Stay ahead in your UPSC and competitive exam preparation with the Daily Current Affairs for 25th June 2025. This comprehensive edition covers critical topics such as the EPFO's enhanced auto-settlement limit, the global safe drinking water crisis, gender disparity in urban administration, India's breakthrough SDG ranking, and the legal debate around counsel interrogation. Curated from top sources like The Hindu, Indian Express, and government reports, this update is tailored for Prelims, Mains, Essay, and Interview preparation. 1. South Africa: Gateway to Africa? What’s the News? India and South Africa continue to deepen their strategic partnership through enhanced cooperation in trade, defence, technology, and people-to-people ties. As India seeks a stronger foothold in Africa, South Africa’s geographical and economic position makes it a key partner. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Historical Bonds: Gandhi’s Satyagraha began in South Africa. India opposed apartheid and honored Nelson Mandela with Bharat Ratna. Diplomatic ties were restored in 1993. Strategic Cooperation: Red Fort Declaration: Strategic Partnership Agreement. Engagement in multilateral forums and high-level bilateral meetings. Defence Engagements: MoU (2000), IBSAMAR naval exercises (2018, 2022). Indian ships (INS Sunayna & Trishul) visited South Africa. SA Navy participated in MILAN 2024. Trade and Economy: Total trade (2023-24): $19.25 billion. India’s exports: $8.7 bn (vehicles, pharma). Imports: $10.5 bn (gold, coal). People-to-People & Culture: 1.7 million Indian-origin population. ICCR promotes yoga and dance. Gandhi-Mandela Centre for Skill Development. Environmental Cooperation: Cheetah translocation MoU signed in 2023. Global & National Context South Africa has historically served as a gateway for global companies entering Africa. With India’s Africa strategy expanding under the India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS) and Focus Africa Programme, South Africa offers economic and logistical advantages. Relevant Conventions, Agreements & Initiatives India-Africa Framework: $30+ billion investments. India-Africa Partnership Projects. Indian Technical & Economic Cooperation (ITEC). Multilateral Cooperation: BRICS, IBSA, G20, ISA (International Solar Alliance). 2. Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO): Strategic Balancing in a Multipolar World What’s the News? India’s Defence Minister recently participated in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) meet, discussing multilateral security cooperation, regional connectivity, and balancing ties with major powers like China and Russia. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Origins & Principles: SCO formed in 2001 (SCO Charter signed in St. Petersburg in 2002). Principles: Mutual trust, respect for sovereignty, consultation, non-targeting of third parties. India’s Role: Became full member in 2017 (along with Pakistan). Participates in counter-terrorism drills, connectivity plans, and regional diplomacy. Areas of Cooperation: Counter-terrorism, ethnic separatism, religious extremism. Regional security and development. Access to markets, technology, and multilateral platforms. Comparison with QUAD: QUAD is focused on Indo-Pacific military security. SCO stresses political, economic, and internal security of Eurasian space. Global & National Context SCO has emerged as a vital geopolitical group in Eurasia. With growing tensions between NATO and Russia, and China’s Belt & Road push, India walks a diplomatic tightrope to maintain strategic autonomy and cooperation without compromising national interest. Relevant Treaties, Agreements, and Institutions Peace Mission Exercises: Joint military drills among SCO members. SCO RATS (Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure): India is an active member. Connectivity Initiatives: India promotes access to Central Asia, including through Chabahar and INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor). 3. Emergency: Never Again – Lessons in Democracy from India’s Darkest Hour What’s the News? Reflecting on India’s 1975 Emergency, debates have resurfaced around the misuse of constitutional powers, erosion of judicial independence, and centralisation of executive authority. The episode continues to be a reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Legal Provision: Article 352 of the Constitution empowers the President to declare a National Emergency due to war, external aggression, or armed rebellion. The 1975 Emergency was declared under vague grounds of “internal disturbance”. Procedural Requirements: Needs parliamentary approval within one month. Can be extended every 6 months with legislative consent. Can be revoked anytime by the President without Parliament’s approval. Historical Precedents: 1962: Indo-China war. 1971: Indo-Pak war and Bangladesh Liberation. 1975: Internal political crisis under PM Indira Gandhi. Impact on Institutions: Fundamental Rights: Article 19 suspended, court enforcement of rights (except A20 & A21) restricted under Article 359. Judiciary: Politicisation and pressure; Justice M.H. Beg as CJI despite seniority issues. Legislature: Extended Lok Sabha term. Executive: Extreme centralisation – "Indira is India". Global & National Context India's Emergency is globally cited as a case of democratic backsliding within a constitutional framework. It invites comparisons with similar authoritarian overreaches in other democratic nations and continues to serve as a key lesson in constitutional morality and vigilance. Relevant Legal Provisions & Events Article 352: Declares emergency due to war, external aggression, or armed rebellion. Article 358: Suspends rights under Article 19. Article 359: Suspends court enforcement of Fundamental Rights (except Articles 20 and 21). Rule 12 (GoI Rules of Business): Used to bypass Cabinet. 