UPSC CARE 2nd September 2025 Current Affairs

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025: Tianjin Declaration

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS2 International Relations

Context: SCO and Tianjin Declaration

Why in News

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 in Tianjin adopted the Tianjin Declaration, condemning terrorism, opposing unilateral sanctions, proposing a Development Bank, and admitting Laos as a partner country

Introduction

• On September 1, 2025, the 10-member Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) adopted the Tianjin Declaration at its annual summit held in Tianjin, China.
• The declaration strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms, opposed unilateral coercive measures, and emphasized the need for reforming global governance.
• It also announced structural changes to the SCO’s partnership framework and took positions on key global crises, marking an expansion of SCO’s role in international affairs.

Counter-terrorism Commitment

• Strong condemnation of terrorism, including:
  • The April 22 Pahalgam attack in Jammu & Kashmir.
  • Attacks on Jaffer Express and in Khuzdar, Pakistan.
• Call for an end to cross-border movement of terrorists.
• Reaffirmation of commitment to fight terrorism, separatism, and extremism.
• Rejection of use of such groups for “mercenary purposes.”

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Geopolitical & Economic Stance

• The world described as undergoing “profound historical changes” affecting political, economic, and social relations.
• Opposition to unilateral coercive measures (economic sanctions, tariffs, etc.) that violate the UN Charter and WTO principles – seen as a reference to U.S. tariffs.
• Criticism of Cold War mentality and bullying behaviour in global affairs (indirect reference to U.S.-China rivalry).

Xi Jinping’s Proposals

• Launch of a Global Governance Initiative (GGI) to:
  • Strengthen UN’s central role.
  • Promote multilateralism and sovereign equality.
  • Establish a people-centered global governance system.
• Financial commitments:
  • ¥2 billion in grants to member countries in 2025.
  • ¥10 billion in loans to SCO Interbank Consortium over three years.
• Push for setting up an SCO Development Bank.

Organisational Decisions

• Merger of observer and dialogue partner statuses → unified SCO Partner status.
• Laos admitted as a partner → bringing the grouping to 10 members + 17 partners = 27 countries.
• Announcement of a plan to create the SCO Development Bank to finance long-term projects.

Positions on Global Crises

• West Asia: Condemnation of civilian casualties in Gaza conflict; called for a comprehensive and just settlement of the Palestinian issue.
• Iran: Condemnation of U.S.-Israel strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities (June 2025). Reaffirmed UNSC Resolution 2231 for lifting sanctions on Iran.
• Afghanistan: Stressed the need for an inclusive government with participation of all ethno-political groups.
• Ukraine conflict: PM Modi urged an early resolution, saying “it is humanity’s call” to end the war.

India’s Position

• Strong condemnation of terrorism and indirect criticism of “open support to terrorism by some countries.”
• Refused to endorse China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), maintaining its long-standing opposition due to sovereignty concerns (CPEC passing through PoK).
• Reiterated need for peace in Ukraine and stability in Afghanistan.

Support for International Norms

• Welcomed the UNGA resolution against glorification of Nazism, neo-Nazism, racism, and xenophobia.
• Emphasized strengthening of Global South solidarity amid uncertainties in trade and world order.

Structural and Membership Aspects of SCO

• Full Members (10): China, Russia, India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Belarus.
• Partners (17): Includes Turkey, Sri Lanka, Azerbaijan, Egypt, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Armenia, and now Laos.

Significance of the 2025 Summit

1. Geopolitical:
   • Showcased SCO’s opposition to U.S.-led sanctions and unilateral measures.
   • Reflected growing alignment between Russia, China, Iran, and Central Asian states.
2. Institutional:
   • Move towards institutional deepening with the proposed SCO Development Bank.
   • Streamlining of membership categories.
3. India’s Role:
   • Balanced participation: joined in anti-terror commitments and humanitarian positions, but resisted BRI endorsement.
   • Projected itself as a voice for peace (Ukraine, terrorism).
4. China’s Strategy:
   • Used the platform to push for leadership in global governance reforms.
   • Announced financial assistance to strengthen SCO’s dependency on Beijing.

Challenges Ahead

• Diverging national interests (e.g., India vs. China/Pakistan on terrorism and BRI).
• Internal instability in member/partner states (Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran).
• Risk of SCO turning into an anti-West bloc, limiting India’s flexibility.
• Operationalisation of SCO Development Bank amidst existing BRICS NDB and AIIB.

