Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act 2025
Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance
Context
- The Telangana government has notified the implementation of the Telangana Scheduled Castes (Rationalisation of Reservations) Act 2025 for categorisation of Scheduled Castes (SC) into three groups.
About
- Telangana has become the first Stateto operationalise the classification of the Scheduled Castes after the Supreme Court’s landmark judgment.
- The judgement upheld the constitutionality of sub-classifying the SCs and Scheduled Tribes (STs) to grant separate quotas for the most marginalised groups within these communities.
- Methodology Used for Categorisation: As per the SC’s verdict, empirical data, social, economic, educational, employment and political status of the SC communities was considered.
- Categorisation: 59 SC communities in the state will be divided into three categories – Group I, II and III.
- Group I: 15 sub-castes categorised as most backward have been classified as Group-I with 1 per cent reservation, these groups constitute just 0.5% of the population.
- Group II: 18 sub-castes of the total 59 which received marginal benefits have been placed under Group-II with 9 per cent reservation.
- Group III: 26 sub-castes that were relatively better placed in Group III in terms of opportunities with 5 per cent reservation.
| About SC/ST Reservation – Article 341 of the Constitution empowers the President to designate certain ‘castes, races, or tribes’ as SCs based on historical injustice. – According to Census 2011, Schedule Castes (SCs) approximately 16.6%, and Schedule Tribes (STs) approximately 8.6% of India’s population. 1. SC groups collectively receive 15% reservation in education and public employment. 2. Over time, some SC groups have been underrepresented compared to others. 3. States have attempted to extend additional protection to these marginalised groups, but such efforts faced judicial scrutiny. Related Constitutional Provisions – Article 14: Guarantees equality before law. – Article 15 (4): The state is empowered to make any special provision for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the scheduled castes. – Article 16(4), 16 (4A) and 16 (4B): Provide for reservation in posts and services. – Article 335: Mentions maintaining administrative efficiency while considering SC/ST claims in public employment. |
Supreme Court’s Judgement in State of Punjab v Davinder Singh case (2024)
- In the 2024 State of Punjab v Davinder Singh case, a seven-judge bench upheld the constitutional validity of sub-classification within SC/ST categories.
- This judgment has overruled the earlier decision in the EV Chinnaiah v. State of Andhra Pradesh case (2004), which held that ‘Scheduled Castes’ notified under Article 341 form one homogeneous group and that sub-categorization is not permissible.
- Sub-classification within the Scheduled Castes does not violate Article 341(2) because the castes are not per se included in or excluded from the List.
- Historical and empirical evidence demonstrates that Scheduled Castes are a socially heterogeneous class. Thus, the State, in the exercise of its power under Articles 15(4) and 16(4), can further classify Scheduled Castes if (a) there is a rational principle for differentiation; and (b) the rational principle has a nexus with the purpose of sub-classification.
Arguments in Favour
- Unequal Backwardness Within SCs: Some castes within the SC communities are more socially and educationally backward than others and have been consistently underrepresented.
- Treating unequals equally perpetuates inequality, defeating the purpose of reservation.
- Constitutional Mandate allows it: Articles 15(4) and 16(4) empower the state to make special provisions for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward class.
- Promotes Effective Representation, Not Just Numerical: The goal is effective representation, not mere numbers, sub-classification can help achieve meaningful inclusion.
- Backed by Empirical Data: Allows the government to target affirmative action where it’s needed the most.
Arguments Against
- Article 341: Article 341 allows only the President to modify the SC list.
- State-led sub-classification is seen as indirect interference with the list and beyond state powers.
- Fragmentation Within Community: Sub-quotas can lead to increased caste-based divisions among SCs.
- It may undermine collective political strength and social solidarity of SC communities.
- Defining Criteria: Establishing objective, empirical measures of disadvantage within SCs is challenging.
- Risk of inaccurate classification and legal challenges.
- Opens the ‘Creamy Layer’ Debate: Introducing the ‘creamy layer’ concept for SCs (as some judges suggest) could dilute the protection provided to SCs as a whole.
- Reservation for SCs is not just about economic backwardness, but historical discrimination and stigma, which persists across income groups.
Way Ahead
- States can now create sub-quotas within SC/ST reservations.
- It gives greater autonomy for states to address internal disparities within the SC/ST groups.
- However, stringent requirements of evidence and data may make implementation complex.
