Daily Current Affairs Summary 26th APRIL 2025

UN Warns of Rising Global Social Crisis: World Social Report 2025

1. The World Social Report is the flagship publication of the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA).
2. It addresses emerging global social development challenges and guides policy directions for inclusive progress.
3. The 2025 Report highlights rising insecurity, inequality, and distrust as key threats to social cohesion.

What Vision Does the Report Propose?

1. The report urges a new global policy consensus anchored in three core principles:
   ▪️ Equity,
   ▪️ Economic security for all,
   ▪️ Solidarity.
2. It advocates for people-centered policymaking that aligns with past global commitments on social development.

What is the Copenhagen Declaration on Social Development (1995)? Adopted during the World Summit for Social Development, held in Copenhagen in 1995. The Declaration made people the central focus of all development strategies and interventions.

What Were the Key Commitments of the Declaration?

1. Eradication of Poverty:
   ▪️ Recognized poverty elimination as both an ethical duty and a social necessity.
2. Full Employment:
   ▪️ Promoted productive and full employment as a primary development goal.
3. Social Integration:
   ▪️ Emphasized the need for inclusive societies that integrate all individuals equitably.

What Are the Key Issues Highlighted in the 2025 Report?

1. Insecure Livelihoods and Persistent Poverty Risks:
   ▪️ Over 690 million people live in extreme poverty globally.
   ▪️ An additional 2.8 billion are near the poverty line, vulnerable to small economic shocks.
   ▪️ Poverty escapes remain fragile and easily reversible.
2. Rising and Entrenched Inequalities:
   ▪️ Income inequality has increased in 52 of 128 countries over the past three decades.
   ▪️ Countries with growing inequality include China, India, and most high-income nations.
   ▪️ The widening gap, measured via the Gini coefficient, reflects deep structural divides.
3. Declining Trust and Weakening Social Cohesion:
   ▪️ Global trust in governments and institutions is on the decline.
   ▪️ Around 57% of people worldwide report low confidence in their government.
   ▪️ This erosion of trust threatens democratic governance and social harmony.

What Solutions Does the Report Recommend?

1. Integrate a Social Perspective in Policymaking:
   ▪️ Inspired by the Copenhagen Declaration, policies must prioritize human wellbeing.
2. Promote Human Development:
   ▪️ Governments should invest in quality public services—education, healthcare, housing.
   ▪️ Establish universal and adequate social protection systems to cushion vulnerabilities.
3. Strengthen Institutions for Social Cohesion:
   ▪️ Build institutions that are trustworthy, inclusive, and flexible.
   ▪️ Promote equity and fairness through transparent and responsive governance.

Mati Carbon Wins $50M XPRIZE for Scalable Carbon Removal Innovation

1. Mati Carbon, an Indian-led climate startup, has won the $50 million XPRIZE Carbon Removal competition.
2. The innovation utilizes a method called Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW) to capture atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂).
3. This approach also benefits smallholder farmers by improving crop yields, merging climate action with social impact.

How Enhanced Rock Weathering Works

What is the XPRIZE Carbon Removal Challenge?

1. The XPRIZE Carbon Removal was launched in 2021 to accelerate breakthroughs in scalable CO₂ removal technologies.
2. The challenge incentivizes innovative, durable, and measurable solutions that can help stabilize Earth’s climate.

What is Enhanced Rock Weathering (ERW)?

1. Enhanced Rock Weathering involves crushing volcanic rocks like basalt or olivine into fine powder.
2. This mineral powder is spread over farmlands, forests, and coastal areas to enhance natural carbon absorption.
3. Once applied, the minerals chemically react with atmospheric CO₂, converting it into stable, inorganic carbon forms.
4. These stable compounds wash into rivers, lakes, and oceans, locking away carbon for thousands of years.
5. Basalt is especially effective due to its high calcium, magnesium, and iron content, which boost CO₂ absorption.

How Does ERW Benefit Agriculture?

1. The basalt powder improves soil health, leading to higher crop productivity.
2. Farmers using this technique report up to 70% increase in crop yields, especially in nutrient-depleted soils.
3. As basalt releases natural minerals, it reduces the need for chemical inputs.
4. Fertiliser expenses are lowered and pesticide usage drops by 65%, making it more sustainable.

