August 2021:

  • India engaged in multilateral and peace initiatives to maintain its presence in Afghan affairs. The Moscow Dialogue (2017) brought together Afghanistan, China, India, and other stakeholders to facilitate reconciliation efforts.
  • In 2020, India participated in intra-Afghan peace talks in Doha, marking a significant step in engagement with the Taliban.

Post-August 2021:

  • After the Taliban regained power, India began cautious engagement. In August 2021, the Indian Ambassador to Qatar met Taliban representatives in Doha.
  • By June 2022, the Joint Secretary for Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran held talks with Taliban leaders, paving the way for a technical team at the Indian Embassy in Kabul, allowing direct engagement with Taliban ministers and officials.
  • India also permitted the Taliban to appoint a new Afghan Consul General in Mumbai.

Strategic Importance of Afghanistan for India

  1. Gateway to Central Asia: Afghanistan provides a route via Chabahar Port to access the energy-rich and economically significant Central Asian region, reducing dependence on Pakistan and China.
  2. Geopolitical Advantage: Afghanistan shares borders with Pakistan, Iran, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and China, making it strategically vital.
  3. Countering Pakistan’s Influence: India’s presence in Afghanistan enhances its regional influence and strategic position in South and Central Asia.
  4. Counter-Terrorism Efforts: Engagement in Afghanistan strengthens India’s leadership role in combating terrorism and extremism in the region.
  5. Mutual Development Benefits: India has invested over USD 3 billion in Afghanistan, including roads, dams, schools, hospitals, and the Parliament building, benefiting both Afghans and India through development cooperation.

Challenges in India’s Taliban Policy

  1. Terrorism Threats: The Taliban takeover destabilized Afghanistan, strengthening extremist networks like the Haqqani Network, al-Qaeda, and Lashkar-e-Taiba, which pose cross-border security threats to India.
  2. Pakistan’s Strategic Role: Pakistan views India’s presence in Afghanistan as a challenge to its strategic depth policy and alleges India supports insurgencies in Balochistan and other regions.
  3. Lack of Diplomatic Recognition: India has not officially recognized the Taliban, due to their non-inclusive government, human rights violations, and failure to control terrorism, complicating formal diplomacy.
  4. Refugee Management: The fall of Kabul triggered an influx of Afghan refugees into India, raising security, resource, and integration challenges, along with concerns about potential radical elements.

Way Forward

  • Expand SDPs and MSME support to ensure aid reaches local communities.
  • Facilitate visas for Afghan students, patients, and professionals in a secure manner.
  • Strengthen trade and connectivity initiatives through Chabahar port.
  • Enhance institutional collaboration for water management, agriculture, and industrial development.
  • Maintain a balanced stance between engagement and non-recognition to safeguard India’s strategic autonomy.

CARE MCQ

Q6. Consider the following statements regarding India–Taliban Relations:

  1. During the Taliban regime (1996–2001), India maintained formal diplomatic ties and established an embassy in Kabul.
  2. India participated in the 2020 Intra-Afghan Peace Talks held in Doha.
  3. In 2022, India sent a technical team to its embassy in Kabul to coordinate humanitarian and diplomatic activities.
  4. India has officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 2 and 3 only

(C) 1, 3 and 4 only

(D) 2, 3 and 4 only

Answer 6-B

Explanation

  • Statement 1 is incorrect:
  • India did not establish formal diplomatic relations with the Taliban during their first rule (1996–2001). Instead, it supported the Northern Alliance, which opposed the Taliban regime.
  • Statement 2 is correct:
  • India participated in the Intra-Afghan Peace Talks (2020) held in Doha, marking a significant step in its engagement with the Taliban.
  • Statement 3 is correct:
  • In June 2022, India deployed a technical team to the Indian Embassy in Kabul, enabling official-level engagement with Taliban ministers and coordination for humanitarian aid.
  • Statement 4 is incorrect:
  • India has not formally recognized the Taliban government due to its non-inclusive governance, human rights violations, and support for extremist groups.
  • Therefore, option (b) is the correct answer.

Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

UPSC PYQ

Q. Consider the following countries: (2022)

1. Azerbaijan
2. Kyrgyzstan
3. Tajikistan
4. Turkmenistan
5. Uzbekstan

Which of the above have borders with Afghanistan?

a) 1, 2 and 5 only
b) 1, 2, 3 and 4 only
c) 3, 4 and 5 only
d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5

Ans: (c)

 
UPSC CARE 13th October 2025 Current Affairs
UPSC CARE 9th October 2025 Current Affairs
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