CURRENT-AFFAIRS

Context

In the Indian parliamentary democracy, the office of the Governor was envisioned as a bridge between the Centre and the States. Historically, during the initial decades of post-independence, this office remained free from controversy due to 'one-party dominance.' However, after 1967, when opposition parties formed governments in the states, the Governor's role began to be disputed as more of a 'Central Agent' than a 'Constitutional Head.' In the current scenario, this dispute has emerged as a serious challenge to 'Cooperative Federalism.'

Current Developments: Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka

In recent times, an unprecedented confrontation has been observed between the Governors and elected governments in South Indian states:

• Tamil Nadu: Governor R.N. Ravi skipping parts of the address prepared by the State Cabinet and walking out of the House before the National Anthem.
• Kerala: The Governor's refusal to read critical remarks about the Central Government during the policy address.
• Karnataka: Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot’s refusal to address the joint session, claiming the draft address was biased against the Central Government’s schemes.

Status and Constitutional Rights of the Governor

Under Part VI of the Constitution, the Governor has a dual role:

• Constitutional Head of the State.
• Representative of the Central Government.

• Article 154: The executive power of the State shall be vested in the Governor.
• Article 163: There shall be a Council of Ministers with the Chief Minister at the head to aid and advise the Governor in the exercise of his functions (except in so far as he is required to exercise his discretion).

Rights of the State Government and Article 176

• Article 176 (Special Address): It makes it mandatory for the Governor to address the Legislative Assembly (and the Council, where it exists) at the commencement of the first session of each year.
• Constitutional Decorum: According to parliamentary tradition, this address is not the 'personal view' of the Governor but a 'statement of the policies and achievements of the State Government.' The State Government has the absolute right to place its policies before the public.

Comparative Review: Governor vs. State Government

Real Causes of Disputes

An analysis from the past to the present reveals the following factors:

• Clash of Political Ideologies: When there are different ideologies at the Centre and the State, the post of Governor begins to be used as a 'political weapon.'
• Appointment Process: The appointment of the Governor depends entirely on the will of the Centre, which raises questions about their impartiality.
• Strained Federalism: Attempts by the Central Government to curb the autonomy of states through Governors are leading 'Competitive Federalism' in a negative direction.

Judicial Decisions and Guidelines

• Shamsher Singh vs. State of Punjab (1974): The Supreme Court clarified that the Governor must act according to the aid and advice of the Council of Ministers.
• S.R. Bommai Case (1994): Federalism was declared a 'Basic Structure' of the Constitution, and the path for judicial review of the Governor’s powers was cleared.
• Nabam Rebia Case (2016): The Court stated that the discretionary powers of the Governor are limited and they cannot interfere in the proceedings of the House of their own accord.

Relevance of Governor’s Address and the Federalism Debate

The address is not merely a ritual but a medium to ensure accountability. When a Governor refuses to read it, it creates a 'Constitutional Deadlock.'

• Unitary vs. Federalism: The over-activity of the Governor reflects the unitary bias of India, which is against regional aspirations.

Way Forward

• Recommendations of Committees: Implementing the recommendations of the 'Sarkaria Commission' and 'Punchhi Commission,' which include consulting the Chief Minister before appointing a Governor and selecting a politically neutral person.
• Constitutional Code of Conduct: A clear 'Code of Conduct' should be developed for Governors so that discretionary powers are not misused.
• Constitutional Amendment: As suggested by the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, there is a need to reconsider the mandatory obligation and limits of Article 176.

Conclusion

The office of the Governor should be a symbol of the dignity of Indian democracy, not an arena for political wrestling. In a democracy, the supremacy of the 'elected government' is paramount. Ultimately, dialogue between the Centre and the States and 'Constitutional Morality' is the only permanent solution to this deadlock.

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

Context

In January 2026, the brief yet historic visit of the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (MbZ), to India has taken the relationship between the two countries to a new height. The most significant outcome of this visit is the announcement of a framework agreement for a 'Strategic Defence Partnership' between India and the UAE. This agreement comes at a time when the Gulf region is undergoing unprecedented security and political shifts.

