Justice, Welfare, and Institutional Efficiency: UPSC Current Affairs Analysis & Study Strategy

In-Depth Analysis

The Big Picture

The Indian state is navigating a systemic transition: attempting to modernize legacy legal frameworks (Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita - BNS) while managing a crisis of institutional inertia characterized by over 50 million pending cases and a 55% pendency rate in Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs). There is a structural tension between the expansion of modern 'third-generation' rights (e.g., Right to Disconnect, Menstrual Leave) and the systemic failure to protect foundational rights against child trafficking and forced labor.

Cross-Theme Insight

A 'de-judicialization' trend is emerging, where governance shifts from 'demand-driven' statutory rights (like MGNREGA) to 'supply-driven' executive missions (like the VB-G RAM G Bill). To bypass traditional court bottlenecks, the state is increasingly leveraging alternative forums like Lok Adalats and digital grievance platforms (CPGRAMS). This signifies a pivot from a rights-based framework toward an 'administrative-efficiency' model, where speed of disposal is prioritized over the depth of judicial process.

Textbook vs Reality Gap

Standard textbooks like Laxmikanth (Chapter 38) focus on the 'independence' and 'statutory status' of Tribunals and Lok Adalats as efficient mechanisms. However, recent developments [2025-11-12] show the Supreme Court expressing 'displeasure' over executive interference and vacancies, indicating that the theoretical 'independence' taught in books is being compromised. Similarly, while textbooks define MGNREGA via Article 41 (Right to Work), the new 'Gramin Rozgar Bill' [2025-12-16] shifts this from a legal entitlement to a government-determined mission, challenging the 'Rights-Based Approach' established in 2005.

How This Theme Is Evolving

The 2025-26 trajectory has shifted from merely identifying gaps to aggressive legislative overhaul. We see the complete replacement of the IPC with BNS and a transition in social security where flagship schemes are being restructured from open-ended entitlements to targeted, performance-linked missions.

UPSC Exam Intelligence

Previous Year Question Pattern

Historically, exams tested static constitutional provisions such as Article 24 (Child Labor, nid:4379) and the nature of the Supreme Court's power (nid:5421). Recent trends (IAS 2019, nid:6392) emphasize judicial independence vs. executive amendments (NJAC context). The 'Right-based approach' (CDS-I 2011, nid:11699) is a recurring theme that is now directly challenged by the new supply-driven policy shift.

Probable Prelims Angles

• Distinction between BNS Sections 143-146 and earlier IPC trafficking provisions.
• Statutory vs. Constitutional status of the NCPCR and NHRC (Refer: nid:12232, nid:6076).
• Jurisdictional limits of 'Permanent Lok Adalats' for public utility services (Refer: nid:13372).
• Features of the Overseas Mobility Bill 2025 regarding migrant worker deregulation.
• Judicial vacancy statistics: Current ratio (~15 per 10 lakh) vs. Law Commission recommendation (50 per 10 lakh).

Mains Answer Framework

• India's socio-legal architecture is undergoing a paradigm shift from 'Rights-based entitlements' to 'Efficiency-led administrative missions,' as evidenced by the transition from MGNREGA to the VB-G RAM G Bill and the implementation of the BNS.
• Institutional Bottlenecks: Analyze the impact of judicial vacancies and the 5.1 crore case pendency on the 'Rule of Law'.. Welfare Evolution: Contrast the demand-driven nature of the 2005 Act with the supply-led 2025 bill.. Social Justice: Evaluate the efficacy of JJBs and NCPCR in the face of rising child trafficking data.. Legislative Modernization: Discuss BNS as an attempt to decolonize Indian criminal law while noting concerns about executive discretion.
• To ensure 'Justice, Welfare, and Efficiency' do not become mutually exclusive, India must balance administrative speed with the preservation of constitutional entitlements and judicial independence.

Preparation Strategy

Key Connections

Sub-Themes and News Coverage (11 themes, 42 news items)

Judicial Backlog and Infrastructure Crisis

Focus: Statistical reports and court observations highlighting severe case pendency, delays, and judicial vacancies across the Indian legal system.

UPSC Value: Highlights the structural challenges in the Indian judiciary, useful for GS-2 (Judiciary) and Essay topics on Justice Delivery.

7 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-14 [Polity & Governance] — Judges Complaints in India
  From 2016 to 2025, there were 8360 cases registered against judges.
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  UPSC Angle: From 2016 to 2025, there were 8360 cases registered against judges.

  Key Facts:

  • 8360 cases
  • 2016
  • 2025
  • judges
• 2025-11-12 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court on Independence of Tribunals
  The Supreme Court has emphasized that tribunals must have the same independence from the executive as the judiciary. The Court has expressed displeasure over delays in filling vacancies across key tribunals and highlighted ongoing tensions with the government over tribunal control. The Court recommended administrative control be placed under the Law Ministry and proposed an independent National Tribunals Commission, but these reforms have not been implemented.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court emphasizes independence of tribunals from the executive.

