1.Strawberry & Pomegranate Surge, Cereals Decline Insights from India’s

 Why in News?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) released the latest Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors report on June 27, 2025. The report, covering the period from 2011–12 to 2023–24, revealed a significant shift in India’s agricultural production trends—highlighting the rapid increase in output value of high-value crops like strawberries, pomegranates, mushrooms, and vegetables like parmal (pointed gourd), while the Gross Value of Output (GVO) of traditional staples like cereals has steadily declined.

This trend reflects the changing consumption habits of Indian households, especially in rural areas, influenced by rising incomes, urbanisation, diversified diets, and an increasing preference for nutrient-rich and processed foods.

This development is significant for CLAT 2026 aspirants, especially in the context of agricultural economics, public policy, and data interpretation in both Legal Reasoning and General Knowledge sections.

 Introduction

India’s agricultural landscape is undergoing a subtle but significant transformation. For decades, cereal crops like rice and wheat dominated the agricultural output and policy discourse. However, new data from MoSPI now paints a different picture. As fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, and condiments record exponential growth in output value, the role of consumer behaviour, health awareness, and market dynamics in agriculture is becoming increasingly evident.

The current shift is a textbook case of Engel’s Law, which suggests that as income increases, the proportion of expenditure on food (especially staples) declines, while demand for diversified and higher-value food items increases. This article explores this evolution with statistical, economic, and legal depth to equip CLAT 2026 aspirants with nuanced insights.

 Point-wise Summary of the Report

1. Release Authority: The report titled ‘Value of Output from Agriculture and Allied Sectors’ was released by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on June 27, 2025.
2. Time Frame Covered: Data spans from 2011–12 to 2023–24, adjusted at constant prices to ensure inflation-neutral comparisons.
3. Key Term – GVO (Gross Value of Output):
   • GVO refers to the total monetary value of all goods produced before subtracting input costs.
   • It reflects economic worth of crops, vegetables, fruits, animal products, and allied agricultural sectors.
4. Biggest Winners:
   • Strawberries: GVO rose 80 times from ₹1.32 crore to ₹103.27 crore.
   • Parmal (Parwal): Increased 17 times to ₹789 crore.
   • Pumpkin: Rose nearly 10 times to ₹2,449 crore.
   • Pomegranate: GVO rose fourfold to ₹9,231 crore.
   • Mushroom: GVO increased three and a half times to ₹1,704 crore.
5. Condiments & Spices:
   • Substantial growth seen due to improved processing and export demand.
   • Dry ginger alone rose by 285% to ₹11,004 crore.
6. GVO of Cereals:
   • Declined from 17.6% in 2011–12 to 14.5% in 2023–24 as part of overall agricultural output.
7. Meat & Animal Products:
   • GVO share rose from 5% to 7.5%, reflecting greater protein consumption.
   • Yet, GVO of meat group grew only 131%, which is relatively modest.
8. Consumer Behaviour Trends:
   • Strawberry GVO up 4,104%, indicating massive surge in cultivation and market value.
   • Consumption of fruits increased from 63.8% to 90.3% in rural households (2011–2023).
   • Particularly high increase among the bottom 20% income group, showing democratisation of fruit consumption.
9. Declining Staples:
   • MPCE (Monthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure) share for cereals fell from:
     • 6.61% to 3.74% in urban areas.
     • 10.69% to 4.97% in rural areas.
   • HCES 2023–24 shows a 52.9% drop in cereal expenditure by poorest 20% rural households.
10. Watermelon & Cherry Boom:
    • GVO of watermelon rose by 119%, cherry by 99%, banana and mosambi by 88%, and muskmelon by 87%.

About the Report

 Released By:

MoSPI – Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

• MoSPI compiles and publishes economic, demographic, and agriculture-related statistics.
• The GVO report is crucial for planning agricultural policy, Minimum Support Prices (MSP), procurement strategies, and subsidy frameworks.

 What is GVO?