What Environmental Advantages Does ERW Offer?

1. ERW contributes to ocean health by increasing alkalinity of seawater, helping mitigate ocean acidification.
2. The captured carbon is stored in inorganic form for over 10,000 years, far exceeding organic sequestration methods.
3. This ensures long-term climate impact with minimal risk of carbon re-release.

Why is ERW Scalable and Practical?

1. Basalt and other volcanic rocks are abundant across the globe, making feedstock supply non-limiting.
2. ERW leverages existing mining and transportation infrastructure, reducing setup costs.
3. The process uses readily available agricultural equipment, making it low-tech and easy to adopt.
4. These factors make ERW a cost-effective, scalable, and field-ready solution for carbon removal.

BRIC-inStem

1. India has achieved a major scientific breakthrough in gene therapy for Haemophilia.
2. The research was conducted at BRIC-inStem, a leading institute for stem cell science and regenerative medicine.

What is Haemophilia?

1. Haemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder where blood fails to clot normally.
2. It is inherited and can lead to prolonged bleeding even from minor injuries.
3. Patients require lifelong treatment, making gene therapy a promising curative option.

What is BRIC-inStem?

1. inStem refers to the Institute for Stem Cell Science and Regenerative Medicine based in Bangalore, India.
2. It is a state-of-the-art research center specializing in stem cell and regenerative biology.
3. inStem operates under the umbrella of BRIC – Biotechnology Research and Innovation Council.

What is BRIC?

1. BRIC was established in 2023 to consolidate India’s biotechnology research ecosystem.
2. It brought together 14 autonomous biotechnology institutions under one integrated platform.
3. BRIC aims to streamline governance, accelerate innovation, and enable interdisciplinary collaboration.

 

Significance of the Breakthrough

1. The gene therapy success marks a milestone for Indian biomedical research.
2. It paves the way for affordable, indigenous treatment solutions for genetic disorders.
3. This achievement places India on the global map for advanced gene-based therapies.

ILO Flags Job Quality Concerns Due to Algorithmic Management

1. A recent International Labour Organization (ILO) report highlights the growing concerns over declining job quality due to algorithmic management practices.
2. The trend raises questions about workers’ autonomy, transparency, and fairness in digitally managed work environments.

What is Algorithmic Management (AM)?

1. Algorithmic Management refers to the use of digital systems to allocate, monitor, and evaluate work tasks and worker performance.
2. It relies heavily on real-time data collection, surveillance tools, and performance metrics to govern workplace operations.
3. AM essentially automates tasks that were traditionally performed by human supervisors or managers.

What Technologies Enable Algorithmic Management?

1. AM systems integrate big data analytics, machine learning algorithms, geolocation services, and wearable devices.
2. These technologies allow employers to track workers’ actions, movements, productivity, and efficiency in real time.
3. Decision-making becomes automated or AI-supported, reducing the role of direct human oversight.

Where is Algorithmic Management Being Adopted?

1. While once limited to digital platforms, AM has now expanded into traditional industries.
2. It is increasingly used in warehouses, manufacturing units, transportation services, call centres, and logistics.
3. This signals a shift towards digitally managed labor systems even in physical, non-platform-based workplaces.

 

Why is ILO Concerned?

1. The ILO warns that excessive reliance on AM may undermine job quality, privacy, and worker well-being.
2. Workers often lack transparency on how decisions are made and how their data is used.
3. Algorithmic oversight can lead to high pressure, limited human interaction, and inflexible work conditions.

India Launches National Campaign to Eliminate Measles and Rubella by 2026

1. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Zero Measles-Rubella Elimination Campaign.
2. This initiative was unveiled during World Immunization Week, reinforcing India’s commitment to disease prevention.

What are Measles and Rubella?

1. Measles and Rubella are highly contagious viral infections that can lead to severe health complications or death.
2. These diseases are especially dangerous for children and pregnant women, often causing lifelong disabilities.

India’s Elimination Target

1. India has set a national goal to eliminate Measles and Rubella by the year 2026.
2. The campaign is a major step under the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).