Conclusion

• The Tianjin Declaration (2025) marked a milestone in the SCO’s evolution into a more institutionalised and politically assertive bloc.

UPSC PYQ

Q.    “Belt and Road Initiative” is sometimes mentioned in the news in the context of the affairs of: (2016)

(a) African Union

(b) Brazil

(c) European Union

(d) China

Ans: d

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 (Tianjin Declaration):

1. The Tianjin Declaration strongly condemned terrorism, including the April 22 Pahalgam attack in India.
2. Laos was admitted as a partner country after SCO merged the statuses of observers and dialogue partners.
3. India endorsed the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for the first time at this summit.
4. The SCO members agreed in principle to establish an SCO Development Bank.

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) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer- B

Explanation

• Statement 1 is correct: The Tianjin Declaration explicitly condemned terrorism in all its forms, including the April 22 Pahalgam attack in India, as well as the Jaffer Express and Khuzdar attacks in Pakistan.
• Statement 2 is correct: The summit decided to merge the statuses of observer and dialogue partner into a single partner status, and Laos was admitted as a new partner, raising the total to 17 partners.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: India did not endorse the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI); it continued its consistent opposition due to sovereignty concerns, particularly the China–Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) passing through PoK.
• Statement 4 is correct: The members agreed in principle to establish an SCO Development Bank, a long-standing proposal of China to finance development projects across member states.
• Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

Restoration of Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir: Constitutional and Federal Perspectives

Source: The Hindu

UPSC Relevance: GS 2 Polity and Governance

Context: Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir

Why in News

The Supreme Court has sought the Union Government’s response on the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

Introduction

• The question of restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) has re-emerged in the judicial and political discourse of India.
• The Supreme Court, while hearing Zahoor Ahmed Bhat vs. UT of Jammu and Kashmir, has sought a detailed response from the Union Government on the issue.
• The petitioners argue that the continued status of J&K as a Union Territory (UT) undermines the rights of citizens and violates the federal design enshrined in the Constitution.
• This debate is not only about the constitutional validity of J&K’s reorganisation but also about safeguarding India’s federal ethos and the principle of separation of powers.

Constitutional Provisions for Creation of States

The Constitution envisages three distinct processes for the creation of States:

Admission of New States

• • Article 2 empowers Parliament to admit into the Union new States that were not part of India at independence.
  • Example: Jammu and Kashmir acceded to India in 1947 through the Instrument of Accession executed by Maharaja Hari Singh under the Indian Independence Act, 1947.

(Image Source: The Hindu)

Establishment of States through Acquisition

• New States can be established through territory acquired in accordance with international law.
• Examples: Goa (1961) and Sikkim (1975) were integrated into India and subsequently granted statehood.

Formation of States through Reorganisation

• Governed by Article 3, which empowers Parliament to:
  • Form a new State by separation or unification.
  • Increase or diminish the area of any State.
  • Alter boundaries or names of States.
• Limitation: While Parliament may diminish the area of a State, converting a State into a Union Territory undermines federal principles unless such statehood is later restored.
• Example: From 14 States in 1956 (States Reorganisation Act) to 29 before the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019.

Federal Design of the Indian Constitution

India’s Constitution is neither wholly unitary nor strictly federal but represents a “Union of States” (Article 1) with a unique blend of strong Centre and cooperative federalism.

• Indivisibility of India: States have no right to secede, reflecting a unitary spirit.
• Union vs. Federation: The word “Union” was deliberately chosen to make the Centre strong enough to protect unity and integrity.
• Federal Features:
  • Distribution of legislative, executive, and financial powers between Centre and States (Seventh Schedule).
  • Existence of a bicameral Parliament with the Rajya Sabha ensuring State representation (Article 83).
  • Federalism included as part of the Basic Structure Doctrine (Kesavananda Bharati case, 1973).

Thus, any dilution of statehood for a prolonged period risks undermining the federal balance, which is essential to India’s constitutional design.