• Gross Value of Output is the monetary worth of agricultural products, measured before deducting input costs.
• It reflects the market valuation of crops and allied goods.
• It is different from Gross Value Added (GVA) which subtracts input costs.

 Legal and Economic Implications

1. Relevance to Public Policy:

• Helps in budget allocation for agriculture.
• Drives decisions on crop insurance, subsidies, and export-import policies.

2. Nutrition and Welfare Laws:

• GVO trends align with the goals of:
  • National Food Security Act, 2013.
  • Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS).
  • POSHAN Abhiyaan.
• Rise in fruit/veg output aids nutritional goals set under Right to Food.

3. Engel’s Law in Action:

• Engel’s Law states that as incomes rise, people spend less on cereals and more on diversified foods.
• This law is visible in MPCE and GVO shifts.

4. Climate-smart agriculture:

• High-value crops like mushrooms, dry fruits, spices require less water and land.
• Policy shift toward these can help in mitigating climate impacts.

 Notes – Important Terms

2.Ahmedabad Proposed as Host for the 2036 Olympics

CLAT Current Affairs 2026 | Prepared by CLAT Gurukul
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 Why in News?

India has formally proposed Ahmedabad as the host city for the 2036 Olympic Games, marking the country’s strongest bid yet to host the world’s most prestigious multi-sporting event. This announcement came after a high-level delegation from India met with the top brass of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in Lausanne, Switzerland.

This is the first time the Indian proposal has been officially communicated to the IOC, showing a clear commitment from the Indian government, Gujarat state officials, and the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

 The Olympics: A Brief Overview

 What are the Olympics?

The Olympic Games are the world’s foremost sports competition, held every four years, featuring summer and winter sports in which thousands of athletes from around the globe participate.

 Origin and History

The ancient Olympics were held in Olympia, Greece from 776 BCE to 393 CE. The modern Olympic Games began in 1896 in Athens, Greece, initiated by Pierre de Coubertin, with the aim of promoting peace and unity through sport.

 Governing Body

The Games are managed by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland.

 Ahmedabad’s Bid: Key Highlights

• For the first time, India has officially conveyed its intention to host the Olympics.
• The Indian delegation included members from:
  • The Union Sports Ministry
  • The Gujarat Government
  • The Indian Olympic Association (IOA)
• The proposed venue for the games is the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Sports Enclave in Ahmedabad, which is under construction.

Why Ahmedabad?

• It is already being developed as a world-class sports hub.
• Its connectivity, infrastructure, and proximity to key cities make it a practical choice.
• Hosting the games here aligns with India’s plan to showcase its economic strength, diversity, and diplomatic presence.

 IOC’s Response and Process

The IOC has currently paused the host city selection process. However, the Indian delegation was told that a working group will be formed to study and resume the selection process after addressing governance issues and member concerns.

The pause was primarily due to concerns over internal IOC policies, finances, and the complexity of hosting such mega events.

India’s proactive step sends a message to the IOC that it is ready, serious, and globally capable.

 Why is India’s Bid Crucial?

1. India’s Demographic Power:
   • Over 600 million youth could be inspired to engage in sports.
   • A successful Olympic Games would be a catalyst for sports development.
2. Cultural Projection:
   • Opportunity to share India’s ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (“The World is One Family”) on a global stage.
3. Geopolitical Significance:
   • Joining the elite club of Olympic host nations would elevate India’s soft power.
   • With China, Japan, and South Korea having hosted Olympics, India’s bid helps balance Asian representation.
4. Infrastructure Boost:
   • Development of roads, stadiums, green spaces, and accommodation would significantly benefit Ahmedabad and surrounding regions.
5. Economic Impact:
   • Host nations benefit from tourism, foreign investment, and job creation.
   • Long-term legacy infrastructure and sports culture development.

