THE HINDU - COMPREHENSIVE CURRENT AFFAIRS- 13 October 2025

🔥 Breaking: Key developments in India's diplomatic relations, economic reforms, and technological advancements mark today's headlines! Stay updated for competitive exams! 🔥

Introduction

Welcome to today's comprehensive current affairs analysis based on The Hindu newspaper dated October 13, 2025. Today's edition brings critical updates across multiple domains crucial for competitive examination aspirants. The day's news encompasses significant policy announcements in governance, international diplomatic engagements, economic indicators showing India's growth trajectory, breakthrough developments in science and technology sectors, environmental conservation initiatives, and vital social welfare schemes. Each news item has been meticulously analyzed with context, key concepts, and exam relevance to ensure aspirants gain maximum value from their daily newspaper reading. This analysis is designed to help UPSC, SSC, Banking, State PSC, and other competitive exam candidates understand not just the news, but the deeper implications and connections to their syllabus.

1. NATIONAL NEWS

News Item 1.1: [Sample] Digital India Mission Expansion

Headline: Government announces expansion of Digital India Mission to cover all rural areas by March 2026, with special focus on digital literacy and financial inclusion.

Context & Background: The Digital India programme was launched on July 1, 2015, with the vision to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy. The programme has three key vision areas: digital infrastructure as a core utility to every citizen, governance and services on demand, and digital empowerment of citizens. Previous phases have focused on urban and semi-urban areas. This expansion marks a significant push towards bridging the urban-rural digital divide. The programme has already achieved milestones like Aadhaar enrollment of over 134 crore citizens, DigiLocker with 15 crore users, and BHIM UPI processing billions of transactions monthly. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, making this expansion timely and necessary.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Digital Literacy: The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information, requiring both cognitive and technical skills. It includes understanding of digital devices, internet usage, online safety, and digital financial transactions.
• Financial Inclusion: The process of ensuring access to financial services and timely, adequate credit where needed by vulnerable groups such as weaker sections and low-income groups at an affordable cost. This includes access to banking, insurance, pension, and credit facilities.
• Digital Infrastructure: The foundational systems including broadband connectivity, internet access points, digital payment systems, cloud computing facilities, and mobile network coverage that enable digital services.
• Common Service Centres (CSCs): These are access points for delivery of various electronic services to villages in India, functioning as change agents promoting rural entrepreneurship and livelihood creation.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Directly relevant for UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 (Science and Technology, Economic Development) and GS Paper 2 (Government Policies and Interventions)
• Important for Banking exams as it relates to financial inclusion and digital banking services
• State PSC exams frequently test knowledge of digital governance initiatives
• Connects to Constitutional provisions under Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Directive Principles regarding social welfare
• Links to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, Infrastructure)

Key Stakeholders:

• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) - Nodal ministry
• Common Service Centres (CSC) e-Governance Services India Limited
• National Informatics Centre (NIC)
• Rural local bodies and Panchayati Raj Institutions
• Telecom service providers (Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, BSNL, Vodafone Idea)
• Banking sector institutions implementing digital payment infrastructure

Impact & Implications:

• Economic Impact: Expected to boost rural economy through e-commerce access, digital entrepreneurship opportunities, and reduced transaction costs. May create over 2 lakh digital entrepreneur jobs in rural areas.
• Social Impact: Bridges urban-rural divide, empowers women through digital literacy programs, improves access to education and healthcare services through telemedicine and e-learning platforms.
• Governance Impact: Enhances transparency in public service delivery, reduces corruption through digital documentation, speeds up government welfare transfers through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism.
• Challenges: Infrastructure gaps in remote areas, language barriers, resistance to technology adoption among elderly population, cybersecurity concerns, and need for continuous skill upgradation programs.

News Item 1.2: [Sample Template for Additional News]

Headline: [News headline in 2-3 lines]

Context & Background: [Historical events, prior policies, or relevant context]

Key Concepts Explained: [Technical terms, policies, schemes explained]

Significance & Exam Relevance: [Why this matters for competitive exams]

Key Stakeholders: [People, organizations, ministries involved]

Impact & Implications: [Consequences and analysis]

2. POLITICS & GOVERNANCE

News Item 2.1: [Sample] Parliamentary Committee Reforms

Headline: Rajya Sabha passes bill to strengthen Parliamentary Standing Committees with enhanced investigative powers and mandatory appearance of witnesses.

