August 6 – Current Affairs – PM IAS

1. Anniversary of Article 370 Abrogation

• Syllabus: GS2/Polity & Governance
• Context: August 6, 2025, marks the sixth anniversary of the abrogation of Article 370’s provisions in Jammu and Kashmir. The day was observed with contrasting sentiments, highlighting the deep political and social divide that continues to exist in the region. While the government celebrated it as a day of integration and progress, opposition parties and several civil society groups marked it as a “Black Day,” protesting the move.
• Background and Rationale:
  • On August 5, 2019, the Government of India, through a presidential order, revoked the special status of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution. This was followed by the passage of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, which downgraded the state to two Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.
  • The government’s stated rationale was to fully integrate the region into the Indian Union, end dynastic politics, and eliminate the “terror ecosystem” that had plagued the area for decades. It was argued that Article 370 and its related provisions were a major impediment to economic development, good governance, and the extension of central welfare schemes to the people of J&K.
• Government’s Narrative of Progress:
  • On the sixth anniversary, the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, delivered a speech in Srinagar, celebrating the “birth of a new Jammu and Kashmir.” He highlighted the perceived benefits of the abrogation, including a significant reduction in terrorism-related incidents and stone-pelting, a more responsive administration, and the implementation of central laws.
  • The government also pointed to a boom in tourism, increased investment, and the empowerment of local bodies through the holding of Panchayat elections. It also mentioned the provision of jobs to the kin of civilians killed by terrorists, an initiative that was presented as a way to provide justice and healing.
• Opposition’s Critique and Continued Concerns:
  • In contrast to the official narrative, major regional political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and others, held protests to mark the day. Leaders like former Chief Ministers Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah decried the move as unconstitutional and a subversion of democracy. They argued that the promises of peace and development have not been fulfilled.
  • Critics of the abrogation point to the continued presence of a large number of security forces, the prolonged internet shutdowns, and the delay in holding assembly elections as evidence of the political and democratic vacuum in the region. They also claim that the new policies have been largely top-down and have failed to address the aspirations of the local population. The legal challenge to the abrogation is still pending before the Supreme Court, which adds to the political and constitutional uncertainty.

2. ‘Kartavya Bhavan’ Inauguration and Concerns over ‘Open Office Concept’

• Syllabus: GS2/Polity & Governance, GS3/Infrastructure
• Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated “Kartavya Bhavan,” the first of the new Common Central Secretariat buildings, as part of the Central Vista redevelopment project. While the building is a symbol of a modern and ambitious India, its internal design, based on an ‘open office’ concept, has drawn criticism from government officials.
• Central Vista Project and ‘Kartavya Bhavan’:
  • The Central Vista project is a flagship initiative of the government to redevelop the country’s administrative core in New Delhi. The project includes a new Parliament building, a new residence for the Prime Minister and Vice President, and a Common Central Secretariat (CCS) that will house all the ministries.
  • ‘Kartavya Bhavan’ is designed as a state-of-the-art, green building with a focus on modern, efficient, and technologically integrated workspaces. The aim is to consolidate the ministries that are currently scattered in different buildings, thereby improving inter-departmental coordination and reducing logistical challenges.
• The Debate over the ‘Open Office Concept’:
  • The design of ‘Kartavya Bhavan’ and other buildings in the CCS incorporates an ‘open office’ layout, which is a departure from the traditional compartmentalized government offices. This concept, popular in the private sector, aims to foster collaboration, break down hierarchical barriers, and improve communication among employees.
  • However, the Central Secretariat Service (CSS) Forum, representing a large body of government officials, has raised serious concerns. In a formal letter to the Prime Minister’s Office, the forum argued that the open office concept is fundamentally incompatible with the nature of government work.
• Reasons for Opposition:
  • Confidentiality and Security: Government work often involves handling classified and sensitive information. The forum argued that in an open office, it would be impossible to maintain the necessary level of confidentiality. Private conversations and confidential documents could be easily overheard or viewed, posing a significant risk to national security.
  • Productivity and Efficiency: Officials expressed concern that the lack of private cabins and the constant noise and interruptions would severely hamper their ability to concentrate on complex tasks and files. They argued that this could lead to a decline in productivity and an increase in errors.
  • Work Culture and Hierarchy: The forum also highlighted that the traditional government work culture is built on a clear hierarchy and defined protocols. A uniform, open workspace, they argued, could undermine this structure, leading to confusion and a lack of accountability.
• Implications: The debate over the ‘open office concept’ highlights a crucial tension between modernization and the practical realities of government functioning. While the government aims to create a more dynamic and collaborative work environment, the concerns raised by the officials point to the need for a careful and nuanced approach to administrative reforms, one that takes into account the specific requirements of public administration.

