APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (02/04/2025)
For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, staying updated with current affairs is vital. This blog covers most important topics from the Assam Tribune today (02-04-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
India-China Relations: 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties
Introduction
India and China, two of the world’s oldest civilizations and fastest-growing economies, mark 75 years of diplomatic ties in 2025. Despite economic cooperation and cultural exchanges, border tensions and strategic competition continue to define their complex relationship. The recent exchange of diplomatic messages between leaders highlights attempts at resetting relations post-Galwan conflict.
Key Points
1. Historical Context of India-China Relations
1950: India was among the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China.
1954 Panchsheel Agreement: Established five principles of peaceful coexistence.
1962 Indo-China War: Led to strained relations, with border disputes becoming a major issue.
1993 & 1996 Border Agreements: Aimed at maintaining peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
2. Major Areas of Cooperation
📌 Economic Ties
Trade Volume: Bilateral trade crossed $136 billion in 2024, with China being India’s largest trading partner.
Deficit Issue: India faces a trade deficit of over $80 billion, largely importing electronics, machinery, and APIs for pharmaceuticals.
📌 Multilateral Engagements
BRICS, SCO, and RCEP: Both nations cooperate in multilateral institutions despite geopolitical tensions.
Climate Action & Renewable Energy: Both countries collaborate on global climate initiatives.
📌 Cultural & People-to-People Ties
Indian Students in China: Over 20,000 Indian students pursue medical studies in China.
Tourism & Buddhist Linkages: Chinese tourists visit Indian Buddhist sites; Nalanda University collaboration continues.
Prelims Pointers
🔹 Panchsheel Agreement (1954): Five principles of peaceful coexistence between India & China.
🔹 Doklam Standoff (2017): India-China military standoff at Bhutan’s border.
🔹 Galwan Valley Clash (2020): First deadly border skirmish in decades, worsening relations.
🔹 Wuhan & Mamallapuram Summits: Informal meetings aimed at stabilizing bilateral ties.
🔹 String of Pearls Strategy: China’s network of strategic bases surrounding India in the Indian Ocean.
Mains Pointers
1. Challenges in India-China Relations
⚠ Border Disputes
Ladakh Standoff (2020-Present): Unresolved tensions along LAC.
Arunachal Pradesh Issue: China claims Arunachal as South Tibet.
⚠ Trade Imbalance
India’s Heavy Dependence on Chinese Goods: Electronics, telecom, and pharmaceuticals.
Ban on Chinese Apps (2020): In response to security concerns.
⚠ Strategic Rivalry
China-Pakistan Nexus: CPEC project in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) challenges India’s sovereignty.
Belt & Road Initiative (BRI): India opposes BRI citing sovereignty issues.
⚠ Water Disputes
Brahmaputra River: Concerns over Chinese dam projects affecting India’s water security.
Government Initiatives to Manage Relations
✅ Act East Policy: Enhancing economic and strategic engagement with Southeast Asia.
✅ Infrastructure Development in Border Areas: Roads, tunnels, and military outposts in Arunachal & Ladakh.
✅ Atmanirbhar Bharat: Reducing dependence on Chinese imports.
✅ QUAD & Indo-Pacific Strategy: Strengthening alliances with USA, Japan, and Australia to counter China’s influence.
Way Ahead
🔹 Re-engagement through Diplomacy: Strengthen confidence-building measures on border issues.
🔹 Reducing Trade Deficit: Promote domestic manufacturing and diversify supply chains.
🔹 Balanced Approach in Regional Politics: Engage in BRICS & SCO while countering Chinese influence in South Asia.
🔹 Strategic Military Preparedness: Continue modernizing the armed forces for border security.
Conclusion
India-China relations will remain multi-faceted, shaped by competition, cooperation, and strategic caution. A balanced diplomatic, economic, and military approach is essential for managing this complex relationship while securing India’s national interests.
India’s Focus on Green Hydrogen for Energy Security
📌 GS Paper 3: Energy, Environment, Science & Technology, Economy
Introduction
India is actively promoting green hydrogen as a clean energy alternative to reduce fossil fuel dependence and achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2070. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy sources, is expected to play a vital role in energy security, industrial decarbonization, and sustainable growth.