 India’s Past Olympic Participation

India has been a regular participant in the Olympics since 1900. Its most prominent achievements include:

•  Field Hockey: 8 Gold Medals
•  Neeraj Chopra’s Gold in Javelin (Tokyo 2020)
•  Individual Gold Medals: Abhinav Bindra, Neeraj Chopra
•  Expansion in sports: Shooting, Badminton, Wrestling, Boxing

Hosting the games will further encourage participation and training.

 How Are Olympic Host Cities Chosen?

The selection process typically involves:

1. Initial Application: A city expresses interest through its NOC (National Olympic Committee).
2. Feasibility Studies & IOC Review
3. Bidding Phase: Shortlisted cities submit a detailed proposal.
4. Evaluation Commission Visit
5. Final Vote by IOC Members

India is currently at Phase 1, where it has officially expressed its interest and intention.

 The 2036 Race: Who Else is Competing?

As per current reports, India may face competition from:

• Saudi Arabia
• Indonesia
• Germany
• Poland
• Mexico
• South Korea
• Turkey
• UK (joint bid from Manchester or London)

India’s timely diplomatic push may give it a first-mover advantage.

 Quotes from Indian Officials

 Harsh Sanghavi, Gujarat Sports Minister:
“We are eager to be a true partner of the IOC. We hope to realise this dream of bringing the Olympics to India.”

 PT Usha, IOA President:
“An Indian Olympics would not be just a spectacle, but a movement. It will be a generation-defining moment.”

 Glossary of Terms

3.India’s Naval Advancements: INS Tamal Commissioned, INS Udaygiri Delivered – A Strategic CLAT 2026 Insight

 Why in News?

On July 1, 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned INS Tamal, a guided missile frigate built by Russia, into its fleet. This event was historic not just because of the induction, but because it marked the last foreign-built warship to join the Indian Navy. From this point forward, the Indian Navy’s capital acquisitions will be either indigenous or built in India under Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India).

On the same day, INS Udaygiri, a stealth frigate built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDSL), was delivered to the Navy under the indigenous Project 17A, demonstrating India’s growing prowess in shipbuilding.

Introduction

India’s maritime landscape is rapidly evolving. From protecting sea trade routes to acting as a regional net security provider in the Indo-Pacific, the Navy has to be agile, lethal, and technologically superior.

The commissioning of INS Tamal and the delivery of INS Udaygiri is a strategic milestone—symbolizing India’s shift from a buyer of warships to a builder. For CLAT 2026 aspirants, this topic covers critical intersections of international relations, strategic law, defense procurement, and indigenous capability-building.

 INS Tamal – Capabilities and Strategic Role

• Country of Origin: Russia
• Shipyard: Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad
• Class: Project 1135.6 (Talwar-class)
• Fleet: Assigned to Western Naval Command, Karwar

Key Features:

• BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system (dual configuration)
• 100 mm main gun for surface combat
• Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) for anti-missile defense
• Anti-submarine torpedoes
• Advanced radar and EW systems

INS Tamal is part of a series of modern frigates offering multi-role capabilities, including anti-submarine, surface, air warfare, and electronic warfare. It will significantly strengthen the Sword Arm of the Western Fleet.

 INS Udaygiri – Homegrown Stealth Frigate

• Built by: MDSL, Mumbai
• Class: Project 17A (successor to Project 17 – Shivalik class)
• Status: Delivered, sea trials underway

Features:

• Advanced stealth design: reduced radar cross-section
• Equipped with:
  • Surface-to-air missiles
  • Anti-submarine torpedoes
  • Anti-ship missiles
• Integrated sonar and radar systems
• Built using modular construction

Udaygiri represents the best of Indian engineering and will enhance India’s capacity to counter threats in the Indo-Pacific region.

🇷🇺 Project 1135.6 – The Talwar-Class Legacy

Project 1135.6 includes seven guided missile frigates built by Russia for India between the 2000s and 2025.

