CURRENT-AFFAIRS

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

Context

The winter season in the Indian subcontinent is traditionally dry and cold, but rainfall during the months of January and February in North-West India (such as Delhi, Punjab, Haryana) has always been a subject of discussion. In recent years, uncertainty has been observed in the pattern of these disturbances due to climate change—sometimes resulting in prolonged dry spells and at other times, sudden intense rainfall. Currently, the rainfall in Delhi and adjoining areas in January 2026 has ended a long dry interval, reflecting the continuity and variability of this meteorological phenomenon.

What is Western Disturbance?

A Western Disturbance is an extra-tropical cyclone that originates in the Mediterranean Sea.

• Origin and Journey: It gathers moisture from the Mediterranean Sea, Caspian Sea, and Black Sea and travels eastward with the 'Westerly Jet Stream', reaching India after crossing Iran, Afghanistan, and Pakistan.
• Naming: It is called 'Western' because it comes from the West, and 'Disturbance' because it is an area of low air pressure that disturbs the normal atmospheric conditions.

Why in News?

On January 23, 2026, rain accompanied by thunder and strong winds hit Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana under the influence of an intense Western Disturbance.

• Immediate Cause: An active low-pressure area formed over the Himalayan region, which converted moisture into rain over the plains.
• Change in Temperature: Due to this event, the minimum temperature has risen above normal because the layer of clouds prevents the earth's heat from escaping back into space (similar to the Greenhouse Effect).

Impact of Western Disturbance in India

• Winter Rainfall: This is the primary source of winter rain in North-West India.
• Snowfall: It is responsible for heavy snowfall in the Himalayan states (J&K, Himachal, Uttarakhand), which is essential for the recharge of glaciers.
• Temperature Fluctuation: The night temperature rises before its arrival, and 'Cold Wave' conditions prevail after its departure.

Impacted Areas and Significance

• Agriculture (Rabi Crops): This rain is like 'nectar' for Rabi crops such as wheat, mustard, and gram. In the local language, it is also called 'Mawat'.
  • It reduces the cost of irrigation and improves the quality of the crop.
• Pollution Control: 'Smog' and 'Particulate Matter' (PM2.5/PM10) are major problems in Delhi-NCR during winters.
  • Rain settles these pollutants down from the air, and strong winds help in cleaning the air, leading to improvement in the AQI.
• Major Impacted Areas: Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Western Uttar Pradesh.

Analysis

An analysis of the changing behavior of Western Disturbances is essential:

• Irregularity: The number of disturbances is increasing, but the rainfall resulting from them is becoming less or unseasonal.
• Extreme Weather Events: In recent years, incidents like 'Cloudbursts' have increased due to the interaction between Western Disturbances and Monsoonal winds.
• Economic Impact: Unseasonal hailstorms cause damage to standing crops, posing a threat to food security and the rural economy.

Way Forward

• Accurate Forecasting: Strengthening the forecasting capability of the IMD at a more 'micro-level' so that farmers can remain prepared.
• Adaptive Agricultural Practices: Promoting climate-resilient crop varieties that can withstand unseasonal rain.
• Urban Planning: Improving the drainage system in cities like Delhi to deal with sudden rainfall, preventing 'Urban Flooding'.

Conclusion

Western Disturbance is an integral part of Indian meteorology, which not only ensures the agriculture and food security of North India but also provides relief from rising pollution in winters. However, its uncertainty in the era of climate change is posing a new challenge. Through its scientific management and timely warning systems, we can maximize its benefits and minimize the losses.

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

Context

The occurrences of forest fires during the winter season in the Himalayan region have historically been low, as heavy snowfall and moisture in January-February prevented fuel (dry leaves) from burning. However, in the last few years, due to climate change and the irregularity of 'Western Disturbances,' the dry spells during winter have increased. Currently, the fire in the Pangolakha region of Sikkim is a dangerous signal of this changing climate pattern.

Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary

• Location: It is located in East Sikkim.
• Area: Approximately 124 square kilometers.
• Special Features: It is situated at the tri-junction of Sikkim, West Bengal, and Bhutan. To the south, it is connected to the Neora Valley National Park of West Bengal.
• Altitude: It is situated at an altitude ranging from 1,760 meters to 4,390 meters above sea level.

Why in News?

On January 20, 2026, a massive fire broke out at an altitude of 13,000 feet in the Kupup area of the Pangolakha Sanctuary.

• Reason: Due to a severe lack of snowfall in winter and a prolonged dry spell, the bushes and grass became "tinderboxes" (highly inflammable).
• Status: The fire has affected approximately 12 hectares of forest land.

