CURRENT-AFFAIRS

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

Context

The recently concluded Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process has raised several serious questions about the democratic foundation of India 'Universal Adult Franchise.' The large-scale removal of names from the electoral rolls and the structural flaws present in this process have sparked a debate on whether the methods adopted by the Election Commission are truly inclusive.

Analysis of the SIR Process and Data

The final electoral roll figures released by the Election Commission are startling. In states like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh, the number of names removed from the electoral rolls remains between 11% and 13%.

• Migration vs. Deletion: States like Tamil Nadu and Gujarat are 'net in-migrant' states, where people from other states come for work. Despite this, the deletion rate here is much higher compared to Bihar (where migration out of the state is higher).
• Gender Inequality: The data clearly shows that the names of female voters have been deleted at a higher rate than those of male voters. This particularly affects married women who have changed their place of residence after marriage.

Key Anomalies and Challenges

• Lack of Census Data: Accurate electoral rolls require updated population data. Due to the excessive delay in the Census by the Central Government, the Election Commission is still relying on outdated 2011 data. This has created a large gap between the actual adult population and registered voters.
• Burden of Proof: The biggest flaw of the SIR process is that it has shifted the entire burden of proving eligibility onto the voters. Instead of 'door-to-door enumeration,' reliance on digital and cluster-based verification has marginalized migrants and the poorer sections who lack information or resources.
• Nature of Identity Documents: Documents like Aadhaar or Ration Cards are used in daily life, so citizens keep them updated. In contrast, the 'Voter ID' is used only once every five years. Due to this 'lack of utility,' common citizens remain indifferent toward ensuring their names are on the voter list.

Role of the Judiciary and the 'Band-Aid' Solution

In states like West Bengal and Uttar Pradesh, due to the poor implementation by the Election Commission, the situation has become so complex that the Supreme Court has had to seek the assistance of judicial officers from other states. The title 'Band-Aid' indicates that the Court and the Commission are only making superficial repairs, while no solid strike is being made at the root of the problem the constitutionality and robustness of the process.

Way Forward

• Constitutionally Consistent Revision: The Supreme Court should decide quickly on the constitutionality of the SIR process to prevent such flawed processes in the future.
• Technology: Digital platforms are effective, but for rural and migrant populations, there can be no substitute for 'door-to-door verification.'
• Political Accountability: Political parties should not limit themselves only to electoral victory but should play the role of 'citizen assistance' to ensure that every eligible citizen’s name is on the voter list.

Conclusion

The success of democracy depends not only on the percentage of voting but on the purity and inclusiveness of the electoral roll. The Election Commission should focus on 'accuracy' rather than 'haste' so that no citizen of India is deprived of their right to vote. Merely tying a bandage on the wounds will not improve the health of democracy; it requires deep corrective surgery.

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

Context

The problem of violence and 'mob lynching' (killing by a mob) in the name of cow protection in India is decades old, but in the last decade, it has taken a horrific and organized form. After the strict guidelines issued by the Supreme Court in the 2018 case of 'Tehseen Poonawalla vs. Union of India,' there was hope that this anarchy would be reined in. However, recent observations by the Supreme Court (February 2026) have brought this issue back to the center of national discourse, where the Court has expressed inability to enforce its own previous directions.

What is Cow Vigilantism?

Cow vigilantism refers to self-proclaimed groups of 'cow protectors' taking the law into their own hands and attacking or killing individuals on suspicion of cow smuggling or possession of beef.

• Key Points: It is often carried out based on rumors, communal malice, and without any legal basis.
• Impact: It is not only a violation of the rule of law but also creates an atmosphere of fear in the minds of minority communities and marginalized sections.

Why in the News?

On February 23, 2026, a bench headed by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Justice Surya Kant made an important and controversial observation:

• Directions called 'Unmanageable': The Court stated that the "general directions" issued in 2018 are not practical for the states to implement.
• Case-by-Case Approach: The CJI suggested that every crime should be viewed based on its specific facts rather than through a broad monitoring mechanism.
• Refusal on Contempt Petitions: The Court refused to initiate contempt proceedings against those states that failed to implement the preventive and punitive measures of 2018.
• Judicial Retreat: Experts have termed this as a 'retreat' of the judiciary, where the Court now wishes to step away from the role of a 'watchdog.'

Supreme Court's Old Directions (2018) in Detail

In the 2018 'Tehseen Poonawalla' judgment, the Court outlined three types of measures:

• Preventive Measures: Appointing a senior police officer (SP rank) as a 'Nodal Officer' in each district and increasing patrolling by identifying sensitive areas.
• Punitive Measures: Setting up 'Fast Track Courts' for lynching cases and ensuring maximum punishment for the guilty. Disciplinary action against officers negligent in their duties.
• Remedial Measures: Implementing a compensation scheme for victims within one month.