Ships Inducted:

1. INS Talwar
2. INS Trikand
3. INS Tarkash
4. INS Teg
5. INS Tabar
6. INS Tushil
7. INS Tamal (final ship)

These vessels are stealth-capable, fast, and built for multi-dimensional warfare. They were crucial during anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden and naval diplomacy missions.

INS Tamal and Tushil were built under a follow-on order signed in 2018, with Indian specifications and Russian construction expertise.

 Warship Classification – Explained for CLAT

These ships serve distinct roles in sea denial, power projection, and maritime security.

 Strategic & Legal Relevance

1. Atmanirbhar Bharat & DAP 2020:

India’s Defense Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 prioritizes indigenous production. With INS Tamal, India ends its foreign-built warship imports, aligning with DAP goals.

2. UNCLOS & Maritime Law:

India, as a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), has exclusive economic zone (EEZ) rights and responsibilities. A robust Navy helps enforce maritime laws, counter piracy, and secure sea lanes.

3. Self-Defence under UN Charter:

Article 51 of the UN Charter allows states to strengthen defense mechanisms for sovereignty. Naval deterrence plays a legal and strategic role in this.

4. Technology Transfers & IP Rights:

Contracts like those under Project 1135.6 often include transfer of technology (ToT) and intellectual property considerations, making them relevant for legal reasoning in CLAT.

 Notes – Key Terms for CLAT 2026

• Project 1135.6: Talwar-class Russian frigates for India
• Project 17A: Indigenous stealth frigates (advanced Shivalik class)
• BrahMos: Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile
• CIWS: Close-in Weapon System for missile interception
• Blue-water Navy: Navy capable of global operations
• UNCLOS: UN treaty on maritime rights
• DAP 2020: Indian defense procurement policy

4.Monsoon 2025 and Climate Drivers: Understanding MJO, ENSO, IOD, El Niño & La Niña

 Why in News?

On June 29, 2025, the Southwest Monsoon completed national coverage over India, nine days ahead of its usual date of July 8. This rare event, which occurred only 10 times since 1960, made headlines due to its significant agricultural, climatic, and policy implications.

This unusually fast monsoon spread has been linked to:

• The active phase of the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)
• Formation of strong low-pressure systems
• A neutral phase of ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) and IOD (Indian Ocean Dipole)
• Proper alignment of the monsoon trough over the Indian subcontinent

These meteorological factors combined to push moist, rain-bearing winds across the country much earlier than expected.

 Introduction to Monsoon Dynamics

India’s monsoon is not just about rainfall—it determines the food security, hydroelectric output, and economic health of the nation. It is also a key component in disaster management laws, environmental policies, and constitutional duties like ensuring equitable development under Article 21 (Right to Life).

Understanding why the monsoon arrived early in 2025 provides insights into:

• Climate change impact on weather patterns
• Scientific phenomena that influence weather predictability
• Governance strategies for agriculture and disaster preparedness

For CLAT aspirants, these are critical intersections of science, law, and policy.

1. Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO)

Definition:
The MJO is a moving system of clouds, winds, and rainfall that travels from west to east around the equator, completing one full circle every 30–60 days.

Impact on Monsoon:

• When the MJO passes over the Indian Ocean, it causes intense convection (rain-bearing cloud formation).
• It strengthens the southwest monsoon by energizing low-pressure zones.

Example (2025):
The MJO was active over southern India in June 2025, helping the monsoon advance rapidly across the subcontinent.

2. Low-Pressure Systems

Definition:
Low-pressure areas are regions where the atmospheric pressure is lower than surrounding areas. This causes air to flow inward, rise, and form clouds and precipitation.

How it works:

• Acts like a vacuum, pulling in moist air.
• Triggers rainfall, especially during monsoon season.

In 2025:
Multiple low-pressure systems formed over the Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea, pulling monsoon currents inland.

3. El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO)

Definition:
ENSO is a climate phenomenon occurring in the Pacific Ocean, affecting global weather patterns, including the Indian monsoon.