India – Russia Relations: 78 Years of Diplomatic Ties
Syllabus: GS2/International Relation
Context
- Recently, the Russian Embassy in India witnessed a vibrant cycle rally commemorating the 78th anniversary of India-Russia diplomatic relations.
- The rally marked the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory in the Great Patriotic War of 1941-1945.
About the India-Russia Relations
- Historical Overview:
- 1947: India and the USSR established diplomatic relations just months before India gained independence in August 1947.
- Cold War Period (1947-1991): The USSR emerged as a reliable ally for India, especially during times of Western hostility.
- Both signed the Treaty of Peace, Friendship, and Cooperation (1971) that laid the foundation for a strategic partnership.
- 1991: India recognised the Russian Federation after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.
- 1993: Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation
- 2000: Declaration of Strategic Partnership
- Multi-Dimensional Cooperation Framework: India and Russia are bound by a Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership (2010).
- Over the years, it has expanded far beyond traditional military ties, integrating economic, energy, space, and educational cooperation.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Trade and Economic Relations:
- Bilateral Trade: Over US$60 Billion in 2024-25; ($50 Billion in 2023–24).
- Main Imports from Russia: Crude oil, coal, fertilizers, and defense equipment.
- Main Exports to Russia: Pharmaceuticals, electronics, iron & steel, tea, and coffee.
- Strategic and Defense Cooperation: It includes INS Tushil, S-400 Triumf missile systems, INS Vikramaditya, production of AK-203 Rifle, BrahMos Missile, submarines, tanks, and aircraft.
- India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-MTC): It continues to coordinate procurement, servicing, and joint R&D programs.
Political Support and Multilateral Forums:
- Support on Global Platforms: Russia reiterated its support for India’s permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
| UNSC Permanent Membership – UNSC is one of the six principal bodies of the UN, established by the UN charter in 1945. It aims to maintain international peace and security. – UNSC has 15 members, five permanent members, which include the US, Russia, France, China, and the UK and 10 non-permanent members elected for a two-year term. – India entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member for the eighth time in 2021 and stayed in the council for two years, i.e. 2021-22. |
- Both countries coordinate in BRICS, SCO, and G20 to push for a multipolar global order.
- Russia is supportive of India’s Act Far East Policy and Indo-Pacific engagement.
Energy Security and Nuclear Cooperation:
- Nuclear Energy: Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, Tamil Nadu.
- In 2023-24, Russia was the India’s fourth-largest trade partner, largely driven by discounted oil imports (over 35% of India’s crude oil basket).
- It is expected to exceed imports from Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Space and Technology Partnerships:
- Space Cooperation: Both are exploring partnerships in satellite navigation and human spaceflight.
- Satellite Navigation: India and Russia have agreed to cooperate on GLONASS and NavIC interoperability.
- Cybersecurity & AI: Emerging areas of cooperation include digital transformation, AI-based surveillance, and defense tech R&D.
Concerns & Challenges
- Geopolitical Pressures: Russia’s growing alignment with China, India’s regional rival, has raised concerns in India.
- India’s strategic partnerships with Western nations, particularly the US, have added layers of complexity to its ties with Russia.
- Payment mechanisms are a challenge due to Western sanctions on Russia, which restrict banking channels.
- Delay in Defense Equipment: Russia’s delayed delivery of the S-400 Triumf air defense system, largely due to the Ukraine conflict and related sanctions, has raised concerns in Indian defence circles.
- India’s efforts to diversify its defense procurement sources could impact its reliance on Russian arms.
- Ukraine Conflict: India’s neutral stance on the Ukraine war has been criticized by Western allies, while Russia expects stronger support from India.
- The conflict has also disrupted global supply chains, affecting bilateral trade.
Conclusion
- As India and Russia mark 78 years of diplomatic engagement, their relationship stands as a resilient example of strategic pragmatism.
- From being Cold War-era allies to 21st-century strategic partners, the journey reflects adaptability, trust, and mutual benefit.
- Despite shifting global dynamics, India-Russia ties are poised to remain strong, with new frontiers in trade, technology, and defense cooperation.
Program Management Unit to Improve Efficiency of DMF
Syllabus: GS2/ Governance, GS3/ Economy
In Context
- The Ministry of Mines announced the setting up of a Program Management Unit (PMU) to improve the efficiency of the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) and ensure smooth implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY).
- PMU will facilitate coordination between Centre, States, and DMF districts.
What is District Mineral Foundation (DMF)?
