UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025 covers important current affairs of the day, their backward linkages, their relevance for Prelims exam and MCQs on main articles

InstaLinks :  Insta Links help you think beyond the  current affairs issue and help you think multidimensionally to develop depth in your understanding of these issues. These linkages provided in this ‘hint’ format help you frame possible questions in your mind that might arise(or an examiner might imagine) from each current event. InstaLinks also connect every issue to their static or theoretical background.

Table of Contents 

GS Paper 3 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March (2025)

1. Quantum Technology in Defense

2. Space Debris

 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

1. Ethical Framework for Research in Integrative Medicine

 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

1. Revised Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP)

2. Reciprocal Tariffs

3. D Voters

4. The Wallace Line

5. Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific

6. Parvatmala Pariyojana

 Mapping:

1. Japan

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025

GS Paper 3 :

Quantum Technology in Defence

Syllabus: Technology and Defence

Source:  News on Air

Context: Niti Aayog has released a strategic paper on the rapid evolution of quantum computing and its implications on national security in New Delhi.

What is Quantum Computing?

• Quantum computing leverages quantum bits (qubits), which exist in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition and entanglement.
• Unlike classical computers that process bits as 0 or 1, quantum computers perform parallel computations, exponentially increasing processing power.

Recent Advancements & Breakthroughs:

• Longer Qubit Coherence: Innovations by Atom Computing and ColdQuanta have improved qubit stability, allowing longer computations.
• High-Fidelity Qubit Control: IBM and Quantinuum are enhancing qubit accuracy, reducing errors.
• Error Correction Progress: Google’s Willow chip introduced a self-correcting quantum system, accelerating fault-tolerant quantum computing.
• Topological Qubits: Microsoft’s Majorana-1 improves stability, reducing the need for complex error correction.
• Diverse Qubit Modalities: Superconducting circuits, trapped ions, photonic qubits, and neutral atoms create a multi-approach ecosystem.

India’s Quantum Journey:

1. Early Developments: India has a strong theoretical foundation in quantum physics but lags in commercial applications.
2. National Quantum Mission (2023): ₹6,003 crore allocated to boost quantum computing, communication, cryptography, and workforce development.
3. Quantum Startups: Indian startups like QpiAI, BosonQ Psi, and TCS Quantum Computing Lab are driving innovation.
4. Public-Private Collaboration: Partnerships between academia, industry, and government to enhance quantum capabilities.
5. International Engagements: India collaborates with US, Europe, and Japan on quantum research.

Role of Quantum Technology in Defense:

• Cybersecurity & Cryptography: Quantum computing can break current encryption standards, making Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) essential.
• Intelligence & Surveillance: Enables advanced signals intelligence (SIGINT) by processing vast amounts of data in real-time.
• Military Hardware: Quantum materials enhance stealth detection, autonomous weapons, and precision navigation.
• Defense Logistics Optimization: Quantum AI improves battlefield resource allocation and strategic planning.
• Economic Warfare Protection: Secures financial markets, critical infrastructure, and government data.

Challenges in Quantum Computing:

• High Error Rates: Quantum computations are susceptible to noise, requiring complex error correction.
• Hardware Scalability: Developing large-scale fault-tolerant qubit systems remains a challenge.
• High Cost & Infrastructure Needs: Requires cryogenic cooling, precision control, and extensive research funding.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Nations must transition to quantum-safe encryption before quantum decryption capabilities emerge.
• Geopolitical Competition: The US, China, and Europe are investing heavily, leading to export restrictions and technology protectionism.

Way Ahead for India:

• Strengthen National Quantum Mission: Increase funding, foster indigenous R&D, and enhance public-private partnerships.
• Invest in Quantum Cryptography: Accelerate Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) adoption across critical infrastructure.
• Develop Quantum Workforce: Expand quantum education and training programs to build skilled talent.
• Boost Indigenous Quantum Hardware: Support domestic quantum chip fabrication and supply chain.
• International Collaboration: Engage in technology-sharing agreements to stay competitive in the quantum race.

Conclusion:

Quantum computing is no longer a futuristic concept—it is a strategic necessity. With breakthroughs in qubit stability, error correction, and quantum AI, nations are racing to secure technological supremacy. India’s National Quantum Mission must ensure self-reliance in quantum technologies to safeguard national security, defense, and economic stability.