3. India and the Philippines Forge a ‘Strategic Partnership’

• Syllabus: GS2/International Relations
• Context: India and the Philippines have elevated their bilateral relationship to a “Strategic Partnership,” a move that signals a deeper level of cooperation, particularly in defense, security, and trade, against the backdrop of a changing Indo-Pacific security landscape.
• Background and ‘Act East’ Policy:
  • India’s ‘Act East’ policy, a cornerstone of its foreign policy, aims to strengthen its relationships with countries in Southeast Asia and the wider Indo-Pacific region. In recent years, the Philippines has emerged as a key partner for India due to its strategic location and its own security concerns in the South China Sea.
  • Both countries share a commitment to upholding international law and a rules-based order, particularly in maritime security and freedom of navigation.
• Key Pillars of the Strategic Partnership:
  • Defense and Security Cooperation: This is the most significant aspect of the new partnership. The two countries have agreed to enhance military-to-military engagement, including joint patrols and naval exercises. The Philippines is already in the process of acquiring the BrahMos cruise missile system from India, a deal that is seen as a major step in the defense partnership. This partnership is also a response to the growing assertiveness of certain powers in the region.
  • Trade and Economic Ties: The partnership also includes a strong economic component. Both countries have agreed to fast-track negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to boost bilateral trade and investment. India sees the Philippines as a key market for its goods and services, while the Philippines is looking to diversify its economic partnerships.
  • Maritime Cooperation: Given that both are maritime nations, cooperation in this domain is natural and necessary. The partnership will focus on maritime domain awareness, search and rescue operations, and combating illegal fishing. This is particularly important for the Philippines, which has faced a number of incidents in its Exclusive Economic Zone.
• Geopolitical Significance:
  • The strategic partnership is a major diplomatic success for India, as it strengthens its position in the Indo-Pacific and allows it to play a more active role in regional security. It also demonstrates India’s commitment to building a network of like-minded partners to counter a hegemonic order.
  • For the Philippines, the partnership with India provides a valuable opportunity to diversify its defense and economic partners and strengthen its own capabilities. It is a part of a broader strategy by Manila to engage with a range of countries to secure its national interests.

4. Cloudburst in Uttarkashi

• Syllabus: GS1/Geography, GS3/Disaster Management
• Context: A devastating cloudburst in the Dharali village of Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, has triggered a massive flash flood, causing significant loss of life, damage to property, and widespread disruption. The incident highlights the ecological fragility and vulnerability of the Himalayan region to such extreme weather events.
• Details of the Disaster:
  • The cloudburst, a highly localized and intense rainfall event, occurred in the upper catchment area of the Kheer Ganga river. This led to a sudden surge of water and debris, which caused a flash flood in the Dhauliganga and Bhagirathi river systems.
  • The flash flood has been particularly destructive in Dharali village, where it has claimed at least four lives and left over 50 people missing. The sheer force of the floodwaters has washed away homes, shops, and vital infrastructure.
• Impact and Response:
  • The most significant immediate impact has been the severing of all road links to Gangotri Dham, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Hindus. This has left thousands of pilgrims and tourists stranded, with the authorities scrambling to organize rescue and relief operations.
  • Teams from the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Indian Army have been deployed to the affected areas. Their primary task is to locate the missing persons, provide humanitarian aid to the stranded, and restore road connectivity.
  • The incident has also caused significant economic damage to the local communities, who depend on tourism and agriculture for their livelihood.
• Relevance to Disaster Management:
  • The Uttarkashi cloudburst is a classic case study in disaster management. It highlights the unique challenges of responding to disasters in difficult, mountainous terrain.
  • The incident underscores the need for a multi-faceted approach to disaster preparedness, including:
    • Early Warning Systems: The need for a more robust and localized early warning system for cloudbursts and flash floods.
    • Sustainable Development: The importance of sustainable and eco-friendly infrastructure development in the Himalayan region, which is prone to natural disasters.
    • Community Preparedness: The need to train and empower local communities to respond to such disasters effectively.
• The incident is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of climate change and the need for a comprehensive strategy to protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems.

