7 August 2025 : Daily Current Affairs
1. Trump Raises Tariffs on Indian Imports to 50%
Source: Page 1 , The Hindu UPSC IAS Edition
| Topic: GS-2 – International Relations; GS Paper 3 – Indian Economy |
| Context |
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Content
Background:
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The action is linked to India’s continued import of Russian crude oil.
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India maintains that its trade with Russia is legal and comparable to that of Western countries.
Implications:
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Bilateral Strain: Worsens India–U.S. trade tensions, potentially affecting diplomatic cooperation.
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Economic Impact: Will impact Indian exporters to the U.S., particularly in textiles, IT hardware, pharmaceuticals, etc.
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Global Power Dynamics: Shows how trade is being used as a geopolitical tool.
India’s Response:
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MEA termed the move “unfair, unjustified, and unreasonable.”
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Highlighted hypocrisy as EU and U.S. continue other forms of trade with Russia.
Geopolitical Perspective:
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May push India closer to non-Western partners (Russia, Iran).
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Weakens Western “friend-shoring” agenda to counter China.
Conclusion:
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Need for calibrated diplomatic engagement with the U.S.
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Diversification of export markets.
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Strengthen Atmanirbhar Bharat policies to reduce dependence on volatile markets.
Practice Question:
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“Discuss the implications of increasing trade protectionism by developed countries on India’s external trade strategy. Suggest measures India should adopt to safeguard its economic interests.“ (250 words / 15 marks) |
2. Flash Floods in Uttarkashi: A Climate Disaster
Source: page 6, The Hindu UPSC IAS Edition
| Topic: GS- 1 – Geography; GS Paper 3 – Environment & Disaster Management |
| Context |
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Analysis from UPSC Angle:
Causes:
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Torrential rainfall (30 cm in a day), possibly a cloudburst or a result of accumulated silt and loose soil.
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Climate change increasing frequency of extreme weather events.
Consequences:
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Loss of life, destruction of infrastructure, missing Army personnel.
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Highlights fragility of Himalayan ecology and poor disaster preparedness.
Systemic Issues:
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Misuse of term “cloudburst” allows governments to evade accountability.
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Weak enforcement of EIA norms and haphazard infrastructure development.
Recommendations:
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IMD should enhance high-altitude radar systems.
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State must monitor silt and debris accumulation.
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Review and regulate hill infrastructure projects.
Conclusion:
Extreme climate events are the new normal. Adaptive infrastructure and proactive disaster risk mitigation are crucial in mountain regions.
Practice Question:
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“Critically examine the vulnerabilities of the Himalayan region to climate-induced disasters. Suggest an integrated disaster management approach suited for these ecologically fragile zones.” (250 words / 15 marks) |
3. E20 Fuel Controversy: Transition and Tensions
Source: Page 1 & 10, Indian Express Delhi Edition
| Topic: GS-3 – Environment, Energy; Agriculture; Science & Technology |
| Context |
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Key Points for UPSC:
What is E20 Fuel?
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20% ethanol + 80% petrol.
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Ethanol is produced from sugarcane, rice, and maize.
Concerns:
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Older vehicles not compatible.
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Public fear of damage and increased maintenance.
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5–6% mileage drop.
Benefits:
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Reduces oil imports.
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Boosts farmers’ income by ensuring market for crops.
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Reduces carbon emissions and pollution.
Policy Significance:
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Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat in energy.
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Encourages green fuel alternatives.
Criticism:
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Need for consumer awareness campaigns.
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Pricing transparency for blended fuel.
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Infrastructure for ethanol supply and vehicle adaptation.
Way Forward:
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Gradual rollout with incentives for retrofitting.
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Coordination between transport, petroleum, and agriculture ministries.
Practice Question:
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“Ethanol-blended petrol is a step toward energy self-reliance, but also poses implementation challenges. Discuss.” (150 words / 10 marks) |
Check more: 6 August 2025 : Daily Current Affairs