Current Status of India-UAE Economic Relations

Beyond defence agreements, the UAE remains an indispensable partner for India:

• Trade: The UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner and second-largest export destination.
• Investment: It is the seventh-largest foreign investor in India.
• New Agreements: A target to take bilateral trade to $200 billion and a significant $3 billion LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) agreement.

Changing Geopolitics in the Gulf Region

According to the article, the Gulf region is currently facing several complexities that India must take into account:

• New Cold War: Increasing power struggle between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, especially regarding the Sudan crisis and regional hegemony.
• New Military Alliances: The potential inclusion of Türkiye in the enhanced Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact following Israel’s bombing in Qatar (September 2025) has created a new military polarization in the region.
• Centers of Instability: Internal protests in Iran, the uncertain ceasefire in Gaza, and the U.S.’s future 'Board of Peace' plan.

Strategic Defence Partnership

The proposed defence treaty between India and the UAE has far-reaching implications:

• Strategic Significance: This is the first time India is entering into a formal defence partnership of this level with any Gulf country.
• Concerns: This alliance could be viewed as a military front against other competing groups in the region (such as Saudi-Pakistan-Türkiye).
• India’s Clarification: The Indian Foreign Secretary has clarified that this treaty is not for India’s participation in any future hypothetical military scenario, but for bilateral security cooperation.

What is at Stake for India?

The importance of the Gulf region for India's foreign policy is paramount due to the following reasons:

• Diaspora Security: Approximately 1 crore Indians reside in Gulf countries. Any instability there directly impacts their employment and security.
• Energy Security: In the event of supply disruptions from Russia and other sources due to Western sanctions, the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region remains the mainstay for India's energy needs.
• Connectivity Projects: The success of ambitious projects like Chabahar Port, INSTC, and IMEC (India-Middle East-Europe Corridor) depends entirely on regional peace and the cooperation of all stakeholders.

Analysis

For India, this is a test of 'Strategic Balancing'. Increasing defence ties with the UAE is beneficial for India's maritime security and defence exports (such as BrahMos, Dhruv helicopters), but it must be balanced in a way that other important partners like Saudi Arabia or Iran do not perceive it as being against them. India’s policy has moved beyond 'Non-Alignment' towards 'Multi-alignment'.

Way Forward

• Cautious Diplomacy: India must avoid taking sides in the internal differences of the Gulf (such as MbZ vs. MbS).
• Multilateral Engagement: Defence cooperation should not be limited to security alone but should focus on disaster management, anti-piracy operations, and technology transfer.
• Resolution of Local Disputes: India should use its soft power to emerge as a 'mediator' or a 'stability factor' for peace in the region.

Conclusion

The defence partnership between India and the UAE amidst the complex and volatile security environment of the Gulf region is a bold step. However, India will have to tread with extreme caution on the 'faultlines' of this region to safeguard its economic aspirations and energy security. India’s success will depend on how it maintains its strategic autonomy while balancing equal distance and equal friendship with all competing powers.

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

Context

Recently, the Supreme Court reviewed the 'Special Intensive Revision' (SIR) process being conducted by the Election Commission in West Bengal. Petitioners (primarily leaders of the Trinamool Congress) have alleged that through this process, the names of millions of genuine voters are being removed from the list, which could create a major democratic crisis. In the hearing on January 21, 2026, the Court raised serious questions regarding the working methodology of the Election Commission.

What is SIR?

Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is a comprehensive campaign conducted by the Election Commission (EC) to purify and update electoral rolls.

• Objective: To remove the names of fake voters, deceased persons, and those who have migrated from the list, and to add new eligible voters.
• Legal Basis: Under Section 21(3) of the Representation of the People Act, 1950, and Article 324 of the Constitution, the Election Commission has the power to conduct special revisions to ensure free and fair elections.
• The West Bengal Case: Here, the Commission is treating the electoral roll of 2002 as 'Legacy Data' and matching it with current data.

Why in Discussion?

The issue escalated when the Election Commission placed approximately 1.36 crore voters (nearly 20% of the state's total population) under the category of 'Logical Discrepancies'. Receiving notices in such large numbers has created a situation of administrative and social tension.