Judicial Context

• Supreme Court Verdict (December 11, 2023):
• Upheld the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A.
• Directed the Union to restore statehood to J&K and conduct Legislative Assembly elections.
• Developments:
• Elections to the 90-member J&K Assembly were held in October 2024.
• However, statehood has not yet been restored, with governance continuing under the framework of a Union Territory led by the Lieutenant Governor.
• Current Plea:
• In Zahoor Ahmed Bhat vs. UT of J&K, petitioners argue that denial of statehood violates citizens’ rights and India’s federal features, thereby conflicting with the basic structure.

The Case for Restoring Statehood

1. Protection of Federalism
   • Conversion of J&K into a UT is an exceptional measure; prolonged denial of statehood erodes India’s federal balance.
2. Democratic Representation
   • An elected government with full state powers ensures accountability and responsiveness to local aspirations.
3. Limiting Centralisation
   • The Lieutenant Governor presently holds disproportionate authority, curbing democratic self-rule.
4. Judicial Direction
   • Non-compliance with the Supreme Court’s order to restore statehood may be seen as a violation of the separation of powers and judicial authority.

Counterarguments and Challenges

• Security Considerations: The Union Government may argue that ground realities in J&K, especially security concerns, necessitate continuation of UT status for stability.
• Centre-State Relations: Critics of restoration argue that empowering the State government would curtail Union control and weaken security measures.
• Gradualism: Some suggest that restoration may be phased, depending on the consolidation of peace and development.

Way Forward

• Time-bound Roadmap: The Union should present a clear timeline for restoring statehood to maintain constitutional credibility.
• Strengthening Cooperative Federalism: Empowering J&K’s elected government while retaining necessary security provisions at the Centre.
• Judicial Oversight: Continued monitoring by the Supreme Court to ensure compliance with its directions.
• Balancing Unity and Diversity: Restoring statehood would reaffirm India’s commitment to unity in diversity, democratic governance, and constitutional federalism.

Conclusion

• The debate over Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood is a test of India’s constitutional philosophy.
• While national security and unity remain paramount, federalism and democratic representation form the bedrock of India’s polity.
• The Supreme Court’s direction to restore statehood highlights the need to strike a balance between strong Union authority and respect for State autonomy.

UPSC PYQ

Q. What was the exact constitutional status of India on 26th January, 1950? (2021)

(a) A Democratic Republic

(b) A Sovereign Democratic Republic

(c) A Sovereign Secular Democratic Republic

(d) A Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic

Ans: (b)

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the creation and reorganisation of States in India:

1. Article 2 empowers Parliament to admit new States into the Union of India.
2. Article 3 empowers Parliament to form new States, alter boundaries, or change the name of existing States.
3. Parliament can convert an existing State into a Union Territory under Article 3 without any further constitutional amendment.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer- A

Explanation

• Statement 1 is correct: Article 2 empowers Parliament to admit new States into the Union or establish new States. For example, Sikkim was admitted in 1975 under this provision.
• Statement 2 is correct: Article 3 gives Parliament power to reorganise States—by forming new ones, altering boundaries, increasing or diminishing areas, or changing names. For instance, Telangana was created in 2014 through this provision.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While Article 3 allows diminishing the area of a State, it does not empower Parliament to convert a State into a Union Territory. Doing so would undermine India’s federal design and would require a constitutional amendment. The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 has been criticised on this very ground.
• Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Adi Vaani: India’s First AI-Powered Tribal Language Translator

Source: PIB

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance

Context: Adi Vaani App

Why in News

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched the Beta Version of Adi Vaani, India’s first AI-powered translation platform for tribal languages.

Introduction

• On 1st September 2025, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched the Beta Version of “Adi Vaani”, India’s first AI-powered translation platform for tribal languages.
• Developed under the broader framework of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh (JJGV) celebrations, this initiative marks a landmark step in linguistic preservation, inclusive governance, and digital empowerment of tribal communities.

Significance of the Initiative

• Preservation of Linguistic Diversity: India has over 750 tribal languages, many endangered. Loss of these languages threatens cultural identity.
• Bridging Communication Gaps: Adi Vaani will help tribal communities access education, healthcare, entrepreneurship, and governance in their native tongues.
• Inclusive Development: Supports schemes like PM JANMAN, Adi Karmayogi Abhiyan, and aligns with Digital India and Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.
• Towards Viksit Bharat 2047: Empowers tribal youth to become digital change leaders, contributing to a knowledge-driven India.