It has three phases:

1. El Niño

• Warming of the central/eastern Pacific Ocean.
• Weakens Indian monsoon.
• Causes drought-like conditions in India.

1. La Niña

• Cooling of the central/eastern Pacific Ocean.
• Strengthens Indian monsoon.
• Brings excess rainfall to India.

1. Neutral ENSO

• Sea temperatures stay average.
• No strong impact—monsoon behaves normally.

In June 2025:
ENSO was in a neutral phase, helping the monsoon behave normally without disruption.

4. Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)

Definition:
IOD is the difference in sea surface temperature between the western Indian Ocean (near Africa) and the eastern Indian Ocean (near Indonesia).

It also has 3 phases:

1. Positive IOD

• Western Indian Ocean is warmer.
• Causes stronger monsoon over India.

1. Negative IOD

• Eastern Indian Ocean is warmer.
• Leads to weaker monsoon in India.

1. Neutral IOD

• No significant temperature difference.
• Monsoon remains stable.

In June 2025:
IOD was also in a neutral phase, supporting balanced and timely rainfall.

5. Monsoon Trough

Definition:
A monsoon trough is an elongated zone of low pressure that extends from the Bay of Bengal across the Indo-Gangetic plains.

Importance:

• Serves as the main rainfall channel for India.
• Helps determine where and how intensely it rains.

2025 Scenario:
The trough aligned early, pulling moisture deep into the country, accelerating the monsoon’s national coverage

📊 Data Insights from IMD: June 2025 Rainfall

• Central & Southern India benefited most.
• Northeast and Northern India showed deficiency, continuing a 3-year trend.

 Agricultural Implications

The early monsoon has:

• Boosted kharif sowing in rain-rich states.
• Triggered policy interventions in rain-deficient zones like Mizoram, Manipur, Assam.
• Reversed recent drought-like patterns seen since 2022.

However, states like Punjab, Haryana, Delhi saw little change in rainfall, risking groundwater overuse and sowing delays.

 Relevance for CLAT 2026

This topic may feature in:

• Legal Reasoning → Disaster Management Act, 2005; Environmental Protection Act
• Reading Comprehension → Interpreting climate data
• GK/Current Affairs → UPSC-style passages on environmental governance

Legal Lens:

• Article 48A: Protection and improvement of environment
• Article 21: Right to Life (includes right to clean environment, food security)
• National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Climate-Resilient Agriculture

5.Nuts and Bolts Diplomacy – India’s Pragmatic Foreign Policy Vision CLAT 2026 Current Affairs Insight

 Why in News

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s multi-nation diplomatic tour in July 2025, which includes attending the BRICS Summit in Brazil and visiting Ghana, Namibia, Argentina, and Trinidad & Tobago, has drawn international focus. These visits are not just ceremonial—they reflect India’s evolving foreign policy doctrine.

In his Indian Express column titled “Nuts and Bolts Diplomacy”, senior strategic commentator C. Raja Mohan argues that India’s diplomatic energy is better spent pursuing pragmatic bilateral engagement than aligning itself ideologically with multilateral blocs like BRICS or the Quad.

 Introduction

As the global order becomes more fragmented and multipolar, India’s foreign policy must shift towards interest-based diplomacy. Multilateral forums like BRICS and Quad are useful but should not distract from strengthening bilateral and regional ties.

According to C. Raja Mohan, India’s primary diplomatic focus must be on self-strengthening, enhancing domestic capability, and balancing global power alignments rather than idealistic pronouncements about world order. This means going beyond “big vision statements” and focusing on the nuts and bolts of diplomacy—hard interests, not soft ideals.