39th Constitutional Amendment Act (1975): Placed MISA and elections under Ninth Schedule to avoid judicial scrutiny. 44th Amendment Act (1978): Replaced “internal disturbance” with “armed rebellion”; restored checks. 3.Godavari Water Dispute: Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Sparks Centre-State Debate What’s the News? The proposed Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project in Andhra Pradesh has triggered fresh tensions with Telangana over water rights, interstate equity, and Centre’s fiscal intervention. The interlinking aims to divert 200 TMC ft of surplus Godavari water to drought-prone regions but raises legal and environmental concerns. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Project Objective: Divert 200 TMC ft of water from the Godavari to the Krishna and Penna basins. Intended to benefit the water-scarce Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh. 50% of funding to come from the Centre under National Interlinking of Rivers initiative. Current Status: Pre-feasibility report submitted to the Central Water Commission (CWC). Awaiting the Detailed Project Report (DPR). Telangana’s Concerns: Alleged violation of riparian rights under the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014. Unequal FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management) borrowing limits: Telangana’s borrowing capacity curtailed (citing Kaleshwaram Project). Andhra allowed borrowing flexibility. Demand for completion of Telangana’s pending projects first. Risk of future tribunal rulings being compromised by diversion. Andhra Pradesh’s Stand: Over 3,000 TMC ft of Godavari water flows into the sea annually. Similar precedents: Diversion of Krishna water to Penna basin. Project is critical for drinking water and irrigation in Rayalaseema. Global & National Context Interstate water disputes are a recurring feature of Indian federalism. The Centre’s role in interlinking rivers, managing water equity, and balancing state interests is under constant scrutiny. Similar challenges arise in disputes like Cauvery, Ravi-Beas, and Krishna-Godavari. Relevant Acts, Agreements & Institutions Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014: Prescribes water-sharing mechanisms between successor states. Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956: Empowers tribunals for dispute resolution. CWC (Central Water Commission): Technical appraisal of water projects. FRBM Act: Governs borrowing capacity of states. 4. West Asia Reset: Israel-Iran Conflict and India's Strategic Neutrality What’s the News? Amid rising tensions in West Asia, Israel and the United States jointly launched airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, receiving silent global approval. Iran retaliated with missile strikes, triggering concerns about further escalation. India has maintained a balanced stance, calling for de-escalation. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Israel-US Offensive: Targeted Iranian nuclear assets. Global silence (EU, Russia, China) interpreted as tacit approval. Strategic aim: To neutralise Iran’s nuclear threat. Iran’s Response: Launched missile attacks on US bases in Qatar and Iraq. Escalation risks: Closure of Strait of Hormuz. Possible withdrawal from Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Regional Dynamics: Over 40,000 US troops stationed in West Asia. Israel's dominance enhanced; Iran isolated. Abraham Accords are progressing, sidelining the Palestinian issue. India’s Diplomatic Position: Did not explicitly condemn Israeli strikes. Advocated for "de-escalation". Maintains ties with both Israel (defence, tech) and Iran (Chabahar, energy). Global & Regional Context The current conflict reflects a shift in West Asia’s power dynamics, with Israel strengthening its position amid a divided Arab response. Traditional Gulf allies are muted due to economic integration with Israel and the US. Iran faces an existential crisis while the Palestinian issue remains unresolved. Relevant Treaties & Agreements Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT): Iran remains a signatory but risks withdrawal under provocation. Abraham Accords (2020): US-mediated agreements between Israel and Arab states like UAE, Bahrain. India’s Strategic Projects: Chabahar Port (Iran): Gateway to Afghanistan & Central Asia. INSTC: India's key transport corridor involving Iran and Russia. 5. India Enters Top 100 in Global SDG Rankings for the First Time What’s the News? In a significant milestone, India has secured the 99th rank out of 167 countries in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Index 2025, as released by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN). This is the first time India has entered the top 100, reflecting substantial progress in key development parameters like health, education, and clean energy. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) India’s Global SDG Ranking 2025: Rank: 99th Score: 67.0/100 Previous Rankings: 2024: 109th 2023: 112th 2022: 121st Top Performers (2025): Finland, Sweden, and Denmark continue to lead the global SDG rankings. China: 49th (Score: 74.4) USA: 44th (Score: 75.2) What is the SDG Index? The Sustainable Development Goals Index is an annual global ranking that evaluates countries based on their progress across 17 development goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. These include: SDG 1: No Poverty SDG 2: Zero Hunger SDG 4: Quality Education SDG 5: Gender Equality SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation SDG 13: Climate Action A perfect score of 100 indicates full achievement of all SDG targets. Global Institutions & Reports Report Name: Sustainable Development Report 2025 Published by: UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) Lead Author: Jeffrey Sachs Data Sources: UN agencies, World Bank, WHO, national statistics agencies Challenges Highlighted in the Global Report Despite incremental progress, the report warns that: Only 17% of global SDG targets are on track for 2030. Key global challenges: Climate change & environmental degradation Rising conflicts and wars Weak governance in fragile states Limited fiscal resources in poorer nations Even high-ranking European nations struggle with unsustainable consumption and biodiversity loss. India-Specific Insights & Implications Positive Signals: Improvements in education outcomes, healthcare access, and basic infrastructure. Significant gains from government flagship schemes. Areas Needing Attention: Gender inequality (SDG 5) Climate resilience and air pollution (SDG 13) Reducing inequality (SDG 10) Global Image: Enhanced international credibility as a responsible development player. Government Initiatives Supporting Progress India’s rise in the rankings has been supported by large-scale development initiatives such as: Swachh Bharat Mission – Sanitation and hygiene Jal Jeevan Mission – Tap water for every household Ujjwala Yojana – Clean cooking energy access PM Awas Yojana – Affordable housing for all National Education Policy (NEP) – Holistic and inclusive education 5. EPFO Raises Auto-Settlement Limit for Advance Claims to ₹5 Lakh What’s the News? The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has increased the limit for auto-settlement of advance claims from ₹1 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This move will help EPFO members get funds faster, especially during emergencies, without human intervention. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) New Limit: The auto-settlement limit has been raised to ₹5 lakh, up from ₹1 lakh. Auto-Settlement: Claims are processed automatically by the system, with no human involvement. Usage: Advance claims are usually taken for medical needs, education, marriage, and house purchase. Speed and Transparency: This system helps in quick fund release, especially during urgent situations. Global & National Context The use of automated systems is a global best practice in social security to reduce delays and ensure fair processing. EPFO first introduced this facility during the COVID-19 pandemic to quickly support workers during economic hardship. Relevant Acts, Policies & Reports Employees’ Provident Funds and Miscellaneous Provisions Act, 1952: Governs EPFO operations. ILO Social Protection Report (2024): Recognizes India’s success in expanding social security coverage. States that 64.3% of India’s population (94 crore people) are now covered under at least one social protection benefit, up from 19% in 2015. 6.Two Billion People Don’t Have Safe Drinking Water What’s the News? A recent global report has highlighted that about 2 billion people worldwide still do not have access to safe drinking water. This is a major health and development issue, especially in poor and developing countries. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Definition of Safe Water: Drinking water must be free from contamination, easily available at home, and safe whenever needed. Current Status: Nearly 25% of the global population lacks access to safe water. Only about 1.5 billion people globally get drinking water directly from safe sources at home. The rest either rely on shared taps, faraway sources, or water that is not properly treated. Health Impact: Unsafe water leads to diseases like diarrhea, cholera, dysentery, and typhoid. Water-borne diseases cause over 800,000 deaths every year. Children are worst affected, with malnutrition and high death rates due to contaminated water. Global Context Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG-6): Ensures clean water and sanitation for all by 2030. According to the UNICEF-WHO Joint Monitoring Programme, many countries are still off track. Countries in Africa and South Asia, including parts of India, are among the worst affected. In countries like Niger, Chad, and Ethiopia, less than 50% of people have access to basic drinking water. Relevant Reports, Conventions, and Laws UN Resolution (2010): Recognizes access to clean drinking water as a human right. WHO & UNICEF Reports: Track global progress under the Joint Monitoring Programme (JMP). India’s Jal Jeevan Mission (2019): Aims to provide functional tap connections to every rural household by 2024. Implications for India In India, while the situation has improved, many rural and tribal areas still suffer from: Poor infrastructure Water pollution Over-dependence on groundwater Contaminants like arsenic, fluoride, and iron affect drinking water in many Indian states. Health impacts increase the burden on India’s public health system and weaken human capital. Government Initiatives in India Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Launched in 2019. Target: 100% tap water connection to rural households. As of 2025, over 70% of rural households have been connected. Swachh Bharat Mission: Focus on sanitation helps reduce water-borne diseases. National Water Quality Sub-Mission: Tackles contaminated water sources in rural areas. Water ATMs and Smart Water Grids: Being piloted in cities and towns to ensure quality. 