  Key Facts:

  • Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021 is under challenge
  • National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) had 24 vacancies out of 32 posts as of December 2022
  • Armed Forces Tribunal had 24 vacancies out of 34 posts as of December 2022
  • Income Tax Appellate Tribunal had 18 of 63 judicial posts vacant as of December 2022
  • Railway Claims Tribunal had both vice-chairman (judicial) posts vacant, along with 16 of 20 judicial positions as of December 2022
  • Labour and Industrial Tribunals had only 13 presiding officers in place against 22 sanctioned posts as of December 2022
  • 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976) introduced Articles 323A and 323B establishing tribunals
• 2025-09-15 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Case Pendency
  The number of pending cases in the Supreme Court of India has reached an all-time high, raising concerns about the efficiency of the judicial system. According to the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG), there are 88,492 cases pending, including 69,605 civil cases and 18,887 criminal cases.
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  UPSC Angle: Rising case pendency in Supreme Court raises concerns about judicial efficiency.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court of India
  • 88,492
  • pending cases
  • 69,605
  • civil cases
  • 18,887
  • criminal cases
  • National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG)
  • Supreme Court backlog: 88,417 cases
• 2025-07-29 [Polity & Governance] — Backlog of Cases in Indian Courts
  A data point in The Hindu highlights the large number of pending cases in Indian courts, causing delays in justice. The reasons include a lack of clear timelines for case filings, witness examinations, and hearings, as well as the filing of frivolous cases. The Supreme Court has imposed fines for frivolous PILs, such as one challenging the conclusions of Charles Darwin's evolution theory.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Over 86,000 cases pending.
  • Lack of clear timelines for case filing, witness examination and hearing.
  • Supreme Court imposed a fine on a petitioner challenging Charles Darwin's evolution theory.
  • The Law Commission has suggested appointing retired judges as ad hoc appointees to address the backlog at the high court level.
• 2025-07-29 [Polity & Governance] — Pendency of Cases in Indian Courts
  Indian courts are facing a significant backlog, with 4.6 crore cases in District Courts, 63.3 lakh in High Courts, and 86,700 in the Supreme Court. The judiciary operates with only 15 judges per 10 lakh population, far below the Law Commission's norm of 50.
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  UPSC Angle: Indian courts face significant backlog of cases.

  Key Facts:

  • 4.6 crore cases
  • District Courts
  • 63.3 lakh
  • High Courts
  • 86,700
  • Supreme Court
  • 15 judges per 10 lakh population
  • Law Commission
  • 50 judges per 10 lakh population
• 2025-07-09 [Polity & Governance] — Delhi HC on Jail Time for Accused in 2020 Riots Case
  On July 8, 2025, the Delhi High Court questioned the Delhi Police regarding the prolonged detention of accused persons in the February 2020 riots case, noting that arguments on framing of charges were still ongoing after five years.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Delhi High Court questioned Delhi Police on prolonged detention of accused in 2020 riots case
  • Arguments on framing of charges still not concluded after five years
  • Questioning occurred on July 8, 2025
• 2025-05-03 [Polity & Governance] — India Justice Report (IJR) 2025
  The India Justice Report (IJR) 2025, released by Tata Trusts, critically evaluates the delivery of justice in India, highlighting how delays, overcrowding, under-resourcing, and lack of accountability have made justice inaccessible for millions. The report indicates over 5 crore cases pending in Indian courts, vacancy rates of 33% in High Courts and 21% in District Courts, and a judge-to-population ratio of only 15 judges per 10 lakh population. Judiciary spending remains below 1% of total state budgets in most cases.
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  UPSC Angle: India Justice Report 2025 evaluates justice delivery in India.

  Key Facts:

  • Over 5 crore cases pending in Indian courts
  • Vacancy rates: 33% (High Courts), 21% (District Courts)
  • Judge-to-population ratio: 15 judges per 10 lakh population
  • Judiciary spending below 1% of total state budgets

Child Protection Landscape: Marriage, Labor, and Trafficking

Focus: Statistical data, legal frameworks, and rehabilitation efforts addressing key vulnerabilities facing children in India.

UPSC Value: Provides essential data and legislative context for issues related to vulnerable sections (GS Paper II).

5 news items in this theme:

• 2026-02-20 [Polity & Governance] — 50th Anniversary of Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976
  February 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976, a landmark legal step to eradicate modern-day slavery in India. Despite the Act, reports from Odisha show rescued labourers re-entering bondage due to delayed rehabilitation. The Act abolished bonded debt liability and mandated district authorities to identify, release, and rehabilitate laborers, making forced bondage a punishable crime.
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  UPSC Angle: 50th anniversary of Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act, 1976.

