CURRENT-AFFAIRS

General Studies Paper – I: Indian Heritage and Culture, History and Geography of the World and Society

Context

Historically grappling with the stigma of being 'born criminals,' the Denotified and Nomadic communities are struggling today for their independent constitutional identity. The upcoming 2027 caste census is not merely a numerical exercise for them, but a historic opportunity for social justice and the recognition of their existence.

Reasons for Discussion:

In February 2026, the long-pending demands of these communities gained renewed momentum:

• Demand for an Independent Column: Denotified tribal organizations across the country have demanded a 'separate column' in the 2027 Census, in addition to SC, ST, and OBC. Their argument is that their distinct identity and backwardness have remained suppressed within the current three-tier classification.
• Recommendation of the Ministry of Social Justice: The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has officially recommended to the Registrar General of India (ORGI) that these communities be included in the census form. This will be the first time since 1931 that a caste-based enumeration will be conducted in India on such a massive scale.
• Opposition to Political Classification: The communities claim that placing them in different categories in various states (SC in some, ST in others) has made it difficult to create integrated central welfare schemes for them.
• Need for Sub-classification: They want a separate schedule to be created for them so that the benefits of reservation can reach them effectively.

Need for Constitutional Recognition

These communities demand to be placed in a separate 'Constitutional Schedule,' similar to SCs and STs. They seek sub-classification to highlight their backwardness so that they can receive the direct benefits of reservation and government schemes.

Historical Background

• The Black Law of 1871: During British rule in 1871, several nomadic communities were declared "criminals" from birth under a colonial law (Criminal Tribes Act).
• Freedom in 1952: After independence, this law was repealed in 1952, after which these communities came to be known as "Denotified." However, despite being legally freed, the social stigma and economic backwardness persist even today.

Political and Social Impact

These communities argue that due to the lack of a distinct identity, they are politically invisible. A separate census entry can provide them with the following benefits:

• Accurate population data.
• Targeted welfare schemes.
• Constitutional protection and a clear share within reservations.

Analysis

The issue of Denotified and Nomadic communities reflects a deep anomaly in Indian democracy. The oppressive law of 1871 pushed them to the margins of society, and even after 1952, the lack of accurate information in administrative records has kept them "invisible." Committees such as the Renke Commission (2008) and the Idate Commission (2015) have repeatedly stated that the upliftment of these communities is not possible without solid census data. Until a separate column is ensured for them in the census, their varying state-by-state constitutional classification (SC in some places, OBC in others) will remain a major contradiction, hindering their integrated development.

Way Forward

• Scientific Census: In the 2027 Census, there should not only be a separate column, but enumerators should also be sensitized to the cultural specificities of these communities.
• Constitutional Status: Just as the SC list was created in 1936, an 'Independent Constitutional Schedule' should be considered for these communities on the same lines.
• Strengthening the SEED Scheme: The 'Scheme for Economic Empowerment of Denotified Communities' (SEED) should be provided with an adequate budget and data-driven targets.
• Social Awareness: Educational reforms should be implemented to eliminate the prejudice of a 'criminal image' prevalent in the police and society toward these communities.

Conclusion

The demand of the Denotified and Nomadic tribes is not merely an administrative change but a question of human dignity. If this first comprehensive caste census since 1931 gives these communities their rightful place, it will be a revolutionary step toward delivering justice to the person standing at the last mile of India. Democracy is successful only when 'nomadic' feet also find 'constitutional' ground.

Context

Democracy has been restored in the strategically important northeastern state of Manipur after nearly a year of 'extraordinary' central rule. The President’s Rule, imposed in February 2025 following ethnic violence and the failure of constitutional machinery, has now come to an end. In the current scenario, this is not just a change of power, but a mandatory necessity to heal deep social wounds and restore trust between communities.

President’s Rule: Constitutional Provisions

Article 356 of the Indian Constitution empowers the Central Government to take direct control of a state, which is known as 'President’s Rule.'

• Key Provision: If the President, based on a report from the Governor or through other means, is satisfied that a situation has arisen in which the government of the state cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution, President’s Rule can be imposed.
• Article 355: It defines the duty of the Centre to protect every state against external aggression and internal disturbance.
• Article 365: If any state fails to comply with the constitutional directions given by the Centre, it can also be regarded as a failure of the constitutional machinery.