Development and Collaboration

Adi Vaani has been developed through a national consortium led by IIT Delhi, in partnership with:

• BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, IIIT Nava Raipur
• Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) of Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Meghalaya

This low-cost, high-impact solution was developed at nearly one-tenth the cost of commercial AI platforms.

(Image Source: PIB)

Features of Adi Vaani

Real-time Translation

• Text and speech translation between Hindi, English, and tribal languages
• Beta version supports: Santali (Odisha), Bhili (Madhya Pradesh), Mundari (Jharkhand), and Gondi (Chhattisgarh)
• Kui and Garo languages under development

Language Learning Modules

• Interactive tools for students and early learners
• Helps youth retain mother tongue while accessing modern education

Cultural Digitization

• Documentation of folklore, oral traditions, songs, and stories
• Acts as a knowledge archive for researchers

Access to Governance and Services

• Subtitled advisories, government messages, and Prime Minister’s speeches in tribal languages
• Enhances delivery of healthcare, education, and welfare schemes

Broader Context

• Cultural Identity: As noted by the Minister of State, language is the foundation of culture; preserving it strengthens tribal identity.
• Linguistic Human Rights: Echoes global principles under UNESCO’s Convention on the Protection of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
• Digital Inclusion: Adi Vaani ensures that digital governance is not exclusionary but accessible in native languages.
• Global Relevance: Provides a model for low-resource language preservation, relevant to other multilingual societies.

Challenges Ahead

• Accuracy and Validation: Continuous feedback needed from communities to improve translations.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Digital access in remote tribal areas remains limited.
• Community Participation: Success depends on active engagement by tribal communities in data collection and refinement.

Conclusion

• The launch of Adi Vaani is more than a technological intervention—it is a cultural and developmental milestone.
• By integrating AI with tribal heritage, India is not only preserving endangered languages but also democratizing access to knowledge, governance, and opportunities for tribal communities.

UPSC PYQ

Q. “Rule of Law Index” is released by which of the following? (2018)
(a) Amnesty International
(b) International Court of Justice
(c) The Office of UN Commissioner for Human Rights
(d) World Justice Project

Ans– d

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding Adi Vaani:

1. It is India’s first AI-powered translation platform for tribal languages launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
2. The Beta version currently supports Santali, Bhili, Mundari, and Gondi languages.
3. Adi Vaani has been developed by IIT Delhi in collaboration with BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, IIIT Nava Raipur, and State Tribal Research Institutes.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer- D

Explanation

• Statement 1 is correct: Adi Vaani is India’s first AI-powered translation platform for tribal languages, launched by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs as part of Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh.
• Statement 2 is correct: In its Beta version, Adi Vaani supports four tribal languages — Santali (Odisha), Bhili (Madhya Pradesh), Mundari (Jharkhand), and Gondi (Chhattisgarh) — with Kui and Garo under development.
• Statement 3 is correct: Adi Vaani was developed by IIT Delhi in collaboration with BITS Pilani, IIIT Hyderabad, IIIT Nava Raipur, and Tribal Research Institutes (TRIs) of Jharkhand, Odisha, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Meghalaya, making it a collaborative national effort.
• Therefore, option D is the correct answer.

Internet as a Fundamental Right in India

Source: New Indian Express

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS2 Polity and Governance

Context: Fundamental Rights

Why in News?

• The judiciary has progressively recognised the Right to Internet as a part of Fundamental Rights, but its universal implementation in India remains a costly challenge due to infrastructure, affordability, and digital literacy gaps.

Introduction

• The internet has become as essential as electricity, clean water, and transport in the digital era. It is no longer a luxury but a lifeline for education, health, governance, commerce, and civic participation.
• Recognising its global importance, the United Nations declared internet access a human right in 2016.
• In India, the judiciary has progressively interpreted internet access as part of the fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19, 21, and 21A.
• Yet, the right to internet presents a paradox: while ensuring universal access demands enormous investment in infrastructure and digital literacy, denial of internet access deepens inequality and exclusion, making the cost of exclusion even greater.

(Image Source: New Indian Express)

Constitutional Foundations of the Right to Internet

Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty):

• The Kerala High Court in Faheema Shirin vs State of Kerala (2019) recognised internet access as integral to the right to education and privacy.
• The Supreme Court in Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India (2020) ruled against indefinite internet shutdowns, reinforcing that internet is critical for democratic freedoms.

