UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 2025

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 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 2 : (UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July (2025)

1. Socialist and Secular in India’s Preamble

2. 10 Years of The Digital India Initiative

 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME):

1. One Big Beautiful Bill

 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

1. Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme

2. RailOne App

3. Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)

4. INS Udaygiri

5. Backdoor Layoffs

6. Santhal Rebellion (Hul)

Mapping:

1. Trinidad and Tobago

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 2025

GS Paper 2 :

Socialist and Secular in India’s Preamble

Syllabus: Preamble

Source:  DH

Context: Recent statements by political leaders from the ruling alliance have reignited the debate on removing the words “Socialist” and “Secular” from the Preamble, originally added through the 42nd Constitutional Amendment during the Emergency.

About Socialist and Secular in India’s Preamble:

What is the Preamble?

• Definition: The Preamble is the introductory statement to the Constitution that outlines its objectives and guiding philosophy.
• Origin: Drafted under the leadership of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, it was adopted on 26 November 1949.
• Legal Status: Though not legally enforceable, it is used as a tool for constitutional interpretation.
• Features of the Preamble:

• Declares India as a Sovereign, Socialist, Secular, Democratic Republic.
• Ensures Justice (social, economic, political), Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity.
• Reflects the aspirations of the people and the core values of the Constitution.

What is the Issue Now?

• Political Debate: Calls to remove “socialist” and “secular” citing their Emergency-era insertion.
• Legal Concern: Questions raised over whether amending these terms violates the Basic Structure Doctrine.
• Ideological Divide: Critics view the move as an attempt to dilute India’s inclusive and welfare-oriented ethos.

Meaning of “Socialist” and “Secular”:

• Socialist: Implies commitment to welfare policies, reduced inequality, and equitable distribution (e.g., PM Garib Kalyan Yojana).
• Secular: State maintains neutrality towards all religions and ensures equal rights for all faiths (e.g., Article 25-28).

Reasons for Adding ‘Socialist’ and ‘Secular’ (42nd Amendment):

• Clarification: To reflect existing values already embedded in Directive Principles.
• Strengthening Ideals: Reinforce India’s commitment to inclusive development.
• Emergency Politics: Intended to reshape political narratives during a time of centralized control.
• Legal Backing: Passed by special majority, endorsed by judiciary in Minerva Mills (1980).

Can the Preamble Be Amended?

• Arguments Supporting Amendment

• • Article 368: Constitution permits amendment of any part, including the Preamble.
  • Parliamentary Power: 42nd Amendment itself set precedent for altering the Preamble.
  • Democratic Evolution: Society’s values evolve; Constitution must reflect contemporary realities.
  • Not Justiciable: Preamble is not enforceable in courts, allowing flexibility.

• Arguments Against Amendment:

• • Basic Structure Doctrine: Secularism is part of Constitution’s unalterable core (Kesavananda Bharati, 1973).
  • Foundational Spirit: Values like secularism were implicitly present since inception.
  • Judicial Precedents: Supreme Court in Minerva Mills called additions a source of vitality.
  • Constituent Assembly Rejection: B.R. Ambedkar had rejected inclusion of ideology terms to protect democracy.

Key Supreme Court Cases on Preamble:

• Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Declared secularism as part of basic structure.
• Berubari Case (1960): Held that the Preamble is not part of the Constitution, but guides interpretation.
• Minerva Mills (1980): Upheld the insertion of “socialist” and “secular” as strengthening constitutional philosophy.
• St. Xavier’s College v. Gujarat (1974): Stated that secularism was inherent even before the amendment.

Conclusion:

Tampering with the Preamble is not a matter of wording—it’s a challenge to the constitutional vision of India. Secularism and socialism are not political tools but guiding lights of governance. Any attempt to dilute them must be resisted with legal, moral, and democratic firmness.

PYQ:

10 Years of The Digital India Initiative

Syllabus: Governance

Source:  PIB

Context: India celebrated 10 years of the Digital India initiative on July 1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted its transformation from a governance scheme into a people-driven movement.

About 10 years of the Digital India Initiative:

• What is Digital India?

• • Launched: 1st July 2015 by the Prime Minister of India.
  • Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
  • Vision: To transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
  • Objective: Deliver digital infrastructure as a utility to every citizen, ensure governance & services on demand, and digitally empower citizens.