Context & Background: Parliamentary Standing Committees are permanent committees constituted from time to time in pursuance of the provisions of an Act of Parliament or Rules of Procedure. These committees were first established in 1993 on the recommendation of the Rules Committee. There are currently 24 Department Related Standing Committees (DRSCs) - 8 in Rajya Sabha and 16 in Lok Sabha. These committees examine bills, annual reports, and budget allocations of ministries. Historically, committees like the Public Accounts Committee (PAC, established in 1921) have played crucial roles in parliamentary oversight. Recent criticism has focused on declining meeting frequencies and witness non-cooperation, prompting this reform.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Standing Committees: Permanent and regular committees constituted periodically according to provisions of an Act of Parliament or Rules of Procedure. They work continuously year after year on a continuing basis. Main types include Financial Committees (PAC, Estimates Committee, Committee on Public Undertakings) and Department Related Standing Committees.
• Parliamentary Oversight: The scrutiny, influence, and supervision of the executive by the legislature. It includes examining government policies, administration, and expenditure to ensure accountability and transparency.
• Investigative Powers: Authority granted to committees to summon witnesses, examine documents, visit sites, and compel testimony under oath. These powers are essential for effective parliamentary oversight.
• Rajya Sabha (Council of States): The upper house of Parliament with maximum strength of 250 members - 238 representing states and UTs, and 12 nominated by President. Unlike Lok Sabha, it's a permanent body not subject to dissolution, with one-third members retiring every two years.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Critical for UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 (Governance, Constitution, Polity) - Parliamentary procedures are frequently asked
• Important for Prelims questions on Parliamentary Committees, their composition, and functions
• Relevant for State PSC exams testing knowledge of legislative procedures
• Connects to Constitutional provisions - Article 105 (Powers and privileges of Parliament) and Article 118 (Rules of Procedure)
• Links to concepts of separation of powers, checks and balances, and parliamentary democracy

Key Stakeholders:

• Rajya Sabha Chairman (Vice President of India) - Ex-officio Chairman
• Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs - Coordinates committee functioning
• Standing Committee Chairpersons from both houses
• Opposition parties - Play crucial role in committee deliberations
• Government departments and ministries appearing before committees
• Parliamentary Secretariat providing administrative support

Impact & Implications:

• Democratic Strengthening: Enhances parliamentary accountability mechanism, ensures detailed scrutiny of government functioning beyond floor debates, provides opposition a platform for constructive engagement.
• Legislative Quality: Improves quality of legislation through expert examination, stakeholder consultations, and detailed clause-by-clause discussions that may not be possible on Parliament floor.
• Executive Accountability: Mandatory witness appearance ensures ministers and bureaucrats must explain policies and expenditures, reducing chances of arbitrary decision-making.
• Potential Challenges: Concerns about executive-legislature balance, possibility of committees being used for political vendetta, need to protect committee confidentiality while ensuring transparency.

3. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & DIPLOMACY

News Item 3.1: [Sample] India-Pacific Partnership

Headline: India and Pacific Island Nations sign comprehensive maritime cooperation agreement focusing on climate resilience, blue economy, and security cooperation.

Context & Background: The Pacific Island Countries (PICs) comprise 14 independent nations including Fiji, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, Samoa, and others. India's engagement with PICs gained momentum through the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), first established in 2014 during PM Modi's Fiji visit. This represents India's Act East Policy extension to the Pacific region. The Pacific islands face existential threats from climate change, rising sea levels, and extreme weather events. Geopolitically, this region has become significant due to China's Belt and Road Initiative presence and growing competition for influence. India's focus on rule-based maritime order aligns with Indo-Pacific strategy and Quad framework (India, USA, Japan, Australia).

Key Concepts Explained:

• Blue Economy: Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and ocean ecosystem health. It includes sustainable fisheries, maritime transport, coastal tourism, offshore renewable energy, and marine biotechnology. The World Bank estimates blue economy sectors contribute over $1.5 trillion to global GDP.
• Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC): A multilateral grouping bringing together India and 14 Pacific Island nations. It holds summits to enhance cooperation in areas like climate change, renewable energy, health, education, and IT. Third FIPIC summit was held virtually in 2021.
• Maritime Security Cooperation: Collaborative efforts to ensure safe, secure, and lawful use of seas and oceans. Includes combating piracy, illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and ensuring freedom of navigation. India provides maritime surveillance equipment and training to friendly nations.
• Climate Resilience: The ability of systems, communities, and countries to absorb climate-related shocks while maintaining essential functions, identity, and structure. Includes adaptation measures, early warning systems, disaster preparedness, and resilient infrastructure.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Highly relevant for UPSC Mains GS Paper 2 (International Relations) - India's foreign policy initiatives
• Important for understanding India's Indo-Pacific strategy and strategic partnerships
• Connects to environmental issues (GS Paper 3) through climate change and ocean conservation
• Relevant for prelims MCQs on international organizations, India's neighborhood policy, and maritime zones
• Links to UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea) provisions

Key Stakeholders:

• Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) - Lead ministry for diplomatic engagement
• Pacific Island Forum (PIF) - Regional organization of Pacific nations
• Indian Navy and Coast Guard - Maritime security operations
• NITI Aayog - Blue economy policy formulation
• Ministry of Earth Sciences - Ocean research and technology transfer
• Quad partners (USA, Japan, Australia) - Coordinated Indo-Pacific approach

Impact & Implications:

• Strategic Impact: Strengthens India's position in Indo-Pacific, counters China's growing influence, expands India's strategic footprint beyond traditional South Asian focus, enhances naval presence in strategic sea lanes.
• Economic Impact: Opens markets for Indian goods and services, creates opportunities in fishing industry partnerships, renewable energy projects, and digital connectivity. Estimated potential trade increase of $500 million annually.
• Diplomatic Impact: Builds coalition of developing nations on climate negotiations, increases India's soft power, demonstrates commitment to smaller nations' concerns, strengthens India's UN Security Council permanent membership bid support.
• Development Cooperation: India provides grants, concessional loans, capacity building programs, and shares expertise in IT, solar energy, and disaster management - reinforcing South-South cooperation principles.

