Summary of UPSC Current Affairs – 19 January 2026
GS Paper 2: India as a Global Cooperative Powerhouse
India is recognized as a leading global cooperative powerhouse, with over 8.5 lakh cooperatives that account for approximately 27% of the world’s total. With nearly 32 crore members, the sector plays a crucial role in rural financial inclusion and women’s empowerment, integrating approximately 10 crore women into the organized economy through self-help groups. Cooperatives provide essential services, ensure food security, and offer credit access to underserved farmers, exemplified by initiatives like the computerization of Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) and the establishment of various apex bodies to support cooperative operations.
Key Initiatives:
- Digitalization: A ₹2,925 crore project aims to computerize PACS for transparent credit delivery.
- White Revolution 2.0: This initiative seeks to enhance milk procurement significantly by creating new dairy cooperatives.
- Legislative Reforms: Reduced cooperative tax from 12% to 7% and expansion of business activities for PACS.
Challenges:
- Regional Imbalance: Cooperative development is concentrated in some states, with many underdeveloped areas lacking adequate infrastructure.
- Financial Constraints: High levels of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) hinder operational efficiency.
Moving forward, there is an emphasis on professionalizing the cooperative sector, expanding its reach, and integrating technology for sustainable growth.
GS Paper 3: Agricultural Subsidy Reforms
The ongoing reforms in agricultural subsidies, particularly within the context of the 2026 Union Budget, focus on rationalizing food and fertilizer subsidies comprising 8.5% of the total budget. Current practices have led to inefficiencies and environmental degradation, necessitating a shift towards more targeted assistance.
Key Initiatives for Reform:
- Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS) Expansion: Encouraging balanced fertilization to mitigate soil degradation.
- Direct Benefit Transfers: Streamlining subsidy dispersal to eliminate leakages and target aid effectively.
Challenges:
- Environmental Impact: Excess urea application has led to groundwater contamination and soil toxicity.
- Inequitable Distribution: Benefits primarily accrue to large farmers, while small farmers often remain underserved.
Content for Mains Enrichment: Domestic Workers’ Legal Framework
A committee’s report suggests that domestic workers do not require separate legislation, as they are protected under existing labor codes. The focus should instead shift to better enforcement of these laws. This reflects a broader government strategy to consolidate legal frameworks rather than creating sector-specific laws, emphasizing the importance of effective implementation in addressing worker vulnerabilities, particularly for women.
Facts for Prelims:
- Chips to Start-up (C2S) Programme: Aimed at strengthening India’s semiconductor design capabilities, this initiative focuses on training and facilitating innovation.
- Second Range-wide Dolphin Survey: An effort under Project Dolphin to assess the population and habitats of dolphin species in India.
- BRICS Plus Naval Exercise: India’s absence highlights its approach to maintain strategic autonomy amid geopolitical changes.
Upcoming Environmental Treaties:
The UN Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty has officially entered into force, establishing a legal framework for protecting biodiversity in international waters. The treaty emphasizes the creation of marine protected areas and requires environmental impact assessments for marine activities.
Conclusion:
India’s cooperative sector enhances economic resilience, while agricultural subsidy reforms are pivotal in promoting sustainability and addressing environmental concerns. The ongoing focus on strengthening labor rights, advancing technology, and preserving biodiversity underlines India’s commitment to inclusive growth and environmental stewardship.