Relief and Rescue Operations

• Joint Efforts: Sikkim Forest Department, Indian Army, Fire Department, and local volunteers worked together to extinguish the fire.
• Challenges: Steep terrain, winds gusting at 30-40 km/h, and lack of oxygen made the rescue operations difficult.
• Safety: On a positive note, there has been no loss of life or damage to the Army's infrastructure.

Importance of the Sanctuary

• Bio-diversity: It is the natural habitat of the Red Panda (State animal of Sikkim), Snow Leopard, Himalayan Musk Deer, and Royal Bengal Tiger. Recently, a tiger was spotted here at an altitude of 3,640 meters, which is the highest altitude recording of a tiger in India.
• Water Sources: Important rivers like Rangpo and Jaldhaka originate from the watersheds around this area.
• Bird Diversity: It is an 'Important Bird Area' (IBA), where Blood Pheasant and Himalayan Monal are found.

Impact

• Ecological and Environmental Impact
  • Black Carbon and Glaciers: The smoke and ash (black carbon) emitted from the fire settle on nearby glaciers. This absorbs sunlight, causing the ice to melt rapidly. This is a threat to the water security of Sikkim.
  • Loss of Biodiversity: Pangolakha is home to the Red Panda and Snow Leopard. Fires completely destroy small organisms, reptiles, and bird nests.
  • Soil Erosion: Vegetation has been burnt due to the fire, weakening the soil's grip. The risk of landslides in this area will increase manifold during the monsoon.
• Impact on Wildlife Corridor
  • Migration of Tigers: Pangolakha is a vital 'transit corridor' for tigers between India (Sikkim-Bengal) and Bhutan. The path is obstructed due to the fire, which can cause tigers and other large animals to move toward populated areas, potentially increasing human-wildlife conflict.
• Economic Impact
  • Tourism: Sikkim's economy relies on tourism. Such disasters reduce the flow of tourists to tourist areas like Kupup, Baba Mandir, and Nathula.
  • Agriculture: The ash and smoke from the fire can affect the cultivation of Large Cardamom in the surrounding areas, which is the main cash source for Sikkim.
• Climate Change Feedback Loop
  • Due to the fire, a large amount of $CO_2$ is released into the atmosphere, which increases 'warming' at the local level. This creates a vicious cycle where increasing heat increases the possibility of more fires in the future.

Other Wildlife Sanctuaries in Sikkim

1. Khangchendzonga National Park: (UNESCO Mixed Heritage Site)
2. Barsey Rhododendron Sanctuary: (West Sikkim)
3. Fambong Lho Sanctuary: (Near Gangtok)
4. Maenam Sanctuary: (South Sikkim)
5. Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary: (North Sikkim)
6. Kyongnosla Alpine Sanctuary: (Near Tsomgo Lake)
7. Kitam Bird Sanctuary: (Sikkim's only bird sanctuary)

Relevance on the India-China Border

This sanctuary is strategically very sensitive as it is close to Doklam and Nathula.

• India's Perspective: There is a heavy Army presence here for border security. Forest fires pose a threat to the Army’s communication networks and surveillance posts.
• Issue of Landmines: Barricaded Landmines laid in this area for security reasons act as the biggest obstacle in firefighting operations, as there is a fear of them exploding due to the heat of the fire.

Analysis

• Impact on Ecosystem: Fires in the high Himalayan regions deposit 'Black Carbon,' which increases the melting rate of glaciers.
• Transit Corridor: Pangolakha is a vital corridor for wildlife (especially tigers) between India and Bhutan. Such fires disrupt the migration of wildlife.
• Lack of Adaptation: We lack specific 'firefighting protocols' for high-altitude regions.

Way Forward

• Use of Technology: Maximum utilization of satellite-based 'Real-time Fire Alerts' (MODIS/VIIRS).
• Army-Forest Department Coordination: Formation of a dedicated 'Disaster Response Team' for border areas.
• Fuel Management: Controlled disposal of dry leaves and inflammable materials before the winter sets in.

Conclusion

The fire in the Pangolakha Wildlife Sanctuary is not just an environmental disaster; it is a serious symptom of the changing health of the Himalayan ecosystem. For the protection of this strategically important and bio-diverse region, a balanced coordination between border security and environmental conservation is mandatory.