  Key Facts:

  • The Bonded Labour System (Abolition) Act was enacted in 1976.
  • SECC-2011 data indicates approximately 1.65 lakh bonded labourers were legally released across India.
  • In Odisha, over 8,304 bonded labourers, mostly from tribal communities, were rescued.
  • The Act mandates District Magistrates (DMs) and Vigilance Committees to identify, release, and rehabilitate labourers.
  • Every district is required to maintain a ₹10 lakh corpus fund for immediate relief.
• 2026-01-19 [Polity & Governance] — Child Trafficking and Legal Measures
  The judiciary has played a critical role in shaping India's anti-trafficking response, with the Supreme Court recognizing trafficking as a violation of the fundamental right to life and dignity. India has enacted multiple sector-specific laws to address different dimensions of child trafficking.
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  UPSC Angle: SC recognizes trafficking as violation of fundamental right to life.

  Key Facts:

  • Vishal Jeet v. Union of India, M.C. Mehta v. State of Tamil Nadu, and Bachpan Bachao Andolan v. Union of India established preventive, rehabilitative, and regulatory principles
  • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: Criminalises trafficking and the buying and selling of minors
  • Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956: Targets trafficking for sexual exploitation
  • Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015: Focuses on care, rehabilitation, and reintegration of trafficked children
  • Tech startups raised $10.5 billion in 2025, down 17% from 2024 and 4% from 2023
• 2025-12-31 [Society & Culture] — Decline of Child Marriage in India
  NFHS data shows the prevalence of child marriage declined from 47.4% in 2005-06 to 23.3% in 2019-21. States such as West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan continue to report high rates of child marriage. There is a direct association between child marriage and socioeconomic factors; 40% of girls from the lowest income quintile and 48% of girls with no formal education were married before the age of 18.
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  UPSC Angle: Child marriage declined from 47.4% in 2005-06 to 23.3% in 2019-21.

  Key Facts:

  • Prevalence of child marriage declined from 47.4% in 2005-06 to 23.3% in 2019-21.
  • States reporting high rates of child marriage: West Bengal, Bihar, Tripura, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
  • 40% of girls from the lowest income quintile and 48% of girls with no formal education were married before the age of 18.
• 2025-09-21 [Society & Culture] — Causes of Child Marriage in India
  About 23% of women aged 20-24 were married before 18 (NFHS-5). Only around 47% of rural girls complete secondary schooling (UNICEF). High rates of violence against women (over 37,000 cases in 2023, NCRB) cause families to marry daughters early for protection.
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  UPSC Angle: NFHS-5 data on child marriage and girls' education in India.

  Key Facts:

  • Poverty: About 23% of women aged 20-24 were married before 18 (NFHS-5)
  • Education: Only around 47% of rural girls complete secondary schooling (UNICEF)
  • Safety Concerns: High rates of violence against women (over 37,000 cases in 2023, NCRB)
• 2025-05-22 [Schemes & Programs] — UP Government's Efforts to Combat Child Labor
  Between 2017–18 and 2024–25, the UP government has rehabilitated 12,426 children and provided economic assistance to 1,089 families to prevent dependence on child labor. Under the Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana, launched in 2020, the government has enrolled 2,000 working children in schools. The scheme aims to reintegrate child laborers into the formal education system.
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  UPSC Angle: UP government rehabilitated children and provided assistance to prevent child labor.

  Key Facts:

  • Children rehabilitated (2017-18 to 2024-25): 12,426
  • Families provided economic assistance: 1,089
  • Bal Shramik Vidya Yojana launched: 2020
  • Children enrolled in schools under the scheme: 2,000

Evolving Framework of Labour Rights and Worker Protection in India

Focus: Items discussing specific legislative interventions, policy gaps, or enforcement failures regarding terms of employment and worker welfare across different sectors.

UPSC Value: Contrasts 'third-generation' labor rights (Right to Disconnect) with foundational struggles (Bonded Labour, Gig Economy regulation) and progressive gender policies (Menstrual Leave), illustrating the dualistic nature of India's labor market.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2026-01-07 [Polity & Governance] — Right to Disconnect Bill
  MP Shashi Tharoor introduced a Private Member's Bill seeking to legally guarantee the Right to Disconnect for Indian employees, addressing burnout and mental health concerns. The bill aims to protect employees' personal time by preventing employers from requiring them to respond to work-related communications after hours. France, Portugal, and Italy have similar laws.
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  UPSC Angle: Private Member's Bill seeks to guarantee Right to Disconnect for employees.

  Key Facts:

  • 51% of Indian workers put in more than 49 hours weekly.
  • Nearly 78% of employees report job burnout.
  • France introduced the Right to Disconnect in 2017.
  • The bill covers regular employees, contractual staff, freelancers, and gig workers.
  • ILO data indicates that India ranks second globally for long working hours.
• 2025-11-09 [Polity & Governance] — Karnataka Introduces Menstrual Leave Policy
  Karnataka has become the first state in India to introduce one day of paid menstrual leave per month for all women employees, covering both government and private sectors. The policy aligns with the principles of gender equity and affirmative action enshrined in the Constitution.
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  UPSC Angle: Karnataka introduces menstrual leave policy for women employees.

