Context (Why in News?)The Centre has notified all four Labour Codes, replacing 29 fragmented labour laws, many dating back to the 1930s–1950s. This is projected as the biggest labour reform since Independence. The aim is to simplify and modernise the labour regulatory framework, expand social security, ensure wage protection, and improve ease of doing business. 1. Code on Wages (2019) • Merges four wage-related laws to create a uniform wage system across sectors.• Guarantees universal minimum wages and timely payment for all employees. 2. Industrial Relations Code (2020) • Combines laws on trade unions, employment conditions, and industrial dispute resolution.• Enables fixed-term employment and simplifies procedures for layoffs, closures, and strikes. 3. Code on Social Security (2020) • Extends social security coverage to organised, unorganised, gig and platform workers.• Integrates laws on EPFO, ESIC, maternity benefits, gratuity, and other welfare schemes. 4. Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions (OSHWC) Code (2020) • Consolidates 13 laws on workplace safety, health and working conditions.• Updates standards on safety, working hours, women’s employment, and welfare facilities. Why Were These Four Codes Brought? Broad Objectives • Consolidation: Merge 29 scattered laws into 4 streamlined codes for clarity and uniformity.• Simplification: Reduce compliance burden, end overlapping provisions, and bring uniform definitions across laws.• Formalisation: Expand social security to gig, platform and unorganised workers.• Labour Welfare: Ensure minimum wages, timely payment, safety standards, women’s participation, and job security mechanisms.• Ease of Doing Business: Modern regulatory architecture encouraging investment and employment. TDF “The notification of the four Labour Codes marks one of the most comprehensive labour reforms since Independence. Critically examine how far these Codes succeed in balancing worker welfare with the needs of a modern economy.”
Panchayati Raj Institutions
Constitutional Framework (73rd Amendment Act, 1992) Composition, Elections & Reservation Powers, Functions & Finances Challenges Faced by PRIs Strengthening PRIs – Key Recommendations Second Administrative Reforms Commission (2nd ARC) Additional Reforms
Minimum Support Price (MSP)
Concept and Purpose Crops Covered Under MSP (22 Crops) Kharif Crops (14) Rabi Crops (6) Commercial Crops (2) Note: How MSP Is Determined Significance of MSP Recent MSP (2025–26) – Key Highlights (As per Directorate of Economics & Statistics, Ministry of Agriculture)
Vanashakti v. Union of India
Background of the Case Key Issues Raised Supreme Court’s Key Directions Significance of the Judgment Implications for Governance and Policy Influences future assessments under Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) and CRZ clearances.
India U.S. Defence Relations UPSC: U.S. Clears Missile Sale as Trade Row Eases
Approved Items This reflects improving India–U.S. strategic ties amid easing trade tensions.
India Fisheries Sector UPSC: Understanding the Growth of Fisheries and Aquaculture in India
Context India ranks among the world’s largest producers of aquatic foods. Growth driven by technology, policy, and modernisation — but sustainability and fisher welfare remain challenges. 1. Growth Indicators (FAO SOFIA 2024) 2. Key Government Initiatives 3. Major Challenges 4. Sustainability Imperatives
India Climate Change Policy UPSC: India Calls for a ‘Just Transition Mechanism’ at COP
Central Theme India insists that the global energy transition must be equitable, funded, and aligned with national capabilities. Context Notes
Iran IAEA Nuclear Issue UPSC: IAEA Passes Resolution Seeking Iran’s Cooperation
IAEA Overview Why in News? IAEA demanded: Iran rejected the resolution, accusing the West of politicising the agency.
Juvenile Justice System UPSC: Over 50% Cases Still Pending Due to Staff Shortage
Key Findings
Social Justice Education UPSC: Study Shows Caste Influences Teachers’ Judgement in Bihar Schools
Findings From Bihar Public Schools