Reasons for Discussion: Latest Developments

This subject is back in the headlines due to major changes in Manipur's politics in February 2026:

• Termination of President’s Rule: On February 4, 2026, President Droupadi Murmu issued an official notification revoking President’s Rule in Manipur.
• Emergence of New Leadership: The BJP has appointed Yumnam Khemchand Singh as the new Chief Minister. He has replaced the former Chief Minister N. Biren Singh.
• Inclusive Government: For the first time in the state's history, two Deputy Chief Ministers have been appointed to create a 'balance'—Nemcha Kipgen (the first female Deputy CM from the Kuki-Zo community) and Losii Dikho (from the Naga People's Front).

Manipur: Ethnic Dispute and Recent Events

The roots of the crisis in Manipur deepened in May 2023 when a dispute began over the proposal to grant 'Scheduled Tribe' (ST) status to the Meitei community.

• Center of Dispute: This conflict is primarily between the Meiteis living in the valley and the Kuki-Zo communities living in the hills.
• Impact: More than 250 deaths, destruction of thousands of homes, and displacement of nearly 60,000 people. This violence has divided the state into two parts, both geographically and emotionally.
• Political Consequences: N. Biren Singh's government was accused of failing to stop the violence, leading to his resignation in February 2025 and the implementation of central rule in the state.

Analysis

The removal of President’s Rule indicates that the Central Government now considers the security situation in the state to be under control. However, the challenge for Yumnam Khemchand Singh is not just to run the government, but to restart the broken dialogue between 'Imphal' and the 'Hills.' The demand for 'Separate Administration' by Kuki MLAs remains a major political deadlock.

Way Forward

• Trust Building: There is a need for continuous dialogue through a 'Peace Committee' between both communities.
• Rehabilitation: Bringing displaced people safely back to their homes and ensuring compensation should be a priority.
• Administrative Neutrality: The new government must be accountable to all communities without discrimination to end allegations of 'bias.'

Conclusion

The end of President’s Rule in Manipur is a victory for democratic processes, but the destination of peace is still far off. Similar to the 'NAMASTE' scheme's model, a mechanism of 'Goodwill and Justice' is required here. The new government led by Yumnam Khemchand Singh has the opportunity to lead Manipur out of the dark chapter of violence and into a new era of development and mutual brotherhood.

Context

In recent years, global geopolitics has shifted toward a 'secure and reliable supply chain.' The latest trade agreement between India and the U.S., along with the invitation for India to join 'Pax Silica,' not only reflects the strengthening of bilateral ties but also marks a decisive step toward reducing dependence on China.

What is Pax Silica?

'Pax Silica' is a strategic and technological initiative launched by the U.S. in December 2025.

• Objective: Its primary goal is to build a secure, resilient, and innovation-driven silicon (semiconductor) supply chain.
• Scope: It spans from critical minerals, semiconductor manufacturing, and AI infrastructure to energy inputs and logistics.
• Members: Currently, it includes countries such as Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, UAE, UK, Greece, Israel, and Qatar.

Reasons for Discussion:

Statements from top U.S. officials in February 2026 have brought this subject into global discussion:

• Invitation to India: The U.S. has officially invited India to join Pax Silica, and a signing is expected soon.
• Tariff Cuts: President Donald Trump has issued an executive order removing the punitive 25% tariffs imposed on India for its purchase of Russian oil.
• Alternative to China: The U.S. has acknowledged that in terms of human talent, only India is capable of rivaling China.

Why is this initiative important?

• Economic Security: Uninterrupted access to critical minerals and semiconductors is essential for the modern economy (smartphones, cars, defense equipment).
• Technological Leadership: This initiative can provide India with global leadership in the fields of AI and advanced manufacturing.
• Tariff Benefits: Under the India-U.S. trade deal, tariffs on Indian goods have been reduced to 18%, which will boost exports.

India’s Perspective

• De-risking: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has clarified that the concentration of supply chains in any single country (especially China) is risky.
• Make in India: This agreement will provide new energy to India’s 'Semiconductor Mission' and 'Make in India.'