 Key Points Summary

1. PM Modi’s July 2025 diplomatic outreach includes Latin American and African countries, beyond just BRICS participation.
2. Internal contradictions within BRICS—especially between India and China—have rendered it increasingly ineffective.
3. Argentina’s refusal to join BRICS underscores that not all countries are drawn to the bloc’s ideological umbrella.
4. India should not view BRICS or Quad as ideological alliances, but only as geopolitical tools when strategically useful.
5. India must respond to Trump’s erratic diplomacy, including sudden overtures to Pakistan and China, with caution.
6. The China-Russia-Pakistan axis poses a growing challenge for India’s strategic environment.
7. Forums like Quad help hedge against China, but they should not become substitutes for bilateral diplomacy.
8. India’s real priorities must include infrastructure, energy security, trade access, border defence, and maritime stability.
9. Strategic autonomy, a longstanding principle in Indian foreign policy, must be preserved amid shifting global alliances.
10. India should invest in deeper bilateral ties with global powers—US, EU, ASEAN, Gulf states—rather than ideological blocs.

Strategic Analysis: Beyond BRICS and Quad

Raja Mohan contends that BRICS, originally envisioned as a bloc representing emerging economies, is now divided by internal politics. The rift between democratic India and authoritarian China, and the growing closeness of Russia to China, dilutes the forum’s strategic coherence.

Similarly, while the Quad (India, US, Japan, Australia) is a critical Indo-Pacific platform, its long-term effectiveness depends on the strategic convergence of its members—something that fluctuates with domestic political changes, especially in the US.

Thus, India must treat these blocs as forums for coordination, not cornerstones of its foreign policy.

 India’s Pragmatic Diplomatic Doctrine

India’s new diplomacy is driven by strategic pragmatism, aligning with countries that serve national interest, regardless of their ideology. Examples include:

• Energy security with UAE, Saudi Arabia
• Defence collaboration with Israel and France
• Semiconductor and tech partnerships with Japan and the US
• Infrastructure development in Africa

Given global uncertainty—from supply chain disruptions to maritime disputes—India must diversify its diplomatic engagement, especially in Africa and Latin America.

 Legal and Constitutional Relevance

India’s external affairs are guided by both constitutional values and international law:

 Indian Constitution:

• Article 51 (Directive Principles): Advocates promotion of international peace and security.
• India’s foreign policy must be aligned with sovereignty, non-intervention, and strategic autonomy.

 Legal Instruments:

• UNCLOS: Defines maritime rights critical for India’s Indo-Pacific posture.
• WTO laws & FTAs: Affect trade policies and tariff negotiations.
• Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs): Shape India’s commercial diplomacy.
• UN Charter (Articles 1 & 2): Governs peaceful coexistence and diplomacy.

 Notes – Key Terms for CLAT 2026

• BRICS: Grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa; known for economic coordination.
• Quad: Security dialogue among India, US, Australia, Japan in the Indo-Pacific.
• Multipolarity: Global order with many power centers, not dominated by one.
• Strategic Autonomy: India’s policy of independent decision-making in global affairs.
• Geopolitics: Influence of geography, power, and strategy on state behavior.
• UNCLOS: UN Convention on the Law of the Sea; regulates maritime rights.
• Article 51: Indian constitutional principle for promoting global peace.

6.Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting 2025: India’s Assertive Stand on Terrorism

 Why in News?

On July 1, 2025, the first Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) Foreign Ministers’ meeting since Operation Sindoor was held in Washington, D.C.. This meeting marked a significant moment in India’s diplomacy as External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar addressed his counterparts from Australia, Japan, and the United States.

Dr. Jaishankar made a strong statement that India expects the Quad nations to support its position on terrorism, emphasizing that India reserves the sovereign right to defend itself and its citizens against terror threats. He further added that the global narrative must stop equating victims of terrorism with its perpetrators.

This message from India follows the successful counter-terror operation “Operation Sindoor”, conducted in May 2025, in which India neutralized several cross-border threats. India’s firm stance aligns with international legal norms and is part of its broader diplomatic strategy to ensure moral clarity in the global fight against terrorism.

 Introduction

The Quad has evolved from a consultative forum into a strategic alliance shaping the Indo-Pacific order. The Indo-Pacific is now the geopolitical epicenter of global power dynamics, and the Quad stands at the heart of this alignment.