General Studies Paper – II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations

Context

In India, the periodic re-determination of electoral boundaries has been essential to uphold the democratic principle of 'one person, one vote, one value.' In the history of independent India, this process remained regular until 1976. However, in the 1970s, it was felt that allocating seats based solely on population is disadvantageous for those states that have succeeded in population control. Consequently, through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976), the allocation of Lok Sabha seats was 'frozen' until the year 2000. Later, the 84th Amendment (2001) extended this freeze until 2026. Currently, we stand at that decisive turning point where a half-century-old system is about to change.

What is Delimitation?

Delimitation literally means the act of fixing the boundaries of territorial constituencies in a country or a state having a legislative body.

• Objective: To ensure equal representation of the population so that the geographical division of constituencies remains fair.
• Body: This task is performed by a high-powered 'Delimitation Commission,' appointed by the President. Its orders cannot be challenged in any court.

Why in Discussion?

According to recent news, a new delimitation exercise will begin in India after the results of the 2027 census are released.

• As per the 84th Constitutional Amendment, the data from the first census conducted after 2026 will be used for the re-determination of seats.
• Under the Central Vista Project, the capacity of the Lok Sabha in the new Parliament has been increased to 888 seats, which is an indication that there will be a massive increase in the number of seats in the future.

Why is Delimitation Necessary?

• Demographic Shifts: In 1971, India's population was approximately 54 crores, which has now crossed 145 crores. The current seats are based on old data, which is an injustice to voter representation.
• Equal Value of Vote: Currently, an MP from North India represents 25-30 lakh voters, while this number is 15-18 lakh in Southern states. Delimitation removes this anomaly.

Main Challenges and the 'North-South' Conflict

This is the most sensitive aspect of delimitation:

• Punishment for Success: Southern states (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka) argue that they have successfully controlled population through education and health. If population is made the sole basis, their seats in Parliament will decrease and their political influence will decline.
• Dominance of Northern States: Population growth has been higher in states like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan, which will further increase their dominance in the Lok Sabha after delimitation.

Estimated Figures of Seats

According to the analysis of various research institutes (such as Vision IAS and Forum IAS), if seats increase in proportion to the population:

• Uttar Pradesh: Can increase from the current 80 to 140-150.
• Bihar: Can increase from 40 to approximately 80.
• Tamil Nadu/Kerala: There will be a marginal increase in their seats, but their 'share percentage' in the total House will fall.

Constitutional Provisions

• Article 82: After every census, Parliament passes a Delimitation Act.
• Article 170: Provides the basis for the division of assembly constituencies within states.
• Article 81: Determines the principles for the composition of the Lok Sabha and the allocation of seats.

History of Delimitation

Delimitation Commissions have been constituted four times in India so far:

1. 1952: Under the Delimitation Commission Act, 1952.
2. 1963: Under the Act of 1962.
3. 1973: Under the Act of 1972 (the last allocation of seats happened here).
4. 2002: Under the Act of 2002 (only boundaries were re-determined, the number of seats did not increase).

In-depth Analysis

It is important to understand that delimitation is not just mathematics. It is a test of cooperative federalism. If Southern states feel that they are being pushed to the political fringes because of their progressive policies, it could create mistrust in the country's unity and the implementation of national policies.

Way Forward

• Mixed Standards: In the allocation of seats, importance should be given not only to population but also to factors like development index, literacy, and sex ratio.
• Empowerment of Rajya Sabha: To protect the interests of the states, the powers of the Upper House and the equal distribution of seats there (like the US Senate) can be considered.
• Financial Compensation: Through the 16th Finance Commission, the lack of political power can be balanced by giving more financial autonomy to the Southern states.

Conclusion

Delimitation is an essential process of democracy, but in a diverse and vast country like India, it cannot be limited only to population figures. The delimitation of 2027 will reshape India's democratic 'Social Contract.' The government should engage in extensive consultation with all stakeholders to create a system that maintains a balance between 'representation' and 'development.'

General Studies Paper – II: Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice, and International Relations

Context:

The current global order is experiencing a historical 'transition period.' While the conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia (Gaza) have shaken global supply chains, on the other hand, the US 'America First' policy and increasing protectionism have created trade uncertainty. In this scenario, India has redefined its 'strategic autonomy' and chosen to diversify its options rather than depending on any one bloc. The conclusion of the India-European Union (EU) FTA on January 27, 2026, is a bold and far-reaching step in this direction.

European Union

The European Union (EU) is a unique and powerful political and economic platform of 27 European countries. It does not function like a single country; instead, it works like an 'organization' where all these countries collectively take decisions for their shared interests.