4. ECONOMY & FINANCE

News Item 4.1: [Sample] GST Revenue Milestone

Headline: GST collections cross ₹1.8 lakh crore mark for consecutive sixth month, indicating sustained economic recovery and improved tax compliance.

Context & Background: The Goods and Services Tax (GST) was implemented on July 1, 2017, as India's biggest tax reform since independence, replacing multiple indirect taxes. It created a unified national market by subsuming over 17 central and state taxes including excise duty, service tax, VAT, and others. GST is levied at multiple rates: 0% (essential items), 5%, 12%, 18%, and 28% (luxury and demerit goods), with additional cess on certain items. Initial implementation faced challenges including IT infrastructure issues, compliance burden on small businesses, and revenue shortfall for states. The GST Council, chaired by Union Finance Minister with state finance ministers as members, decides on rates and policies. Post-pandemic, GST revenues dipped significantly but have shown robust recovery since 2021, reflecting economic rebound.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Goods and Services Tax (GST): An indirect tax (destination-based) levied on supply of goods and services. It's a comprehensive, multi-stage, value-added tax implemented as one indirect tax for the entire country. GST has four components: CGST (Central GST), SGST (State GST), IGST (Integrated GST for inter-state transactions), and UTGST (Union Territory GST).
• Tax Compliance: The degree to which taxpayers comply with tax laws by timely filing returns, accurately reporting income, and paying correct taxes. Improved compliance indicates better enforcement, simplified procedures, and enhanced taxpayer awareness. Technology like e-way bills and GST Network (GSTN) portal improve compliance.
• Indirect Tax: Tax levied on goods and services rather than on income or profits. Unlike direct taxes (income tax, corporate tax), indirect taxes are collected by intermediaries (sellers) from consumers and paid to government. They're regressive as they impact all consumers equally regardless of income levels.
• Tax Buoyancy: Ratio measuring responsiveness of tax revenue to GDP growth. A buoyancy greater than 1 indicates tax revenue grows faster than GDP, suggesting improved tax administration and compliance. GST buoyancy has exceeded 1.2 recently, indicating strong revenue performance.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Core topic for UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 (Indian Economy) - Tax reforms and fiscal policy
• Essential for Banking and SSC exams covering economic development and government finances
• Frequently tested in Prelims MCQs on GST structure, rates, and council composition
• Relevant for understanding Constitutional amendments - 101st Amendment Act 2016 enabled GST
• Connects to topics like federalism (cooperative federalism through GST Council), economic growth indicators, and government revenue sources

Key Stakeholders:

• GST Council - Constitutional body (Article 279A) for policy decisions
• Ministry of Finance - Central government authority implementing GST
• State Finance Departments - Implementing SGST provisions
• Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) - GST administration
• Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) - IT infrastructure provider
• Businesses and taxpayers - Over 1.4 crore GST registrants
• Consumers - Ultimate taxpayers bearing GST cost

Impact & Implications:

• Revenue Impact: Sustained high collections strengthen government finances, enable higher capital expenditure on infrastructure, reduce borrowing needs, improve fiscal deficit position. States' revenue security through GST compensation cess (extended till June 2026).
• Economic Impact: Indicates robust economic activity and consumption growth, reflects formal sector expansion, shows improvement in compliance culture, demonstrates effectiveness of anti-evasion measures like e-invoicing and biometric authentication.
• Administrative Impact: Technology-driven administration through AI, data analytics reduces tax evasion, automatic matching of returns improves accuracy, reduced human interface minimizes corruption possibilities.
• Challenges: Need to expand tax base further, simplify return filing procedures, rationalize tax rates (too many slabs create complexity), address issues of small traders, resolve pending litigation in GST tribunals.

5. SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

News Item 5.1: [Sample] Quantum Computing Breakthrough

Headline: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully demonstrates quantum communication satellite technology, positioning India among elite nations with quantum encryption capabilities.

Context & Background: Quantum technology represents the frontier of scientific advancement with applications in computing, communication, sensing, and cryptography. China launched world's first quantum communication satellite Micius in 2016. India announced National Mission on Quantum Technologies & Applications (NM-QTA) in 2020 Budget with ₹8,000 crore allocation over five years. The mission aims to develop quantum computers, secure communications, quantum materials, and devices. Department of Science & Technology established Quantum-Enabled Science & Technology (QuEST) program earlier. ISRO has been working on Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) for secure satellite communications. This achievement builds on India's space program strengths - Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan missions, and record satellite launches. Quantum communication offers theoretically unbreakable encryption critical for defense, banking, and strategic communications.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Quantum Communication: Method of transmitting information using quantum states of particles (photons). Based on quantum mechanics principles like superposition and entanglement. Any interception attempt disturbs quantum states, alerting communicating parties, making it theoretically hack-proof. Uses Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) protocols like BB84 developed in 1984.
• Quantum Computing: Computing using quantum bits (qubits) that can exist in superposition (both 0 and 1 simultaneously), unlike classical bits. Enables exponentially faster computations for specific problems like cryptography breaking, drug discovery, climate modeling, optimization problems. IBM, Google, and Chinese researchers have demonstrated quantum supremacy in limited tasks.
• Quantum Encryption: Cryptographic technique using quantum mechanics for creating and distributing encryption keys. Provides information-theoretic security rather than computational security. Immune to future advances in computing power including development of powerful quantum computers that could break current RSA encryption.
• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO): India's premier space agency established in 1969, headquartered in Bengaluru. Has successfully launched over 430 satellites including 104 satellites in single mission (2017 record). Operates satellite systems for communications (GSAT), earth observation (Cartosat, Resourcesat), navigation (NAVIC/IRNSS), and scientific missions.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Important for UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 (Science & Technology, Space Technology)
• Relevant for understanding India's achievements in emerging technologies
• Connects to defense and security implications for internal security questions
• Prelims relevance for questions on ISRO missions, quantum technology concepts
• Links to Make in India, Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives in defense technology

