R2R NEWSPAPER NOTES

R2R SSB BATCHES START EVERY 1ST & 15TH of month. Referred articles were published in The Hindu.

• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Mandates students learn three languages in school.
• Three-Language Formula: India has historically faced challenges in implementing a uniform language policy, with states having the flexibility to choose two Indian languages and one foreign language.
• Hindi as Default Option: The NEP 2020 makes the second Indian language a default option for Hindi, which has sparked controversy, particularly in Maharashtra and other regional languages.
• Political Implications: The issue has become a political battleground, with the BJP facing criticism for allegedly pushing a "Hindi imposition."
• Maharashtra Government's Stance: The Maharashtra government is resisting Hindi as the default second language, emphasizing the importance of regional languages.
• BJP's Perspective: The BJP views the three-language policy as a matter of national pride and unity, believing it promotes national integration.
• Current Scenario: Currently, 15 languages are available for third language options in schools. If at least 20 students demand a language, it must be taught.
• Implementation Challenges: Actual implementation varies significantly across states, with some regions like Bihar having a Hindi-speaking majority.
• Call for Reassessment: The BJP is urged to reassess its language policy to account for diverse linguistic needs across the country.

• Axiom Mission-4 Launch: On June 25, a crew capsule carrying four astronauts launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA's Kennedy Space Center.
• Destination: The mission's destination was the International Space Station (ISS), orbiting Earth at roughly 400 km above sea level.
• Mission Duration: The crew capsule took approximately 28 hours to reach the ISS.
• Spacecraft Maneuvers: The capsule performs a series of precise maneuvers, including an apogee burn and phasing burns, to gradually raise its orbit and align with the ISS.
• Orbital Mechanics: The ISS orbits at 400 km, while the capsule's initial orbit was lower (300 km). This difference requires careful adjustments to avoid "hitting a highway at the right exit rather than steering straight towards another car."
• Docking Process: The capsule gradually closed in on the ISS, moving at a speed of few centimetres per second for a safe rendezvous.
• Pre-docking Profile: The crew undergoes a pre-docking profile lasting about 28 hours, involving checks and maneuvers.
• Role of SpaceX Dragon Capsule: Axiom Space and NASA specifically chose the SpaceX Dragon crew capsule for its reliability and ability to perform necessary pre-docking checks.

• New Criminal Codes: India is replacing three British-era criminal laws: the Indian Penal Code (IPC), the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), and the Indian Evidence Act (IEA) with the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam (BSA), respectively.
• Focus on Technology: The new laws emphasize technology-driven investigations, including the use of e-Sakshya (digital evidence collection) and Criminal Tracking and Systems (CCTNS).
• E-Sakshya (Digital Evidence): This new system mandates the use of electronic evidence, including photographs, videos, and audio recordings, in investigations. It aims to improve the quality of evidence.
• Challenges of Implementation: The transition requires significant investment in infrastructure, training of law enforcement officials, and addressing technical and legal complexities.
• Concerns with Surveillance: The expanded use of technology raises concerns about privacy, surveillance, and potential misuse of data, particularly with the ability to record conversations and collect digital evidence from personal devices.
• Video Recording of Searches and Seizures: The BNSS mandates video recording of searches and seizures under Section 176 of the BNSS and Section 197 of the BSA, aimed at increasing transparency and accountability.
• Feedback and Reforms: The government is seeking feedback to refine the new laws, ensuring they are practical and effective while upholding individual rights.
• Forensic Science: The new laws integrate forensic science into investigations, with provisions for medical examination reports and post-mortem reports to be more closely linked to criminal procedures.

NEWS IN SHORTS

1. Manipur Delegation to Meet Home Ministry Officials Today

A 19-member delegation from three Meitei-led groups in Manipur is scheduled to meet Union Home Ministry officials today to address the ongoing ethnic conflict. The delegation, including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity, will focus on territorial integrity, opening of highways, rehabilitation of displaced people, and security for farmers. The conflict has resulted in over 250 deaths and 60,000 displaced, with tension persisting in "buffer zones" separating Kuki-Zo and Meitei communities.

2. Ahead of Census, States Asked to Lock Changes in Boundaries Before Dec. 31

The Registrar-General of India (RGI) has instructed states to freeze administrative boundaries by December 31, 2025, ahead of the Population Census 2027. The House Listing and Housing Schedule operation will begin on April 1, 2026, with the population count starting February 1, 2027. This "last call" ensures that approximately 24 lakh enumeration blocks finalized for the 2021 Census are utilized for the upcoming exercise, ensuring accurate data collection.

3. Revisit Digital Search Powers Under the IT Bill 2025

A recently introduced IT Bill 2025 proposes to allow tax authorities access to "virtual digital space" during search and seizure operations, raising significant concerns about privacy and surveillance. The bill, intended to curb financial malpractices, could allow access to personal data, social media accounts, and digital communications without sufficient oversight. Critics argue it blurs the line between public and private information, potentially undermining individual rights and creating a system prone to misuse and overreach.