Article 19 (Freedom of Speech and Expression):

• The SC on 10 January 2020 held that internet is a necessary platform for exercising free speech, trade, and commerce.

Article 14 (Right to Equality):

• Digital exclusion creates social and political inequalities, indirectly violating the principle of equal access to opportunities and information.

Article 21A (Right to Education):

• In the post-pandemic era, digital education has become inseparable from internet connectivity. Denial of internet access is denial of educational rights.

The Paradox of Internet as a Fundamental Right

1. The Cost of Access

• Infrastructure Development: Fibre optic cables, mobile towers, and reliable electricity supply in tribal and hilly areas demand huge financial outlays.
• Operational Issues: Harsh climatic conditions, connectivity problems, and inadequate electronic readiness hamper smooth implementation.
• Affordability: Despite having some of the world’s lowest tariffs, the cost of data packs and smartphones remains prohibitive for BPL families.

2. The Cost of Exclusion

• Educational Divide: During COVID-19, rural and tribal students were deprived of learning opportunities.
• Economic Marginalisation: Farmers lose access to weather forecasts, market data, digital payments, and government schemes.
• Healthcare Inequalities: Telemedicine and e-health services remain inaccessible to digitally excluded populations.
• Democratic Deficit: Citizens without internet are excluded from e-governance platforms, digital advocacy, and political participation.

Thus, while providing internet is expensive, denying it worsens inequalities and multiplies developmental costs.

Bridging the Digital Divide

1. Government Initiatives

• BharatNet Project: Aims to connect 6.5 lakh villages with fibre optic cables. As of January 2025, only 1.99 lakh villages (30.4%) were connected, reflecting the scale of the challenge.

2. Policy and Governance Approaches

• Public–Private Partnerships (PPP): Leveraging telecom companies and civil society actors for last-mile delivery.
• Satellite Internet Solutions: Complementing terrestrial networks in remote terrains.
• CSR Contributions: Directing corporate responsibility funds to build community internet centres.
• Subsidised Access: Free or low-cost internet in schools, libraries, and health centres to ensure affordability.

3. Digital Literacy and Inclusivity

• Current Status: As per NASSCOM (2023), only 37% of Indians are digitally literate.
• Gaps: Gender divide (male 87.2% vs female 74.6%), rural-urban gap (88.9% vs 77.5%).
• Way Forward: Community-based organisations, NGOs, and panchayats must play a participatory role in spreading digital literacy.

4. Linguistic and Cultural Barriers

• Regional content availability strengthens inclusivity, but tribal languages without written scripts face inherent exclusion. Technological innovation (e.g., speech-to-text AI, voice-based interfaces) is needed for linguistic justice.

Way Forward

1. Legal Strengthening: Make internet access explicitly recognised under Article 21, ensuring enforceability.
2. Time-bound Expansion of BharatNet: Prioritise high-exclusion states and tribal belts.
3. Innovative Technology: Expand satellite internet, 5G networks, and community Wi-Fi hubs.
4. Inclusive Digital Literacy: Focus on women, elderly, and disadvantaged groups through targeted campaigns.
5. Collaborative Governance: A network governance model involving state, private sector, NGOs, and local communities for participatory implementation.

Conclusion

• The right to internet is a paradoxically expensive but indispensable fundamental right.
• The pandemic highlighted that denial of internet access equals denial of education, healthcare, livelihood opportunities, and democratic freedoms.
• While the financial investment is substantial, the social, economic, and democratic costs of exclusion are far greater.
• Thus, innovative policymaking, technological solutions, and inclusive governance must converge to make universal internet access a reality.

UPSC PYQ

Q. Consider the following statements: [2023]
Statement-I
The Supreme Court of India has held in some judgements that the reservation policies made under Article 16(4) of the Constitution of India would be limited by Article 335 for maintenance of efficiency of administration.
Statement-II
Article 335 of the Constitution of India defines the term ‘efficiency of administration’.

Which of the following is correct in respect of the above statements ?
a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
c) Statement-I is correct but Statement- II is incorrect.
d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement- II is correct.