5. NSA Ajit Doval’s Visit to Moscow Amid Tariff Threats

• Syllabus: GS2/International Relations
• Context: National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval’s visit to Moscow comes at a critical time for India, as it navigates complex geopolitical challenges, including renewed tariff threats from the U.S. over its continued purchase of Russian oil. The visit is a testament to the importance of the India-Russia strategic partnership.
• The Geopolitical Context:
  • India has traditionally maintained a strong and time-tested relationship with Russia, particularly in defense and energy.
  • However, after the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the U.S. and its allies imposed sweeping sanctions on Russia and have been pressuring other countries, including India, to reduce their engagement with Moscow.
  • India has maintained its policy of strategic autonomy and has continued to purchase discounted Russian oil, which has been crucial for its energy security and for keeping domestic fuel prices stable.
• Trump’s Tariff Threats:
  • The situation has been complicated by the re-election of Donald Trump as the U.S. President. He has renewed his protectionist stance and has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on Indian goods, accusing New Delhi of “profiting” from the Russian oil trade.
  • The U.S. has argued that India is re-exporting refined Russian oil products to other countries, thereby undermining the sanctions.
• Agenda of Doval’s Visit:
  • NSA Doval’s visit is a high-stakes diplomatic mission aimed at addressing these challenges and strengthening the India-Russia relationship. His agenda is expected to include:
    • Defense Cooperation: Discussions on the timely delivery of military hardware, spare parts, and the possibility of new defense deals, including the S-400 missile system.
    • Energy Security: Exploring new payment mechanisms that are not affected by Western sanctions to ensure the continued flow of Russian oil to India.
    • Strategic Coordination: The visit will also be an opportunity to coordinate on regional and international issues, including the situation in Afghanistan, Central Asia, and the broader Indo-Pacific.
• Significance for India: The visit highlights the delicate balancing act that India must perform in its foreign policy. It seeks to maintain its strategic autonomy and pursue its national interests while navigating the pressures from the U.S. and other global powers. The outcome of these discussions will have a significant impact on India’s energy security, trade relations, and its standing in the international community.

6. Russia Ends Adherence to INF Treaty

• Syllabus: GS2/International Relations
• Context: In a major setback for global arms control, Russia has formally announced that it will no longer abide by the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty, a Cold War-era agreement that had been a cornerstone of global stability.
• The INF Treaty and Its Significance:
  • The INF Treaty was signed in 1987 by the U.S. and the Soviet Union (now Russia). It prohibited the deployment of all ground-launched ballistic and cruise missiles with ranges between 500 and 5,500 kilometers.
  • The treaty was a landmark agreement that led to the destruction of thousands of missiles and significantly reduced the risk of a nuclear conflict in Europe. It was a key pillar of the global arms control framework for decades.
• The Treaty’s Demise:
  • The treaty began to unravel in 2019 when the U.S. formally withdrew from it, accusing Russia of violating the agreement by developing and deploying a new missile system.
  • Russia, in turn, also suspended its participation but had maintained a self-imposed moratorium on the deployment of these missiles.
• Russia’s Formal Withdrawal and its Justification:
  • Russia’s recent announcement to formally end its adherence to the treaty is the final step in its collapse. Russia justified its decision by claiming that the U.S. and its allies have been developing similar weapons and are preparing to deploy them near Russia’s borders.
• Implications for Global Security:
  • The end of the INF Treaty has significant and worrying implications for global security:
    • New Arms Race: The collapse of the treaty could lead to a new arms race, particularly in Europe, as both Russia and NATO countries may feel the need to develop and deploy these missiles.
    • Regional Instability: The treaty’s demise also has implications for Asia, where countries like China are not bound by any such agreement. The U.S. and its allies might now feel the need to deploy similar systems in the region, which could heighten tensions.
    • Erosion of Trust: The collapse of the treaty signifies a further erosion of trust and cooperation among major nuclear powers, making future arms control agreements even more difficult to achieve. It raises the risk of miscalculation and a potential nuclear conflict.