  Key Facts:

  • Karnataka is the first state in India to introduce one day of paid menstrual leave per month
  • Covers government and private sectors
  • Aligns with gender equity and affirmative action principles
  • Similar provisions exist in Odisha, Bihar, Japan, Finland, and South Korea
• 2025-05-01 [Society & Culture] — Bonded Labour Persists in India
  On International Labour Day, it's highlighted that bonded labour continues to thrive in India despite abolition laws. Systemic failures, weak enforcement, and social inequality allow exploitation of millions of workers. The ILO India Employment Report 2024 confirms that low-quality informal work dominates the labour market, leaving workers insecure and underpaid.
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  UPSC Angle: Bonded labour continues to thrive in India despite abolition laws.

  Key Facts:

  • Estimated 84 crore bonded labourers (as per Ministry of Labour & Employment, 2016 vision document)
  • 12,760 individuals rescued & rehabilitated (2016–2021)
  • 39 crore workers in unorganised sector out of 47 crore total workers (NSSO 2023)
  • Over 80% of bonded labourers are from SC/ST/OBC communities
  • India among top countries with modern slavery (Global Slavery Index)
• 2025-03-19 [Economy] — Exploitation of Gig Workers in India
  Gig workers in urban centers face daily struggles, accepting low wages due to high unemployment. Digital platforms exploit workers through piece-rate models, disguising exploitation as “freedom of choice” with little bargaining power. A recent service offers domestic workers for as low as ₹49 an hour, further devaluing their labor.
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  UPSC Angle: Exploitation of Gig Workers in India.

  Key Facts:

  • Domestic workers offered for as low as ₹49 an hour
  • Workers protesting exploitation, demanding rights
  • Political decisions have delayed protective laws for gig workers
  • Industry groups oppose protections, calling gig workers “partners” not employees
  • Digital system isolates workers, preventing collective bargaining
  • Workers must accept tasks under app terms, with no negotiation or protection against arbitrary job loss

Institutional Pendency and Efficiency in Indian Governance

Focus: Items focusing on the quantitative measurement and reduction of backlogs (pendency) within executive grievance systems, quasi-judicial boards, and the judiciary.

UPSC Value: Crucial for GS Paper 2 (Governance and Judiciary) to analyze the effectiveness of digital reforms (CPGRAMS) versus traditional and alternative dispute resolution mechanisms (Lok Adalats, JJBs).

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-16 [Polity & Governance] — CPGRAMS Public Grievance Reduction
  India's Centralised Public Grievances Redressal and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) has seen a 74% reduction in public grievance pendency since 2021. If a complainant is not satisfied with the resolution after closure of grievance, and the rating is 'Poor', the option to file an appeal is enabled. The petitioner can also track the appeal status with the grievance registration number.
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  UPSC Angle: CPGRAMS sees reduction in public grievance pendency.

  Key Facts:

  • Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) has seen a 74% reduction in public grievance pendency since 2021
  • If the rating is 'Poor' the option to file an appeal is enabled
  • The status of the appeal can also be tracked by the petitioner with the grievance registration number
• 2025-12-15 [Polity & Governance] — Lok Adalats as Key to People-Centric Justice
  A PIB release on December 13, 2025, highlighted Lok Adalats as a crucial element in delivering people-centric justice by expanding National Lok Adalats and E-Lok Adalats and strengthening Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs) for public utility services, which helps reduce the pendency of cases, provide speedy justice, and ensure inclusive access. This push towards ADR mechanisms aligns with Article 39A (Access to Justice), addressing the over 5 crore pending cases in India's courts.
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  UPSC Angle: Lok Adalats are crucial for delivering people-centric justice.

  Key Facts:

  • Lok Adalats
  • National Lok Adalats
  • E-Lok Adalats
  • Permanent Lok Adalats (PLAs)
  • Article 39A
  • 5 crore pending cases
• 2025-11-21 [Polity & Governance] — Pendency of Cases Before Juvenile Justice Boards
  A study by the India Justice Report (IJR) revealed gaps in India's juvenile justice system, with about 55% of cases before 362 Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) across the country remaining pending. Pendency rates vary significantly, from 83% in Odisha to 35% in Karnataka. There is no centralized public database for JJBs, unlike the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) for regular courts.
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  UPSC Angle: IJR study reveals 55% of cases pending before JJBs.

