Daily Current Affairs- 4th June 2025

Daily Current Affairs- 4th June 2025

Uttar Pradesh Approves 20% Police Reservation for Ex-Agniveers: Enhancing Post-Service Opportunities

In the News: On June 3, 2025, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, approved a significant policy to provide a 20% horizontal reservation for former Agniveers in the state's police recruitment. This initiative aims to facilitate the reintegration of Agniveers into civilian life by offering them meaningful employment opportunities in law enforcement.

Key Points:

• 20% Horizontal Reservation for Ex-Agniveers: The reservation applies to direct recruitment for positions such as police constables, members of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), mounted police, and firemen. This horizontal reservation ensures that ex-Agniveers compete within their respective categories (General, SC, ST, OBC), providing equitable opportunities across all social groups.
• Three-Year Age Relaxation: In addition to the reservation, former Agniveers are granted a three-year relaxation in the upper age limit for these positions. This concession acknowledges their service duration and aligns with provisions available to ex-servicemen.
• Implementation Timeline: The policy is set to take effect with the first batch of Agniveers completing their four-year tenure under the Agnipath scheme in 2026. This timing ensures a seamless transition for these individuals into state police roles.
• Pioneering Initiative: Uttar Pradesh becomes the first state in India to offer a 20% reservation to ex-Agniveers in police recruitment. Other states like Haryana and Odisha have implemented similar policies but with a 10% reservation. 

Assam and Meghalaya Joint Hydropower Project Initiative: Kulsi Multipurpose Project

In the News: On June 2, 2025, the Chief Ministers of Assam and Meghalaya—Himanta Biswa Sarma and Conrad K. Sangma—announced a collaborative effort to develop the Kulsi Multipurpose Project. This initiative aims to harness the Kulsi River's potential for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation, marking a significant step in inter-state cooperation and regional development.

Key Points:

• Project Overview: The Kulsi Multipurpose Project is designed to generate 55 megawatts (MW) of hydroelectric power and provide irrigation benefits, particularly to Assam's Kamrup and Goalpara districts.
• Environmental Considerations: The Kulsi River is a known habitat for the endangered Gangetic river dolphin. Both states have committed to conducting thorough environmental assessments and engaging with local communities to address ecological concerns before project implementation.
• Flood Management Collaboration: To address urban flooding in Guwahati, the states plan to commission a study by the North Eastern Space Application Centre (NESAC) using satellite imaging to identify flood-prone areas. Subsequently, institutions like IIT Roorkee will develop actionable mitigation strategies based on the study's findings.
• Boundary Dispute Resolution: In a move towards resolving a 52-year-old boundary dispute, both governments have agreed to install boundary pillars in five of the six mutually agreed-upon sectors by August 15, 2025. Discussions continue for the remaining disputed areas.
• Community Engagement: The project emphasizes the importance of community consent. Both governments have pledged to conduct extensive consultations with local populations to ensure that their concerns and suggestions are incorporated into the project's planning and execution phases.
• Economic and Tourism Potential: Beyond energy and irrigation, the project is expected to boost eco-tourism and enhance livelihoods in the region, aligning with Meghalaya's vision of promoting sustainable development. 

Justice Hema Committee Report: Reasons Behind Police Dropping Sexual Assault Cases in Malayalam Cinema

In the News: In June 2025, the Kerala Police announced the closure of nearly all sexual assault cases initiated following the Justice Hema Committee Report. This decision has sparked widespread concern, particularly among women's rights advocates and members of the Malayalam film industry, who question the systemic barriers that hinder justice for survivors.

