14 August 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. Government Tweaks Export Promotion Mission Amid US Tariff Hike

Source: Page 1 , The Hindu UPSC IAS Edition

Topic: GS- III (Indian Economy: External Sector & Trade)

Context

In response to the U.S. increasing tariffs on key Indian exports such as textiles, shrimp, chemicals, and machinery, the Indian government is recalibrating its ₹2,250 crore Export Promotion Mission announced in the 2025-26 Budget to safeguard MSME exporters.

Content

Background:

• In its Budget 2025-26, the FM announced an Export Promotion Mission aimed at:

  • Easy access to export credit

  • Cross-border factoring support

  • Support to tackle non-tariff barriers

• The U.S. recently imposed higher tariffs on select Indian imports citing trade imbalance and domestic industry protection.

Government’s Response (Tweaks):

• Focused assistance to tariff-hit sectors: apparel & textiles, shrimp, organic chemicals, machinery.

• Credit guarantees for MSME exporters.

• Faster clearances and export incentives.

• Coordination with Ministries of Commerce, Finance, MSME, Textiles, and Fisheries for targeted sector plans.

Analysis for UPSC:

• Impact on MSMEs: These tariffs can erode competitiveness in U.S. markets, which remain a key destination for Indian exports.

• Link with WTO norms: Counter-measures must adhere to global trade rules.

• Strategic Diversification: Opportunities to expand into EU, Africa, ASEAN markets; need for FTAs.

• Long-term implications: The move reflects how external shocks necessitate dynamic trade policy.

Way Forward:

• Technology upgradation in MSME manufacturing.

• Aggressive marketing through India Expos abroad.

• Strengthening export logistics via PM Gati Shakti.

Practice Question:

“Discuss the likely impact of the recent US tariff hikes on specific Indian MSME export sectors. How can targeted interventions in the Export Promotion Mission mitigate these effects?“ (250 words / 15 marks)

2. Disappearance of Forest Rights Titles in Chhattisgarh

Source: page 1 & 10 , The Hindu UPSC IAS Edition

Topic: GS- II (Governance; Welfare of Vulnerable Sections), GS Paper III (Environment)

Context

Data obtained through RTI reveals a sudden drop in recorded Individual and Community Forest Rights titles in multiple districts of Chhattisgarh over the last 17 months, raising concerns about governance and compliance with the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006.

Analysis from UPSC Angle:

• Example: Bastar IFR titles fell from ~37,958 (Jan 2024) to 35,180 (May 2025).

• State govt explanation: “Misreporting and data correction” at various administrative levels.

• Activists allege unlawful cancellation, contravening FRA norms.

Significance:

• FRA recognises rights of forest-dwelling STs and OTFDs over land and resources.

• Titles are heritable, inalienable – cannot be revoked arbitrarily.

Implications:

• Loss of livelihood security for tribal households.

• Trust deficit between tribal communities and administration.

• Possible link with land acquisition pressures in mineral/industrial zones.

Analysis:

• Highlights the gap between legal entitlement and on-ground protection.

• Raises issues of transparency, data integrity, and community consent.

Way Forward:

• Independent audit of FRA implementation.

• Digital public records with tamper-proof updates.

• Stronger gram sabha empowerment in title management.

Practice Question:

“Examine the challenges in the implementation of the Forest Rights Act, 2006 in Left Wing Extremism-affected areas, with reference to the recent example of Chhattisgarh.“ (250 words / 15 marks)

3. Supreme Court Intervention in Stray Dog Relocation Orders

Source: Page 1, Indian Express Delhi Edition

Topic: GS-II (Judiciary; Animal Rights; Constitutional Values – GS IV Ethics relevance)

Context

After a Delhi HC directive to capture and permanently shelter stray dogs, there has been opposition from animal rights activists. The SC will revisit its earlier rulings emphasising compassion under the Constitution.

Key Points for UPSC:

Issues Involved:

• Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960 and Animal Birth Control Rules, 2001 vs. municipal laws.

• August 11 HC order directs permanent detention of strays from public spaces.

• Conflict between public safety (dog bite incidents) and animal welfare.

Legal Standpoint:

• SC (May 2024) order: no indiscriminate killing, treat canines compassionately.

• Constitutional angle: Art 51A(g) – duty to have compassion for living creatures.

Societal Angle:

• Urban stray population management is a public health and humanitarian challenge.

• Need for sterilisation, vaccination, and community feeding regulation.

Practice Question:

“Discuss the legal, ethical, and administrative dimensions of managing urban stray dog populations in India in light of recent judicial interventions.” (150 words / 10 marks)

Check more: 13 August 2025 : Daily Current Affairs