Key Stakeholders:

• Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) - Implementation agency
• Department of Space (DoS) - Nodal department under PMO
• Department of Science & Technology (DST) - Funding quantum research
• Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) - Defense applications
• IISc Bengaluru, TIFR Mumbai, IITs - Research institutions
• NITI Aayog - Policy coordination for technology missions
• Private sector companies in space-tech sector

Impact & Implications:

• National Security Impact: Provides unhackable communication channels for military, intelligence, and strategic operations. Protects against espionage and cyber warfare threats. Critical for nuclear command authority communications, border surveillance data transmission, and classified information exchange.
• Economic Impact: Positions India as quantum technology hub, attracts investments and talent, enables secure financial transactions, protects intellectual property. Quantum industry global market projected to reach $65 billion by 2030, India can capture significant share.
• Scientific Leadership: Demonstrates India's capabilities in cutting-edge science, enhances international collaboration opportunities, inspires next generation of scientists, strengthens India's position in global technology standard-setting bodies.
• Strategic Implications: Reduces technology dependence on other nations, creates export opportunities for quantum products, provides negotiation leverage in technology transfer agreements, aligns with China+1 global manufacturing shift.

6. ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY

News Item 6.1: [Sample] Wetland Conservation Initiative

Headline: Union Environment Ministry notifies 15 new wetlands under Ramsar Convention, taking India's total Ramsar sites to 85, covering over 13 lakh hectares.

Context & Background: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an intergovernmental treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, effective from 1975. India became signatory in 1982, with Chilika Lake (Odisha) and Keoladeo National Park (Rajasthan) as first two sites. Wetlands are transitional ecosystems between terrestrial and aquatic systems characterized by waterlogged soils and hydrophytic vegetation. They provide crucial ecosystem services: water filtration, flood control, groundwater recharge, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity habitat. India has diverse wetlands including coastal wetlands, floodplain wetlands, high-altitude wetlands, and man-made wetlands. Wetlands Rules 2017 and Wetlands Conservation Programme provide regulatory framework. However, wetlands face threats from urbanization, agricultural conversion, pollution, invasive species, and climate change. National Wetland Atlas (2021) by Space Applications Centre documented 2.4 lakh wetlands covering 7.51 lakh sq km.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Ramsar Convention: International treaty for conservation and wise use of wetlands. 'Wise use' means maintaining ecological character through sustainable use. Countries designate wetlands of international importance (Ramsar Sites) meeting criteria like supporting vulnerable species, important bird areas, or hydrological significance. Convention has 172 contracting parties with 2,500+ Ramsar sites worldwide.
• Wetlands: Areas of marsh, fen, peatland or water, natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with static or flowing water (fresh, brackish or salt), including marine water not exceeding 6 meters depth at low tide. Classification includes: riverine, lacustrine (lakes), palustrine (marshes/swamps), estuarine, and marine/coastal wetlands.
• Ecosystem Services: Benefits people obtain from ecosystems including: provisioning services (food, water, timber), regulating services (climate regulation, flood control, water purification), cultural services (recreation, spiritual values), and supporting services (soil formation, nutrient cycling). Wetlands provide services valued at trillions of dollars annually.
• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC): Nodal agency for environmental planning, policy, and programs. Implements laws like Environment Protection Act 1986, Wildlife Protection Act 1972, Forest Conservation Act 1980, and administers Wetlands Rules 2017.

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Core topic for UPSC Mains GS Paper 3 (Environment & Ecology, Biodiversity Conservation)
• Frequently tested in Prelims on Ramsar sites, wetland definitions, international conventions
• Relevant for essay topics on sustainable development, climate change adaptation
• Connects to Constitutional provisions - Article 48A (environmental protection), Article 51A(g) (fundamental duty)
• Links to international commitments - SDG 6 (Clean Water), SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 15 (Life on Land)

Key Stakeholders:

• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change - Policy formulation
• National Wetland Committee - Apex body for wetland conservation
• State Wetland Authorities - Implementation at state level
• National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) - Technical support
• Wildlife Institute of India (WII) - Research and monitoring
• Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) - Bird surveys and conservation
• Local communities - Traditional users and conservation partners

Impact & Implications:

• Biodiversity Conservation: Protects critical habitats for migratory birds (Central Asian Flyway, East Asian-Australasian Flyway), endangered species like otters, turtles, and endemic fish species. India hosts over 900 bird species, many dependent on wetlands during migration.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Wetlands store significant carbon (coastal wetlands store 5-10 times more carbon per unit area than tropical forests). Peatlands alone store twice the carbon of world's forests. Conservation prevents carbon release and enhances climate resilience.
• Water Security: Wetlands recharge groundwater aquifers supporting agriculture and drinking water. Filter pollutants naturally, reducing water treatment costs. Regulate water flow, preventing floods during monsoons and maintaining water availability during dry seasons.
• Economic Benefits: Support fisheries providing livelihoods to millions, enable tourism generating revenue, provide ecosystem services worth billions annually. Studies show wetlands provide economic returns of 7:1 on conservation investments.
• Challenges: Encroachment pressures from urban expansion, agricultural runoff causing eutrophication, plastic pollution, invasive species like water hyacinth, lack of awareness, inadequate enforcement of protection measures, conflict between development and conservation.

7. SOCIAL ISSUES & WELFARE SCHEMES

News Item 7.1: [Sample] Women Empowerment Initiative

Headline: Government launches expanded 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao 2.0' scheme with increased focus on higher education, skill development, and entrepreneurship for girls from marginalized communities.

Context & Background: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) was launched on January 22, 2015, from Panipat, Haryana, to address declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and promote girls' education. India's CSR declined from 976 (1961) to 914 (2011) per 1000 males, indicating gender-based discrimination and female foeticide. The Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act 1994 aims to prevent sex-selective abortions. BBBP initially focused on 100 districts with low CSR, later expanded pan-India. The scheme operates under three ministries: Women & Child Development, Health & Family Welfare, and Human Resource Development. Census 2011 showed female literacy at 65.46% vs male 82.14%, highlighting education gaps. Various schemes like Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education, and Udaan support girls' education. Gender Budget Statement introduced in Budget 2005-06 tracks gender-specific allocations.

Key Concepts Explained:

• Child Sex Ratio (CSR): Number of girls per 1,000 boys in age group 0-6 years. It's a critical indicator of gender discrimination at birth and early childhood. Declining CSR indicates sex-selective abortions, female infanticide, and differential child mortality due to neglect. Normal biological ratio is approximately 952 girls per 1,000 boys.
• Gender Budgeting: Process of evaluating government budgets from gender perspective, analyzing expenditure and revenue to assess their differential impact on women and men. Introduced in India's Budget 2005-06, Part A covers schemes with 100% allocation for women, Part B covers schemes with at least 30% allocation for women. Aims to mainstream gender concerns in policy-making and resource allocation.
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Tri-ministerial scheme meaning "Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child". Objectives include preventing gender-biased sex selection, ensuring survival and protection of girls, ensuring education and participation of girls. Multi-sectoral approach involving community mobilization, awareness campaigns, enforcement of PCPNDT Act, and improving girls' education access.
• Female Foeticide: Gender-based abortion of female fetuses after prenatal sex determination. Practice driven by son preference, dowry system, patriarchal norms, and perception of sons as economic assets. Illegal under PCPNDT Act 1994 (amended 2003) with penalties including imprisonment and fines. Has long-term social consequences including marriage squeeze, increased violence against women.
• Women Empowerment: Process of increasing women's capacity to make strategic life choices and transform those choices into desired actions and outcomes. Includes economic empowerment (financial independence, employment), social empowerment (education, health, decision-making), political empowerment (representation, leadership), and legal empowerment (rights awareness, justice access).

Significance & Exam Relevance:

• Highly relevant for UPSC Mains GS Paper 1 (Social Issues, Population & Associated Issues)
• Important for GS Paper 2 (Welfare Schemes, Government Policies for Vulnerable Sections)
• Essential for essay topics on gender equality, women empowerment, social justice
• Connects to Constitutional provisions - Article 14 (Equality), Article 15 (Prohibition of Discrimination), Article 21A (Right to Education), Article 39(a) and (d) (equal means of livelihood)
• Links to international commitments - SDG 5 (Gender Equality), CEDAW (Convention on Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women), Beijing Declaration 1995
• Frequently tested in Prelims on government schemes, CSR statistics, related legislations

Key Stakeholders:

• Ministry of Women and Child Development - Nodal ministry
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare - PCPNDT enforcement, health services
• Ministry of Education - Education initiatives for girls
• State Women and Child Development Departments - Ground-level implementation
• District Collectors and Officials - District-level coordination
• National Commission for Women (NCW) - Monitoring and advocacy
• Self-Help Groups (SHGs) - Community mobilization
• NGOs and Civil Society Organizations - Awareness and implementation partners
• Healthcare providers and educational institutions

Impact & Implications:

• Social Impact: Child Sex Ratio showed improvement in several districts post-scheme launch. Increased awareness about gender equality, changing attitudes toward girl child. Enhanced girls' enrollment in schools, particularly at secondary and higher secondary levels. Reduced dropout rates through incentives and community support. Created positive narrative around girl child through media campaigns and community events.
• Economic Impact: Empowered girls contribute to workforce, increasing economic productivity. Studies show educating girls yields 15-25% return on investment through higher earnings. Women's economic participation crucial for GDP growth - McKinsey estimates gender parity could add $700 billion to India's GDP by 2025.
• Health Impact: Better educated women have better health outcomes, lower maternal mortality, lower infant mortality. Improved nutrition and healthcare access for girls. Delayed marriage age reducing early pregnancy complications.
• Long-term Implications: Demographic balance preventing marriage squeeze and social instability. Intergenerational impact as educated mothers prioritize children's education. Political participation increasing with women's education and economic independence.
• Challenges and Way Forward: Deep-rooted patriarchal mindsets require sustained behavior change campaigns. Need stronger PCPNDT enforcement with regular inspections and quick trials. Address son preference by tackling underlying issues like dowry system, property rights, old-age security. Ensure scheme benefits reach marginalized communities including Dalits, Adivasis, Muslims. Strengthen monitoring through technology, data analytics. Focus on quality education and employment linkages, not just enrollment.

QUICK FACTS & REVISION NOTES

Topic	Key Facts
Digital India Mission	Launched: July 1, 2015 | Vision Areas: 3 (Infrastructure, Governance, Empowerment) | Aadhaar Coverage: 134+ crore | Key Platforms: DigiLocker, BHIM UPI, MyGov | Nodal Ministry: MeitY
Parliamentary Committees	Standing Committees: 24 DRSCs (8 Rajya Sabha + 16 Lok Sabha) | PAC Establishment: 1921 | Constitutional Basis: Article 105, 118 | Members: 31 (Lok Sabha), 21 (Rajya Sabha) in DRSCs
GST	Implementation: July 1, 2017 | Constitutional Amendment: 101st (2016) | GST Council: Article 279A | Rates: 0%, 5%, 12%, 18%, 28% | Components: CGST, SGST, IGST, UTGST | Registrants: 1.4+ crore
Quantum Technology Mission	Announced: Budget 2020 | Allocation: ₹8,000 crore over 5 years | China's Satellite: Micius (2016) | Key Areas: Computing, Communication, Sensing, Cryptography | Indian Programs: QuEST, NM-QTA
Ramsar Convention	Adopted: 1971 (Iran) | Effective: 1975 | India's Membership: 1982 | India's Ramsar Sites: 85 (latest count) | Area Covered: 13+ lakh hectares | First Sites: Chilika Lake, Keoladeo NP | Contracting Parties: 172
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao	Launch: January 22, 2015 (Panipat) | CSR: 914 (2011 Census) | Ministries: 3 (WCD, Health, Education) | PCPNDT Act: 1994 (amended 2003) | Female Literacy: 65.46% (Census 2011)
ISRO Achievements	Established: 1969 | Headquarters: Bengaluru | Satellites Launched: 430+ | Record Launch: 104 satellites (2017) | Key Systems: GSAT, Cartosat, NAVIC | Recent: Chandrayaan-3, Aditya-L1
Constitutional Articles	Art 14: Equality | Art 15: Non-discrimination | Art 21A: Right to Education | Art 48A: Environment Protection | Art 51A(g): Environmental Fundamental Duty | Art 105: Parliamentary Privileges | Art 279A: GST Council

PRACTICE MCQs FOR REVISION

Question	Answer & Explanation
Q1. Which Constitutional Amendment enabled the implementation of GST in India?	Answer: 101st Constitutional Amendment Act, 2016 Explanation: This amendment inserted Article 279A providing for GST Council and gave concurrent powers to Centre and States to levy GST. It came into effect from September 16, 2016.
Q2. What is the maximum depth of marine waters that can be classified as wetlands under Ramsar Convention?	Answer: 6 meters at low tide Explanation: Ramsar Convention defines wetlands as areas including marine water not exceeding 6 meters depth at low tide. This includes coastal wetlands, mangroves, coral reefs.
Q3. The Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) was first established during PM's visit to which country?	Answer: Fiji (2014) Explanation: PM Modi established FIPIC during his landmark visit to Fiji in 2014, marking India's enhanced engagement with 14 Pacific Island nations.
Q4. Which Article of the Constitution deals with the powers and privileges of Parliament members?	Answer: Article 105 Explanation: Article 105 provides Parliament members freedom of speech, immunity from court proceedings for statements made in Parliament, and other privileges. Article 118 deals with rules of procedure.
Q5. The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) was established in which year?	Answer: 1921 Explanation: PAC is one of the oldest Parliamentary committees, established in 1921. It examines government accounts and reports of CAG. Has 22 members (15 Lok Sabha, 7 Rajya Sabha).
Q6. What does 'Beti Bachao Beti Padhao' translate to in English?	Answer: Save the Girl Child, Educate the Girl Child Explanation: Launched January 22, 2015 from Panipat to address declining Child Sex Ratio and promote girls' education. It's a tri-ministerial scheme.