MR Vaccine Coverage in India

1. Under UIP, two doses of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine are provided free of cost to children.
2. As per 2024–25 Health Management Information System (HMIS) data:
   1. First-dose coverage of MR vaccine stands at 93.7%.
   2. Second-dose coverage has reached 92.2%, indicating strong immunization progress.

India Restricts Pakistan from SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme

1. The Government of India has officially announced that Pakistan nationals will no longer be allowed to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES).
2. This move marks a significant policy shift in regional visa cooperation, reflecting broader geopolitical tensions.

What is the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES)?

1. The SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme was launched in 1992, following the decision made during the 4th SAARC Summit held in Islamabad in 1988.
2. The primary aim of SVES is to strengthen people-to-people ties and boost regional cooperation among SAARC member states.

Who is Eligible Under the Scheme?

1. Currently, the scheme covers 24 categories of entitled individuals for visa-free travel among SAARC nations.
2. These categories include Heads of State, Parliamentarians, Judges of higher courts, Senior Government Officials, and other dignitaries.=

What is SAARC?

1. The South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) was established with the adoption of its Charter in Dhaka in 1985.
2. SAARC was formed to promote regional integration, peace, and economic development among South Asian nations.
3. The current members of SAARC include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.

Toxic Metal Pollution in Soil: A Global Concern

1. A study reveals that 242 million hectares of global cropland, or 16%, is impacted by toxic metal pollution.
2. Key regions most at risk include southern China, northern and central India, and the Middle East.
3. Soil pollution from toxic metals poses significant risks to food production and food safety.

Types of Toxic Metals in Soil

1. Heavy metals and metalloids are non-degradable, accumulating over decades in the soil.
   1. Key pollutants: Arsenic (As), Cadmium (Cd), Chromium (Cr), Mercury (Hg), Lead (Pb), Copper (Cu), Zinc (Zn), and Nickel (Ni).
   2. Cadmium is the most widespread toxic metal, exceeding safe levels in 9% of soils worldwide.

Sources of Toxic Metals in Soil

1. Geogenic Sources:
   1. Derived from bedrocks (soil parent materials).
   2. Emissions from volcanic activity and wind erosion also contribute.
2. Anthropogenic Sources:
   1. Agricultural activities (e.g., irrigation, fertilizers).
   2. Household sources (e.g., paints, batteries).
   3. Industrial activities (e.g., mining, metal smelting).

Consequences of Soil Pollution by Toxic Metals

1. Ecosystem Disruption:
   1. Soil pollution affects the primary productivity of both natural and agricultural ecosystems.
   2. Leads to the loss of soil ecosystem services (refer infographic).
2. Human Health: Exposure to soil pollution results in over 500,000 premature deaths globally each year.
3. Bioaccumulation: Toxic metals accumulate in organisms, potentially entering the human food chain and rendering them hazardous.
4. Nutrient Imbalance: Pollution alters soil biodiversity and disrupts nutrient cycles, leading to nutrient imbalance.

CCS Responds to Security Situation in Pahalgam

1. The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has taken key decisions in response to the recent developments concerning Pakistan’s actions in Pahalgam.
2. This reflects India’s strategic focus on safeguarding national security and territorial integrity.

 

What is the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS)?

1. The CCS is the highest decision-making body on matters of national security and defence.
2. It is chaired by the Prime Minister of India and includes four key ministers:
   1. Minister of Finance
   2. Minister of Defence
   3. Minister of Home Affairs
   4. Minister of External Affairs
3. Chiefs of Defence Services and senior bureaucrats may also be invited when required, especially for defence-related deliberations.

Core Functions of CCS

1. The CCS formulates national security strategies and supervises matters of defence preparedness.
2. It decides on key security-related appointments and deals with law and order issues of national importance.
3. The committee also addresses internal security challenges, strategic foreign policy decisions, and counter-terrorism measures.