Discrepancies: Election Commission's Affidavit

The Election Commission filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court mentioning errors in the data that the Commission termed as 'against science':

• Abnormal Number of Children: In several cases, a single voter was found to have more than 200 children on record.
• Error in Age Gap: The age difference between parents and children was found to be less than 15 years.
• Data Mapping: The Commission stated that there are more than 4.5 lakh cases where a person has more than 5 children recorded, which is contrary to current demographic standards (NFHS-5).

Strict Observations of the Supreme Court

The bench headed by Chief Justice (CJI) Surya Kant reprimanded the Commission, stating:

• Principle of Natural Justice: The process of roll revision must be 'just and fair'.
• Discretionary Powers: The Commission has broad powers, but they cannot be 'untrammelled'.
• Adherence to Rules: The Court asked why 11 documents are being demanded for SIR when 6 documents are prescribed in the rules.
• Unnecessary Stress: The Court expressed concern over the mental and physical distress caused to the general public in the name of 'logical discrepancies'.

Court's Directions:

For the relief of the public, the Court has issued the following interim directions:

• Transparency: The names included in the discrepancy list must be publicly displayed at Gram Panchayat and Block offices.
• Permission for Representative: It is not mandatory for the voter to appear in person; they can submit documents through their Booth Level Agent (BLA) or an authorized representative.
• Time Limit: An additional 10 days have been granted to submit documents and objections.
• Administrative Cooperation: The State Government has been directed to provide adequate manpower so that the hearings can proceed smoothly.

Analysis

This matter is one of 'Constitutional Propriety' vs. 'Administrative Efficiency'.

• Positive Aspect: Electoral purity is the foundation of democracy. The removal of fake voters is essential for transparent elections.
• Negative Aspect: Issuing notices on such a massive scale and using informal mediums like WhatsApp reflects procedural flaws. This could endanger the 'Right to Vote' (a constitutional right) of the poor and uneducated population.

Way Forward

• Digital Transparency: The Commission should create a clear portal where voters can check their status.
• Standardization: The definition of discrepancies should be clear so that notices are not sent for minor errors like spelling mistakes in names.
• Public Awareness: Civil society and political parties should work together to make voters aware of their rights.

Conclusion

The Election Commission's effort to purify electoral rolls is commendable, but its process should be 'inclusive' rather than 'exclusionary'. As highlighted by the Supreme Court, fundamental rights of citizens and the principles of natural justice cannot be sacrificed in the name of administrative convenience.

General Studies Paper – III: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

Context

Over the past decade, the world has shifted from fossil fuels to clean energy to combat climate change. In 2015, only 0.55 million electric vehicles were sold globally, whereas by 2025, this figure is estimated to reach 20 million units. This rapid transformation has completely altered the demand patterns for raw materials. Currently, 'Copper' has emerged as a new 'Strategic Metal' at the heart of this green revolution.

Electric Vehicles and the Necessity of Copper

Electric vehicles are far more resource-intensive compared to traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles.

• Backbone of Electrification: Due to its high electrical conductivity, copper is indispensable for EV batteries, windings, rotors, and internal wiring.
• Comparative Requirement: While a standard petrol car contains 20-25 kg of copper, a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) requires 80-85 kg of copper. Additionally, copper is used in massive quantities for charging infrastructure and grid upgradation.

The Demand and Supply Gap

Currently, the global copper market is moving towards a serious 'structural deficit':

• Uncontrolled Demand: In 2015, copper consumption in the EV sector was 27,500 tonnes, which has increased to over 1.28 million tonnes by 2025.
• Supply Constraints: It takes 10 to 15 years from the discovery of a new copper mine to the start of production.
• Under-investment: A lack of investment in the mining sector over the last decade and the falling 'ore grade' in existing mines are further limiting the supply.

Consequences of the 'Copper Crunch'

If the copper shortage persists by 2026, it could have serious consequences:

• Increase in EV Costs: Rising copper prices will make the manufacturing of EVs expensive, making it difficult for the general public to adopt them.
• Delay in Net-Zero Goals: A slowdown in the pace of energy transition will make achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement challenging.
• Geopolitical Competition: Conflict may increase among global powers for control over copper reserves (such as in Chile, Peru, Congo) and processing (such as in China).

EV Status in India and the Role of Copper

India aims to achieve 30% EV penetration in private cars and 80% in two-wheelers/three-wheelers by 2030.

