Context: The UNESCO report titled “Mountains and Glaciers: Water Towers”, released on the first World Day for Glaciers (March 21, 2025), highlights the rapid and largely irreversible impacts of global warming on mountain ecosystems. Major Environmental Changes in Mountain Regions Glacier Melting Accelerates Permafrost Thaw Intensifies Declining Snow Cover Erratic Snowfall Patterns Increased Risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) Why This Matters Water Security Threatened Rising Sea Levels Policy Urgency Global warming is drastically reshaping mountain regions, causing faster glacier melting, permafrost thaw, snow cover reduction, and erratic snowfall patterns. These changes endanger global water security, accelerate sea-level rise, and increase climate-related hazards. Immediate action and strong international policy frameworks are crucial to protect these fragile ecosystems and the billions who depend on them. The Indian Express
Astronomers Unveil New Theory on the Origins of Water in the Universe
Context: Astronomers may be closer to solving one of science’s oldest mysteries: how did water originate in the universe? A groundbreaking study published in Nature Astronomy on March 3 suggests that the universe’s earliest stars produced water through colossal supernova explosions, challenging existing theories and potentially reshaping our understanding of life’s earliest possibilities. The Birth of the First Stars Star Populations Explained 3D Simulations and Key Discoveries The Infant Universe and Abundant Water Addressing Limitations This study revolutionizes our understanding of water’s origins, suggesting that life-supporting conditions may have existed far earlier than previously imagined. If proven, it could drastically reshape theories on planetary formation and the timeline for life’s emergence in the cosmos. Source: TH
JSW Steel Becomes World’s Most Valuable Steelmaker
Context: JSW Steel, led by Sajjan Jindal, has emerged as the world’s most valuable steel company with a market capitalisation (mcap) of $30.31 billion, according to Bloomberg data. The company has surpassed major global steel producers like ArcelorMittal and Nucor Corporation. Top Global Steelmakers by Market Capitalisation Rank Company Country Mcap ($ bn) TTM Revenue ($ bn) Profit ($ bn) 1 JSW Steel India 30.31 21.1 1.1 2 Nucor Corporation United States 29.40 30.7 2.0 3 ArcelorMittal Luxembourg 27.14 62.4 1.3 4 Nippon Steel Japan 24.43 58.0 3.1 5 Tata Steel India 23.09 27.5 -0.5 6 Tenaris Luxembourg 22.98 12.5 2.0 7 Baoshan Iron & Steel China 22.72 46.1 1.3 8 Steel Dynamics United States 18.99 17.5 1.5 9 Posco Holdings South Korea 17.35 53.3 0.8 10 Inner Mongolia BaoTou Steel China 11.54 9.3 -0.1 Source: Bloomberg, compiled by BS Research Bureau Key Comparisons Indian Steelmakers Rising Contextual Industry Trend The rise of JSW Steel as the world’s most valuable steelmaker signifies India’s growing influence in global manufacturing and highlights the shift in global steel market dynamics. The combination of strong valuations, aggressive expansion, and policy support is positioning Indian steel companies as key players in shaping the future of the global
SAHYOG Portal
What is the SAHYOG Portal? Mission of SAHYOG Portal Who runs it? How does the SAHYOG Portal work? What does it block? Why is it important? Current Use The SAHYOG portal is India’s centralized platform for blocking unlawful online content, designed to bring government agencies and online platforms together to fight cybercrime — but its use is raising debates about transparency, legal boundaries, and freedom of expression.
Collegium System
Context: The Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman, Jagdeep Dhankhar, chaired a meeting of Rajya Sabha floor leaders in the context of the recovery of half-burnt Indian currency notes at the official residence of the High Court judge Justice Yashwant Varma on March 14, building ground for another intervention by Parliament in judicial appointments. What is the Collegium System? The Collegium System is how judges are chosen and transferred in India’s higher courts (the Supreme Court and High Courts).Interestingly, this system wasn’t created by the Constitution or by Parliament — it slowly took shape through decisions made by the Supreme Court itself. How Did the Collegium System Come About? First Judges Case (1981) Second Judges Case (1993) Third Judges Case (1998) Who’s in the Collegium? How are Judges Appointed in India? For the Chief Justice of India For other Supreme Court judges For High Court Chief Justices Problems with the Collegium System Too Secretive Risk of Nepotism and Favoritism No Checks and Balances Lack of Diversity What was done to fix it? The collegium system is how judges are chosen in India, but it’s criticized for being secretive and lacking accountability. While efforts to reform it have been made, such as the NJAC, they haven’t succeeded — leaving this system at the center of ongoing debates about fairness, transparency, and balance of power. UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ) Prelims Q. Consider the following statements: (2019) Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only(b) 2 only(c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Ans: (b) Mains Q. Critically examine the Supreme Court’s judgement on ‘National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014’ with reference to appointment of judges of higher judiciary in India. (2017) TH
Russia and Ukraine Agree to Cease Black Sea
Context: In a significant diplomatic development, Russia and Ukraine have agreed to suspend military strikes in the Black Sea and refrain from targeting energy infrastructure. The agreement was reached after three days of negotiations brokered by the United States in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Key Agreements Conditions Set by Russia U.S. Incentives Reactions from Leaders While this agreement signals a potential turning point in the conflict, both sides have conditions that could complicate full implementation. The global community will closely watch the next steps, particularly around sanctions and compliance with the agreed terms. TH
India and Singapore Sign Letter of Intent for Green and Digital Shipping Corridor
Context: India and Singapore have signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to jointly develop a Green and Digital Shipping Corridor (GDSC) during the ongoing Singapore Maritime Week (SMW). Key Areas of Cooperation Maritime Digitalisation and Decarbonisation Collaborative Efforts Objectives of the India-Singapore GDSC Strengthen Maritime Cooperation Accelerate Green Technology Adoption Promote Digital Shipping Solutions The India-Singapore Green and Digital Shipping Corridor marks a significant step toward sustainable maritime operations, with both nations committing to environmentally responsible shipping and digital innovation. This partnership will not only strengthen bilateral maritime ties but also accelerate global efforts towards achieving decarbonised and smart shipping solutions.