PYQ:

Space Debris

Syllabus: Science and Technology

Source:  TH

Context: A 500-kg metal object, suspected to be space debris, crashed in Kenya, raising concerns over accountability and legal gaps in space governance.

Understanding Space Debris:

What is Space Debris?

• Man-made objects in Earth’s orbit or re-entering the atmosphere that are non-functional.
• Includes defunct satellites, spent rocket stages, and collision fragments.

Types of Space Debris:

1. Large Debris: Defunct satellites, rocket boosters, fuel tanks that survive reentry.
2. Small Debris: Fragments from satellite collisions, disintegrated spacecraft.
3. Microscopic Debris: Paint flakes, dust particles, and metal fragments from damaged satellites.

Laws Governing Space Debris:

• Outer Space Treaty (1967): Holds states responsible for national space activities by both government and private entities.
• Liability Convention (1972): Imposes absolute liability on launching states for damage caused by space objects on Earth.
• Space Debris Mitigation Guidelines (UN COPUOS): Encourages safe disposal of satellites but remains non-binding.
• 25-Year Rule (UN & IADC): Recommends deorbiting satellites within 25 years, with only 30% compliance globally.
• National Regulations (U.S., EU, China): Mandate tracking, disposal, and deorbiting plans, but enforcement is weak.

Challenges in Space Debris Governance:

• Lack of Binding International Regulations: No enforceable global framework for debris mitigation and liability enforcement.
• Attribution Issues: Difficulty in identifying the source of debris, especially for older, fragmented objects.
• Rising Space Traffic: Increasing satellite mega-constellations (Starlink, OneWeb, Kuiper) escalate the risk of collisions.
• Uncontrolled Reentries: No penalties for countries allowing uncontrolled descents of space objects.
• Enforcement & Compensation Gaps: Past incidents (e.g., Cosmos 954 crash in Canada, 1978) show delays in compensation settlements.

India’s Initiatives for Space Debris Management:

• ISRO System for Safe & Sustainable Operations Management (IS4OM) (2022): Monitors space objects that pose collision threats to Indian satellites.
• Project Netra (Network for Space Object Tracking and Analysis): Detects, tracks, and catalogs debris as small as 10 cm up to a range of 3,400 km.
• Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres: ISRO performed 21 collision avoidance manoeuvres in 2022 to prevent space debris impact.
• Space Situational Awareness (SSA) Control Centre (2020): Functions as India’s central hub for monitoring and managing space traffic.
• International Collaboration: India actively engages in UN discussions on space debris mitigation and sustainability.

Way Ahead:

• Binding Global Regulations: UN COPUOS must introduce mandatory disposal rules for satellites and penalties for uncontrolled re-entries.
• Enhanced Tracking & Prediction Systems: Expanding advanced monitoring networks (e.g., Space Fence, AI-based tracking) to trace debris origins.
• Mandatory Deorbiting Plans: Launch approvals must require clear disposal strategies such as controlled re-entry or graveyard orbits.
• Independent Liability Tribunal: A global arbitration body should ensure quick compensation settlements for damage caused by space debris.
• Sustainable Space Practices: Promote reusable rocket technology, debris-removal missions, and cleaner propulsion systems.

Conclusion:

With rising space activity, uncontrolled reentries pose increasing risks to Earth. The lack of binding international rules has left affected communities without legal recourse. Strengthening global cooperation, enforcing strict disposal rules, and establishing a liability framework are crucial to ensuring long-term space sustainability.

PYQ:

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

Ethical Framework for Research in Integrative Medicine

Context: ICMR has introduced an ethical framework for Research in Integrative Medicine (RIM) to ensure scientific integrity and patient safety in studies combining Ayush and modern medicine.

About Ethical Framework for Research in Integrative Medicine:

What is Research in Integrative Medicine (RIM)?

• Integrative Medicine (IM) blends Ayush (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy) with modern medicine for a holistic healthcare approach.
• RIM explores scientifically validated integration of these systems to improve patient care and treatment efficacy.

How the New Rules Strengthen Ethics in RIM?

1. Mandatory Inclusion of Ayush Experts: Ethics Committees must have two Ayush subject-matter experts for balanced decision-making.
2. Stronger Informed Consent: Participants receive clear, detailed information about integrative medicine interventions.
3. Regulatory Oversight: Research must comply with Drugs & Cosmetics Act (1940), Clinical Trial Rules (2019), and Ayush GCP guidelines.
4. Categorization of Ayush Medicines: Codified medicines exempted from extra trials, while non-codified traditional medicines require full regulatory approval.
5. Alignment with National Guidelines: Ensures compliance with ICMR Biomedical Research Guidelines (2017).