Key Points
1. What is Green Hydrogen?
Green hydrogen is produced via electrolysis of water using renewable electricity from solar or wind energy.
It differs from grey hydrogen (produced from natural gas) and blue hydrogen (grey hydrogen with carbon capture & storage).
2. Significance of Green Hydrogen for India
✅ Energy Security: Reduces dependence on imported fossil fuels, enhancing India’s self-sufficiency.
✅ Industrial Decarbonization: Can be used in steel, cement, and fertilizer industries to lower carbon emissions.
✅ Clean Mobility: Supports hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, providing a green alternative to petrol and diesel.
✅ Global Leadership: India aims to become a leading exporter of green hydrogen under its Hydrogen Mission.
3. India’s Green Hydrogen Mission
📌 National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) – 2023
Target: 5 million metric tonnes (MMT) of green hydrogen production per year by 2030.
Incentives: ₹19,744 crore allocated to develop hydrogen production, electrolyzer manufacturing, and pilot projects.
R&D Boost: Focus on indigenous technology for cost-effective hydrogen production.
4. Global Green Hydrogen Market and India’s Position
Countries like Germany, Japan, and Australia are investing heavily in green hydrogen.
India’s low-cost solar power potential gives it a competitive edge in hydrogen production.
Strategic alliances with Middle Eastern and European nations to export green hydrogen.
Prelims Pointers
Electrolysis Process: Splitting of water (H₂O) using electricity to produce hydrogen and oxygen.
Hydrogen Colors: Green (renewable), Grey (natural gas), Blue (with carbon capture).
Fuel Cell Vehicles (FCVs): Use hydrogen to generate electricity for propulsion.
National Green Hydrogen Mission: India’s initiative to become a global green hydrogen hub.
Hydrogen Economy Index: Measures the readiness of nations in hydrogen infrastructure.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Green Hydrogen for India
✅ Environmental Benefits: Reduces carbon footprint and helps India achieve climate commitments.
✅ Industrial Applications: Essential for steel, refineries, and ammonia production.
✅ Export Potential: India can become a major supplier of green hydrogen to Europe and Japan.
✅ Employment Generation: Opens avenues in R&D, electrolyzer manufacturing, and fuel cell technology.
Challenges in Green Hydrogen Adoption
🚧 High Production Cost: Electrolysis is expensive compared to fossil fuel-based hydrogen.
🚧 Storage & Transportation: Hydrogen is highly flammable and difficult to transport.
🚧 Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of hydrogen refueling stations and pipelines in India.
🚧 Water Requirement: Electrolysis requires significant freshwater resources, raising concerns.
Government Initiatives
📌 Green Hydrogen Policy 2022 – Incentives for green hydrogen production & open access to renewable power.
📌 Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme – Encouraging local manufacturing of electrolyzers.
📌 Hydrogen Hubs in India – Establishing industrial clusters for hydrogen production.
Way Forward
✅ Scaling Up Production: Investing in cost-efficient electrolyzers and renewable energy sources.
✅ Infrastructure Development: Setting up hydrogen storage and refueling facilities.
✅ Global Collaboration: Engaging in bilateral hydrogen trade agreements with Europe, Japan, and the US.
✅ Water Conservation: Exploring seawater electrolysis to reduce freshwater dependency.
Conclusion
Green hydrogen can be a game-changer for India’s energy security and carbon neutrality goals. By leveraging its renewable energy potential and technological innovations, India can become a global leader in the green hydrogen economy, ensuring a cleaner, sustainable future. 🚀
India’s Push for a Permanent Seat in the UN Security Council
📌 GS Paper 2: International Relations, Global Governance
Introduction
India, as the world’s most populous country and the fifth-largest economy, has been advocating for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). With its growing geopolitical influence, contributions to global peacekeeping, and leadership in multilateral forums, India argues that the current UNSC structure does not reflect contemporary global realities.