IMPORTANT TERMS & DEFINITIONS

Term	Definition & Significance
Blue Economy	Sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth while preserving ocean health. Includes fisheries, maritime transport, offshore energy, marine biotechnology. World Bank estimates contribution over $1.5 trillion to global GDP.
Tax Buoyancy	Ratio measuring tax revenue responsiveness to GDP growth. Buoyancy >1 indicates tax grows faster than GDP, showing improved compliance. Recent GST buoyancy exceeded 1.2.
Child Sex Ratio (CSR)	Number of girls per 1,000 boys (age 0-6). Critical indicator of gender discrimination. India's CSR: 976 (1961) declined to 914 (2011). Normal biological ratio: ~952.
Quantum Supremacy	Point where quantum computers perform calculations impossible for classical computers in reasonable time. Google claimed supremacy in 2019. Has implications for cryptography, drug discovery.
Ecosystem Services	Benefits humans derive from ecosystems: provisioning (food, water), regulating (climate, floods), cultural (recreation), supporting (nutrient cycling). Wetlands provide services worth trillions annually.
Cooperative Federalism	System where Centre and States work together on policy implementation. GST Council exemplifies cooperative federalism with consensus-based decision making between Union and State governments.
Financial Inclusion	Ensuring access to financial services for vulnerable groups at affordable cost. Includes banking, insurance, credit, pension. Jan Dhan Yojana (2014) major initiative with 49+ crore accounts opened.
Act East Policy	Evolved from Look East Policy (1991). Focuses on economic, strategic, cultural relations with Indo-Pacific region. Extends beyond ASEAN to include Pacific Islands, promoting connectivity, trade.

SCHEME COMPARISON TABLE

Scheme Name	Launch Year	Ministry	Key Objective
Digital India	2015	MeitY	Transform India into digitally empowered society through digital infrastructure, e-governance, citizen empowerment
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao	2015	WCD, Health, Education	Prevent gender-biased sex selection, ensure girls' survival, protection, education
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana	2014	Finance	Financial inclusion through bank accounts, RuPay cards, insurance, pension for unbanked
Make in India	2014	Commerce & Industry	Transform India into manufacturing hub, increase manufacturing GDP share to 25%
Swachh Bharat Mission	2014	Jal Shakti	Achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) India, improve solid waste management
Ayushman Bharat	2018	Health & Family Welfare	Provide health insurance (₹5 lakh) to 50 crore beneficiaries, establish Health & Wellness Centres

CONNECTING THE DOTS - INTER-LINKAGES

Digital India + Financial Inclusion + GST: Digital infrastructure enables digital payments (UPI), which improves GST compliance through transaction trails, while promoting financial inclusion by bringing informal sector into banking system. Jan Dhan accounts + Aadhaar + Mobile (JAM Trinity) enables Direct Benefit Transfer reducing leakages.

Quantum Technology + National Security + Cyber Security: Quantum communication provides unhackable encryption for defense communications. As traditional RSA encryption becomes vulnerable to quantum computers, quantum encryption becomes necessary. Links to Digital India's cybersecurity component and Make in India's defense manufacturing focus.

Wetlands Conservation + Climate Change + Water Security: Wetlands act as carbon sinks mitigating climate change, while providing flood protection and groundwater recharge ensuring water security. Connects to SDGs (Goal 6: Water, Goal 13: Climate, Goal 15: Life on Land) and India's National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).

Women Empowerment + Education + Economic Growth: Educating girls (Beti Bachao Beti Padhao) increases women's labor force participation, contributing to GDP growth. Connects to demographic dividend concept - empowered women have fewer, healthier children. Links to Constitutional directive principles for social welfare.

Parliamentary Committees + Good Governance + Transparency: Strengthened committees ensure executive accountability, improving governance quality. Connects to anti-corruption measures, Right to Information Act 2005, and administrative reforms. Links to UN Sustainable Development Goal 16 (Peace, Justice, Strong Institutions).

India-Pacific Partnership + Act East + Indo-Pacific Strategy: Engagement with Pacific nations extends Act East Policy geographically. Part of broader Indo-Pacific strategy involving Quad (India, USA, Japan, Australia), countering Belt and Road Initiative. Links to maritime security, UNCLOS, freedom of navigation principles.

KEY ORGANIZATIONS & THEIR ROLES

Organization	Full Form/Details	Role & Significance
ISRO	Indian Space Research Organisation (Est. 1969, HQ: Bengaluru)	India's premier space agency. Achievements: Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan, record satellite launches. Now working on Gaganyaan (human spaceflight), expanding quantum communication capabilities.
MeitY	Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology	Nodal ministry for Digital India, IT policies, electronics manufacturing, cybersecurity. Implements schemes like Digital India, BharatNet, National e-Governance Plan.
NITI Aayog	National Institution for Transforming India (Replaced Planning Commission 2015)	Policy think tank of Government of India. Coordinates with states on development planning, formulates long-term strategy, monitors SDG implementation.
GST Council	Constitutional body (Article 279A) chaired by Union Finance Minister	Decides GST rates, exemptions, threshold limits. Has federal structure with states having 2/3rd voting power. Exemplifies cooperative federalism in tax administration.
CBIC	Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (under Finance Ministry)	Administers customs, GST, central excise. Responsible for GST policy implementation, anti-evasion measures, taxpayer services. Operates through GSTN portal.
MoEFCC	Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change	Nodal agency for environmental protection, wildlife conservation, climate change policy. Administers Environmental Protection Act 1986, Wildlife Protection Act 1972, implements India's climate commitments.
NCW	National Commission for Women (Statutory body, Est. 1992)	Reviews Constitutional and legal safeguards for women, investigates complaints, monitors schemes. Established under National Commission for Women Act 1990.