Ans: (c)

CARE MCQ

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Right to Internet in India:

1. The Kerala High Court in Faheema Shirin vs State of Kerala (2019) recognised internet access as part of the Right to Education and Right to Privacy under Article 21.
2. The Supreme Court in Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India (2020) ruled against indefinite internet shutdowns, reinforcing that internet access is integral to fundamental freedoms.
3. The BharatNet project had provided internet connectivity to more than 50% of India’s villages.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer- A

Explanation –

• Statement 1 is correct: The Kerala High Court in Faheema Shirin vs State of Kerala (2019) explicitly held that internet access is a part of Article 21, linking it to the right to education and privacy.
• Statement 2 is correct: The Supreme Court in Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India (2020) ruled against indefinite suspension of internet services, stating that such shutdowns violate citizens’ fundamental freedoms, including free speech and trade.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The BharatNet project had connected 1.99 lakh villages (30.4%) out of 6.5 lakh villages as of January 2025. Hence, internet coverage had not crossed 50% of villages.
• Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

The Scramble for Fertilisers in India: Causes, Consequences, and Policy Lessons

Source: Indian Express

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS 3 Economy

Context: Fertilisers in India

Why in News?

A good monsoon in 2025 boosted kharif crop acreage, leading to a surge in fertiliser demand, but lower production and imports caused shortages and long queues of farmers.

Introduction

• A good monsoon in 2025 has brought cheer to Indian agriculture, with above-average and well-distributed rainfall across most regions. This has encouraged farmers to expand the area under kharif crops, particularly rice and maize.
• However, the surge in crop acreage has also triggered a sharp rise in fertiliser demand. With domestic production and imports unable to keep pace, India has witnessed widespread fertiliser shortages, leading to long queues at retail outlets.
• This situation underlines the structural challenges in India’s fertiliser sector and highlights the need for policy reforms to ensure balanced, adequate, and timely supply of nutrients.

Fertiliser Demand Surge

Link between Monsoon and Fertiliser Use

• Good rainfall ensures soil moisture, fuller reservoirs, and groundwater recharge.
• Farmers respond by sowing larger areas and also applying more fertilisers to maximize yield.
• Fertilisers supply key nutrients – Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P), Potassium (K), and Sulphur (S) – that are as vital as water and sunlight for plant growth.

(Image Source: The Indian Express)

Kharif 2025 Trends

• Rice acreage: 420.4 lakh hectares (up 7.6% over 2024).
• Maize acreage: 93.3 lakh hectares (up 11.7%).
• Both crops are high nitrogen-consuming, requiring 3+ bags of urea per acre.
• Acreage of soyabean and pulses, which fix nitrogen naturally and use less fertiliser, declined.
• Result: disproportionate spike in urea and phosphatic fertiliser demand.

Fertiliser Sales Patterns

• Double-digit growth recorded in sales of most fertilisers:
  • Urea, Single Super Phosphate (SSP), Muriate of Potash (MOP), and NPKS complexes.
• Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) sales fell by 12.8%, continuing a trend of substitution.
• Farmers shifted to 20:20:0:13 complexes and SSP, which also supply Sulphur in addition to Phosphorus.
• In 2024-25, 20:20:0:13 sales hit an all-time high of 69.7 lakh tonnes, making it the third largest fertiliser after urea and DAP.

This shift signals a move towards balanced fertilisation, though urea dominance persists due to affordability and heavy subsidies.

Supply Shortfalls

Domestic Production (April–July 2025 vs. 2024)

• Urea: 93.6 lt (down from 102.1 lt).
• DAP: flat at 13.7 lt.
• Complexes (NPKS): 37.4 lt (up from 35 lt).
• SSP: 19.1 lt (up from 17.1 lt).

Imports and Stock Position

• Imports of urea and DAP declined, mainly due to Chinese supply restrictions.
• Stock depletion (as on August 1, 2025, vs. 2024):
• Urea: 37.2 lt vs. 86.4 lt.
• DAP: 13.9 lt vs. 15.8 lt.
• Complexes: 35 lt vs. 47 lt.
• MOP: 6.3 lt vs. 8 lt.
• Only SSP stocks slightly improved.

Farmer Experience

• Peak demand months July–August coincided with low availability.
• Reports of serpentine queues for urea surfaced across states.
• Fear factor worsened shortages as farmers began pre-stocking.

Policy Lessons

1. Anticipating Demand Better

• The government underestimated demand, especially from expansion in rice and maize.
• Lesson: fertiliser allocation must be crop-sensitive, not just rainfall-driven.