Key Points:

• Background of the Hema Committee: Established in July 2017 by the Kerala government in response to the 2017 abduction and assault of a prominent actress in Kochi. Chaired by retired Justice K. Hema, with members including actress Sharada and former IAS officer K.B. Vatsalakumari. Tasked with investigating issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry. Submitted a comprehensive 300-page report in December 2019, highlighting systemic issues such as sexual exploitation, lack of grievance redressal mechanisms, and the existence of an all-male "power group" controlling industry dynamics.
• Police Investigation and Case Closures: Following the public release of the report in August 2024, the Kerala Police formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations. The SIT registered approximately 120 First Information Reports (FIRs), with 35 cases directly based on survivors' testimonies to the committee. As of June 2025, 34 of these 35 cases have been closed due to survivors' reluctance to proceed with legal action. Only 26 cases, where survivors were willing to testify, have progressed to the chargesheet stage. 

U.S. Vetoes U.N. Security Council Resolution Demanding Immediate Ceasefire in Gaza

In the News: On June 4, 2025, the United States exercised its veto power in the United Nations Security Council to block a resolution calling for an "immediate, unconditional, and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza. The resolution, supported by the other 14 council members, also demanded unrestricted humanitarian aid access and the release of all hostages held by Hamas.

Key Points:

• U.S. Justification for Veto: Acting U.S. Ambassador to the U.N., Dorothy Shea, stated that the resolution failed to condemn Hamas, did not call for its disarmament or withdrawal from Gaza, and could potentially embolden the group.  The U.S. emphasized that any ceasefire must be linked to the release of hostages and should not draw a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas.
• International Response: The veto drew criticism from several countries, including China and Pakistan, which accused the U.S. of obstructing efforts to end the conflict and exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.  France's ambassador expressed frustration over the Security Council's inability to act, while the U.K. criticized Israel's military operations and aid restrictions as "unjustifiable" and "counterproductive."
• Humanitarian Situation in Gaza: The resolution highlighted the "catastrophic" humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where over 2 million residents face severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.  Recent Israeli military actions have resulted in significant civilian casualties, including incidents where Palestinians were killed while queuing for food at aid distribution centers.
• Implications of the Veto: This marks the fifth time the U.S. has vetoed a Security Council resolution related to the Gaza conflict since its onset in October 2023.  The veto has intensified global scrutiny of the U.S.'s stance, with human rights organizations and several nations calling for reforms to the Security Council's veto power to prevent obstruction of humanitarian efforts. 

Trump Signs Travel Ban on Citizens from 12 Countries: Aimed at Enhancing National Security

In the News: On June 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a presidential proclamation instituting a travel ban on nationals from 12 countries, citing national security concerns. The ban, set to take effect on June 9, 2025, marks a significant reinstatement and expansion of similar measures from Trump's first term.

Key Points:

• Countries Affected:
  • Full Entry Ban: Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
  • Partial Restrictions: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.
• Justification for the Ban: The administration cited inadequate security vetting procedures, high visa overstay rates, and lack of cooperation on deportations among the listed countries. The decision was influenced by a recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, allegedly carried out by an Egyptian national who had overstayed his visa. Although Egypt is not on the banned list, the incident was used to underscore the perceived risks of insufficient vetting.
• Exemptions and Exceptions: The proclamation includes exemptions for lawful permanent residents, individuals with existing valid visas, certain visa categories, and those whose entry is deemed to serve U.S. national interests.
• Historical Context: This move echoes the controversial travel bans implemented during Trump's first term, which targeted several majority-Muslim countries and faced numerous legal challenges. The Supreme Court upheld a version of the previous ban in 2018, providing a potential legal precedent for the current proclamation. 

Trump Signs Order Doubling Steel and Aluminum Tariffs to 50%, Temporarily Exempts UK

In the News: On June 3, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order increasing tariffs on imported steel and aluminum from 25% to 50%, effective June 4. The United Kingdom received a temporary exemption, maintaining the previous 25% tariff rate pending the finalization of a bilateral trade agreement.

