Quick Overview
India’s current affairs landscape covers crucial developments in energy, governance, social issues, international diplomacy, and defence. Key updates include the government’s move to enhance coal exploration for energy security, Assam’s anti-polygamy legislation, the 23rd Law Commission’s stance on One Nation One Election, the selection process for the next UN Secretary-General, the induction of the Nilgiri-class frigate Taragiri, tensions along the Durand Line, Italy criminalizing femicide, and India’s sustainment deal for MH-60R helicopters. These developments have significant implications for India’s economy, social justice, constitutional governance, foreign relations, and defence preparedness.
1. Navigating the Coal Transition for Energy Security
The government has allowed private entities accredited by the Quality Council of India to undertake coal prospecting under the Mines and Minerals Act, boosting coal availability and energy security. Coal constitutes 55% of India’s energy mix and fuels 74% of electricity generation, contributing significantly to economic growth through royalties, GST, and railway freight. Key challenges include environmental damage, public health risks, import dependence for high-grade coal, stranded asset risks, and transition to renewable energy. The government promotes coal gasification, cleaner technologies, and renewable expansion, with a strategic plan for Battery Energy Storage Systems and flexible coal-based power to ensure a just transition to a sustainable energy future.
2. Towards Prohibition of Polygamy
The Assam Prohibition of Polygamy Bill, 2025 criminalizes polygamy with imprisonment and fines while exempting customary laws in certain areas. Polygamy, historically practiced in India, is outlawed for Hindus but allowed under Muslim personal law. Judicial precedents emphasize gender equality and social harmony. The law seeks to uphold women’s rights, penalize offenders, and establish compensation mechanisms. Broader measures include gradual legal reforms, a prospective Uniform Civil Code, and public awareness to reconcile constitutional equality with religious freedoms.
3. 23rd Law Commission and One Nation One Election
The 23rd Law Commission opines that the Constitution (129th Amendment) Bill, 2024, and Union Territories Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2024 enabling simultaneous elections do not violate the basic structure. Simultaneous elections can streamline governance, reduce administrative and financial burdens, and prevent policy paralysis. The commission also advised against codifying the Model Code of Conduct, supporting a flexible approach for elections. The Basic Structure Doctrine, established in Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, ensures that Parliament cannot amend core constitutional features, including fundamental rights and democratic governance principles.
4. UN Secretary-General Selection Process
The UN has launched the selection process for its next Secretary-General to assume office in January 2027. The SG acts as chief administrative officer, diplomat, and global advocate. The process includes member state nominations, Security Council vetting, and General Assembly appointment. The SG’s responsibilities span administrative oversight, diplomacy, mediation, and advocacy for international peace, security, and multilateral cooperation.
5. Defence & Strategic Updates
Taragiri Frigate: India inducted the Taragiri, a Nilgiri-class P17A stealth frigate, enhancing anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine capabilities. Built using integrated construction, ~75% of systems are indigenous.
MH-60R Helicopter: India signed sustainment deals with the US for MH-60R helicopters, crucial for anti-submarine warfare and maritime security.
Durand Line: Border tensions resurfaced between Pakistan and Afghanistan. The line, established in 1893, remains disputed, with Taliban rejecting its legitimacy.
6. Social Issue: Femicide in Italy
Italy criminalized femicide, making life imprisonment mandatory for gender-motivated killings. Recognizing femicide separately highlights systemic gender discrimination, provides legal clarity, and informs policy. India, while lacking a distinct femicide law, has multiple laws protecting women, such as the Domestic Violence Act and Dowry Prohibition Act. International observances like the UN’s Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women aim to raise awareness on gender-based violence.
CLAT / Exam Relevance Summary:
Coal Sector: Energy security, economic contribution, environmental sustainability, and just transition strategies are crucial for GS Paper 1 (Geography/Environment) and GS Paper 2 (Polity, Governance). PYQs on coal nationalization and characteristics.
Polygamy: Constitutional rights, gender equality, personal laws, and judicial precedents relevant for GS Paper 1 (Social Issues) and GS Paper 2 (Polity). PYQs on Article 21 and personal freedoms.
One Nation One Election & Law Commission: Federalism, electoral reforms, basic structure doctrine, parliamentary powers, and governance reforms relevant for GS Paper 2 (Polity). PYQs on constitutional amendments and election commission.
UN Secretary-General: International relations, UN structure, diplomacy, global governance, GS Paper 2 (International Relations).
Defence Updates: Maritime security, indigenization, and strategic capabilities relevant for GS Paper 3 (Defence, Technology).
Femicide / Gender Issues: Social empowerment, women’s rights, constitutional protections, relevant for GS Paper 1 and 2.