Analysis

India’s entry into Pax Silica is a case of 'better late than never.' Initially, India was not included, but India’s demographic strength and technical prowess forced the U.S. to accept that no global supply chain can succeed without India. This agreement is based on 'reciprocity' where the U.S. needs India’s talent, and India needs U.S. technology and markets.

Way Forward

• Infrastructure: India must make its domestic logistics and manufacturing ecosystem more competitive.
• Skill Development: It is necessary to train young technical talent in accordance with the standards of Pax Silica.
• Policy Continuity: Despite leadership changes in the U.S., diplomatic efforts must continue to maintain these long-term strategic agreements.

Conclusion

Pax Silica and the new trade framework with the U.S. are not just an economic agreement for India, but a 'strategic shield.' It is an acknowledgment of India’s rising stature on the global stage and its 'human talent.' If India takes proper advantage of this opportunity, it can emerge as the world’s 'Silicon Factory' in the coming decades.

Context

In this era of global uncertainties and high public debt, Budget 2026-27 reflects India's unwavering commitment toward fiscal discipline. This budget is not merely a numerical effort to reduce the deficit, but a well-thought-out strategic leap toward the goal of 'Viksit Bharat 2047,' where a balance between economic growth and fiscal stability is mandatory.

Fiscal Consolidation:

Fiscal consolidation is a set of policies and measures through which the government seeks to reduce its fiscal deficit and total accumulated debt.

• Key Components: It includes increasing tax revenue, cutting non-essential expenditures, and the rational restructuring of subsidies.
• Objective: Its primary objective is to control inflation in the economy, provide adequate space for the private sector for investment, and make the nation's debt repayment capacity credible on a global level.

Reasons for Discussion:

Several important announcements have been made on the fiscal front in Budget 2026-27:

• Deficit Target: The government has set a target to reduce the fiscal deficit from 4.4% in the financial year 2025-26 to 4.3% for 2026-27.
• Long-term Debt Path: According to the Economic Survey 2025-26, a roadmap has been prepared to bring the debt-to-GDP ratio to the level of 50% (+/- 1%) by the year 2030-31.
• Change in Expenditure Structure: In the last decade, the share of revenue expenditure has fallen from 88% to 77%, while capital expenditure has been increased to ₹12.22 lakh crore.

Importance and Impact:

• Economic Growth: High investment in infrastructure creates a 'multiplier effect,' which boosts employment and demand.
• Monetary Stability: A reduction in the fiscal deficit leads to lower government borrowing, which keeps interest rates stable in the market and prevents a 'crowding out' situation.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI): Fiscal discipline sends positive signals to international rating agencies, making India emerge as a safe investment destination.
• Technological Sovereignty: Spending on AI, semiconductors, and critical minerals will make India self-reliant in the technologies of the future.

Risks and Challenges

• Revenue Deficit: A large part of borrowing (1.5% of GDP) is still going toward routine expenses (salaries, pensions) rather than asset creation.
• Neglect of Human Capital: Under the pressure of achieving fiscal targets, there remains a risk of reduction in allocations for social sectors like education and health.
• Revenue Uncertainty: Excessive dependence on RBI dividends and disinvestment targets for non-tax revenue can be volatile.

Analysis

The fiscal consolidation path of Budget 2026-27 is more 'relaxed' or slower compared to previous years. Where previously a reduction of 40 basis points was made in the deficit, this time a reduction of only 10 basis points has been proposed. This indicates that the government is not just chasing numbers but is adopting flexibility to maintain growth momentum. However, financing consumption through borrowing still remains a structural weakness.

Way Forward

• Expansion of Tax Base: Increasing revenue by broadening the base of direct taxes.
• Human Investment: Equal attention is necessary not just on physical infrastructure, but also on health and skill development.
• Expenditure Management: Maximizing the use of technology for the targeted delivery of subsidies.
• Fiscal Council: An 'Independent Fiscal Council' should be established for the independent monitoring of fiscal policies.

Conclusion

Fiscal consolidation is not merely financial accounting but is the shield of the nation's economic sovereignty. Through Budget 2026-27, the government has attempted to strike a balance between discipline and development. If India succeeds in transforming its borrowing into productive investment, this consolidation will make the foundation of 'Viksit Bharat' as strong as if etched in stone.