Cabinet Committees Cabinet Committees are formed by the Prime Minister by selecting specific members from the Cabinet. They help streamline decision-making in complex areas of governance. Currently, there are eight active Cabinet Committees, each focusing on specific domains. Examples include committees on Economic Affairs, Political Affairs, and Parliamentary Affairs, among others

Musk Deer Conservation: CZA Highlights Inaction in Indian Zoos

1. A recent report by the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) confirms that no breeding programme has been initiated in Indian zoos for the conservation of musk deer.
2. This raises concerns for a species already under significant poaching pressure and facing habitat threats.

What Are Musk Deer?

1. Musk deer are small, solitary hoofed mammals (ungulates), active mainly during night or twilight hours.
2. They belong to the family Moschidae and are known for their shy and elusive nature.
3. The group consists of 7 recognized species, such as the Kashmir musk deer, Himalayan musk deer, and Anhui musk deer.
4. These species are found across 13 Asian countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, China, Myanmar, and Russia (Siberia).

Why Are They Hunted?

1. Adult male musk deer possess a musk gland, which secretes a substance used to attract mates during the breeding season.
2. This musk secretion is highly valued in the perfume industry, making the species vulnerable to illegal hunting and poaching.

Where Are Musk Deer Found in India?

1. Key habitats in India include the Askot Wildlife Sanctuary (Uttarakhand) and Gangotri National Park.
2. These areas provide the cold, forested environments needed for the species' survival.

Conservation Status of Musk Deer

1. As per the IUCN Red List, most musk deer species are classified as Endangered, except the Siberian musk deer, which is listed as Vulnerable.
2. Under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species):
   1. Populations from Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan are listed in Appendix I (highest protection).
   2. All other populations are included in Appendix II.
3. In India, the species is protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, offering the highest level of legal safeguard.

Sports Certificates Now on DigiLocker

1. The Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour & Employment launched the digital issuance of sports certificates through DigiLocker.
2. The launch event took place at the Indira Gandhi Stadium in New Delhi.
3. These certificates will soon be integrated with the National Sports Repository System (NSRS).
4. This integration will enable automatic disbursal of government cash rewards directly into athletes’ bank accounts, ensuring transparency and timely recognition.

What is DigiLocker?

1. DigiLocker is a secure, cloud-based platform that provides access to authentic digital documents.
2. It was launched in 2015 as a key initiative under the Digital India programme.
3. The platform is developed and maintained by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
4. Its core objective is to promote ‘Digital Empowerment’ by enabling citizens to access documents anytime, anywhere through their digital document wallet.

Key Features & Benefits of DigiLocker

1. Eliminates physical document handling, reducing paper usage and manual verification delays.
2. Offers real-time access to certificates issued by government departments and institutions.
3. Helps establish a trusted ecosystem where documents can be shared instantly with authorities and service providers.
4. Sports certificates via DigiLocker will ensure easy verification, faster recognition, and direct benefit transfers to eligible athletes.

AI Kiran: Empowering Women in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

1. AI Kiran is a new initiative aimed at empowering women in the field of Artificial Intelligence.
2. It aspires to build a vibrant AI ecosystem where women actively contribute as innovators, changemakers, and leaders.
3. The initiative is spearheaded by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India.
4. It aims to recognize and amplify the contributions of over 250 women professionals advancing AI across key sectors.
5. Major focus areas include education, healthcare, and other critical domains where AI is making transformative impact.

What is the KIRAN Scheme?

1. KIRAN stands for Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing.
2. It is an umbrella scheme launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
3. The primary goal is to promote gender parity by encouraging and supporting women in science and technology.
4. The scheme nurtures women's scientific talent through various fellowships, grants, and career advancement opportunities.

Connecting AI Kiran with the KIRAN Scheme

1. While KIRAN supports women's entry and growth in STEM fields, AI Kiran brings focused attention to AI and emerging technologies.
2. Together, they aim to create a gender-inclusive innovation landscape aligned with India’s Digital and AI strategy.
3. The initiatives represent a coordinated effort to leverage talent diversity in shaping the country’s tech-driven future.

 

Also Read
FREE NIOS Books	UPSC Daily Current Affairs
UPSC Monthly Magazine	Previous Year Interview Questions
Free MCQs for UPSC Prelims	UPSC Test Series
ENSURE IAS NOTES	Our Booklist