India-China 33rd WMCC Meeting
Context of the Meeting Main Outcomes 1. Positive Diplomatic Atmosphere 2. Preparations for Next SR Meeting 3. Border Management Focus Leadership and Participation Current Border Status 1. Disengagement Achievements 2. Pending Challenges Way Forward The 33rd WMCC meeting highlighted a mutual commitment to dialogue, border stability, and progressive resolution of issues.
Daily Current Affairs (DCA) 25 March, 2025
Daily Current Affairs Quiz25 March, 2025 International Affairs 1. Trump Proposes 25% Tariff on Countries Purchasing Venezuelan Oil Context: Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a plan to impose a 25% tariff on any country purchasing oil and gas from Venezuela. The tariff would apply to all trade those countries conduct with the United States. The measure is set to take effect from April 2, 2025, as per Trump’s statement on his social media platform. Reason Behind the Move Impact on Global Trade Recent U.S. Actions Political Context Legal Action Against Venezuelan Gangs National Affairs 1. India’s Urbanisation Journey India’s Urban Journey Role of the Centre in Urban Development Why the Top-Down Financial Model? Urbanisation Variations Across States Problems with ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Policies Suggested Alternative Why a Shift in Approach is Crucial A fundamental redefinition of roles at the Central, State, and city levels is necessary for India’s urban transformation. Central government’s role should shift to guidance and enabling, not prescription. Stronger fiscal autonomy for cities and States will help realise context-sensitive, demand-driven urban development, aligned with India’s complex and diverse realities. 2. DNA Fingerprinting and Its Role in Identification What is DNA? What are STRs (Short Tandem Repeats)? How do scientists copy DNA? What is a DNA fingerprint? Uses of DNA Fingerprinting Why is DNA analysis important? Source: TH 3. Guidelines on Deletion of MGNREGS Job Cards Context: Over 10.43 crore workers have been removed from the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) in the past four years. Aadhaar-linked payments: The deletions coincide with the implementation of Aadhaar-based payment systems, though the government denies any direct correlation. Key Guidelines Issued by the Ministry of Rural Development Transparency & Due Process Significance & Implications Source: TH 4. India’s Genomic Sequencing Initiative for Tuberculosis Context: The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has completed the genomic sequencing of a third, or 10,000 samples, of the target of 32,500 samples of mycobacterium tuberculosis the bacteria behind tuberculosis (TB) in a bid to improve the understanding of drug-resistant TB and capture unique genomic features of the TB bacterium in India. Of the sequenced samples, 7% are said to be resistant to a single drug. Overview of the Initiative Findings From Sequenced Samples National TB Eradication Goals Challenges Highlighted Future Strategies Significance Source: TH 5. India to Conduct First-Ever ‘Aikeyme’ Naval Exercise Context: India is set to host a landmark naval exercise named ‘Aikeyme’ Africa-India Key Maritime Engagement with 10 African countries, marking a significant step in strengthening its maritime and defense ties with the African continent. This comes amid increasing Chinese strategic inroads and ongoing maritime threats in the region. Key Details of Exercise Aikeyme Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) Sagar Initiative Strategic Importance The Aikeyme naval exercise and the IOS Sagar initiative reinforce India’s commitment to: TOI Banking/Finance 1. Transparency, FPI Threshold, and Governance Reforms Context: The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), under the new leadership of Tuhin Kanta Pandey, held its first board meeting on Monday. Key Decisions A. High-Level Committee (HLC) Formation B. Regulatory Changes and Simplifications Strategic Objectives Implications for Stakeholders Under Tuhin Kanta Pandey’s leadership, SEBI has taken decisive first steps towards transparent governance, robust conflict-of-interest safeguards, and simplified regulations. These reforms signal a forward-looking, investor-friendly approach that aims to balance market growth with strong institutional integrity. Source: BS 2. SEBI to set up High-Level Committee on Conflict of Interest Context: The newly formed High-Level Committee (HLC), comprising eminent experts from regulatory bodies, government, private sector, and academia, will submit its recommendations within three months of formation. Raised FPI Disclosure Threshold Fee Structure Reforms for IAs and RAs Deferred Proposals Treatment of Category II AIF Investments Changes in MII Governance Appointments F&O Market Reforms Update SEBI’s recent board meeting decisions highlight its intent to foster transparency, ensure strong governance, and promote ease of doing business. By doubling FPI thresholds, revising conflict-of-interest frameworks, and streamlining governance in MIIs, the regulator is taking proactive steps to build trust and facilitate sustained market growth. 