6 When Counsel is Questioned What’s the News? Recently, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) summoned senior lawyers in major corporate and financial cases—not as witnesses in court, but during investigations. This has sparked concerns in the legal community about the independence of lawyers and the right to legal advice. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) The Issue: Lawyers are being called for questioning by investigative agencies about the advice they gave to clients. This raises fears about the freedom and safety of legal professionals. Bar Council's Concern: The legal community believes that this threatens the role of lawyers in a democracy, as they might be punished just for giving advice. Legal Protection: Under the Bhartiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023, and the old Indian Evidence Act, 1872, communication between a lawyer and client is confidential and protected. Section 130 of BSA, 2023 protects lawyers from being forced to reveal client information without consent. Judicial Precedent: Courts have always protected the privileged relationship between lawyer and client. Global Context Rule of Law Principle: In democracies like the US, UK, and EU, legal advice is sacred and cannot be questioned without proof of wrongdoing. International Human Rights Law: UN Basic Principles on the Role of Lawyers (1990) says lawyers should never face threats for doing their job. Similar legal protections are part of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Relevant Laws and Provisions Advocates Act, 1961: Gives lawyers protection while performing their duties. Bhartiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, 2023: Replaces the Indian Evidence Act. Ensures lawyers cannot be forced to disclose private discussions with clients. PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002): While used in ED cases, still must follow constitutional protections. Why It Matters for India Impact on Justice: If lawyers are afraid of being summoned, they may stop giving honest legal advice. This weakens the right to fair legal defence, a fundamental right under Article 21. Risk to Democracy: A strong democracy needs an independent judiciary and fearless lawyers. If lawyers are harassed, the public loses trust in the justice system. Danger of Misuse: Investigative agencies must not misuse power to silence critics or legal professionals. 7. The Need for Gender Equity in Urban Bureaucracy What’s the News? India is becoming more urban. By 2050, almost 800 million Indians (half the population) will live in cities. But while more women are entering politics at the local level, most city administrators—like planners, engineers, and police—are still men. This gender imbalance affects how cities work for women and other citizens. Key Points for UPSC (Prelims & Mains) Urban Shift: India will have the largest urban population by 2050. Women in Local Politics: Thanks to the 73rd and 74th Amendments, many women are now mayors and councillors. In fact, 46% of local leaders are women (Ministry of Panchayati Raj, 2024). Low Numbers in Bureaucracy: Only 20% of IAS officers are women. Only 11.7% of police officers are women (IndiaSpend, BPRD 2023). Different Urban Needs: Women use public transport more, travel with children, and need safe public spaces. But most urban policies ignore these needs. Lack of Women in City Jobs = Poor Services for Women. What’s Happening Around the World? India: Delhi introduced women-only buses and street lighting. Tamil Nadu used gender budgeting in 64 departments. Kerala added gender goals in local planning. Other Countries: Philippines: Reserves 5% of every local budget for women. Uganda: Requires a gender certificate for funding. South Korea & Mexico: Include women’s needs in planning. Rwanda: Increased spending on women’s health and education. Important Global Goals and Reports UN Women & ICRIER Reports: Women in government focus more on safety, water, and health. SDG 5 (Gender Equality) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities) promote equal and inclusive urban planning. Beijing Declaration (1995) asks all countries to include women in decision-making. Why It Matters for India Cities need to work for everyone, not just men. If women help plan cities, we get: Better lighting. Safer streets. Childcare centers. Good public transport. Empowering women in city jobs helps us grow as a $5 trillion economy and build a fair society. What India Should Do Use Gender Budgeting in all city bodies. Train more women in planning, engineering, and administration. Set up gender equity councils in small cities. Monitor and audit city programs to ensure they help women. [caption id="attachment_26292" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs 25th June 2025 | UPSC, PIB, The Hindu, IE[/caption]
