Quick Overview
India’s current affairs landscape this week reflects a confluence of environmental vigilance, constitutional debate, cultural commemoration, and sporting heritage. From the urgent need for Early Warning Systems in the Himalayas to the evolving discourse on contempt of court, the celebration of 150 years of Vande Mataram, and 100 years of Indian hockey — each development embodies resilience, national identity, and institutional continuity.
1. Strengthening Disaster Resilience: Early Warning Systems in the Himalayas
The Himalayan region faces increasing vulnerability to climate-induced disasters such as flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake outbursts. The frequency of such events has nearly tripled since the early 20th century.
The Early Warning System (EWS) is pivotal in mitigating disaster risks through prediction, monitoring, and community preparedness. Key institutions like NDMA, ISRO, and IMD have integrated AI-driven and satellite-based models for hazard detection.
Challenges persist — rugged terrain, data insufficiency, and cross-border coordination gaps limit timely alerts. Moving forward, India must adopt an integrated Himalayan mission under NDMA, leveraging technology and local community participation to strengthen resilience in alignment with the Sendai Framework 2015–2030 and SDG 13 (Climate Action).
2. Contempt of Court in India: Balancing Judicial Integrity and Free Speech
Recent debates over derogatory remarks against the judiciary have revived discussions on the Contempt of Court Act, 1971, which classifies contempt as civil or criminal.
While Articles 129 and 215 of the Constitution empower the Supreme Court and High Courts to punish for contempt, courts are urged to exercise this power with restraint.
Landmark judgments — from Ashwini Kumar Ghosh v. Arabinda Bose (1952) to M.V. Jayarajan v. High Court of Kerala (2015) — reaffirm that fair, evidence-based criticism strengthens democracy, whereas malicious defamation weakens judicial credibility.
Balancing free speech with judicial authority requires protecting robust debate while safeguarding courts from unwarranted attacks — a principle essential to maintaining constitutional checks and balances.
3. 150 Years of Vande Mataram: Echoes of National Awakening
On 7th November 2025, India marked 150 years of “Vande Mataram”, the national song composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in 1875.
Published in Bangadarshan and immortalised in Anandamath, the song became a unifying force during India’s freedom movement. Rabindranath Tagore’s rendition at the 1896 Congress Session cemented its national stature.
Though not explicitly mentioned in the Constitution, the song’s spirit is enshrined in Article 51A(a), calling upon citizens to respect the nation’s symbols.
Its legacy — from the Swadeshi Movement (1905) to the Gulbarga protests (1938) — continues to evoke patriotism, reminding citizens of India’s cultural and political unity.
4. 100 Years of Indian Hockey: A Century of Sporting Glory
Hockey India celebrated a century of Indian hockey (1925–2025), commemorating the sport’s unmatched legacy.
Introduced during the British era, hockey quickly became India’s pride — with eight Olympic gold medals between 1928 and 1980 marking its “Golden Era.”
The Indian Hockey Federation (1925) and later Hockey India (2009) have institutionalised training and governance to restore international competitiveness.
The centenary celebrates not only a sport but also India’s broader sporting identity — from Major Dhyan Chand’s artistry to modern-era resurgence through structured national programs.
CLAT/Exam Relevance Summary
GS Paper 3 / CLAT GK: Disaster Management, Early Warning Systems, Climate Change Adaptation in Himalayas.
GS Paper 2 / CLAT Legal Aptitude: Contempt of Court Act, judicial independence, limits of free speech.
GS Paper 1 / History & Culture: 150 years of Vande Mataram, role in the national movement, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee’s legacy.
Sports & National Identity (GK): Indian Hockey’s 100-year milestone, Major Dhyan Chand Stadium celebrations, evolution of national sports governance.