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:

1. GS Paper 2 – Governance & Health Policy
   • Government initiatives for integrative healthcare and regulation.
   • Role of Ayush and traditional medicine in public health.
2. GS Paper 3 – Science & Technology
   • Ethical considerations in medical research and biotechnology.
   • Advancements in clinical trials and drug regulation.
3. GS Paper 4 – Ethics & Integrity
   • Ethical dilemmas in healthcare and research.
   • Human rights and informed consent in medical trials.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP)

Revised Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP)

Source:  PIB

Context: The Union Cabinet approved the revision of the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP) with an outlay of ₹3,880 crore for 2024-26 to enhance livestock disease control.

• A new component, Pashu Aushadhi, has been introduced to provide affordable generic veterinary medicines through PM-Kisan Samriddhi Kendra and cooperatives.

About Revised Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP):

What is LHDCP?

• A centrally sponsored scheme aimed at improving livestock health through vaccination, disease control, and veterinary infrastructure enhancement.
• It ensures higher productivity, economic growth for farmers, and disease prevention in livestock.

Developed By: Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying.

Aim:

• To prevent, control, and eradicate major livestock diseases through vaccination, surveillance, and veterinary services.
• To improve veterinary healthcare accessibility via Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs).

Diseases Covered:

• Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), Classical Swine Fever (CSF), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), Anthrax, Rabies, and other livestock diseases.

Key Features:

• National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Focuses on FMD and Brucellosis eradication through mass vaccination.
• Critical Animal Disease Control Programme (CADCP): Targets PPR and CSF through 100% vaccination coverage.
• Mobile Veterinary Units (MVUs): Doorstep veterinary care through customized vehicles with diagnostic and treatment facilities.
• Pashu Aushadhi Initiative: ₹75 crore allocated for providing affordable generic veterinary medicines.
• Strengthening Veterinary Infrastructure: Upgrading veterinary hospitals, dispensaries, and diagnostic labs.
• Surveillance & Disease Reporting: Strengthening real-time disease monitoring via the Information Network for Animal Productivity and Health (INAPH).
• Public Awareness & Capacity Building: Training farmers and veterinarians on disease prevention and biosecurity measures.
• Central-State Fund Sharing: 60:40 for states, 90:10 for Northeast & Himalayan states, 100% for UTs.

Reciprocal Tariffs

Source:  IT

Context: U.S. President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on nations imposing higher levies on American goods, targeting India, China, the EU, Canada, and Mexico.

• The move aims to match import tariffs with export tariffs, reshaping global trade dynamics and potentially triggering retaliatory actions.

About Reciprocal Tariffs:

What is a Reciprocal Tariff?

• A reciprocal tariff is a trade policy where a country imposes import duties equal to the tariffs charged on its exports by other nations.
• It is designed to counter trade imbalances and discourage unfair tariff policies by foreign governments.

How Does It Work?

• If a country imposes higher tariffs on U.S. goods, the U.S. will match the rate on imports from that nation.
• The policy applies to goods, services, and non-tariff barriers restricting U.S. market access.
• It aims to reduce trade deficits and encourage countries to lower their tariffs to maintain access to the U.S. market.

Does It Violate WTO Rules?

• Yes, it may contradict WTO principles, which advocate non-discriminatory trade policies under the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rule.
• However, the U.S. can justify it under Article XXI (national security exception) or Article XX (general exceptions) of the WTO agreement.

Consequences of Reciprocal Tariffs

• Escalation of Trade Wars: Countries like China, Canada, and Mexico may impose retaliatory tariffs, leading to supply chain disruptions and higher global trade tensions.
• Increase in Consumer Prices: Tariffs raise import costs, which businesses pass on to consumers, causing inflation and reduced purchasing power.
• Economic Volatility: Unpredictable trade policies create market instability, lowering investor confidence and slowing economic growth.
• Strained Diplomatic & WTO Disputes: Countries may challenge U.S. tariffs at the WTO, worsening bilateral relations and risking trade retaliation.
• Boost to U.S. Manufacturing: Higher tariffs on imports may push companies to manufacture domestically, creating jobs and reducing trade deficits.