4. MP DGP Says Police Alone Can't Curb Rapes; Blames Porn, Liquor

Madhya Pradesh Director General of Police (DGP) Kailash Makwana stated that police alone cannot curb rape incidents, blaming factors like pornography, internet, and alcohol for eroding morality and contributing to increased sexual assault cases. His remarks followed a review meeting for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela. Madhya Pradesh has seen a rise in sexual assault cases, with 7,294 rape cases reported in 2024, averaging 20 cases daily.

5. The Forced Sterilisation of Emergency

The article discusses the forced sterilization campaigns during India's Emergency period, marking 50 years since its imposition. This controversial program, officially aimed at population control, led to widespread human rights abuses and disproportionately affected marginalized communities. Despite documented excesses, the campaign was often lauded for its efficiency. The historical context highlights similar eugenic practices globally, while detailing the coercive methods employed and the devastating impact on individuals and society.

6. Maharashtra Scraps New Three-Language Policy

Maharashtra has scrapped the three-language policy for Classes 1 to 5 in state government schools, following two months of protests from academics, activists, and political parties. The decision, announced by the state government, comes after sustained opposition to the policy, which had caused significant controversy regarding primary education. Opposition parties welcomed the move, viewing it as a victory for Marathi people, while a panel will further decide the future of the policy within three months.

7. Boeing Faces Headwinds from Crashes and Competition

Boeing is grappling with financial difficulties and mounting scrutiny due to recent crashes and increased competition. Data reveals a significant decline in its market share, particularly in India, where Airbus and IndiGo have gained ground. The article highlights concerns about safety records and production quality, impacting airline confidence and orders. Boeing faces pressure to address these issues to regain its standing in the global aviation market and ensure future profitability.

8. 3 Dead, Over 50 Injured in Stampede During Rath Yatra in Puri

Three women died and over 50 people were injured in a stampede during the Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha. The incident occurred early Sunday morning as devotees pulled chariots. Odisha CM has announced ₹5 lakh ex-gratia for the kin of the deceased and ordered a high-level inquiry. The stampede highlights concerns about crowd management and safety measures during large religious gatherings, prompting calls for improved planning to prevent similar tragedies.

9. Education System in Ruined in Bihar: Cong.

The Congress party has claimed that Bihar's education system is "ruined," citing a report that highlights deficiencies in government schools. The report indicates a shortage of teachers, poor infrastructure, and low enrollment rates, particularly at the primary level. The Congress leader emphasized that despite significant allocations in the state budget for education, the funds are not being effectively utilized, leading to a decline in educational standards across Bihar.

10. At ISS, Shukla Takes Up Experiment on Skeletal Muscle Degradation in Space

Indian Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, aboard the International Space Station (ISS), has commenced research on skeletal muscle degradation in microgravity. As part of Axiom Space's mission, Shukla is conducting experiments in the Life Sciences Glovebox, aiming to understand the biological pathways of muscle wasting. This research is crucial for developing therapies for astronauts and individuals with muscle-degenerative diseases on Earth, contributing to medical advancements and preparations for long-duration space missions.

11. People Had Won Against Emergency, Says Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that "people had won against Emergency," asserting that those who imposed it intended to enslave the judiciary and the Constitution. Speaking on the 50th anniversary of the Emergency declaration, Modi emphasized the importance of upholding democratic values and fundamental rights. He highlighted various government schemes and initiatives aimed at empowering citizens and promoting social justice, framing them as a testament to the victory of the people over authoritarianism.

12. PM Carney Has a Pragmatic Approach, Wants Reset in India Ties, Says Ex-Envoy

Former Canadian High Commissioner to India, Stewart Beck, stated that Canadian Prime Minister Marc Carney has a "pragmatic approach" to global and domestic affairs and is keen on resetting ties with India. Beck noted that the relationship has suffered due to various issues, including Canadian intervention in Indian domestic affairs and the Nijjar assassination. He believes the G-7 meeting provided an opportunity for bilateral dialogue and emphasizes the need for mutual understanding to improve relations.

13. Bangladesh Vows 'Most Credible Polls in its History'

Bangladesh's Chief Advisor A. Muhammad Yunus has assured that the interim government will ensure the "most credible and peaceful" general elections in the nation's history. Preparations are underway to guarantee free and fair polls, with all necessary measures being taken. Yunus highlighted the primary goal of the interim government, which ascended in July 2024, to restore democracy and good governance. General elections are scheduled for the latter half of April next year.

14. Israel Orders Palestinians to Evacuate Parts of North Gaza

The Israeli military has ordered Palestinians to evacuate areas in northern Gaza due to intensified fighting against Hamas. This directive comes amid renewed efforts to broker a ceasefire, with US President Donald Trump reiterating calls for a deal to secure hostages. Military officials have warned that expanding operations into new areas could endanger remaining hostages. The evacuation order has led to heightened concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as residents are urged to head south towards al-Mawasi, a designated humanitarian area.