Core Pillars of Digital India:

1. Broadband Highways: Ensure high-speed internet to rural and urban areas.
2. Universal Mobile Access: Expand network coverage in remote areas.
3. Public Internet Access Programme: Provide access through Common Service Centres (CSCs).
4. e-Governance: Simplify government procedures using IT.
5. e-Kranti: Deliver services electronically (education, health, etc.).
6. Information for All: Promote open data and citizen engagement.
7. Electronics Manufacturing: Promote domestic production.
8. IT for Jobs: Provide digital skill training.
9. Early Harvest Programmes: Quick-win projects like biometric attendance and Wi-Fi hotspots.

Achievements in 10 Years:

• Internet Access: Internet connections grew from 25 crore (2014) to 96.96 crore (2024), expanding digital access to even remote rural regions.
• Digital Payments: India leads the world in digital transactions, accounting for 49% of global real-time payments.
• Digital Economy Contribution: The digital economy’s share in GDP rose to 11.74% (2022–23), and is projected to reach 13.42% (2024–25).
• BharatNet: Over 2.18 lakh Gram Panchayats connected with high-speed optical fibre, improving last-mile connectivity.
• DigiLocker: Over 53.92 crore citizens use DigiLocker to access documents like PAN, Aadhaar, and educational certificates online.
• UMANG App: Offers 2,300+ services in 23 languages, with over 8.34 crore registered users.
• Digital Literacy (PMGDISHA): Over 6 crore rural individuals trained in basic digital skills, empowering citizens to use smartphones and apps.
• Aadhaar & DBT: ₹44 lakh crore transferred through Direct Benefit Transfers linked with Aadhaar, eliminating middlemen.

Success Factors of Digital India:

• Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Aadhaar for identity, UPI for payments, and DigiLocker for documentation created a strong digital foundation.
• Cost-Effective Internet: India offers the world’s cheapest mobile data (~₹10/GB), enabling mass affordability.
• Widespread Mobile Access: 4.74 lakh 5G towers now cover 99.6% of districts, enabling high-speed connectivity nationwide.
• Start-up and MSME Boost: ONDC and GeM enabled small sellers and MSMEs to access nationwide digital markets.
• AI and Semiconductors Push: IndiaAI and the ₹76,000 crore Semiconductor Mission focus on next-gen tech innovation.

Scope for Improvement:

• Digital Divide: Significant disparities still exist in device ownership and internet usage, especially among women and the poor.
• Data Protection: Citizens lack awareness of privacy rights and the Personal Data Protection Act is still evolving.
• Regional Language Access: Though Bhashini supports 35+ languages, most digital content remains English-centric.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Power cuts, low bandwidth, and poor last-mile delivery affect connectivity in hill, tribal, and border areas.
• Skill Mismatch: Demand for high-end tech jobs far outpaces availability of skilled workforce, especially in AI and cybersecurity.

 Way Ahead:

• Strengthen Digital Education: Scale platforms like DIKSHA, SWAYAM, PM eVIDYA with vernacular and skill-based content.
• Bridge Urban-Rural Gaps: Expand internet infrastructure, smartphone subsidies, and community training centres in under-served areas.
• Promote Inclusive AI: Use AI for smart agriculture, flood alerts, healthcare diagnostics, and education access.
• Improve Data Security: Strengthen CERT-In, implement data fiduciary norms, and raise awareness on digital safety.
• Boost Digital Exports: Promote DPI models like UPI and Aadhaar in Global South, positioning India as a digital diplomacy leader.

Conclusion:

Digital India has redefined governance, service delivery, and empowerment over the last decade. As India advances towards becoming a Viksit Bharat, the next phase must focus on inclusivity, ethical innovation, and global digital leadership.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 2025 Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)

One Big Beautiful Bill

Context: The US Senate narrowly advanced President Trump’s “One Big Beautiful Bill”, a sweeping tax and spending package estimated to add $3.3 trillion to federal debt.

About One Big Beautiful Bill:

• It is a 940-page legislative packagecombining tax reforms, spending cuts, and policy changes, including:

• • Tax Cuts – Extends Trump’s 2017 tax cuts for the wealthy, eliminates taxes on tips/overtime pay, and raises SALT deduction limits.
  • Spending Cuts – Slashes Medicaid and SNAP (food aid) while increasing defence spending ($158B) and border security ($170B).
  • Debt Ceiling Hike – Proposes raising the limit by $5 trillion to prevent a US default.