  Key Facts:

  • 55% of cases before 362 Juvenile Justice Boards (JJBs) are pending.
  • Odisha has 83% pendency rate; Karnataka has 35%.
  • 92% of India's 765 districts have constituted JJBs as of October 2023.
  • No centralized public database exists for JJBs.
  • National average pendency rate in JJBs is 55%.
  • Odisha has 83% pendency; Karnataka has 35%.
  • 24% of JJBs are not fully constituted.
  • 30% of JJBs lack an attached legal services clinic.
• 2025-03-05 [Polity & Governance] — CPGRAMS Reforms: Enhanced Grievance Redressal
  The CPGRAMS portal has deepened its 10-step reforms with a focus on improving the quality of grievance redressal and increasing citizen satisfaction. Grievance redressal timelines have been reduced to 15 days, and over 1.12 crore grievances have been redressed through the portal.
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  UPSC Angle: CPGRAMS reforms enhance grievance redressal and citizen satisfaction.

  Key Facts:

  • 1.12 crore grievances redressed on CPGRAMS portal between 2019 and 2024
  • 1.03 lakh Grievance Redressal Officers (GROs) mapped across departments
  • 30 lakh citizens registered on CPGRAMS
  • Grievance redressal timelines reduced to 15 days
  • 20 lakh+ citizen feedbacks collected for quality monitoring

Evolution and Reform of Indian Criminal Statutes

Focus: Analysis of specific new offenses under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the ongoing judicial/legislative reconsideration of legacy Indian Penal Code (IPC) provisions.

UPSC Value: Understanding the transition from IPC to BNS and the judicial review of criminal provisions is crucial for grasping the modernization of India's legal system and its impact on civil liberties.

4 news items in this theme:

• 2025-09-23 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court to Reconsider Criminalization of Defamation
  The Supreme Court of India has remarked that it is 'high time' to reconsider the criminalization of defamation. Defamation, defined as making false statements that harm a person's reputation, can be either criminal or civil. Under IPC Sections 499–500, criminal defamation is punishable with imprisonment up to 2 years, a fine, or both.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court to reconsider the criminalization of defamation.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court to reconsider criminalization of defamation
  • Criminal Defamation: IPC Sections 499–500
  • Punishment: Imprisonment up to 2 years, fine, or both
• 2025-05-19 [Polity & Governance] — Section 152 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023
  Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023, criminalizes acts promoting secession, armed rebellion, or separatist activities, prescribing punishment of life imprisonment or imprisonment up to 7 years, along with a fine, while protecting peaceful criticism of government actions for lawful reform.
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  UPSC Angle: Section 152 BNS criminalizes acts promoting secession, armed rebellion.

  Key Facts:

  • Section 152 of BNS 2023 criminalizes promoting secession
  • Punishment: Life imprisonment or up to 7 years imprisonment, plus fine
  • Protects peaceful criticism of government for lawful reform
• 2025-05-19 [Polity & Governance] — Decriminalization of Suicide Attempts Debate
  India is seeing renewed discussions regarding the decriminalization of suicide attempts under Section 309 of the IPC. Mental health experts and legal reformers are advocating for complete decriminalization based on constitutional morality, public health policy, and human dignity.
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  UPSC Angle: Debate on decriminalizing suicide attempts under Section 309 of IPC.

  Key Facts:

  • Section 309 of the IPC criminalizes attempted suicide.
  • Supreme Court in Gian Kaur v. State of Punjab (1996) upheld its constitutionality.
  • Common Cause v. Union of India, 2018, affirms the right to die with dignity.
  • Despite the 2017 Act, suicide survivors are still booked under Section 309 in many states.
  • Repeal Section 309 entirely to align with the right to life and human dignity.
  • Improve access to mental health care and community-based counselling.
  • Train police and medical staff in empathetic, rights-based interventions.
• 2025-04-23 [Polity & Governance] — Section 69 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
  Section 69 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), 2023 introduces a new offence for cases where a man engages in sexual intercourse with a woman by making a false promise of marriage without intent to fulfill it. Punishable with up to 10 years in prison and a fine, this is distinct from rape under Section 63 BNS (formerly Section 375 IPC) and includes deception related to employment, promotion, or identity.
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  UPSC Angle: BNS Section 69: intercourse on false promise of marriage.

  Key Facts:

  • Section 69
  • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS)
  • False promise of marriage
  • 10 years in prison
  • Fine
  • Section 63 BNS
  • Deception related to employment
  • Deception related to promotion
  • Deception related to identity

Erosion of Rights-Based Welfare Frameworks

Focus: Concerns regarding the weakening of statutory protections and welfare guarantees for vulnerable rural and migrant workers.

UPSC Value: Connects urbanization and deregulation to the dilution of foundational rights-based legislation like MGNREGA and migrant protections.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-22 [Polity & Governance] — MGNREGA Weakening Concerns
  The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA), enacted in 2005, is a landmark rights-based legislation derived from Article 41 of the Constitution of India. The weakening of MGNREGA reflects a broader erosion of rights-based legislation in India and raises serious concerns about constitutional morality and the rights-based vision of governance.
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  UPSC Angle: MGNREGA is a rights-based legislation derived from Article 41.