2. Rationalising Fertiliser Use

• Excess urea and DAP use remains a distortion.
• Alternatives:
• Replace one bag of urea with Ammonium Sulphate (20.5% N, 23% S).
• Restrict DAP use to paddy and wheat; promote complexes/SSP for other crops.

3. Strengthening Supply Chains

• Need for advance stocking ahead of peak seasons.
• Improve logistics and distribution monitoring to avoid hoarding and black marketing.

4. Diversifying Import Sources

• Overdependence on China for urea and phosphates creates vulnerability.
• Diversify import sources and invest in joint ventures abroad for assured supplies.

5. Promoting Balanced Fertilisation

• Encourage use of nutrient blends with secondary and micronutrients.
• Strengthen soil health card schemes to align fertiliser application with crop and soil needs.

Implications for Rabi 2025-26

• India’s reservoirs are filled to 83.5% capacity; aquifers are replenished.
• Strong rabi demand is expected for wheat, mustard, and pulses.
• Without proactive measures, shortages may spill over, impacting food security and farmer incomes.

Conclusion

• The fertiliser scramble of kharif 2025 highlights how good monsoons, crop shifts, and global supply shocks can create domestic crises.
• While the government has managed to stabilize the situation partially, long-term reforms are needed: rationalising subsidies, diversifying imports, strengthening domestic capacity, and promoting balanced fertiliser use.
• Ensuring reliable and timely access to fertilisers is as critical as water and seeds for sustaining India’s agricultural growth.

UPSC PYQ

Q.  With reference to chemical fertilizers in India, consider the following statements: (2020)

1. At present, the retail price of chemical fertilizers is market-driven and not administered by the Government.
2. Ammonia, which is an input of urea, is produced from natural gas.
3. Sulphur, which is a raw material for phosphoric acid fertilizer, is a by-product of oil refineries.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 2 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (b)

CARE MCQ

Q. With reference to the fertiliser scenario in India during Kharif 2025, consider the following statements:

1. The sales of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fertilisers recorded a decline, with farmers increasingly substituting it with SSP and NPK complexes.
2. Urea production during April–July 2025 was higher compared to the same period in 2024.
3. Rice and maize, both high nitrogen-consuming crops, registered an increase in acreage during Kharif 2025.
4. Imports of both urea and DAP declined in 2025, partly due to supply restrictions by China.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 1, 3 and 4 only
(C) 2 and 3 only
(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer- B

Explanation –

• Statement 1 is correct: The sales of diammonium phosphate (DAP) fell by 12.8% during April–July 2025. Farmers substituted DAP with other phosphorus-containing fertilisers like 20:20:0:13 complexes and Single Super Phosphate (SSP), which also provide sulphur, indicating a shift towards more balanced fertilisation.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Urea production during April–July 2025 was 93.6 lakh tonnes, which was lower than 102.1 lakh tonnes during the same period in 2024. Hence, production actually declined.
• Statement 3 is correct: Acreages of both rice (up 7.6%) and maize (up 11.7%) increased significantly in 2025. These crops are high nitrogen-consuming, requiring three or more bags of urea per acre, thereby raising fertiliser demand.
• Statement 4 is correct: Imports of both urea and DAP declined in 2025. This was partly due to supply restrictions imposed by China, which has been a major source for India’s phosphatic fertiliser imports.
• Therefore, option B is the correct answer.

ESA’s Solar Orbiter Traces Origin of Energetic Solar Particles: Implications for Space Weather

Source: Down-to-earth

UPSC Syllabus Relevance: GS3 Science and technology

Context: ESA’s Solar Orbiter

Why in News?

The European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter has, for the first time, traced the origin of energetic electrons from the Sun, linking them to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

Introduction

• The European Space Agency’s (ESA) Solar Orbiter, launched in 2020 in collaboration with NASA, has made a significant breakthrough by tracing the origins of Solar Energetic Electrons (SEE).
• This marks a crucial step in understanding space weather, a domain that directly affects Earth’s technological systems and future human space exploration.
• The spacecraft is already credited with being the first to image the Sun’s poles, a region critical for studying solar magnetic cycles.
• Now, its latest findings deepen our knowledge of how solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs) generate high-energy particles that traverse space and impact Earth.