In this context, India’s growing role in the Quad is deeply significant. As a nation frequently targeted by cross-border terrorism, India has consistently called for a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism, including state-sponsored terror activities. At the July 2025 meeting, Dr. Jaishankar voiced a clear message: India will not allow moral ambiguity when it comes to acts of terror, and it expects its partners to support that clarity.

India’s diplomatic stance reflects not only regional security concerns but also its broader aspiration to be a norm-setter in international law and counter-terror frameworks.

What is QUAD?

The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) is an informal strategic grouping of four democracies—India, the United States, Japan, and Australia—formed to ensure a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

 Origin and Purpose

• Initially proposed in 2007 by Japanese PM Shinzo Abe.
• Revived in 2017 amid growing concerns over China’s increasing assertiveness.
• Focused on maritime security, cyber resilience, infrastructure development, and counter-terrorism.
• Quad is not a military alliance, but a diplomatic and strategic consultation platform.

 Member Countries and Their Interests

Each country brings its own strategic priorities but shares a common concern: preserving peace and security in the Indo-Pacific against authoritarian threats and grey-zone warfare.

 This Year’s Agenda (2025)

At the 2025 Washington meeting, the following key points were highlighted:

1. Post-Operation Sindoor Solidarity

India urged Quad partners to recognize its right to defend itself against terrorism. It sought explicit support for its proactive security policies and emphasized that equating the state with non-state actors is legally and morally wrong.

2. Maritime Domain Awareness

With increasing Chinese activity in the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, the Quad discussed joint patrols, real-time intelligence sharing, and collaborative naval drills.

3. Countering Cyber Threats and AI Risks

Quad nations pledged cooperation on secure digital infrastructure, 5G networks, AI regulation, and data protection laws to build technological resilience.

4. Infrastructure & Investment Initiatives

The Quad reaffirmed its commitment to providing an alternative to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) by co-financing development projects in Southeast Asia and Africa.

5. Climate Action and Disaster Relief

From clean energy technologies to disaster response coordination, the Quad’s climate agenda was expanded to promote sustainable development in vulnerable regions.

 Operation Sindoor – Strategic Context

Operation Sindoor, conducted by India in May 2025, was a pre-emptive strike on terror infrastructure across the border. With verified intelligence inputs and adherence to international humanitarian law, Indian forces dismantled multiple training camps and terror hideouts.

Strategic Highlights:

• Precision-led and proportionate in response.
• Conducted in accordance with Article 51 of the UN Charter, allowing self-defence.
• Signaled India’s growing capability for quick and decisive military response.
• Lauded domestically and cautiously acknowledged internationally.

At the Quad meeting, this operation formed the backdrop for India’s demand for clearer alignment with partners on counter-terrorism strategies.

 Legal & Strategic Significance

India’s emphasis on sovereignty and self-defence is rooted in international law:

Article 51 of the UN Charter:

“Nothing in the present Charter shall impair the inherent right of individual or collective self-defence if an armed attack occurs…”

UNSC Resolutions:

• Resolution 1267: Sanctions on terrorist individuals/entities.
• Resolution 1373: Calls for international cooperation in combating terrorism, including cutting off funding and denying safe haven.

India used these provisions to legally justify Operation Sindoor and frame its diplomatic messaging as aligned with global norms.

7.Border Dispute Between Thailand and Cambodia: A Detailed CLAT 2026 Analysis

CLAT Current Affairs 2026 | International Law | Legal Reasoning

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Why in News

On July 2, 2025, The Indian Express reported that Thailand’s Constitutional Court had suspended Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra from office. The reason? A leaked phone call that took place between her and Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen. This leak triggered a massive political and legal firestorm in Thailand, raising ethical concerns about the PM’s conduct and worsening the already tense border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia.

