Context: Women in Panchayats Three decades after the 73rd Constitutional Amendment, Panchayati Raj Institutions are being evaluated for outcomes in grassroots democracy, particularly the extent to which women’s political reservation has translated into independent leadership and broader representation beyond quotas. Key Data Issues 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992

Context: Fertiliser Sector Reforms India’s fertiliser sector is under stress due to global price volatility, supply disruptions, rising subsidy burden, and persistent imbalance in nutrient use, requiring structural reforms. Structure of the Problem Consumption Pattern External Vulnerability Fiscal Impact Impact on Soil and Environment Limitations of Existing Reforms Way Forward

Context: India South Korea Relations With the visit of Han Duck-soo from South Korea to India, the two countries are seeking to upgrade ties amid Indo-Pacific shifts, supply-chain risks, and economic uncertainties. India–South Korea Relations Evolution: 1973 ties | Special Strategic Partnership (2015) | Act East linkage Economy: Trade $26–27 bn | Exports $5.8 bn | Imports $21 bn | Deficit ~$15 bn | Target $50 bn (2030) Investment: 13th largest FDI source | $6–7 bn | Auto, electronics, steel Framework: CEPA (2010) → underutilised, imbalance persists Strategic Convergence: Indo-Pacific | supply chains | defence cooperation Key Sectors: Semiconductors | EVs | shipbuilding | AI | clean energy Limitation: Strong economics, weak strategic depth Key Developments (Recent Visit) Trade: CEPA upgrade | trade expansion to $50 bnTechnology: Semiconductors | AI | critical mineralsSupply Chains: Resilience, diversificationDefence: Maritime + security cooperation expansionIndustry: MSME, manufacturing linkagesIndo-Pacific: Greater alignmentInvestment: Push for increased Korean investment

Context: Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal In the ongoing dispute between Odisha and Chhattisgarh, the Mahanadi Water Disputes Tribunal has asked both states to resolve issues through mutual consultation while proceedings continue, instead of waiting only for a final adjudication. Mahanadi River Tributaries Left Bank: Seonath, Hasdeo, Mand, IbRight Bank: Ong, Tel Tribunal Issues

Context: Left Wing Extremism With the declining spread of Left Wing Extremism, the focus is shifting from security-led control to consolidation through targeted tribal development and governance interventions. Summary