D Voters

Source:  DTE

Context: The Assam Assembly witnessed discussions on ‘D’ (Doubtful) voters, with the Opposition demanding closure of the detention center and the tabling of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) report.

About D Voters:

Who are ‘D’ Voters?

• ‘D’ (Doubtful) voters are individuals whose Indian citizenship is under question, and they are barred from voting or contesting elections.
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced this category in 1997 in Assam to identify those who failed to prove their citizenship.

Classification as ‘D’ Voters:

• Any person whose citizenship status is in doubt during electoral roll verification is marked as a ‘D’ voter.
• Cases are referred to Foreigners Tribunals (FTs), which decide whether the person is an Indian citizen or an illegal immigrant.
• Families may have some members recognized as citizens while others are marked as ‘D’ voters, causing legal and social distress.

Rules Governing ‘D’ Voters:

• The Citizenship Act, 1955, and the Citizenship Rules, 2003, do not define ‘D’ voters explicitly.
• The 2003 Citizenship Rules mandate that details of individuals whose citizenship is doubtful be entered in the National Population Register (NPR) with a remark for further verification.
• They are not allowed to vote or contest elections until they get clearance from the Foreigners Tribunal (FT).

Key Features of ‘D’ Voter Status:

• Temporary Classification: The ‘D’ voter status cannot be prolonged indefinitely, and a final decision must be taken within a definite period.
• Legal Recourse: Individuals can appeal to the Foreigners Tribunal and seek clearance for inclusion in NRC.
• Detention & Deportation: If declared a foreigner, the person may be deported or placed in a detention center.
• Impact on Families: Many cases involve split families, where some members are marked as ‘D’ voters while others hold Indian citizenship.
• Plight of Detainees: Many Indian citizens have been detained, with no clear mechanism for their release even after years.

The Wallace Line

Source:  TH

Context: The Wallace Line, first identified by Alfred Russel Wallace, explains species distribution between Asia and Australia, with new studies refining our understanding of its evolutionary significance.

About the Wallace Line:

What is the Wallace Line?

• A biogeographical boundary that separates the eco-zones of Asia and Australia.
• Identified by Alfred Russel Wallace in 1863, it runs between Bali and Lombok, and continues north through the Makassar Strait between Borneo and Sulawesi.

Formation of the Wallace Line:

• Result of continental drift: Australia split from Antarctica and drifted northward, colliding with Asia around 35 million years ago.
• This movement formed deep-water channels that still act as barriers, preventing species migration.
• During the Pleistocene Epoch, land bridges emerged due to lower sea levels, yet the deep waters between Asia and Australia maintained the boundary.

Uniqueness of the Wallace Line:

• Sharp distinction in species: To the west, Asiatic species like tigers and elephants dominate, while to the east, Australian fauna such as kangaroos and marsupials thrive.
• Narrow geographical divide: Despite being just 20 km apart, islands on either side have distinct biodiversity.
• Birds and mammals are heavily influenced, with few species crossing the line, while marine species remain unaffected due to the high connectivity of ocean ecosystems.

Significance of the Wallace Line:

• Supports the theory of evolution by showing how geographical barriers drive species diversification.
• Essential for conservation: Understanding species migration helps predict biodiversity responses to habitat loss and climate change.
• Highlights the impact of continental drift on global ecosystems and the role of natural barriers in shaping evolution.

Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific

Source:  DD News

Context: The 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific concluded with the unanimous adoption of the Jaipur Declaration, promoting sustainable resource use and circular economy principles.

• India proposed the ‘Cities Coalition for Circularity’ (C-3) to enhance global collaboration on waste management and urban sustainability.

About Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific:

• What is It?

• • A regional platform that brings together policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to discuss sustainable waste management and circular economy practices.
  • Focuses on the 3R principles – Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to promote resource efficiency and environmental sustainability.

• Host City: Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
• Organized by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (India), UN Centre for Regional Development (UNCRD), and Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES).
• Supported by: United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP), Japan’s Ministry of Environment, and other global organizations.
• History:

• • Established in 2009, the forum has become a leading conference on sustainable urban waste management in Asia-Pacific.
  • Last Forum (2023): Hosted by Cambodia.
  • India’s Previous Hosting: Indore (2018, 8th Forum).