• Key Impacts:

• • Fiscal Deficit: Could add $3.3 trillion to US debt over a decade (CBO estimate).
  • Social Welfare Cuts: Stricter work requirements for Medicaid and food aid beneficiaries.
  • Political Divide: Faces opposition over tax breaks for the rich and deep spending cuts.

Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus:

• International Relations (GS-II):

• • Global Economic Governance: US fiscal policies influence IMF, World Bank, and trade agreements, affecting developing economies like India.
  • Dollar Hegemony: Debt ceiling crises impact global financial stability and India’s forex reserves due to dollar dependency.

• Economics (GS-III):

• • Fiscal Policy & Budgeting: US tax cuts vs. deficit spending debate mirrors India’s challenges in balancing growth and fiscal prudence.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 2025 Facts for Prelims (FFP):

Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme

Source:  PIB

Context: The Union Cabinet approved the Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme, aiming to create over 3.5 crore jobs and boost formal employment across sectors, especially manufacturing.

About Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme:

The Employment Linked Incentive (ELI) Scheme is a government initiative launched to promote large-scale formal job creation across all sectors, especially manufacturing.

• Ministry: Ministry of Labour and Employment
• Type: Direct Incentive Scheme to boost employment
• Launched Under: Union Budget 2024–25’s youth skilling and employment package
• Outlay: ₹99,446 crore for 2 years
• Timeline: Covers jobs created between Aug 1, 2025 – July 31, 2027

Key Features of the ELI Scheme

• Part A – For First-Time Employees

• • Incentive Amount: One month’s EPF wage (up to ₹15,000) in two instalments.
  • Eligibility: First-time salaried employees (up to ₹1 lakh salary), registered with EPFO.
  • Conditions:
    • 1st instalment after 6 months of continuous service.
    • 2nd instalment after 12 months + financial literacy course.
  • Savings Link: A portion of incentive to be held in a deposit account to promote saving habits.
  • Expected Beneficiaries: ~1.92 crore workers.

• Part B – For Employers

• • Focus: All sectors, with extended support for manufacturing sector.
  • Incentives: ₹1,000–₹3,000/month per new employee for 2 years.
  • Extended Benefit: For manufacturing sector, incentives extended up to 4 years.
  • Eligibility:
    • EPFO-registered firms hiring 2+ employees (if <50) or 5+ (if ≥50).
    • New hires must remain employed for at least 6 months.

• • Payment Mode:
    • Employees: Via DBT using Aadhaar-based ABPS
    • Employers: Directly into PAN-linked accounts

• Significance of the Scheme:

• Job Creation Catalyst: Targets 3.5 crore+ jobs, especially for first-time formal workforce entrants.
• Workforce Formalization: Expands social security coverage through EPFO.
• Boost to Manufacturing: Long-term incentives to revive and expand labour-intensive sectors.
• Promotes Savings: Structured wage-based savings incentive for youth.

RailOne App

Source:  IT

Context: The Union Railway Minister launched the RailOne App, during the 40th Foundation Day of CRIS. The app aims to streamline and digitize passenger services across Indian Railways.

About RailOne App:

• What is RailOne?
  • RailOne is an all-in-one mobile application for Indian Railways passengers, offering integrated services through a single platform.
• Developed By: Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS), under the Ministry of Railways.
• Objective: To enhance digital interface, offer seamless access to rail services, and reduce dependency on multiple apps.
• Key Features of RailOne App:

• • Integrated Passenger Services: Combines unreserved ticket booking (UTS), live train tracking, e-catering, porter services, and last-mile taxi booking.
  • Digital Ticketing: Unreserved UTS tickets through R-Wallet offer a 3% discount.
  • Unified Login: Uses single sign-on via mPIN, biometric, and supports existing UTS/RailConnect credentials.
  • Space-Saving App: Eliminates the need to install multiple railway apps.
  • Grievance Redressal: Easy lodging and tracking of complaints for better passenger support.
  • Authorised by IRCTC: Similar to other commercial apps integrated with the official ticketing system.

• Future Vision – Upgraded PRS System:

• • Launch by December 2025: A modern, multilingual, scalable Passenger Reservation System (PRS) is under development.
  • Advanced Capabilities: Handles 1.5 lakh ticket bookings and 40 lakh enquiries/min.
  • Inclusive Design: Features for Divyangjan, students, and patients, with seat choice and fare calendar.

Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI)

Source:  News on Air

Context: The Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) has successfully executed over 60 GW of Power Sale Agreements (PSAs) for solar, wind, and hybrid energy projects.

About Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI):

• What is SECI?
  • SECI is a Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE). It serves as a nodal agency for implementing India’s renewable energy initiatives.
• Established: 2011, to implement the National Solar Mission (NSM).
• Aim:
  • SECI was initially focused only on solar energy.
  • SECI’s scope has expanded to cover the entire renewable energy spectrum, and it will soon be renamed Renewable Energy Corporation of India (RECI).
• Functions and Roles

• • Power Sale Agreements (PSAs): SECI provides long-term power purchase guarantees to developers, boosting investor confidence in RE ventures.
  • Implementing Govt Schemes: Manages key schemes such as the Viability Gap Funding (VGF), solar parks, rooftop solar, solar canals, and defence & border projects.
  • Innovative Models: Pioneers hybrid RE solutions like solar-wind combos, Round-the-Clock (RTC) power, and Firm & Dispatchable RE (FDRE) projects.
  • Project Development: Acts as turnkey developer for PSUs, expanding RE reach to diverse sectors.
  • Power Trading: Operates with a power trading license to sell solar power from implemented schemes.
  • Mission-Driven: Aims to democratize clean energy access, enhance grid reliability, and create a low-carbon economy through scalable RE models.

• Significance of the 60 GW PSA Milestone:

• • Capital Infusion: Guarantees secure offtake and encourages large-scale private and public investments in RE.
  • Market Expansion: Enhances RE adoption among states by offering customized power solutions based on regional needs.
  • Navratna Status (2024): SECI can now independently invest up to ₹1,000 crore, fast-tracking green infrastructure without central approval.

INS Udaygiri

Source:  NIE

Context: The Indian Navy has received INS Udaygiri, the second stealth frigate under Project 17A, built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL), delivered in a record time of 37 months.

About Project 17A:

• What is Project 17A?
  • A series of seven indigenous stealth frigates, developed as a follow-up to the Shivalik-class (Project 17) frigates.
• Launched under: Initiated in 2015, with construction undertaken by MDL, Mumbai and GRSE, Kolkata.
• Objective: To strengthen India’s blue water naval capabilities, with stealth features, indigenous content, and reduced construction timelines using Integrated Construction techniques.

About INS Udaygiri:

• Built by: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL)
• Legacy: Named after the decommissioned INS Udaygiri (retired in 2007 after 31 years of service)
  • The first frigate under Project 17A is INS Nilgiri. This is second frigate of the Project 17A series.
• Key Features:
  • Advanced stealth design with sleek radar-minimizing profile
  • Equipped with:
    • Supersonic surface-to-surface missiles
    • Medium-range surface-to-air missiles
    • 76 mm main gun
    • Close-in weapon systems (30 mm & 12.7 mm)
  • Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system with Controllable Pitch Propeller.
  • Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS) for automated operations.
  • Enhanced hull size – 4.54% larger than previous Project 17 ships.
  • Constructed using modular block construction and pre-outfitting.

Backdoor Layoffs

Source:  TH

Context: Google has initiated a Voluntary Exit Programme (VEP) and new hybrid work mandates, sparking debate over ‘backdoor layoffs’ amid ongoing workforce restructuring across global tech giants.

About Backdoor Layoffs:

• Definition: Backdoor layoffs are indirect methods used by companies to reduce workforce without formal termination notices, often avoiding regulatory scrutiny and public backlash.
• How Do Backdoor Layoffs Work?

• • Voluntary Exit Programmes (VEP): Employees are offered severance pay to resign voluntarily. This helps companies reduce headcount without official layoffs.
    E.g. Google’s VEP for Core Systems and Marketing teams.
  • Enforcing Unfavourable Work Conditions: Forcing remote workers to shift to hybrid schedules may lead to resignations, effectively reducing staff without declaring layoffs.
  • Strategic Role Dissolution: Dissolving certain teams (e.g., Knowledge, AR, Voice Assistant) indirectly compels exits.

• Key Characteristics of Backdoor Layoffs:

• • Disguised Downsizing: Avoids public backlash and Workers Adjustment & Retraining Notification (WARN) Act compliance in the U.S.
  • Legally Safer: Less likely to face litigation as employees technically resign.
  • Reduces Severance Burden: Avoids large-scale severance costs tied to involuntary layoffs.
  • Preceded by Policy Changes: Often introduced along with new rules (e.g., return-to-office mandates) to prompt resignations.