Key Points
1. Structure of the UN Security Council (UNSC)
Permanent Members (P5): USA, UK, France, Russia, China (with veto power).
Non-Permanent Members: 10 members elected for two-year terms.
Decision-Making Power: Major resolutions require 9 votes out of 15, but any P5 member can veto a decision.
2. India’s Case for a Permanent Seat
✅ Largest Democracy & Global Representation: India represents 1.4 billion people, yet lacks a say in key global decisions.
✅ Economic & Military Strength: India is the 5th largest economy (IMF 2024) and has a strong defense sector with nuclear capabilities.
✅ Peacekeeping Contributions: India has deployed more than 2.5 lakh troops in UN peacekeeping missions, making it one of the largest contributors.
✅ Role in Global Governance: Active in G20, BRICS, Quad, SCO, and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM).
✅ Support from Major Nations: USA, France, UK, and Russia have expressed support, though China remains a hurdle.
3. Challenges in India’s Bid
🚧 Veto Power Opposition: P5 nations, particularly China, resist reforms that dilute their influence.
🚧 Lack of Consensus on UNSC Reform: The United for Consensus (UFC) group, including Pakistan, Italy, and Argentina, opposes India’s bid.
🚧 Regional Rivalries: Pakistan opposes India’s inclusion, citing regional tensions.
🚧 Slow UN Reforms: The Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) process on UNSC reform has made little progress.
Prelims Pointers
UNSC Members: 5 permanent + 10 non-permanent members.
G4 Nations: India, Japan, Germany, Brazil (support each other’s UNSC bid).
United for Consensus (UFC) Group: Opposes G4 nations’ UNSC membership.
Veto Power: Exclusive to P5 members, allowing them to block resolutions.
Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN): UN platform for discussing UNSC reforms.
Mains Pointers
Importance of India’s Permanent Membership
✅ More Equitable Global Governance: Reflects the 21st-century geopolitical landscape.
✅ Enhances India’s Strategic Influence: Strengthens India’s foreign policy and economic partnerships.
✅ Balanced Representation for Developing Nations: Africa, Latin America, and Asia need stronger voices in UNSC.
✅ Global Peace & Stability: India’s track record in peacekeeping and diplomacy adds credibility.
Challenges in UNSC Reforms
🚧 Resistance from P5: Nations reluctant to share power.
🚧 Complexities of Veto Power: Debate over whether new members should get veto rights.
🚧 Regional & Political Differences: Disagreements among developed and developing nations on UNSC expansion.
Government Initiatives
📌 G4 Initiative: India collaborates with Japan, Germany, and Brazil for joint UNSC reform advocacy.
📌 India’s Role in Global Platforms: Presidency of G20 (2023), leadership in BRICS, active role in SCO.
📌 Engagement with African & Latin American Nations: Seeking broader support for its bid.
Way Forward
✅ Diplomatic Alliances: Strengthen ties with Africa, Latin America, and middle-power nations.
✅ Pushing for UN Reforms: Advocate for time-bound UNGA resolutions on UNSC expansion.
✅ Public Awareness & Soft Power: Use media, cultural diplomacy, and academic discussions to highlight India’s case.
✅ Economic & Military Strengthening: India’s rising economic and defense profile will enhance its claim.
Conclusion
India’s bid for permanent UNSC membership is justified based on its economic strength, global peacekeeping role, and democratic values. However, geopolitical challenges and resistance from P5 make reform a complex process. Strengthening alliances and sustained diplomatic efforts will be crucial for India’s long-term goal of global leadership. 🌍
Climate Change and Its Impact on India’s Water Security
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment, Water Resources, Climate Change
Introduction
Water security is a critical challenge for India, with climate change exacerbating existing issues like erratic monsoons, glacial retreat, and groundwater depletion. Reports from the IPCC and NITI Aayog warn that 40% of Indians may not have access to drinking water by 2030 due to climate-related disruptions.
Key Points
1. Climate Change and Water Cycle Disruptions
🌧️ Erratic Monsoons: Unpredictable rainfall patterns leading to droughts in some regions and floods in others.