7. India’s Services PMI at 11-Month High

• Syllabus: GS3/Economy
• Context: India’s services sector, a key driver of the country’s economic growth, has expanded at its fastest pace in 11 months, according to the latest Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) data. This signals a strong recovery and a positive outlook for the Indian economy.
• What is the PMI?
  • The Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) is an economic indicator derived from monthly surveys of private sector companies. It provides a snapshot of the health of a sector. A reading above 50 indicates expansion, while a reading below 50 indicates contraction.
• Key Drivers of Growth:
  • The HSBC India Services PMI Business Activity Index rose to 60.5 in July, the highest level since August 2024. This growth was driven by several factors:
    • Robust Domestic Demand: Indian service providers reported a significant increase in new orders from domestic clients, reflecting strong consumer confidence and a pickup in business activity.
    • Sharp Rise in Export Orders: A key driver of the growth was a significant increase in new export orders from countries in Asia, Canada, Europe, the UAE, and the U.S. This highlights the growing competitiveness of India’s services sector on the global stage.
    • Positive Business Sentiment: The survey also showed that service providers remained optimistic about future output, citing expectations of efficiency gains, technological upgrades, and a growing online presence.
• Implications for the Indian Economy:
  • The strong performance of the services sector is a positive indicator for the overall health of the Indian economy. The services sector is the largest contributor to India’s GDP and a major source of employment.
  • The data suggests that the economy is resilient and is recovering from previous slowdowns. However, the survey also pointed to some challenges, such as the persistence of cost pressures due to higher expenses on food, freight, and labor. This is a factor that the Reserve Bank of India will need to monitor while formulating its monetary policy.

8. ‘Know Your Weaves’ Handloom Hackathon

• Syllabus: GS3/Economy, GS1/Art & Culture
• Context: The Ministry of Textiles, in collaboration with IIT Delhi, has organized a large-scale handloom hackathon called “Know Your Weaves.” This initiative is part of a broader government effort to modernize India’s traditional handloom sector and connect it with technology and innovation.
• Challenges Faced by the Handloom Sector:
  • India’s handloom sector is a vital part of its cultural heritage and a major source of livelihood for millions of weavers, particularly in rural areas. However, it faces several challenges, including:
    • Competition: Intense competition from power looms and mass-produced textiles.
    • Market Access: A lack of direct market access for weavers, forcing them to rely on middlemen.
    • Aging Workforce: A decline in the number of young people entering the profession.
    • Lack of Innovation: A disconnect from modern design trends and consumer preferences.
• Objectives of the Hackathon:
  • The “Know Your Weaves” hackathon was designed as an innovation challenge to address these issues. It brought together over 400 young minds to develop technological solutions for the handloom sector.
  • The key objectives included:
    • Digital Integration: Creating e-commerce platforms and digital tools to help weavers sell their products directly to consumers.
    • Design and Technology: Using technology to create new designs and patterns that are in line with modern fashion trends while preserving traditional weaving techniques.
    • Supply Chain Management: Developing digital platforms for tracking the supply chain, ensuring transparency and fair pricing for weavers.
• Significance: This initiative is a part of the government’s “Vocal for Local” and “Make in India” campaigns. It reflects a shift in approach from traditional subsidies to leveraging technology and innovation to make the handloom sector more competitive and sustainable. The collaboration between the government and a premier academic institution like IIT Delhi is a model for how technology can be used to empower traditional industries.

9. NITI Aayog’s India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI)

• Syllabus: GS3/Economy, Science & Technology
• Context: NITI Aayog has launched the India Electric Mobility Index (IEMI), a pioneering national framework designed to track and benchmark the progress of states and Union Territories in their transition to electric mobility.
• The Need for IEMI:
  • India has set ambitious targets for the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) to reduce its carbon footprint, combat air pollution, and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. However, the progress of EV adoption varies significantly across states.
  • The IEMI was launched to provide a standardized, data-driven tool to measure this progress, identify best practices, and inform policy interventions.
• Key Features and Themes:
  • The IEMI evaluates states on a 100-point scale based on 16 indicators across three core themes:
    • Transport Electrification Progress: This measures the demand side of the EV ecosystem, including EV registrations, market share, and the growth rate of EV sales.
    • Charging Infrastructure Readiness: This assesses the availability of charging stations, the ratio of chargers to vehicles, and the policy framework for setting up charging infrastructure.
    • EV Research and Innovation Status: This theme focuses on the supply side, including the maturity of the EV supply chain, investments, and R&D activities.
• Implications: The IEMI is a crucial tool for accelerating India’s EV transition. It is expected to:
  • Foster Competition: Create a healthy competition among states to improve their EV ecosystem.
  • Inform Policy: Provide policymakers with data-driven insights to formulate more effective and targeted EV policies.
  • Guide Investment: Help private investors identify states with a favorable EV ecosystem and a strong potential for growth.