Mob Violence in India: Latest Reports and Statistics

• Statistics (2014-2023): According to data, more than 189 cases of mob lynching have been recorded in India in the last decade.
• Report (2025-26): According to the recent 'Status of Policing in India Report 2025,' many police officers consider punishment meted out by a mob to be partially justified, which is a dangerous trend.
• Recent Incidents (2025-26): In May 2025, reports of violent attacks by mobs on suspicion of beef surfaced in Aligarh and Vijay Nagar (Delhi), where the allegations were later found to be baseless.

Major Concerns

• Constitutional Failure: If the state is unable to protect the lives of its citizens (Article 21), it is a failure of the governance system.
• Quasi-Judicial Powers: In many states, cow vigilantes have gained quasi-police powers in the name of legal protection and 'good faith,' which is a direct violation of the 2018 directions.
• Police Collusion: Often, the police remain mute spectators or even register cases against the victims themselves.

Multi-dimensional Impact

• Social: Deterioration of communal harmony and a sense of insecurity.
• Legal: Decrease in public confidence toward the 'Rule of Law.'
• Economic: Adverse impact on the leather and dairy industries, especially in the rural economy.

Constitutional and Legal Provisions

• Article 48: The State shall endeavor to organize agriculture and animal husbandry on modern lines and take steps for preserving and improving the breeds, and prohibiting the slaughter of cows and calves (DPSP).
• Article 21: Right to life and personal liberty.
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, Section 103(2): Murder committed by a group of five or more persons on the grounds of race, caste, or community is considered 'Mob Lynching,' with provisions for the death penalty or life imprisonment.

Analysis

The current stance of the Court indicates that it wants to distance itself by leaving this complex issue to the law and order of the states. However, when the state machinery itself begins to protect cow vigilantes, the retreat of the Supreme Court is fatal for those citizens who reach there with the last hope for justice.

Way Forward

• Specific Law: Parliament should enact a dedicated 'Anti-Lynching Law' (as attempted by Rajasthan and Manipur).
• Accountability of Officers: Immediate action should be taken against Nodal Officers who fail to prevent an incident.
• Technical Monitoring: A transparent digital monitoring system should be used in the security apparatus to stop inflammatory messages and rumors.

Conclusion

There is no place for 'mobocracy' in a democracy. The Supreme Court must maintain the dignity of its historic 2018 decision. If the judiciary retreats, it will be like granting a license to majoritarian politics to be above the law. The rule of law will remain alive only when it provides equal protection to every citizen, whether they are in the majority or the minority.

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

Context

The serious problems affecting women's health in India, particularly the rising rate of cervical cancer, have taken the form of a national crisis. Considering the widespread impact of this issue and the necessity of protecting future generations from it, the Government of India has taken a decisive step. The concrete measures taken by the government to strengthen the public health infrastructure and protect 'Nari Shakti' (Women Power) have brought this subject to the center of national discourse.

What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is a large group of viruses comprising more than 200 types. Its key points are as follows:

• Transmission: It spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact and sexual contact.
• Risk: Most HPV infections clear up on their own, but certain 'high-risk' types (especially 16 and 18) persist in the body and cause cancer in the future.
• Impact: It is responsible not only for cervical cancer but also for vaginal, anal, and throat cancers.
• Prevention: Vaccination is the most effective protection, which should be administered before infection occurs (during adolescence).

Why in the News?

On February 28, 2026, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the 'National HPV Vaccination Campaign' from Ajmer, Rajasthan. The key points of this campaign are as follows:

• Target: To target approximately 1.15 crore adolescent girls (14 years of age) in the country.
• Strategy: Adopting a 'single-dose' policy of the 'Gardasil' (Gardasil-4) vaccine, which has been scientifically proven to be 93-100% effective.
• Type of Vaccine: A quadrivalent vaccine named 'Gardasil' will be used, providing protection against HPV types 6, 11, 16, and 18.
• Cost: It will be completely free, ensuring access for the economically weaker sections.
• Monitoring: Vaccination sessions will be held under the supervision of trained medical officers to manage any adverse effects.
• Implementation: The campaign is being operated through the 'U-WIN' digital platform, maintaining transparency in registration and tracking.
• Initial Success: According to data from March 2026, approximately 3 lakh girls have been successfully vaccinated within the first 15 days of the campaign.
• Collaboration: India has partnered with 'Gavi' (Gavi - Vaccine Alliance) to ensure supply through a transparent procurement mechanism.

Need and Situation in India

Why is it needed?

• Preventive Treatment: Cervical cancer is among the few cancers that can be completely prevented through vaccination and early screening.
• Economic Burden: Cancer treatment pushes families into a vicious cycle of poverty; vaccination reduces this long-term burden.

Situation in India:

• Prevalence: Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in India.
• Statistics: Approximately 80,000 new cases are registered every year.
• Mortality Rate: India accounts for nearly one-fourth of global cervical cancer deaths, pointing toward a serious public health crisis.