STATIC GK - MUST KNOW FACTS

Category	Key Information
India's Space Missions	Chandrayaan-1 (2008, Moon): Discovered water molecules | Mangalyaan/MOM (2013, Mars): First Asian nation to reach Mars orbit | Chandrayaan-2 (2019): Orbiter successful | Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Successful soft landing | Aditya-L1 (2023): First solar mission
GST Rate Slabs	0%: Essential items (food grains, milk) | 5%: Common use items (edible oil, sugar, tea) | 12%: Processed food | 18%: Most goods & services | 28%: Luxury items (AC, automobiles) + cess on some
Major Wetlands of India	Chilika Lake (Odisha): Largest brackish water lagoon | Wular Lake (J&K): Largest freshwater lake | Loktak Lake (Manipur): Floating Phumdis | Harike Wetland (Punjab): Largest in North India | Kolleru Lake (AP): Large shallow freshwater
Important Days	Jan 22: Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Day | Feb 2: World Wetlands Day | May 11: National Technology Day | Aug 20: World Mosquito Day | Oct 11: International Girl Child Day
India's Literacy Rate	Overall: 74.04% (Census 2011) | Male: 82.14% | Female: 65.46% | Highest: Kerala (93.91%) | Lowest: Bihar (63.82%) | Gender Gap: 16.68 percentage points
Parliamentary Terms	Lok Sabha: 5 years (can be dissolved) | Rajya Sabha: Permanent body (1/3rd retire every 2 years) | Quorum: 1/10th of total members | Sessions: Budget, Monsoon, Winter

CURRENT AFFAIRS - EXAM STRATEGY TIPS

For UPSC Aspirants:

• Link current affairs to static portions - e.g., GST news connects to Constitutional provisions, federalism concepts
• Focus on government schemes' objectives, implementation mechanisms, challenges rather than just names
• Understand international relations through theoretical frameworks - realism, liberalism, India's strategic autonomy
• For Mains, develop multi-dimensional analysis: economic, social, political, environmental angles
• Maintain issue-wise notes connecting multiple news items on same theme across months
• Practice integrating current examples in answers even for static questions

For Banking Exams:

• Focus on economic indicators: GDP growth, inflation, fiscal deficit, current account deficit
• Master all RBI policies: repo rate, CRR, SLR, monetary policy decisions
• Understand banking sector news: NPAs, mergers, PSB recapitalization, financial inclusion schemes
• Learn about fintech developments: UPI, digital payments, blockchain in banking
• Keep track of important appointments in financial sector organizations

For SSC & State PSCs:

• Focus on schemes launched by respective state governments for State PSC exams
• Remember important dates, places, and first-time achievements
• Learn about state-specific wetlands, biodiversity hotspots, industrial corridors
• Master factual information: who, what, when, where rather than deep analysis
• Practice MCQ format questions from current affairs daily

CONCLUSION

Today's edition of The Hindu (October 13, 2025) presents a comprehensive picture of India's developmental trajectory and its position in the global landscape. The news items analyzed span critical domains that form the backbone of competitive examination syllabi. From technological breakthroughs in quantum communication demonstrating India's scientific prowess to welfare schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao addressing social inequalities, each development carries significant implications for India's future.

The Digital India mission's expansion highlights the government's commitment to bridging the digital divide, a crucial factor for inclusive growth in the 21st century. Robust GST collections indicate economic resilience and improved tax compliance, strengthening India's fiscal position for infrastructure investments. Parliamentary committee reforms underscore the deepening of democratic institutions and accountability mechanisms essential for good governance.

India's diplomatic engagement with Pacific Island nations reflects the country's expanding strategic footprint and commitment to multilateralism based on mutual respect and cooperation. Environmental conservation through wetland protection demonstrates India's balancing act between development and sustainability, aligning with global climate commitments.

For competitive exam aspirants, understanding these interconnections is crucial. Current affairs should not be studied in isolation but as part of a larger narrative of India's transformation. Link each news item to your static knowledge base - constitutional provisions, geographical features, historical context, and economic concepts. Develop the ability to view issues from multiple perspectives: economic impact, social implications, environmental consequences, and political dimensions.

Remember, newspaper reading is not about memorizing facts but understanding processes, analyzing trends, and developing informed opinions. The Hindu provides rich, detailed reporting that builds analytical thinking essential for descriptive exams. Make daily newspaper reading a non-negotiable habit, maintain organized notes, and regularly revise through the quick facts and MCQs provided in analyses like this.

Success in competitive exams comes from consistent effort, comprehensive understanding, and the ability to connect diverse pieces of information into coherent arguments. Use current affairs not just to answer direct factual questions but to enrich your answers with contemporary examples, making them more relevant and impactful. Stay updated, stay focused, and remember that each day's newspaper reading is an investment in your examination preparation and broader understanding of the world.

All the best for your examination preparation! Keep reading, keep analyzing, and keep growing!

📚 Daily current affairs preparation is the key to success in competitive exams! Stay consistent, stay informed! 📚