The issue has significant international law implications, with discussions involving the International Court of Justice (ICJ), bilateral mechanisms, sovereignty claims, and historical grievances. Hence, this story is not just political drama—it’s a legal, ethical, and constitutional issue of global relevance, especially for CLAT 2026 aspirants studying geopolitics and international law.

 The Leaked Call – What Sparked the Crisis

• On June 15, 2025, PM Paetongtarn Shinawatra spoke with Cambodian Senate President Hun Sen via phone.
• Hun Sen later leaked the call by posting a Facebook message in which he claimed to have recorded the conversation and shared it with over 80 individuals.
• In the conversation (translated), they discussed:
  • Rising border tensions
  • Whether restrictions imposed after a deadly clash should be lifted
  • Thai military criticism of Cambodia
• Paetongtarn referred to Hun Sen as “Uncle”, given their close political family connections. Her father, Thaksin Shinawatra, a former PM, was an ally of Hun Sen.
• She told Hun Sen she would “try to manage” the army’s opposition.
• Critics in Thailand accused her of compromising national security by discussing internal army issues with a foreign leader.
• The Constitutional Court took note and suspended her pending an ethics investigation.

 The Border Dispute – A Historical Overview

🔹 Origins of the Conflict

• The dispute centers around a contested border zone, especially near the Preah Vihear Temple, a 1,000-year-old Hindu temple.
• Cambodia uses a French colonial map to claim territory, while Thailand disputes its accuracy.
• In 1962, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled that the temple lies in Cambodian territory.
• However, Thailand argues the ICJ ruling does not apply to surrounding land or military presence.
• Multiple skirmishes have erupted in recent decades—both sides claim self-defense during armed exchanges.

🔹 May 2025 Escalation

• In May 2025, Thai and Cambodian forces exchanged fire, escalating fears of a renewed military conflict.
• Cambodian soldiers died; both countries claimed the other initiated the violence.
• This led to domestic unrest in Thailand and raised questions about how the Thai government was managing border defense.

 What Happens Next – Legal and Diplomatic Paths

• Cambodia wants the dispute back before the ICJ, including the events surrounding the May 2025 clash.
• Thailand refuses, arguing:
  • The ICJ does not have jurisdiction over the current conflict.
  • All such matters must be handled through bilateral mechanisms.
• Cambodia has already filed fresh submissions to the ICJ.
• This international legal standoff could result in:
  • Temporary injunctions from ICJ
  • Diplomatic pressure from ASEAN or the UN
  • Worsening of bilateral ties if no resolution is reached

 Bickering Neighbours – Thailand and Cambodia’s Complex History

• The nations have historical mistrust, deeply rooted in colonial boundaries and national pride.
• Cambodia insists on French colonial maps as legitimate; Thailand rejects them.
• Preah Vihear Temple, while geographically near the border, is symbolically vital to both nations.
• This is not the first such crisis. In the 1970s, during Cold War instability, tensions over sovereignty and border fencing surfaced.
• Nationalist leaders on both sides often invoke patriotic emotions when conflict arises, adding public pressure to legal negotiations.

 Key Terms for CLAT Aspirants

 Constitutional and Legal Relevance

🔹 Thailand’s Constitution

• Thailand’s Constitutional Court is empowered to suspend or dismiss public officials for violating:
  • National security
  • Ethical conduct
  • Military confidentiality
• PM Paetongtarn’s suspension highlights how executive power is checked by constitutional law.

🔹 International Law and Sovereignty

• Under the UN Charter, countries can approach the ICJ for legal arbitration.
• Thailand’s rejection of ICJ jurisdiction may stem from:
  • National sovereignty concerns
  • Political distrust of international adjudication
• Cambodia insists that ICJ is the only impartial platform available.

🔹 Legal Principles at Play

• Res Judicata: ICJ’s 1962 judgment is binding, but Thailand disputes its scope, not validity.
• State Responsibility: If a state knowingly escalates border tension, it could be held responsible under international law.
• Non-Intervention: Discussing domestic army matters with a foreign leader may breach national security protocols.