  Key Facts:

  • MGNREGA
  • 2005
  • Article 41
  • Constitution of India
• 2025-12-18 [Polity & Governance] — India's Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025
  India's Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2025, risks undermining the rights and safety of millions of migrant workers by prioritizing deregulation and administrative ease over protection, accountability, and welfare. Critics argue it could intensify exploitation rather than provide meaningful safeguards, turning a promised shield into a system that accelerates migrant workers' insecurity. The Bill—meant to replace the 1983 Emigration Act—risks weakening protections for these vulnerable workers.
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  UPSC Angle: Overseas Mobility Bill 2025 risks migrant worker rights.

  Key Facts:

  • The Overseas Mobility Bill, 2025 risks deepening inequities by weakening safeguards and accountability.
  • The Bill removes provisions that earlier allowed migrant workers to directly pursue legal action against exploiters.
• 2025-03-07 [Society & Culture] — Rural communities resist forced urbanization in India
  Across India, rural communities are protesting forced urbanization due to fears of losing economic security, agricultural rights, and local governance autonomy. Protests, such as those in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district, highlight the negative impact of village-to-town conversions, including the loss of welfare benefits like MGNREGA and increased financial burdens.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • Location: Rajasthan's Hanumangarh district
  • Loss of welfare benefits: MGNREGA
  • Economic insecurity: Over 3,100 families in Rajasthan lost MGNREGA benefits after reclassification

Institutional Efficiency and Case Management in India

Focus: Quantitative assessment of case disposal rates, pendency trends, and operational bottlenecks across judicial, quasi-judicial, and oversight bodies.

UPSC Value: Provides comparative data for analyzing the performance of the Indian judiciary and statutory bodies in ensuring timely justice and administrative accountability.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-22 [Polity & Governance] — Rising Pendency in Consumer Commissions
  As of January 30, 2024, 5.43 lakh cases were pending before district, State and national consumer commissions. In 2024, commissions received 1.73 lakh new cases but disposed of only 1.58 lakh, leading to a net addition of nearly 14,900 cases.
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  UPSC Angle: Rising pendency of cases in consumer commissions.

  Key Facts:

  • January 30, 2024
  • 5.43 lakh cases
  • 1.73 lakh new cases
  • 1.58 lakh cases disposed
  • 14,900 net addition
• 2025-10-27 [Polity & Governance] — Lokpal Complaint and Prosecution Progress
  Since its inception, Lokpal received 6,955 complaints, but only 289 led to preliminary inquiries, and only seven cases have reached the prosecution stage, indicating underutilization and procedural inefficiency. The creation of a Prosecution Wing in 2025 operationalized a crucial arm for independent legal action.
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  UPSC Angle: Lokpal: Few complaints lead to prosecution, indicating underutilization.

  Key Facts:

  • Lokpal received 6,955 complaints
  • 289 complaints led to preliminary inquiries
  • 7 cases reached prosecution stage
  • Prosecution Wing created in 2025
• 2025-08-20 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Pendency Reduction
  From November 2024 to May 2025, the Supreme Court reduced its pendency in registered matters by 4.83%, with registered cases falling from 71,223 to 67,782. 35,870 cases were disposed of versus 33,639 new filings, resulting in a case clearance ratio of 106.6%. The average of 341 cases were disposed per day.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court reduced pendency by 4.83% from Nov 2024 to May 2025.

  Key Facts:

  • Registered cases fell from 71,223 to 67,782 (Nov 2024 – May 2025)
  • Case clearance ratio is 106.6%
  • Average of 341 cases disposed per day

Legal and Judicial Frameworks Against Child Exploitation

Focus: Judicial directives and statutory provisions specifically aimed at identifying, preventing, and prosecuting child trafficking and labor in India.

UPSC Value: Understanding the multi-dimensional legal approach to child protection, covering data collection, statutory prohibitions, and evidentiary standards for victim testimony.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-20 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Guidelines on Child Trafficking Cases
  The Supreme Court has laid down guidelines on how courts must sensitively appreciate the evidence of minor victims of trafficking and prostitution, calling child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation a “deeply disturbing reality” in India. Courts must not disbelieve a trafficked child's testimony due to minor inconsistencies, and the sole testimony of the victim is sufficient if credible. A trafficked child must be treated as an injured witness, not an accomplice.
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  UPSC Angle: SC lays down guidelines for courts in child trafficking cases.

  Key Facts:

  • Courts must not disbelieve a trafficked child's testimony due to minor inconsistencies
  • The sole testimony of the victim is sufficient if it is credible and convincing
  • A trafficked child must be treated as an injured witness, not as an accomplice
  • Supreme Court of India described child trafficking as a “deeply disturbing reality” in the country
  • Courts must not disbelieve a trafficked child’s testimony due to minor inconsistencies
  • Child trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children by organised cartels is a “deeply disturbing reality” in India
  • Child trafficking networks have a complex and layered structure
• 2025-07-11 [Polity & Governance] — Modern Slavery in India
  India lacks a singular modern slavery law but covers relevant issues under multiple statutes, such as Article 23 that bans trafficking and forced labour; Article 24 that prohibits child labour below age 14; and Sections 143–146 of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita that criminalize trafficking and forced labour. The Bonded Labour Act (1976) abolishes bonded labour with strict penalties, and the Child Labour Act (1986) prohibits employment of children under 14.
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  UPSC Angle: India addresses modern slavery through multiple statutes, including Articles 23 & 24.