🏔️ Himalayan Glacier Melting: Accelerated glacial retreat affects major rivers like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus.
🚰 Groundwater Depletion: Increased temperatures lead to higher evaporation rates and reduced recharge of aquifers.
🌊 Rising Sea Levels: Causes saltwater intrusion in coastal aquifers, affecting drinking water quality.
2. Impact on India’s Water Security
✅ Agricultural Crisis: 🌾 80% of India’s water is used for irrigation; climate-induced water shortages can reduce crop yields.
✅ Urban Water Shortages: 🏙️ Cities like Chennai and Bengaluru have already faced severe water crises due to over-extraction and poor management.
✅ Energy Sector Disruptions: ⚡ Hydropower generation is impacted by fluctuating river flows, affecting electricity supply.
✅ Health Hazards: 💧 Contaminated water sources lead to disease outbreaks like cholera and typhoid.
Prelims Pointers
Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA): Government initiative for water conservation and rainwater harvesting.
National Water Policy (2012): Advocates integrated water resource management.
Composite Water Management Index (CWMI): Published by NITI Aayog, tracks water usage efficiency.
Himalayan Glacial Retreat: Affects rivers like Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus, impacting water supply.
Interlinking of Rivers Project: Aims to balance water distribution across regions.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Water Security in India
✅ Food Security: India is an agriculture-driven economy, and water shortages can trigger food inflation.
✅ Livelihood Protection: Over 50% of India’s workforce depends on agriculture, directly linked to water availability.
✅ Climate Resilience: Water conservation efforts are vital for disaster management and drought mitigation.
Challenges to Water Security
🚧 Unequal Water Distribution: Punjab and Haryana overuse groundwater, while Rajasthan and Maharashtra face severe shortages.
🚧 Pollution & Contamination: Industrial discharge and agricultural runoff degrade water quality.
🚧 Policy & Management Issues: Lack of coordination between states, local bodies, and the central government.
Government Initiatives
📌 Atal Bhujal Yojana: Focuses on sustainable groundwater management.
📌 Namami Gange Programme: Aims to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga river.
📌 Jal Jeevan Mission: Ensures tap water connections to rural households.
📌 State Water Action Plans: Launched under the National Adaptation Fund on Climate Change (NAFCC).
Way Forward
✅ Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Promote micro-irrigation, drip irrigation, and drought-resistant crops.
✅ Water Recycling & Desalination: Expand urban wastewater treatment and desalination plants.
✅ Strengthening Water Governance: Implement strict groundwater regulations and river basin management policies.
✅ Community Participation: Encourage rainwater harvesting and local watershed management programs.
Conclusion
Climate change is a major threat to India’s water security, impacting agriculture, urban life, and industrial growth. A holistic approach involving technological interventions, efficient governance, and public participation is necessary to ensure sustainable water management. India must act decisively to secure its water future. 🌊💧
Supreme Court’s Stance on Governor’s Powers in State Affairs
📌 GS Paper 2: Indian Polity, Federalism, Role of Governor, Separation of Powers
Introduction
The role of the Governor in India has often been debated, especially regarding the exercise of discretionary powers and intervention in state affairs. The Supreme Court (SC) has repeatedly clarified the constitutional boundaries of a Governor’s role, ensuring that they act as a constitutional head rather than an active political player. Recent judgments have reinforced the need for governors to function within constitutional limits and avoid arbitrary decisions that may destabilize state governments.
Key Points
1. Constitutional Provisions Governing the Governor’s Role
📜 Article 153: Provides for the office of the Governor in each state.
📜 Article 154: Vests the executive power of the state in the Governor, who exercises it on the advice of the Council of Ministers (CoM).
📜 Article 163: Governor acts on the aid and advice of the CoM except in situations where the Constitution requires discretionary action.
📜 Article 200: Allows the Governor to withhold, assent, or reserve bills for the President’s consideration.
📜 Article 356: Empowers the Governor to recommend President’s Rule in a state if constitutional machinery breaks down.
