Read Daily Current Affairs Article of 21 September 2025

 

The UPSC Current Affairs Analysis September 21, 2025

For the UPSC aspirant, understanding the 'why' and 'how' behind the news is paramount. This analysis breaks down significant developments from the past 24 hours, focusing on their constitutional, economic, and strategic implications.

1. Polity & Governance: Supreme Court Concludes Hearings in Electoral Bonds Case Review Petition

The News: A Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court of India, led by the Chief Justice of India, concluded the final hearings on the review petitions filed by the Union government and others seeking a reconsideration of the Court's landmark 2024 judgment that struck down the Electoral Bonds Scheme as unconstitutional.

In-Depth Analysis:

• Background: In February 2024, a five-judge bench had unanimously struck down the Electoral Bonds Scheme, citing violations of the right to information (Article 19(1)(a)) and the principle of equality (Article 14). The Court had mandated the State Bank of India (SBI) to disclose all details to the Election Commission of India (ECI) for public release.
• Government's Argument in Review: The government's counsel argued that the scheme, in its original intent, was designed to curb the use of black money in politics. They contended that the judgment failed to adequately consider the alternative of reforming the scheme rather than annulling it entirely.
• Significance: A review petition is not a routine appeal but a plea asking the Court to correct an "error apparent on the face of the record." The Court's decision to hear it in open court, though not unprecedented, underscores the constitutional gravity of the matter.
• UPSC Relevance (GS Paper II): This touches upon Separation of Powers (Judiciary vs. Executive), Electoral Reforms, Transparency in Governance, and the Right to Information. A potential Mains question could be: "The Supreme Court's judgment on Electoral Bonds reinforced the citizens' right to information over electoral anonymity. Critically examine this statement in the context of cleansing political funding in India."

2. Economy & Environment: Cabinet Approves 'PM Janman 2.0' for PVTG Development

The News: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister, approved the second phase of the Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN), dubbed 'PM-Janman 2.0', with an outlay of ₹28,000 crore for the next five years.

In-Depth Analysis:

• Focus on PVTGs: The scheme specifically targets the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). It adopts a multi-sectoral approach focusing on nine critical interventions: safe housing (PM-AWAS), clean drinking water, improved healthcare, education, nutrition, road connectivity, and sustainable livelihood opportunities.
• Shift in Strategy: While the first phase focused on rapid saturation of existing government schemes, Phase 2 introduces a ‘Van Dhan Vikas Kendra Plus’ model. This model integrates the collection of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) with value-addition units and market linkages, ensuring sustainable and tribal-led economic growth.
• UPSC Relevance:
• • GS Paper II (Welfare Schemes): Analysis of the effectiveness of targeted welfare schemes for vulnerable sections.
  • GS Paper III (Growth & Development): Connects to inclusive growth and the challenges of bringing marginalized communities into the economic mainstream.
  • GS Paper I (Society): Issues related to development and associated problems of tribal communities.
  • Potential Question: "Discuss the significance of a rights-based approach combined with a livelihood model in the development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)."

3. International Relations: India Abstains on UNGA Vote Concerning Ukraine

The News: India abstained from a vote at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on a resolution calling for the immediate cessation of hostilities and the creation of humanitarian corridors in Ukraine. The resolution, backed by Western nations, also emphasized the need to uphold the principles of the UN Charter.

In-Depth Analysis:

• India's Stance: In its explanation of vote (EOV), India's Permanent Representative reiterated India's consistent position: "This is not an era of war." India called for dialogue and diplomacy as the only way to achieve a lasting solution. The abstention reflects India's continued strategic balancing act between its historical ties with Russia and its growing strategic partnership with the West.
• Strategic Autonomy: This decision is a classic demonstration of India's foreign policy principle of strategic autonomy. India prioritizes its national interest and maintains the freedom to make decisions based on a pragmatic assessment of the situation, rather than aligning with any bloc.
• UPSC Relevance (GS Paper II): Directly linked to India’s foreign policy, its role in international institutions, and the effect of policies and politics of developed countries on India’s interests. A question could be: "India's policy of 'strategic autonomy' is often tested in multilateral forums. Illustrate with recent examples."

4. Science & Technology: DRDO Successfully Tests New Generation Akash-NG Missile

The News: The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the maiden flight test of the New Generation Akash (Akash-NG) missile from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) off the coast of Odisha.

In-Depth Analysis:

• Technological Upgrade: The Akash-NG is a canister-based, solid-fueled missile system with a significantly higher range, accuracy, and reaction time compared to the earlier Akash variant. Its canisterization allows for faster deployment and launch.
• Strategic Importance: The missile is designed to neutralize high-speed, agile aerial threats like fighter jets, cruise missiles, and even some categories of ballistic missiles. It is a crucial component of India's multi-layered Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) program and enhances the operational capability of the Indian Air Force.
• UPSC Relevance (GS Paper III): Key topics include Indigenization of Technology & Defence, Developments in Science & Technology, and their applications to Internal Security. This aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India) initiative in defence manufacturing.
• Here is a comprehensive current affairs for 21 September 2025, tailored for competitive exams like SSC, UPSC, Banking, and State PSCs.

Conclusion for Aspirants:
When reviewing such news, aspirants should:

1. Link to the Syllabus: Immediately connect the event to a specific topic in the GS papers.
2. Understand the Core Issue: Go beyond the headline to grasp the constitutional, economic, or strategic principle at stake.
3. Note the Terminology: Use precise terms like "PVTGs," "Strategic Autonomy," "Canisterised missile," and "Review Petition" in your answers.
4. Formulate Opinions: Think critically about the pros, cons, and challenges of each development to enrich your Mains answers and essay content.