  Key Facts:

  • Article 23: Bans trafficking and forced labour
  • Article 24: Prohibits child labour below age 14
  • Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Sections 143–146: Criminalize trafficking and forced labour
  • Bonded Labour Act (1976): Abolishes bonded labour
  • Child Labour Act (1986): Prohibits employment of children under 14
• 2025-03-10 [Polity & Governance] — Supreme Court Seeks Data on Missing Children
  The Supreme Court has directed the central government to analyze data on missing children to identify patterns and improve coordination for their restoration and to crackdown on organized gangs involved in such crimes. The court has asked states and UTs to provide information to the nodal officer appointed by the Mission Vatsalya portal and posted the matter for March 10.
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  UPSC Angle: Supreme Court seeks data on missing children.

  Key Facts:

  • Supreme Court
  • missing children
  • Mission Vatsalya portal
  • January 1, 2020
  • December 31, 2025
  • March 10
  • non-profit organisation Guria Swayam Sevi Sansthan

Structural Overhaul of India's Rural Employment Guarantee Framework

Focus: The transition from the demand-driven MGNREGA model to the supply-driven VB-G RAM G Bill, including performance data of the old system and legislative features of the new one.

UPSC Value: Essential for understanding shifts in social security architecture, rights-based legislation, and the administrative evolution of rural welfare schemes in India.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-12-16 [Polity & Governance] — Guarantee For Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill
  A new bill, Guarantee For Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill, is set to turn the demand-led job scheme into supply driven. The new bill aims to provide 120 days of guaranteed employment to every rural household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The state governments will have the power to decide for which 60 days the scheme will be paused.
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  UPSC Angle: Guarantee For Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill.

  Key Facts:

  • Viksit Bharat - Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin): VB G RAM G Bill, 2025 introduced in Lok Sabha
  • Replaces Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA)
  • Shift from a “demand-driven framework” to a “supply-driven scheme”
  • Likely to be renamed as 'Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana'
  • Proposal to increase guaranteed employment days from 100 to 125 days per household
  • Cost sharing to become 60:40 between Centre and State
  • New Bill: Guarantee For Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) Bill
  • 120 days of guaranteed employment to every rural household
  • State governments decide for which 60 days the scheme will be paused
  • The Viksit Bharat—Guarantee for Rozgar and Ajeevika Mission (Gramin) (VB—G RAM G) Bill, 2025 was introduced in Lok Sabha on December 16, 2025.
  • The Bill seeks to replace the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA).
  • The bill increases the right to employment for a rural household from 100 to 125 days.
• 2025-12-16 [Polity & Governance] — Government Likely to Rename MGNREGA
  The government is likely to introduce an amendment Bill in the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament to rename MGNREGA as “Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana”, with the proposal reportedly cleared by the Union Cabinet. The amended Bill may also propose increasing the guaranteed employment days from 100 to 125 days per household.
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  UPSC Angle: Government may rename MGNREGA as 'Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana'.

  Key Facts:

  • Likely to rename MGNREGA as “Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana”
  • Proposal to increase the guaranteed employment days from 100 to 125 days per household
  • Amendments are expected to factor in the recommendations of the Amarjeet Sinha–led review panel
  • Government may further revise the funding pattern and introduce stronger compliance checks
• 2025-05-20 [Economy] — MNREGA Registrations Rise as Employment Delivery Declines
  A LibTech India report on MGNREGA for FY 2024–25 indicates that while registrations increased by 8.6%, employment delivery declined by 7.1% due to delayed payments and budget shortfalls. The report highlights a mismatch between rising demand and the scheme's ability to provide employment.
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  UPSC Angle: MNREGA registrations rise, but employment delivery declines.

  Key Facts:

  • Registrations increased from 13.80 crore (FY24) to 14.98 crore (FY25), a rise of 8.6%
  • Employment Delivery dropped by 7.1%
  • Only 7% of households got 100 days of work
  • Person-days fell from 52.42 to 50.18 days per household (↓4.3%)
  • ₹82,963 crore spent (106% of ₹86,000 crore budgeted)
  • Decline in Odisha (−34.8%), TN (−25.1%), Rajasthan (−15.9%)
  • Increase in Maharashtra (+39.7%), Bihar (+13.3%)

Legal and Enforcement Frameworks Against Economic Crimes

Focus: The items illustrate the multi-layered legal and executive approach to economic offenses in India, involving specialized statutes like the FEOA and Customs Act, the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and targeted police operations by the Economic Offences Wing.