3. IMF’s FSSA Report Highlights Need for Stronger Credit Risk Practices Key Findings from the FSSA Report Financial Inclusion and Infrastructure Growth Insurance Sector and Regulatory Progress Addressing Cybersecurity and Climate Risks The IMF’s FSSA report acknowledges India’s progress in building a resilient and diverse financial system. However, the path forward requires continued focus on aligning with global standards, particularly IFRS 9, strengthening credit risk supervision, broadening financial inclusion, and addressing climate and cybersecurity challenges. These steps are vital to fortify India’s financial system and sustain its growth momentum. Source: BS 4. RBI Revises Priority Sector Lending Norm Key Changes Housing Loan Limits Under Priority Sector Earlier Norms: Renewable Energy (RE) Loan Limit Enhancements Changes for Urban Cooperative Banks (UCBs) Weaker Sections Lending Current Status (as per January 2024): Performance in FY24: The RBI’s revised priority sector lending guidelines are aimed at expanding financial inclusion and promoting renewable energy investments. By enhancing housing loan limits and broadening eligible categories, the central bank is supporting key sectors aligned with national development goals. 5. Record Dividend Payouts by Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) in FY25 Key Highlights 1. Highest-Ever Dividend Receipts: 2. Top Dividend Contributors in FY25: 3. Revised CPSE Dividend Policy: 4. CPSE Profit Growth: 5. Public Sector Banks (PSBs) Dividend Surge: 6. State Bank of India (SBI) Performance: 7. Historical Dividend Trend: 6. India’s Derivatives Market Unprecedented Growth in Derivatives Trading SEBI’s Initial Measures (Effective from November 2024) Visible Impact of Measures Current Derivative-to-Cash Market Ratios SEBI’s New Consultation Paper (February 2025) Intraday Limits and Safeguards Retail Participation and Market Outlook India’s derivatives market has seen unparalleled growth, but SEBI’s proactive measures aim to curb excesses, safeguard retail investors, and ensure systemic stability. Ongoing supervision and dynamic regulation will be key to balancing growth with stability in this critical market segment. 7. RBI Revises Priority Sector Lending (PSL) Guidelines for 2025 Context: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued revised guidelines on priority sector lending (PSL), aimed at facilitating better targeting of bank credit to
Facts To Remember, 25 March 2025
1. New Zealand qualifies for 2026 FIFA World Cup New Zealand reached the World Cup for only the third time with a 3-0 win over New Caledonia. 2. Ajay Seth is new finance secretary The appointments committee of the Cabinet on Monday approved the appointment of Ajay Seth as finance secretary in the Union Ministry of Finance. Seth is currently the secretary in the department of economic affairs in the finance ministry and holds additional charge as revenue secretary. 3. Modi to inaugurate Hisar airport on April 14 Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Haryana on April 14 to inaugurate the Maharaja Agrasen International Airport in Hisar, the BJP’s state chief Mohan Lal Badoli. 4. AQI in poor zone, GRAP-I enforced in city yet again Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) reimposed GRAP stage-I curbs on Monday as the city’s air quality turned poor, with an average AQI of 206 against moderate 194 a day earlier. 5. Lok Sabha Passes Finance Bill 2025, Tax Relief Up to ₹12 Lakh Announced The Lok Sabha has passed the Finance Bill, 2025. The Bill seeks to give effect to the financial proposals of the Central Government for the financial year 2025-2026. 6. Sharjah Revolutionizes Agricultural Technology with High-Protein Wheat Farming In a remarkable triumph of agricultural innovation, the Mleiha Wheat Farm in Sharjah has successfully demonstrated how cutting-edge technology and strategic planning can transform harsh desert landscapes into productive agricultural zones. 7. 1,737 Gram Panchayats developed under ‘Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana’ since 2014: Govt The government has said that one thousand 737 Gram Panchayats across the country have been developed under the ‘Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana’ so far by completing the projects and activities planned under the Village Development Plan. 8. Minister George Kurian inaugurates conference on Minority Empowerment in New Delhi Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian today inaugurated a conference of State Minorities Commissions in New Delhi. 9. Nagaland govt to set up Solar Mission team for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana implementation The Nagaland government will set up a Solar Mission Team at the Directorate level and a Solar Mission Cell at the Secretariat level to oversee the implementation of the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana. 10. BCCI announces Indian Women’s team retainership for 2024-25 The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced the retainers for the Indian Women’s team for the 2024-25 season, covering the period from the 1st of October, 2024 to 30th of September, 2025.