- Legal Provision: Constituted under Section 9B of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act 1957 (amended in 2015).
- Nature: A non-profit trust set up in mining-affected districts.
- Objective: To work for the interest and benefit of persons and areas affected by mining-related activities.
- Status: DMFs have been established in 645 districts across 23 States.
- Funding: Contribution by Mining Lease Holders:
- 30% of royalty for leases granted after 2015.
- Funds are deposited at the district level and not transferred to the Consolidated Fund of India.
- The amount collected is meant for area-based development, not for general infrastructure.
Fund Utilization Guidelines (via PMKKKY)
- About: The Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) was launched in 2015 and revised in 2024 to guide the use of DMF funds for Aspirational Districts and Blocks Programme.
- Purpose: To minimize the negative impacts of mining and provide sustainable livelihoods to affected people.
- Fund Allocation: 70% of funds must be used for high-priority sectors like drinking water, healthcare, education, women & children welfare.
- 30% of funds may be used for supporting infrastructure like roads, bridges, and electricity.
Significance of DMF-PMKKKY Model
- Strategic Fund Utilization: It ensures mining funds (DMF) are used in a planned way for local development based on PMKKKY guidelines.
- Community Welfare Focus: It prioritizes improving the lives and well-being of communities affected by mining activities.
- Enhanced Governance: It promotes transparency and accountability in how mining revenues are managed and spent locally.
- Sustainable Development Aim: It encourages a balance between mining and long-term socio-economic and environmental well-being.
- Grassroot Governance: Provides a template for community-led planning and bottom-up governance.
Concerns
- Unspent Funds: A significant share of collected funds remains unused due to weak administrative capacity and poor project execution.
- Misallocation: Funds are often spent on general infrastructure projects (like roads and administrative buildings) instead of core welfare areas.
- Governance Issues: DMFs often function under the district collector’s control, with minimal involvement of local communities.
- Poor Planning: No structured Annual Action Plans.
Way Forward
- Empower Gram Sabhas and local communities in decision-making.
- Enforce third-party audits and social audits for transparency.
- Build capacity of district-level institutions for better fund utilization.
- Mandate Annual Development Plans based on local needs and baseline data.
IIGC Releases Comprehensive Code for Influencer Content
Syllabus :GS 3/Economy
In News
- Recently, the India Influencer Governance Council (IIGC) has released a Code of Standards for India’s growing influencer community.
- This move follows recent controversies, including government action after remarks by YouTuber Ranveer Allahbadia and concerns over influencers misleading investors.
Who Are Influencers?
- Influencers are digital content creators who use their reach on social platforms (Instagram, YouTube, etc.) to shape opinions, lifestyles, and purchasing decisions.
Status In India
- India’s influencer count has surged to over 4 million in 2025, up from under 1 million in 2020, according to influencer marketing platform Qoruz.
- The top categories driving this growth are fashion, gaming, and arts & entertainment.
- Fashion leads with 470,000 influencers, followed closely by gaming (467,000) and arts & entertainment (430,000).
- These influencers, each with over 1,000 Instagram followers, create niche content to better engage their audiences.
- The influencer marketing industry in India is projected to grow from ₹2,344 crore in 2024 to ₹3,375 crore by 2026.
- The sector also aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of boosting the creator economy to help achieve a $5-trillion Indian economy.
Reasons for Increase
- The explosive growth of social media platforms and increased internet penetration in both urban and rural areas have contributed to the rise of influencers.
- The rise of affordable smartphones and data plans, especially in non-metropolitan areas (which make up 65% of the user base), has accelerated content consumption and enabled individuals from diverse backgrounds to gain online influence.
- Brands are increasingly viewing them not just as endorsers but as strategic partners who deliver authentic, impactful content.
Need for Regulating Influencer Marketing
- Surge in Monetised Content: Lack of disclosures blurs the line between personal opinion and advertising.
- Consumer Protection: Misinformation about health, finance, or product efficacy can mislead viewers.
- Data Privacy Concerns: Misuse of audience data and inflated metrics harms transparency.
- Emerging AI Influencers: Deepfakes and non-human influencers pose new ethical dilemmas.
- Vulnerable Audiences: Children and teenagers are at risk from unsafe trends and content.
Key Provisions of the IIGC Code of Standards
- Paid Partnerships: Influencers are required to disclose “any type of material partnership” with a brand, including financial agreements, affiliate marketing commissions etc.