UPSC Value: Crucial for understanding the intersection of judicial orders, legislative frameworks (FEOA, BNS), and executive enforcement in the context of internal security and economic governance.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-10-14 [Polity & Governance] — Operation Shikanja launched in Uttar Pradesh
  The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Uttar Pradesh Police launched Operation Shikanja from 9th-13th October 2025, resulting in the arrest of 23 absconding economic offenders across the state. The operation aimed to nab long-time absconders involved in major financial scams in Uttar Pradesh and ensure accountability and recovery of misappropriated public funds.
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  UPSC Angle: Operation Shikanja launched in Uttar Pradesh to arrest economic offenders.

  Key Facts:

  • Launched by the Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of Uttar Pradesh Police.
  • Operation Dates: 9th-13th October 2025.
  • 23 absconding economic offenders arrested.
  • Objective: To nab long-time absconders involved in major financial scams.
  • Aims to ensure accountability and recovery of misappropriated public funds.
• 2025-07-05 [Polity & Governance] — Sanjay Bhandari Declared Fugitive Economic Offender
  A Delhi court has declared U.K.-based arms consultant Sanjay Bhandari a fugitive economic offender based on a plea by the Enforcement Directorate (ED). The order was issued under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA) of 2018.
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  UPSC Angle: Sanjay Bhandari declared Fugitive Economic Offender under new law.

  Key Facts:

  • Sanjay Bhandari, a U.K.-based arms consultant, declared a fugitive economic offender.
  • Order issued under the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act (FEOA) of 2018.
• 2025-03-15 [Polity & Governance] — Smuggling Punishable Under Customs Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita
  Smuggling is punishable under the Customs Act, 1962, and Section 111 (Organised Crime) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Goods smuggled are liable to be confiscated. Section 135 provides a punishment of up to 7 years imprisonment if the market price of the smuggled goods exceeds Rs. 1 lakh.
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  UPSC Angle: Smuggling punishable under Customs Act and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

  Key Facts:

  • Punishment under Section 135: Up to 7 years imprisonment if market price exceeds Rs. 1 lakh
  • Applicable Act: Customs Act, 1962
  • Section 111 (Organised Crime) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023: imprisonment of at least five years, extendable to life imprisonment

Child Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation in India

Focus: The items share a focus on the sexual exploitation and trafficking of minors in India, specifically highlighting the 'orchestra' trafficking model in Bihar and broader national abuse statistics.

UPSC Value: Highlights the intersection of socio-economic vulnerability and organized crime, essential for understanding child rights and internal security challenges in India.

3 news items in this theme:

• 2025-07-30 [Society & Culture] — Bihar Faces Girl Child Trafficking Crisis
  Bihar is facing a girl child trafficking crisis, becoming a hub due to poverty, social vulnerability, porous borders with Nepal, railway links to trafficking-prone States, and cultural exploitation. In June 2025, Bihar Police rescued 271 girls, with 153 trafficked into orchestras and 118 into the flesh trade. In 2024, Bihar police rescued 271 girls, many trafficked into orchestras or forced into sex work.
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  UPSC Angle: Bihar is facing a girl child trafficking crisis.

  Key Facts:

  • Bihar is a trafficking hub
  • Poverty and porous borders with Nepal are contributing factors
  • Bihar Police rescued 271 girls in June 2025
  • 153 girls trafficked into orchestras, 118 into flesh trade
  • In 2024, Bihar police rescued 271 girls, many trafficked into orchestras or forced into sex work
  • 271 girls rescued in Bihar till June 2025; 153 from orchestras, 118 from sex trade.
  • In Saran district, 162 girls rescued from “orchestra troupes”.
  • Girls as young as 12 years sold for as little as ₹10,000.
• 2025-05-25 [Society & Culture] — NCPCR Rescues Children from Trafficking
  The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has rescued 964 children since the formation of an Anti-Child Trafficking Cell. Recently, 17 minor girls were rescued from an orchestra group in Bihar's Saran district after inputs were received from an NGO about them being forced to perform obscene dances.
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  UPSC Angle: NCPCR rescues children from trafficking.

  Key Facts:

  • NCPCR: Rescued 964 children
  • 17 minor girls: Rescued from an orchestra group in Bihar's Saran district
• 2025-05-08 [Society & Culture] — Sexual Abuse Against Children in South Asia
  A Lancet report indicates that 30.8% of girls and 13% of boys in India experienced sexual abuse before the age of 18, with the highest prevalence for girls in South Asia. Globally, the average in 2023 was 18.9% for females and 14.8% for males, with 70% of victims first abused before the age of 18.
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  UPSC Angle: Not exam-relevant

  Key Facts:

  • India: 30.8% of girls and 13% of boys experienced sexual abuse before 18.
  • Global Average (2023): 18.9% females, 14.8% males experienced childhood sexual abuse.
  • 70% of victims were first abused before the age of 18.