Its Main Features:

• A Single Market: Within the EU, people, goods, services, and money can move from one country to another without any restrictions or passports. For example, a citizen of Germany can go and work in France without any visa.
• Shared Currency: 20 out of 27 EU countries use the same currency, which is called the 'Euro.' The group of these countries is called the 'Eurozone.'

India-European Union Relations:

Formal relations between India and the European Union (then the European Economic Community) began in the 1960s.

• 1994 Cooperation Agreement: This took the relations beyond trade and economic cooperation.
• 2004 Strategic Partnership: India joined the select group of countries with which the EU has a strategic partnership.
• BTIA (2007-2013): Negotiations on the Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA) started in 2007, but stopped in 2013 due to differences on issues like agriculture, services, and data protection.
• Revival (2022-Present): In the last two years, China's increasing aggression and the need to reduce technological dependence have brought the two closer again.

Recent Discussion:

• The announcement of the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between India and the European Union on January 27, 2026, is a historical milestone.
• The presence of European leadership on Republic Day made it clear that India is now at the center of European foreign policy.
• Major Agreements: Comprehensive Strategic Agenda 2030: This is a roadmap for defense, security, and green energy for the next decade.
  • Semiconductor and AI: An alliance between the European AI Office and India’s National AI Mission for chip design and ‘human-centric AI.’

Significance of India and EU for Each Other

• EU for India:
  • Economic: EU is India's second-largest trading partner.
  • Technical: Important for innovation and Green Technology.
• India for EU:
  • Strategic: India is an indispensable partner for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Economic: India is the largest alternative market for reducing dependence on China.

Importance and Impact of the Trade Agreement

• Increase in Exports: Labor-intensive sectors like textiles, leather, and gems-jewellery will get zero-duty access.
• Reduction in Input Costs: Cheap imports of European machinery will strengthen 'Make in India.'
• Employment: Millions of new jobs will be created due to increased exports in the MSME sector.

International Significance

• This agreement strengthens multipolarity at the global level, sending a message that India and Europe together can become an independent 'economic pole' between the dominance of the US and China.
• International strategists see this as a major success of the 'de-risking' policy to reduce dependence on China, which will make the global supply chain more democratic and secure.
• Additionally, this agreement places India in the category of 'rule-making' countries in international trade, which will be able to lead developing countries on climate and digital standards (such as AI and Carbon Tax) in the future.

US Reaction and Impact

Experts believe that after this agreement, psychological pressure will increase on the US to resolve its own trade issues with India (such as restoring GSP status). The US would not want to be left behind in a huge market like India while Europe is making its inroads.

• Competition in Semiconductor and AI sectors: The US has established a deep partnership in defense and technology with India through 'iCET' (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology). The US may see the agreement between India-EU on AI and semiconductors as a minor challenge to its 'technological primacy,' which may motivate it to provide more advanced technology to India.

Agreements with Groups: India's New Strategic Thinking

India is now engaging not just with one country, but with entire blocks (EFTA, EU, GCC).

• Recently, India has also signed an agreement with EFTA (Norway, Switzerland, etc.).
• This strategy was also adopted by countries like Vietnam and South Korea, which gave them a major role in the Global Value Chain (GVC). India is now on the same path.

Necessity and Impact on Industries

In the era of 'decoupling' from China, India needed a market with high standards.

• Indian Industry: Initially, the domestic machinery sector may face challenges from European competition, but in the long run, it will increase efficiency.

Analysis

This agreement is not just about 'trade,' but a meeting of 'values.'

• This agreement will strengthen the 'China Plus One' strategy to reduce dependence on China and will establish India as an 'innovation hub' instead of an assembly hub.
• From a geopolitical perspective, it strengthens India's strategic autonomy by creating a 'third pole.'
• On the technical front, it will bring a new revolution in the AI and semiconductor sector by connecting India's data and Europe's research infrastructure.
• However, challenges like the 'Brussels Effect' (strict regulatory standards) and CBAM (Carbon Tax) will remain for India, which MSMEs will need to overcome.
• This agreement is not just trade, but a strategic integration of future technologies and shared democratic values.

Way Forward

• Regulatory Alignment: India will have to bring its standards closer to European standards.
• Logistics: The pace of improvement in infrastructure (Ports, Roads) must be increased to take advantage of trade.
• Skill Development: Prepare the workforce in sectors like semiconductors and AI.

Conclusion

The India-European Union FTA is not just a deal of economic benefit, but a new reality of a multipolar world. It is a significant step towards India's goal of 'Viksit Bharat @2047,' which establishes India as a decisive power at the table of global governance and trade.