• Import Dependency: India imports a large portion of its copper requirement. After the closure of the Sterlite Copper Plant (Tuticorin) in 2018, India turned from a 'net exporter' to a 'net importer'.
• Strategic Risk: Schemes like 'FAME-II' and 'PLI' are encouraging EV manufacturing, but a secure supply chain for raw materials (Lithium and Copper) remains a major challenge.

Way Forward

• Recycling: 'Urban Mining' should be promoted. Recycling copper from old electronic waste is less energy-intensive and more eco-friendly compared to primary mining.
• Innovation: Researchers should focus on copper alternatives (such as high-conductivity aluminum alloys) or motor technologies that use less copper.
• Investment and Exploration: The government should increase private participation in mineral exploration and ensure stakes in strategic mines abroad (such as through KABIL).

Conclusion

The transition toward electric vehicles is not just a technological shift but a 'resource-intensive transformation'. The copper crisis warns us that future clean technologies depend not only on market demand but also on the availability of rare minerals. If recycling and supply chain improvements are not made in time, the dream of a 'green future' may remain unfulfilled due to the shortage of copper.

General Studies Paper – III: Technology, Economic Development, Biodiversity, Environment, Security and Disaster Management

Context

Over the past decade, the world has shifted from fossil fuels to clean energy to combat climate change. In 2015, only 0.55 million electric vehicles were sold globally, whereas by 2025, this figure is estimated to reach 20 million units. This rapid transformation has completely altered the demand patterns for raw materials. Currently, 'Copper' has emerged as a new 'Strategic Metal' at the heart of this green revolution.

Electric Vehicles and the Necessity of Copper

Electric vehicles are far more resource-intensive compared to traditional Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) vehicles.

• Backbone of Electrification: Due to its high electrical conductivity, copper is indispensable for EV batteries, windings, rotors, and internal wiring.
• Comparative Requirement: While a standard petrol car contains 20-25 kg of copper, a Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV) requires 80-85 kg of copper. Additionally, copper is used in massive quantities for charging infrastructure and grid upgradation.

The Demand and Supply Gap

Currently, the global copper market is moving towards a serious 'structural deficit':

• Uncontrolled Demand: In 2015, copper consumption in the EV sector was 27,500 tonnes, which has increased to over 1.28 million tonnes by 2025.
• Supply Constraints: It takes 10 to 15 years from the discovery of a new copper mine to the start of production.
• Under-investment: A lack of investment in the mining sector over the last decade and the falling 'ore grade' in existing mines are further limiting the supply.

Consequences of the 'Copper Crunch'

If the copper shortage persists by 2026, it could have serious consequences:

• Increase in EV Costs: Rising copper prices will make the manufacturing of EVs expensive, making it difficult for the general public to adopt them.
• Delay in Net-Zero Goals: A slowdown in the pace of energy transition will make achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement challenging.
• Geopolitical Competition: Conflict may increase among global powers for control over copper reserves (such as in Chile, Peru, Congo) and processing (such as in China).

EV Status in India and the Role of Copper

India aims to achieve 30% EV penetration in private cars and 80% in two-wheelers/three-wheelers by 2030.

• Import Dependency: India imports a large portion of its copper requirement. After the closure of the Sterlite Copper Plant (Tuticorin) in 2018, India turned from a 'net exporter' to a 'net importer'.
• Strategic Risk: Schemes like 'FAME-II' and 'PLI' are encouraging EV manufacturing, but a secure supply chain for raw materials (Lithium and Copper) remains a major challenge.

Way Forward

• Recycling: 'Urban Mining' should be promoted. Recycling copper from old electronic waste is less energy-intensive and more eco-friendly compared to primary mining.
• Innovation: Researchers should focus on copper alternatives (such as high-conductivity aluminum alloys) or motor technologies that use less copper.
• Investment and Exploration: The government should increase private participation in mineral exploration and ensure stakes in strategic mines abroad (such as through KABIL).

Conclusion

The transition toward electric vehicles is not just a technological shift but a 'resource-intensive transformation'. The copper crisis warns us that future clean technologies depend not only on market demand but also on the availability of rare minerals. If recycling and supply chain improvements are not made in time, the dream of a 'green future' may remain unfulfilled due to the shortage of copper.