2. Supreme Court’s Recent Rulings on Governor’s Powers
🔹 Nabam Rebia Case (2016) – Limits on Discretionary Powers
SC ruled that Governors cannot act independently and must follow the Council of Ministers’ advice except in rare circumstances.
A Governor cannot unilaterally dismiss a government.
🔹 Shivraj Singh Chouhan v. Speaker (2020) – Floor Test Requirement
SC upheld the Governor’s right to call for a floor test when there is doubt about the government’s majority.
However, the Governor cannot dictate the functioning of the Assembly.
🔹 Maharashtra Political Crisis Verdict (2023) – No Arbitrary Interventions
SC criticized the Governor of Maharashtra for interfering in political affairs and allowing a rival faction to claim majority without due process.
Reaffirmed that Governors must act within constitutional norms and not disrupt elected governments.
🔹 Punjab and Tamil Nadu Cases (2024) – Delays in Bill Approval
SC condemned Governors delaying state bills for months without justification, stating that such actions violate constitutional propriety.
Prelims Pointers
✅ Discretionary Powers of the Governor: Defined under Article 163, but are limited by judicial interpretations.
✅ Judicial Review on Governor’s Actions: SC can intervene if a Governor’s decision violates constitutional norms.
✅ Governor vs. Chief Minister: Governor must act on the CM’s advice, except in cases of constitutional breakdown.
✅ Reservation of Bills: Under Article 200, the Governor can reserve certain state bills for the President’s assent.
Mains Pointers
1. Significance of the Governor’s Role
🔹 Link Between Centre and State: Ensures federal coordination.
🔹 Guardian of the Constitution: Protects the democratic structure of the state government.
🔹 Emergency Powers: Can recommend President’s Rule (Article 356) in case of a breakdown of governance.
2. Challenges in the Governor’s Role
🚧 Politicization of the Office: Allegations of favoring ruling parties at the Centre.
🚧 Lack of Accountability: Governors are not directly elected, leading to concerns of unilateral decision-making.
🚧 Delays in Bill Approval: Several state governments have accused Governors of withholding bills unnecessarily.
🚧 Dismissal of State Governments: Past instances like the Bommai case (1994) highlighted the misuse of Article 356.
3. Government and SC Recommendations on Reforming the Governor’s Role
📌 Sarkaria Commission (1988):
✔️ Governors should be non-partisan and not involved in active politics.
✔️ Appointment should be based on merit, not political allegiance.
📌 Punchhi Commission (2010):
✔️ Fixed tenure of Governors to avoid frequent political interference.
✔️ Floor tests should be the only way to assess the majority of a government.
📌 Recent Supreme Court Directives:
✔️ Governors must clear bills within a reasonable time.
✔️ They cannot influence government formation based on political preferences.
Way Forward
✅ Clearly Define Governor’s Discretionary Powers: Ensure constitutional clarity in cases where Governors act independently.
✅ Fixed Tenure and Neutral Appointments: Reduce the politicization of the Governor’s role.
✅ Accountability Mechanism: Introduce a review process for Governor’s actions through parliamentary oversight.
✅ Judicial Review: Strengthen the SC’s role in checking arbitrary decisions made by Governors.
Conclusion
The Governor’s role must be neutral, constitutional, and accountable to uphold India’s federal structure. The Supreme Court’s interventions have played a pivotal role in defining the constitutional limits of Governors’ powers, ensuring that they do not disrupt democratically elected governments. A balanced approach between executive authority and constitutional morality is essential for the effective functioning of Indian democracy. 🏛️⚖️
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. India-China Relations: 75 Years of Diplomatic Ties
📌 GS Paper 2: International Relations, India-China Relations
Q1. Which of the following events marked the formal diplomatic recognition of China by India?
A) Bandung Conference, 1955
B) Panchsheel Agreement, 1954
C) India’s recognition of PRC in 1950
D) Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1962
🔹 Answer: C) India’s recognition of PRC in 1950
🔹 Explanation: India was one of the first countries to recognize the People’s Republic of China (PRC) in 1950 after the Communist takeover. The Panchsheel Agreement (1954) was later signed to enhance bilateral relations.