Key Findings of the Study

Published in Astronomy and Astrophysics, the study highlights:

Sources of Solar Energetic Electrons (SEE):

• Solar Flares – Sudden explosions on smaller patches of the Sun’s surface produce bursts of electrons.
• Coronal Mass Ejections (CMEs) – Large-scale eruptions of plasma and magnetic fields gradually release energetic electrons into space.

(Image Source: Down To Earth)

Observation of Lag:

• Over 300 SEE bursts were studied (2020–2022).
• Sometimes electrons reached space hours after the flare/CME, due to scattering, turbulence, or delayed release.

In-Situ & Remote Sensing:

• The Solar Orbiter carries 10 instruments, measuring solar wind, plasma, and energetic particles while also capturing remote images of solar activity.
• The spacecraft flew through electron streams while simultaneously observing the Sun — the first clear evidence linking space electrons to specific solar events.

Importance of the Discovery

1. Understanding Space Weather

• Space Weather Definition: Conditions in the space environment driven by the Sun, including solar flares, CMEs, solar particle events, and solar wind.
• Impacts on Earth:
• Satellite Disruptions: Affects communication, broadcasting, and GPS navigation.
• Power Grid Disturbances: CMEs induce geomagnetic storms that cause voltage instability and large-scale blackouts.
• Aviation Risks: High-energy particles can disrupt high-altitude flights near the poles.
• Astronaut Safety: Increased radiation exposure during solar events.

2. Scientific Significance

• First direct link between energetic electrons and their solar source events.
• Advances knowledge about:
• The Sun’s 11-year magnetic activity cycle.
• The heating of the Sun’s corona to millions of degrees Celsius.
• The acceleration of solar wind to hundreds of km/s.

3. Practical Applications

• Prediction Models: Better anticipation of space weather events.
• Satellite Protection: Improved shielding and operational planning for spacecraft.
• Astronaut Safety: Safer human missions to the Moon and Mars through early warnings.
• Global Infrastructure: Safeguarding power grids and communication networks on Earth.

Broader Context

Global Efforts in Solar Studies

• NASA’s Parker Solar Probe (2018): Travels closer to the Sun than any other spacecraft, complementing Solar Orbiter’s findings.
• India’s Aditya-L1 Mission (2023): First Indian solar observatory placed at the Lagrange Point-1 (L1), designed to continuously monitor the Sun and contribute to space weather forecasting.
• International Cooperation: ESA, NASA, and ISRO missions together form a multi-probe solar observatory system, enhancing global resilience to solar threats.

Relevance for India

• India’s growing satellite fleet (communication, navigation, earth observation) is vulnerable to solar storms.
• Future Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission will require radiation protection for astronauts.
• Aditya-L1 complements Solar Orbiter, strengthening India’s contribution to global space weather monitoring.

Conclusion

• ESA’s Solar Orbiter has provided first-of-its-kind evidence linking energetic solar electrons to flares and CMEs, marking a milestone in heliophysics.
• Beyond scientific curiosity, this knowledge has practical relevance for modern societies, as space weather increasingly influences communication, navigation, power systems, and human spaceflight.
• As India steps up with Aditya-L1 and prepares for crewed missions, global collaboration in space weather forecasting becomes essential.
• The Solar Orbiter’s insights are a crucial step toward a safer and more predictable space environment.

UPSC PYQ

Q.   In order of their distance from the Sun, which of the following planets lie between Mars and Uranus? (2008)

(a) Earth and Jupiter
(b) Jupiter and Saturn
(c) Saturn and Earth
(d) Saturn and Neptune

Ans: (b) 

CARE MCQ

Q. With reference to the European Space Agency’s Solar Orbiter mission, consider the following statements:

1. It is a joint mission of ESA and NASA launched in 2020.
2. It is the first spacecraft to capture images of the Sun’s polar regions.
3. It recently provided evidence linking Solar Energetic Electrons (SEE) to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs).

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer – D

Explanation –

• Statement 1 is correct: The Solar Orbiter is indeed a joint mission of ESA and NASA, launched in February 2020, designed to study the Sun from close proximity.
• Statement 2 is correct: It became the first spacecraft to capture images of the Sun’s polar regions, providing unique insights into the solar magnetic cycle.
• Statement 3 is correct: In its latest study (2024–25), the Solar Orbiter traced the origin of Solar Energetic Electrons (SEE), linking them for the first time to solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CMEs), thus advancing our understanding of space weather.
• Therefore, option D is the correct answer.