Key Points:

• Tariff Increase Details: The tariff hike applies to nearly all U.S. trading partners, including Canada, Mexico, and members of the European Union. The United Kingdom is temporarily exempted, continuing under the 25% tariff rate until at least July 9, 2025, contingent upon the ratification of the U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal.
• Justification for Tariffs: The administration cites national security concerns, aiming to counteract the influx of low-priced, excess steel and aluminum that undermines U.S. industries.  The move is intended to bolster domestic production capacity and reduce dependency on foreign imports.
• Impact on U.S. Industries and Consumers: Industries reliant on steel and aluminum, such as automotive, construction, and manufacturing, may face increased production costs. Consumers could experience higher prices on goods ranging from household appliances to vehicles due to the increased tariffs.
• International Reactions: Canada and Mexico have expressed strong opposition, highlighting the potential negative effects on their economies and trade relations.  The European Union is considering countermeasures in response to the tariff escalation.
• UK's Temporary Exemption: The UK's exemption is tied to the pending U.S.-UK Economic Prosperity Deal, which aims to eliminate tariffs on British steel and aluminum exports. Failure to finalize the agreement by July 9 could result in the UK being subjected to the 50% tariff rate. 

Climate Change Performance Index 2025: Where Does India Stand?

In the News: The 2025 edition of the Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI), released by Germanwatch, the NewClimate Institute, and Climate Action Network International, evaluates the climate actions of 63 countries and the European Union. India has secured the 10th position, maintaining its status among the high-performing nations in global climate efforts.

Key Points:

• India's Overall Ranking: India ranks 10th in the CCPI 2025, with an overall score of 67.99. This places India among the top performers, alongside countries like Denmark (4th), the Netherlands (5th), and the United Kingdom (6th).
• Category-wise Performance:
  • Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: High rating, attributed to India's relatively low per capita emissions despite being the world's most populous country.
  • Energy Use: High rating, reflecting efficient energy consumption patterns.
  • Climate Policy: Medium rating, indicating room for improvement in policy formulation and implementation.
  • Renewable Energy: Low rating, suggesting the need for accelerated adoption and integration of renewable energy sources.
• Strengths:
  • Rapid expansion of renewable energy, particularly in large-scale solar power projects.
  • Introduction of energy efficiency standards and promotion of electric vehicle deployment.
  • Low per capita emissions and energy use, aligning with sustainable development goals.
• Global Context:
  • No country achieved a "very high" rating across all CCPI categories; thus, the top three positions remain unoccupied.
  • Denmark leads the index at 4th place, followed by the Netherlands and the United Kingdom.
  • Among G20 nations, only India and the United Kingdom are categorized as high performers. 

India to Build First-Ever Polar Research Vessel in Collaboration with Norway: Advancing Scientific and Maritime Capabilities

In the News: On June 3, 2025, India marked a significant milestone in its maritime and scientific endeavors by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd. (GRSE) of Kolkata and Norway's Kongsberg Maritime. This collaboration aims to construct India's first indigenous Polar Research Vessel (PRV), enhancing the nation's capabilities in polar research and oceanography.

Key Points:

• Strategic Collaboration: The MoU was formalized in Oslo during the Nor-Shipping 2025 maritime trade fair, with Union Minister of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, in attendance. The agreement signifies a fusion of India's shipbuilding expertise with Norway's advanced maritime technology.
• Construction and Design: GRSE will undertake the construction of the PRV at its Kolkata shipyard, leveraging its experience in building complex maritime platforms. Kongsberg Maritime will provide design and technological support, ensuring the vessel meets international standards for polar research.
• Scientific Capabilities: The PRV will be equipped with state-of-the-art scientific instruments, enabling researchers to conduct in-depth studies of oceanic depths, marine ecosystems, and climate change in polar and southern ocean regions.
• Operational Management: The National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR) will operate the vessel, facilitating India's research missions in the Arctic and Antarctic, and reducing reliance on foreign-chartered vessels.
• Timeline and Investment: The construction of the PRV is projected to be completed within five years, with an estimated investment of ₹2,600 crore.
• Alignment with National Initiatives: This project aligns with India's 'Make in India' initiative and the Maritime Vision 2047, aiming to bolster indigenous capabilities and establish India as a global maritime leader.