Global Scenario:

• WHO Goal: The World Health Organization (WHO) has set a '90-70-90' target to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030 (90% girls vaccinated, 70% women screened, and 90% treated).
• Global Acceptance: Currently, more than 90 countries worldwide have adopted the single-dose policy.
• Effectiveness: According to international data, countries with widespread vaccination have seen up to a 90% reduction in cervical cancer cases.

Other Problems: Factors of Cervical Cancer

Apart from HPV, other factors that promote cervical cancer include:

• Lack of Awareness: Lack of information regarding symptoms and screening (such as Pap Smear) in rural areas.
• Delayed Diagnosis: In India, most cases are detected in the third or fourth stage, when the chances of survival decrease.
• Hygiene and Nutrition: Lack of personal hygiene and a weak immune system increase the risk.

Important Reports and Significance of the Campaign

• Reports: Reports from 'Lancet' and 'WHO' have repeatedly warned India to take stringent steps in this direction.
• Significance of the Campaign:
  • Equality: The 'Free of Cost' model bridges the socio-economic gap.
  • Capability: Using government medical colleges and district hospitals increases its credibility.
  • Future Security: This is an investment in protecting the next generation of women from a deadly disease.

Other Government Initiatives

• CERVAVAC: India's first indigenous quadrivalent HPV vaccine (developed by SII), which is a symbol of Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India).
• Ayushman Bharat: Health insurance cover up to 5 lakh rupees for cancer treatment.
• National Health Mission (NHM): Emphasis is being placed on the screening of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) under this mission.

Analysis

India's decision is science-based and people-centric. However, merely providing the vaccine will not be enough. Due to India's diversity and cultural beliefs, 'vaccine hesitancy' could become a challenge. Despite a safety record (more than 50 crore global doses), stopping rumors and winning the trust of the rural population will be the real test of this campaign's success.

Way Forward

• Awareness Campaign: Educating parents through ASHA workers and schools.
• Expansion of Screening: Making regular 'Pap Smear' or 'HPV DNA' tests mandatory or accessible for women over 30 years of age.
• Indigenous Production: Accelerating the production and distribution of the indigenous 'CERVAVAC' vaccine to reduce costs.
• Male Participation: Consideration should also be given to vaccinating boys in the future, as they are also carriers of this virus.

Conclusion

The free HPV vaccination program for 14-year-old girls is a milestone in India's health policy. It not only strengthens women's 'Right to Health' but also provides long-term security to the country's human resources. If implemented effectively, India will be able to achieve the global goal of becoming a cervical cancer-free nation in the coming decades.

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

Context

In 2025, Washington's imposition of a massive $1,00,000 (approximately ₹84 lakh) fee on new H-1B visa petitions is not just a policy change, but a 'geopolitical earthquake.' It has not only placed a financial burden on the American dreams of Indian engineers but has also opened a historic door for India to reclaim its lost talent. The question is: are we ready for this 'Reverse Brain Drain'?

Policy Blow and the Changing Landscape

The new U.S. visa policy has pushed young professionals, who sought to establish themselves there with Master's degrees and specializations, into a deep crisis. Statistics show that in FY2024, Indians accounted for 71% of total H-1B approvals. Now, 30% more Indian students from Ivy League universities are looking toward a return to their homeland. The Government of India has also initiated a structured effort to connect this talent with 'Swadeshi' ideals through schemes like GATI, VAJRA, and eMigrate V2.0.

The Paradox of States: Startup Hubs or Liveable Cities?

The bitterest truth of the article is that while India's metropolises have succeeded in building startup ecosystems, they fail to meet the standards of 'family reinvestment.'

• Maharashtra: Despite being the country's largest startup cluster, the high cost of housing and uncertainty regarding school seats remain major obstacles.
• Delhi: While the institutional network is strong here, it appears to favor only those with 'access.'
• Karnataka: Through policies like 'Beyond Bengaluru,' attempts are being made to take development to Mysuru and Mangaluru, but there is a lack of global-standard healthcare and research infrastructure.

The conclusion is that states are attracting 'companies,' but have lagged behind in planning for 'humans' to settle.

The R&D Drought: The Biggest Challenge

Recalling talent is one thing, but retaining it is another. India's investment in Research and Development (R&D) is a mere 0.64% of its GDP. In comparison, the U.S. (3.47%) and Israel (5.71%) are miles ahead of us. Until the private sector receives solid incentives for R&D investment, highly qualified professionals will continue to view India as only a 'temporary stopover.'

The Path Forward: Innovation Dividend

The uncertainty of H-1B visas can become an 'Innovation Dividend' for India, provided we work on the following points:

• Social Infrastructure: Guarantees of housing for returning families, employment for spouses, and quality education for children.
• Boosting Private R&D: Massive investment in sectors like software products, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing.
• Institutional Reforms: Bridging the gap between government laboratories and private startups.

Conclusion

India today has over 1,600 Global Capability Centers (GCCs) employing millions of people. Conditions are perfectly ripe for 'Brain Circulation.' If we do not make our cities liveable and our research sector competitive today, this talented generation will once again turn toward another country.