Santhal Rebellion (Hul)

Source:  IE

Context: Recently, the 170th anniversary of the Santhal Rebellion (Hul) was observed. The Jharkhand government commemorated the occasion as ‘Hul Diwas’.

About Santhal Rebellion (Hul):

• What was the Santhal Rebellion?
  • The Santhal Rebellion, also called ‘Hul’ (meaning revolution), was a mass uprising by the Santhal tribal community against British colonial oppression, zamindari exploitation, and moneylenders’ abuse in the Rajmahal hills
• Key Timeline:
  • Year: 1855–1856
  • Leaders: Sidhu Murmu, Kanhu Murmu, Chand Murmu, Bhairav Murmu
  • Women warriors: Phulo and Jhano Murmu
  • Location: Damin-i-Koh region (present-day Santhal Parganas, Jharkhand)
• Causes of Rebellion:
  • Land Alienation: British Permanent Settlement disrupted tribal landholding; lands were seized by zamindars.
  • Economic Exploitation: Santhals fell into debt traps through high-interest loans by moneylenders.
  • Forced Labour: Practices like kamioti and harwahi forced Santhals into bonded labour.
  • Loss of Traditional Livelihood: Displacement and disruption of subsistence farming led to deep distress.
  • Corruption & Oppression: British officials and intermediaries imposed unfair revenue systems and legal exploitation.
• Sequence of Events:
  • June 30, 1855: Sidhu and Kanhu declared rebellion at Bhognadih village.
  • Mass Mobilisation: 10,000+ Santhals declared autonomy between Rajmahal and Bhagalpur.
  • Initial Successes: Santhals used guerrilla tactics, attacking moneylenders and colonial agents.
  • British Suppression: Martial law declared; British used firearms and elephants to suppress revolt.
  • End Phase (1856): Both Sidhu and Kanhu were killed and the rebellion was brutally crushed.
• Outcomes and Legacy:
  • Creation of Santhal Parganas (1856): Separate administrative unit with tribal-focused governance.
  • Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act (1876): Protected Santhal land rights from non-tribal encroachment.
  • Inspiration for Future Movements: Set the tone for later tribal uprisings and contributed to India’s resistance narrative.
  • Cultural Legacy: ‘Hul Diwas’ is celebrated annually and Santhal heroes honoured in folk songs and literature.

UPSC CURRENT AFFAIRS – 2 July 2025 Mapping:

Trinidad and Tobago

Source:  LM

Context: Indian Prime Minister has scheduled a historic diplomatic visit to Trinidad and Tobago, marking the first-ever bilateral PM-level visit, intensifying India’s engagement with the Global South.

About Trinidad and Tobago:

• Geographical Location:

• • Country: Trinidad and Tobago, an island nation in the southeastern West Indies.
  • Capital: Port of Spain, located on Trinidad’s northwestern coast.
  • Neighbouring Countries: Lies northeast of Venezuela, northwest of Guyana, separated by the Gulf of Paria. (All are maritime boundaries).

• Main Islands:

• • Trinidad: Larger island, area ~4,800 sq. km.
  • Tobago: Smaller island, ~300 sq. km, located 30 km northeast of Trinidad.
  • Little Tobago: Tiny island near Tobago, once habitat of the bird of paradise.

• Mountain Ranges:

• • Trinidad:
    • Northern Range: Extension of Venezuela’s Andes and Mount Aripo (940 m) is the highest peak.
    • Central Range: Contains Mount Tamana (308 m).
    • Southern Range: Low hills across the island’s southern flank.
  • Tobago:
    • Dominated by the Main Ridge (~550 m), extending NE–SW into coral plains.

• Rivers & Swamps:

• • Major Rivers: Ortoire (south), Caroni (north).
  • Wetlands: Caroni Swamp, Nariva Swamp – critical biodiversity hotspots.

• Unique Features:

• • Pitch Lake (Trinidad): Largest natural asphalt deposit.
  • Mud Volcanoes: Notably Devil’s Woodyard from gas and water seepages.
  • Coral Reefs: Buccoo Reef in Tobago, renowned for marine biodiversity, now endangered due to tourism and pollution.

• Climate Highlights:

• • Type: Tropical, humid with sea breeze moderation.
  • Temperature: 25°C to 32°C and cooler Jan–Feb, warmer Apr–May & Oct.

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