10. Repatriation of Piprahwa Relics

• Syllabus: GS1/Art & Culture, History
• Context: The repatriation of the sacred Piprahwa relics of Lord Buddha to India after 127 years is a major cultural and historical event. The return of these artifacts, which are believed to be the mortal remains of Lord Buddha, is a source of national pride and a testament to India’s cultural diplomacy.
• Historical Significance:
  • The relics were discovered in 1898 during an archaeological excavation in Piprahwa, Uttar Pradesh. The site is widely believed to be the ancient city of Kapilavastu, the capital of the Shakya kingdom and the birthplace of Lord Buddha.
  • The discovery of the relics was a landmark event as it provided crucial archaeological evidence to support the historical authenticity of Lord Buddha.
• Repatriation and Diplomatic Efforts:
  • For over a century, the relics were in the possession of various private and public institutions. The Indian government, through the Ministry of Culture, had been working for several years to secure their return.
  • The repatriation, made possible through a public-private partnership, is a major success in cultural diplomacy. The relics were slated for auction in Hong Kong in May 2025, but the government’s decisive intervention secured their return.
• Cultural and Religious Importance:
  • The return of the relics is of immense cultural and religious significance, not only for India but for the global Buddhist community. It reinforces India’s identity as the land of origin of Buddhism and strengthens its cultural ties with Buddhist-majority countries.
  • The relics are expected to be placed on public display, providing an opportunity for citizens and international visitors to pay homage to Lord Buddha. This will also boost India’s image as a major destination for Buddhist pilgrimage and tourism.

11. WHO-IRCH Workshop on Herbal Medicine

• Syllabus: GS2/Health, GS3/Science & Technology
• Context: India is hosting a workshop in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) on the safety and regulation of herbal medicine. The workshop is a significant step towards standardizing the quality of traditional medicines and promoting their safe and effective use globally.
• The Need for Standardization:
  • Traditional and herbal medicines are widely used globally, but there is a lack of standardized regulations and quality control. This can lead to issues of safety, efficacy, and consumer trust.
  • The WHO has been advocating for the integration of traditional medicine into national healthcare systems, but it emphasizes the need for a scientific and regulatory framework to ensure its safety and effectiveness.
• India’s Role and the Workshop’s Agenda:
  • India, with its rich heritage of Ayurveda, Unani, and other traditional systems of medicine, is a natural leader in this field. The workshop is an opportunity for India to showcase its expertise and lead the global effort to standardize the quality of traditional medicines.
  • The three-day technical workshop will bring together global experts and regulators to discuss key issues, including:
    • Regulatory Frameworks: Developing common regulatory frameworks for the manufacturing, quality control, and testing of herbal products.
    • Safety and Efficacy: Sharing best practices for ensuring the safety and efficacy of herbal medicines, including a focused discussion on specific herbs like Ashwagandha.
    • Pharmacovigilance: The workshop will also introduce the Ayush Suraksha (Pharmacovigilance) Programme, aimed at strengthening the safety monitoring of traditional medicines in India.
• Implications: The workshop is a significant step towards creating a global standard for herbal medicines, which will boost their credibility and acceptance. It will also help India to position itself as a global leader in traditional medicine and promote its export.

12. UPSC’s New Outreach Initiative

• Syllabus: GS2/Polity & Governance
• Context: The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has launched a new outreach initiative to provide direct email alerts about its recruitment advertisements to educational and professional institutions. The initiative is a simple yet effective administrative reform aimed at improving the recruitment process for government jobs.
• The Challenge and the Solution:
  • The UPSC conducts examinations for a wide range of government positions, including highly specialized posts that require specific qualifications and experience. Often, many eligible and qualified candidates, especially those from niche academic fields or remote areas, may not be aware of these opportunities.
  • To address this, the UPSC has launched a new email alert system. It will maintain a database of educational and professional institutions and will send them direct email notifications whenever a new recruitment advertisement is released.
• Objectives and Benefits:
  • Wider Reach: The initiative is expected to significantly increase the reach of the advertisements, ensuring that a larger number of potential candidates are aware of the opportunities.
  • Improved Candidate Pool: By targeting specific institutions, the UPSC hopes to attract a more diverse and highly qualified pool of applicants, which will improve the quality of the public service.
  • Transparency and Efficiency: The new system will make the recruitment process more transparent and accessible. It is a proactive step by the UPSC to leverage technology to improve the efficiency and fairness of its selection process.
• Relevance to Governance: This initiative is a clear example of administrative reform. It shows how a government body can use a simple technological solution to address a long-standing problem. It is highly relevant to the UPSC syllabus on governance, as it highlights the efforts to improve the efficiency, transparency, and accessibility of public services.