Q2. The Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China passes through which of the following regions?
- Arunachal Pradesh
- Uttarakhand
- Ladakh
- Himachal Pradesh
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 4 only
C) 1, 2, and 3 only
D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔹 Answer: D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔹 Explanation: The LAC (Line of Actual Control) is the de facto border between India and China. It passes through Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh.
2. India’s Focus on Green Hydrogen for Energy Security
📌 GS Paper 3: Energy Security, Environment
Q3. Consider the following statements regarding Green Hydrogen:
- Green hydrogen is produced using fossil fuels.
- It is a key component of India’s National Hydrogen Mission.
- Hydrogen fuel cells emit carbon dioxide when used in vehicles.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 2 and 3 only
🔹 Answer: B) 2 only
🔹 Explanation:
- Green Hydrogen is produced using renewable energy (solar/wind) and water electrolysis, not fossil fuels.
- National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023) aims to make India a global hub for green hydrogen production.
- Hydrogen fuel cells emit only water vapor, not carbon dioxide.
Q4. What are the key benefits of Green Hydrogen for India’s energy security?
- Reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels
- Decarbonizing industries like steel and cement
- Increasing air pollution in urban areas
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
🔹 Answer: A) 1 and 2 only
🔹 Explanation: Green hydrogen helps reduce dependency on oil and gas imports and decarbonize heavy industries like steel, cement, and fertilizers. It actually reduces air pollution by replacing fossil fuels.
3. India’s Push for a Permanent Seat in the UN Security Council
📌 GS Paper 2: International Institutions, Global Governance
Q5. Which of the following are valid arguments supporting India’s bid for a permanent UNSC seat?
- India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping missions.
- India has the world’s third-largest economy by GDP (nominal).
- India represents a significant portion of the world’s population.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 and 2 only
D) 1, 2, and 3
🔹 Answer: A) 1 and 3 only
🔹 Explanation:
- India is one of the largest contributors to UN peacekeeping forces and represents one-sixth of the world’s population.
- However, India is not yet the third-largest economy by nominal GDP (it is 5th as of 2024).
Q6. The “Coffee Club” or “Uniting for Consensus” group is associated with which of the following?
A) Promoting India’s permanent UNSC membership
B) Opposing expansion of the permanent UNSC seats
C) Advocating for environmental sustainability
D) Strengthening South-South cooperation
🔹 Answer: B) Opposing expansion of the permanent UNSC seats
🔹 Explanation: The Coffee Club is an informal group of countries like Italy, Pakistan, Mexico, and South Korea that oppose expanding UNSC permanent membership, blocking India’s bid.
4. Climate Change and Its Impact on India’s Water Security
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment, Water Management
Q7. Which of the following Indian rivers are glacier-fed and at risk due to climate change?
- Ganga
- Brahmaputra
- Godavari
- Indus
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
A) 1, 2, and 4 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔹 Answer: A) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔹 Explanation: Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus originate in the Himalayas and are glacier-fed, making them vulnerable to climate change. Godavari is rain-fed, not glacier-fed.
Q8. Which Indian state has recently launched a ‘Climate Resilient Water Management Plan’ to tackle water scarcity?
A) Rajasthan
B) Maharashtra
C) Tamil Nadu
D) Uttar Pradesh
🔹 Answer: B) Maharashtra
🔹 Explanation: Maharashtra has implemented climate-resilient water conservation programs under Jal Yukta Shivar Abhiyan to tackle droughts and climate-induced water scarcity.
5. Supreme Court’s Stance on Governor’s Powers in State Affairs
📌 GS Paper 2: Indian Polity, Federalism
Q9. Which of the following Supreme Court cases dealt with the misuse of Article 356 (President’s Rule) by Governors?
A) Kesavananda Bharati Case (1973)
B) S.R. Bommai Case (1994)
C) Golaknath Case (1967)
D) Minerva Mills Case (1980)
🔹 Answer: B) S.R. Bommai Case (1994)
🔹 Explanation: The S.R. Bommai case (1994) established that Article 356 (President’s Rule) cannot be used arbitrarily and is subject to judicial review.
