21 June 2025 : Daily Current Affairs

1. HAL wins ISRO deal to build launch vehicles

Source: The Hindu, Page 6, June 21, 2025

Topic: GS Paper 3: Science and Technology – Indigenization of Technology

Context

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has secured a ₹511 crore Transfer of Technology (ToT) contract from ISRO for building and operating Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs).

Content: 

Key Highlights:

• SSLVs are designed to launch payloads under 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

• HAL emerged as the winning bidder via a competitive process led by IN-SPACe.

• The contract will allow HAL to build two SSLVs with ISRO’s handholding, post which it will independently produce and operate them.

Significance for UPSC:

• Boost to Private Sector in Space: Marks a major milestone in the commercialization of India’s space programme.

• Technology Transfer: Aligns with the goals of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and indigenization in critical technology sectors.

• Public-Private Synergy: ISRO’s support through IN-SPACe opens doors for private space players.

Challenges:

• Ensuring quality and safety in commercial space launches.

• Maintaining affordability while competing globally.

Way Forward:

• Encourage deeper private investment.

• Expand ToT models to other sectors like satellite manufacturing, robotics, and propulsion systems.

Practice Question:

Discuss the significance of the Transfer of Technology (ToT) model in India’s space sector with reference to the recent HAL-ISRO SSLV agreement.  (250 words / 15 marks)

2. Quantum challenge: Administrative reform is essential for India to make advances

Source: Page 10, The Hindu, June 21 2025

Topic: GS Paper 3: Science and Technology – Emerging Technologies

Context

IIT-Delhi and DRDO successfully tested a quantum key distribution system; however, systemic hurdles threaten scaling of quantum technologies.

Content:

Achievements:

• Demonstrated secure communication over 1 km using quantum key distribution (QKD).

• A vital part of India’s National Quantum Mission (₹6,003 crore till 2031).

Challenges Identified:

• Slow fund disbursal.

• Bureaucratic red tape in project approvals.

• Dependence on foreign hardware/software.

• Lack of competitive remuneration for top talent.

Why it Matters:

• Quantum technologies are critical for national security, communications, and future computing.

• India is behind nations like China and the USA in investment and ecosystem development.

Way Forward:

• Streamline administrative processes.

• Facilitate single-window clearances and startup support.

• Build domestic capabilities in hardware and software stacks.

Practice Question:

What are the major administrative and infrastructural hurdles facing India’s National Quantum Mission? Suggest reforms to address them. (250 words / 15 marks)

3. Lighting the spark in U.K.-India cultural relations

Source: The Hindu, Page 10, June 21, 2025

Topic: GS Paper 2: International Relations – Cultural Diplomacy

Context

India and the UK signed the Programme of Cultural Cooperation (POCC), enhancing bilateral ties through creative industries.

Content:

Highlights of POCC:

• Focuses on 5 areas: Digital technologies, Cultural property, Sustainability, Exhibitions, and Performances.

• Involves premier institutions like British Museum, Natural History Museum, and Arts Council England.

Strategic Relevance:

• Creative industries contribute nearly 8% to India’s workforce.

• Strong tool for soft power diplomacy and economic engagement.

• Promotes collaboration in AR/VR, AI in arts, digital heritage conservation.

Challenges:

• Lack of skilled manpower in emerging cultural-tech domains.

• Need for curriculum upgrade to accommodate AI, AR, gaming, etc.

Way Forward:

• Link cultural diplomacy with employment and skill missions.

• Promote rural creative hubs as economic zones.

Practice Question:

Discuss the strategic significance of cultural diplomacy in India’s bilateral relations with reference to the Programme of Cultural Cooperation signed with the United Kingdom. (150 words / 10 marks)

Prelims Facts

1. HAL wins ISRO deal to build launch vehicles

Source: Page 6, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 3: Science & Technology – Space Sector

Context

HAL secured a ₹511 crore Transfer of Technology (ToT) contract from ISRO to build Small Satellite Launch Vehicles (SSLVs).

Analysis of the news:

• Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV): 3-stage launch vehicle capable of placing satellites up to 500 kg in Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

• IN-SPACe: Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre; responsible for promoting private participation in India’s space activities.

• HAL’s Role: HAL will build two SSLVs under ISRO guidance in two years and then operate independently.

• Liability: Government of India assumes liability for private launches, as per international norms.

• Significance: Strengthens India’s push toward commercializing its space programme under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat mission.

2. Quantum challenge: Administrative reform is essential for India to make advances

Source: Page 10, The Hindu

Topic: GS Paper 3: Science & Tech – Quantum Technology

Context

India demonstrated quantum key distribution (QKD) but faces administrative bottlenecks in scaling the technology.

Analysis of the news:

• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Technology enabling ultra-secure communication via quantum mechanics; any interception disrupts the signal.

• IIT-Delhi & DRDO: Demonstrated QKD over 1 km of free space.

• National Quantum Mission: Approved in 2023; ₹6,003 crore budget till 2031; aims to boost quantum research in computing, communication, sensors, and materials.

• Challenges:

  • Slow fund disbursement

  • Hardware dependence on foreign suppliers

  • Short-term contracts, low salaries, and red tape

• India’s Position: Lags behind the US and China in quantum investment.

Check more: 20 June 2025 : Daily Current Affairs