12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum (2025):

• Theme: “Realizing Circular Societies Towards Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific.”
• Key Outcomes of the Jaipur Declaration:

• • Commitment to Circular Economy: Strengthening waste management systems and sustainable material consumption.
  • Launch of ‘Cities Coalition for Circularity’ (C-3): A global alliance for knowledge-sharing and urban sustainability.
  • Integration with SDGs & Climate Goals: Aligning circular economy strategies with carbon neutrality and climate resilience.
  • India’s Candidacy for WCEF 2026: India announced its bid to host the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) 2026.
  • CITIIS 2.0 Initiative: Agreements worth ₹1,800 crore signed for integrated waste management and climate action projects across 18 cities in 14 states.

Parvatmala Pariyojana

Source:  NIE

Context: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved two major ropeway projects in Uttarakhand under the Parvatmala Pariyojana, connecting Govindghat-Hemkund Sahib (12.4 km) and Sonprayag-Kedarnath (12.9 km).

About Hemkund Sahib Ji:

• Location: Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, at an altitude of 4,632 meters in the Garhwal Himalayas.
• Connectivity: Currently accessible via a 21-km trek from Govindghat, soon to be connected via ropeway.
• Features:
  • One of Sikhism’s holiest shrines, dedicated to Guru Gobind Singh Ji.
  • Also, a gateway to the Valley of Flowers, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

About Parvatmala Pariyojana:

What is Parvatmala Pariyojana?

• A National Ropeways Development Programme aimed at boosting ropeway connectivity in hilly areas.

Launched In:

• Announced in the Union Budget 2022-23 by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

Ministry:

• Implemented by MoRTH under the National Highways Logistics Management Limited (NHLML).

Aim:

• To enhance connectivity in difficult terrains and reduce travel time in hilly areas.
• To promote eco-friendly and cost-effective transport solutions.
• To boost tourism and local economy by facilitating better access to remote locations.

Key Feature:

• 200+ Ropeway Projects Planned: Over the next five years with a budget of ₹1.25 lakh crore.
• Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: Encourages private sector participation for economic viability.
• Monocable & Tricable Gondola Technology: Ensures high capacity, better efficiency, and safety.
• Hybrid Annuity Mode (HAM) Support: 60% construction funding by the government, making projects more feasible.
• Make in India Initiative: Focus on indigenous manufacturing to boost local industries.
• Multi-Utility Benefits: Ropeways to be used for tourism, urban transport, and logistics in remote areas.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 6 March 2025 Mapping:

Japan

Source:  CNN

Context: Japan is facing its biggest forest fire in three decades, with over 2,000 firefighters deployed to control the flames in Iwate Prefecture.

About Places in News:

Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture:

• Location: Situated in northern Japan, within Iwate Prefecture on the Honshu Island.
• Habitat: A coastal city with dense forests, mountainous terrain, and a humid climate.
• Significance: Known for fisheries, tourism, and rich biodiversity, now battling an unprecedented wildfire.

About Japan:

• Located in: East Asia, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean.
• Capital: Tokyo, one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas.

Neighbouring Countries:

• China: Separated by the East China Sea to the southwest.
• South Korea: Lies across the Korea Strait and the Sea of Japan (East Sea).
• North Korea: Shares maritime boundaries via the Sea of Japan (East Sea).
• Russia: Separated by the La Perouse (Sōya) Strait, Sea of Okhotsk, and Kuril Islands dispute.
• Taiwan: Lies to the south across the Philippine Sea.

Japan is surrounded by multiple seas, including the Sea of Japan, East China Sea, Pacific Ocean, and Sea of Okhotsk, which define its maritime boundaries.

Geological Features:

1. Mountains & Volcanoes

• Over 80% of Japan is covered in mountains.
• Mount Fuji (3,776 meters): The highest peak and a dormant volcano.
• Lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, making it prone to earthquakes and volcanic activity.

2. Islands

• Main Islands: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku.
• Other Notable Islands: Ryukyu (including Okinawa), Izu, Bonin (Ogasawara), and Volcano Islands.

3. Rivers & Climate

• Major Rivers: Shinano River (longest), Tone River, Kiso River.
• Climate: Varies from humid subtropical in the south to cold continental in the north.

Daily Current Affairs + PIB Summary 6 Mar 2025

Follow us on our Official TELEGRAM Channel HERE

Subscribe to Our Official YouTube Channel HERE

Please subscribe to Our podcast channel HERE

Official Facebook Page HERE

Twitter Account HERE

Instagram Account HERE

LinkedIn: HERE