Q10. Consider the following statements about the powers of the Governor in India:
- The Governor must act on the advice of the Chief Minister in all matters.
- The Governor can dismiss a state government without seeking approval from the President.
- The Supreme Court has ruled that Governors cannot delay state bills indefinitely.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A) 1 and 3 only
B) 2 only
C) 1, 2, and 3
D) 3 only
🔹 Answer: D) 3 only
🔹 Explanation:
Statement 3 is correct: The SC ruled that Governors must act within a reasonable timeframe on state bills (Punjab & Tamil Nadu cases).
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Governor can act independently in certain discretionary matters (Article 163).
Statement 2 is incorrect: A Governor cannot dismiss a state government on their own.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question and Model Answer
Topic: India’s Push for a Permanent Seat in the UN Security Council
📌 GS Paper 2: International Institutions, Global Governance
Question:
“India’s claim for a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is justified by its global stature, but it faces significant challenges. Discuss the rationale behind India’s demand and the obstacles it encounters in achieving this goal.” (15 marks, 250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction:
India, as the world’s most populous nation and a major economic and military power, has long sought a permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Its claim is based on its contributions to global governance, peacekeeping, and its democratic values. However, political roadblocks continue to hinder India’s efforts.
Rationale Behind India’s Demand for a Permanent UNSC Seat
1. India’s Global Standing:
✅ Largest Democracy – Represents 1.4 billion people, nearly one-sixth of humanity.
✅ Economic Powerhouse – 5th largest economy (IMF 2024), projected to be 3rd by 2030.
✅ Military Strength – One of the top five defense spenders globally.
2. Role in International Peace & Security:
✅ Largest Contributor to UN Peacekeeping – Over 250,000 personnel deployed since 1950.
✅ Nuclear Power – A responsible nuclear state under No First Use Policy.
✅ Maritime Security Provider – Key player in Indian Ocean Region (IOR) security.
3. Leadership in Global Governance:
✅ G20 Presidency (2023) – Championed the Global South’s concerns.
✅ Climate Leadership – Committed to Net Zero by 2070 (COP26 pledge).
✅ Humanitarian Assistance – Led COVID-19 vaccine diplomacy via Vaccine Maitri.
Challenges to India’s UNSC Bid
1. Institutional Resistance within the UN:
🚫 No Timeline for Reforms – The Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) process lacks a clear roadmap.
🚫 Veto Power Debate – Permanent members resist expanding veto privileges.
2. Opposition from Key Nations (“Coffee Club”)
🚫 China’s Resistance – Blocks India’s bid due to border disputes and strategic rivalry.
🚫 Pakistan’s Objection – Opposes due to Kashmir issue.
🚫 Italy, South Korea, Mexico (Uniting for Consensus) – Advocate only non-permanent seat expansion.
3. Geopolitical Considerations
🚫 Limited Support from P5 Nations – While France & Russia support India’s bid, US, UK, and China remain ambiguous.
🚫 Lack of African & Latin American Representation – A broader reform package is required.
Way Forward
1. Strengthening Diplomatic Efforts
🔹 G4 Alliance (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil) – Push for collective reform efforts.
🔹 Engagement with African & Latin American Nations – Gain wider international backing.
2. Institutional Reforms
🔹 Advocate for Time-Bound Negotiations – Push for a fixed timeline for UNSC expansion.
🔹 Alternative to Veto Power – India can propose a ‘differential veto’ mechanism for new permanent members.
3. Leveraging Soft Power
🔹 Strengthen India’s Global Leadership – Expand participation in multilateral forums (Quad, BRICS, G20).
🔹 Showcase India’s UN Contributions – Highlight India’s climate commitments, peacekeeping, and humanitarian efforts.
Conclusion:
India’s case for a permanent UNSC seat is built on strong credentials in diplomacy, economic strength, and peacekeeping. However, global power politics and institutional inertia pose challenges. A strategic, patient, and collaborative approach can help India secure its rightful place in global governance. 🌍✨
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