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- Why in News?
- The BRICS countries have strongly opposed the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), denouncing it as a unilateral and discriminatory trade measure. They argue that CBAM places an unfair burden on developing economies and undermines the principles of equity in global climate action.
- About Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM):-
- CBAM, often referred to as the EU’s carbon border tax, is designed to cut global carbon emissions by applying a levy on carbon-intensive goods imported into the EU. The idea is to level the playing field between EU producers—who face strict carbon regulations—and foreign companies that may operate under looser environmental rules. It also aims to push non-EU industries toward adopting cleaner production practices.
- The mechanism is currently in its transitional phase (2023–2025), during which reporting is required but no financial payments are enforced. Full implementation, including the financial component, is set to begin in 2026.
- Why in News?
- The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has published the Yearly Performance Indicators report for Indian telecom services for the year 2024–25, offering key insights into the sector’s growth and usage patterns.
- Key Provisions:-
- As per the report, internet subscribers across the country rose from 954.40 million in 2024 to 969.10 million in 2025, reflecting a steady increase in digital connectivity. Telephone subscriptions also saw a marginal rise, growing from 1,199.28 million to 1,200.80 million during the same period.
- Interestingly, the overall tele-density—which measures the number of telephone connections per 100 individuals—declined slightly from 85.69% in 2024 to 85.04% in 2025. This dip suggests that growth in connections hasn’t kept pace with the population increase. The urban tele-density remains significantly higher at 131.45%, compared to rural areas, which stand at 59.06%, highlighting the ongoing digital divide between urban and rural regions in India.
- Why in News?
- The National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) has submitted its Annual Report for the year 2023–24 to the President of India, outlining its findings and recommendations related to the welfare and rights of Scheduled Castes.
- About National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC):-
- The NCSC was established following the Constitution (Eighty-Ninth Amendment) Act, 2003, which bifurcated the earlier combined commission into two separate bodies: the NCSC under Article 338 and the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes under Article 338-A.
- The primary mandate of the NCSC is to monitor the implementation of constitutional safeguards for Scheduled Castes. It also investigates specific complaints regarding violations or denial of these rights and advises on measures for their socio-economic advancement.
- The Commission consists of a Chairperson, Vice-Chairperson, and three other members, all appointed by the President of India. It is also vested with powers similar to those of a civil court, allowing it to summon witnesses and examine documents during inquiries.