- AI Influencers: The code also requires AI influencers to adhere to the same guidelines, just like human ones, with an added disclaimer revealing their non-human nature. It also prohibits the use of deepfake technology to create AI influencers resembling real people.
- Brand Relations: Influencers are restricted from endorsing products or brands they do not genuinely support or work with competing brands simultaneously. This emphasizes authenticity and avoids misleading endorsements.
- Defluence: The code defines defluence as the act of publicly criticising or speaking negatively about a brand, product, or service. It requires influencers to ensure that their criticism is honest, accurate and free from personal attacks.
- Anti-Discrimination: The code prohibits both explicit and implicit discriminatory content in influencer marketing, requiring content to be inclusive and respectful of all identities.
- Child-Safe Content: Content created by influencers must be safe, positive, and appropriate for children. This highlights the responsibility of influencers, especially when their content may be viewed by younger audiences.
- Sexual Content & Nudity: The code asks influencers to handle content related to sex with “responsibility and sensitivity”. While discussions on these topics may be appropriate in educational, artistic, or health-related contexts, they should not be used in a way that is exploitative, inappropriate, or violates community standards.
- Complaint Forum: A consumer complaint forum is established under the IIGC. This provides a mechanism for addressing grievances related to influencer content and potential violations of the code.
Conclusion and Way Ahead
- India’s influencer economy is thriving in the digital age, driven by authenticity, trust, and personal connections. As the industry evolves, it presents exciting opportunities for influencers, brands, and content consumers, while also contributing to economic growth and individual empowerment.
- The influencer ecosystem needs stronger policies, platform support, and a focus on authentic storytelling.
Q-Shield Empowering Enterprises to Protect Critical Infrastructure
Syllabus: GS3/Science and Technology
Context
- QNu Labs, one of the startups selected by the Department of Science and Technology (DST) under the National Quantum Mission, has launched the world’s first and unique platform, Q-Shield.
About Q-Shield
- It empowers enterprises to protect their critical infrastructure.
- It also enables seamless cryptography management across any environment, including cloud, on-premises, or hybrid.
- Cryptography is the process of hiding or coding information so that only the person a message was intended for can read it.
- QShield provides an end-to-end solution for securing sensitive data in transit and at rest.
- Significance: QNu Labs is revolutionizing cybersecurity with quantum-safe solutions, positioning India as a global leader in quantum cryptography.
- The launch of this platform adds one more step in India’s journey towards global leadership in quantum technology.
| World Quantum Day – Q-Shield was launched on the occasion of World Quantum Day. 1. World Quantum Day was first celebrated in 2021 and was originally started as a decentralised initiative by scientists around the world. 2. The date ‘4.14’ (April 14) was chosen as a reference to 4.14, which is the rounded first digits of Planck’s constant— 4.13567×10-15 eV·s. – The year 2025 has been designated as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology (IYQST) by the United Nations. 1. It commemorates a century since the foundational developments of quantum mechanics. |
Critical Infrastructure
- It refers to the systems, facilities and assets that are vital for the functioning of society and the economy.
- These infrastructures are considered essential because their disruption would impact public safety, security and health or economic stability.
- Critical infrastructure includes both physical and virtual components that are interconnected and interdependent.
- Most countries and governing bodies maintain rules around how critical infrastructure must be managed.
Quantum Mechanics
- It is the fundamental study of physical theory that deals with the behaviour of matter and light on the atomic and sub-atomic levels.
- The field of quantum mechanics began in the early 20th century with the contribution of scientists such as Max Planck, Albert Einstein, Niels Bohr, and Erwin Schrodinger.
- Quantum mechanics laid the foundation for numerous technological advancements.
National Quantum Mission
- The government approved the NQM in 2023 from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
- Aim: To seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT).
- This will accelerate QT led economic growth, nurture the ecosystem in the country and make India one of the leading nations in the development of Quantum Technologies & Applications (QTA).
- The Mission objectives include developing intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical qubits in 8 years in various platforms like superconducting and photonic technology.
- Significance: NQM has the potential to elevate the country’s Technology Development ecosystem to a level of global competitiveness.
- The Mission would greatly benefit various sectors including communication, health, financial, energy with applications in drug design, space, banking, security etc.
- The Mission will also provide a huge boost to National priorities like Digital India, Make in India, Skill India and Stand-up India, Start-up India, Self-reliant India and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).
