1.‘Copy-Paste’ Controversy: Ministry Rejects WII’s Captive Elephant Report Over Errors and Plagiarism

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

 Introduction

In a significant case that raises concerns about scientific rigour, academic plagiarism, and wildlife conservation governance, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has asked the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) to resubmit its Captive Elephant Database Project Report. The request comes after officials flagged major inconsistencies in data, copy-paste content from older reports, a wrong cover photograph of an African elephant instead of an Asian one, and other critical errors.

The ministry conveyed dissatisfaction with the structure, scientific clarity, and originality of the document and rejected it from consideration until it is revised. This controversy has triggered broader discussions around research accountability, conservation data reliability, and the use of taxpayer-funded research institutions.

For CLAT 2026 aspirants preparing under the best online coaching for CLAT or any online coaching for CLAT, this topic holds immense relevance under themes of environmental law, data authenticity, public institution performance, and animal rights. It also ties in with the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, Ministry protocols, and Right to Information standards.

 Why in News?

• The MoEFCC has asked the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) to revise and re-submit its report on the Captive Elephant Database Project.
• The Ministry flagged issues including:
  • Use of a wrong elephant species on the cover (African instead of Asian elephant).
  • Copy-paste content in the introduction.
  • Poor formatting and structural flaws.
  • Missing demographic data and genetic inconsistencies.
• The project had been ongoing for over four years and had received public funding and institutional backing.

Point-wise Summary

1. What is the Captive Elephant Database Project?

• A government-funded project initiated by the MoEFCC to:
  • Digitally track captive elephants in India.
  • Build a national database of all elephants using genetic analysis, microchip tagging, and demographic data.
• Conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII).
• Involves biological sampling and digital tagging using DNA sequencing and assigning unique ID codes.

2. Issues Highlighted by the Ministry
3. a) Wrong Elephant Photograph

• Cover showed an African elephant.
• The report was about Asian elephants, native to India.
• Ministry asked for a “contextually appropriate photograph”.

1. b) Copy-Paste Allegation

• Introduction section appeared lifted from previous reports without proper attribution.
• Ministry flagged lack of paraphrasing, originality, and citation compliance.

1. c) Structural and Formatting Issues

• Document was unclear, disorganised, and failed to match scientific report formatting norms.
• High degree of textual similarity across sections.

1. d) Data Inconsistencies

• Only 786 elephants documented clearly in the report out of 1,688 samples.
• Status of 902 samples remains unclear — possibly duplicates, failed extractions, or pending analysis.
• 910 elephants referenced in genetic study, but only 786 appear in the final dataset.

1. e) Lack of State-Level Details

• The Gajah Sudhana App data was not properly summarised.
• State-wise breakdown of elephants was missing.
• Out of 786 elephants:
  • 396 were females
  • 375 were males
  • Gender of remaining 15 captive elephants not specified

3. Ministry’s Response

• Letter addressed to WII Director Virendra Tiwari and Assistant Inspector General of Forests Suneet Bhardwaj.
• Ministry demanded:
  • New report with comprehensive justifications.
  • Plagiarism check certificate.
  • Correct photograph and restructuring of content.

4. Scientist’s Response

• Dr Samrat Mondol, WII scientist and project investigator, admitted to shortcomings.
• Acknowledged this was the first time the ministry conducted such a check.
• Promised to revise and re-submit.

5. Importance of the Project

• Mandated to:
  • Build a digital record of all captive elephants in India.
  • Prevent illegal wildlife trade.
  • Track ownership and welfare standards.
• High Court of Tripura had ordered compulsory DNA mapping of captive elephants.
• App-based monitoring system, “Gajah Sudhana”, in use for real-time data entry.

6. Broader Implications

• Over 1,900 elephants have been documented; 3,000 more to be added.
• The controversy raises questions about:
  • Quality control in Indian wildlife research.
  • Role of public accountability in conservation projects.
  • Importance of accurate wildlife database for policy and rescue missions.

Explanation of Peculiar Terms (NOTES)

1. Asian Elephant (Elephas maximus): Native to the Indian subcontinent, smaller ears and domed head. Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
2. African Elephant (Loxodonta africana): Native to Africa, larger body and ears. Mistakenly used on the report cover.
3. Captive Elephant: Elephants not in the wild but held in temples, zoos, circuses, or private holdings.
4. Microchipping: Inserting a small chip under the skin to provide a unique identification number.
5. Genetic Profiling: DNA analysis to uniquely identify individuals and track lineage.
6. Gajah Sudhana App: MoEFCC digital application used for real-time documentation of elephant health, sex, and ownership status.
7. Paraphrasing Check: Academic standard to avoid plagiarism by ensuring content is not lifted verbatim.

 Legal Framework Involved

1. Wildlife Protection Act, 1972

• Schedule I protection to elephants.
• Prohibits:
  • Trade or ownership without registration.
  • Mistreatment or lack of welfare compliance.

1. Environment Protection Act, 1986

• Mandates impact assessments and research project approvals related to species conservation.

1. High Court Rulings

• Tripura High Court (2022) mandated DNA tagging of captive elephants to prevent trafficking and illegal captivity.

 2.”A Philosophy of Care: India’s Healthcare Transformation and Vision for Universal Access”

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

 Introduction: Why in News?

The article “A Philosophy of Care” written by Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda and published in The Indian Express (dated 7 July 2025) outlines the landmark achievements of India’s healthcare system over the past 11 years. It elaborates on the government’s policy shift toward affordable, accessible, equitable, and quality healthcare for all. The article is significant for CLAT 2026 aspirants as it highlights national initiatives, healthcare indicators, vaccination campaigns, policy models, and constitutional ideals of welfare—all of which are relevant for the Legal, Logical, and General Knowledge sections of the exam.

 Point-wise Summary for CLAT 2026

1. Healthcare Evolution Since 2014
   • In 2014, India faced critical healthcare gaps—lack of infrastructure, medicines, diagnostics, trained professionals, and service quality.
   • The Modi government’s response was rooted in a “philosophy of care” focused on proactive well-being.
2. National Health Mission (NHM)
   • NHM has become the cornerstone of healthcare transformation.
   • Strengthens health infrastructure and services.
   • Focus areas: maternal & child health, communicable diseases, and universal access.
3. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs
   • Over 1.77 lakh centers bring healthcare to rural and under-served areas.
   • Promote preventive screenings (e.g., for hypertension, diabetes, oral cancer, breast and cervical cancer).
4. eSanjeevani and Tele-MANAS
   • Revolutionised telemedicine and specialist consultation.
   • Democratised access to expert healthcare in remote regions.

Maternal & Child Health Achievements

1. • 86% reduction in maternal mortality rate.
   • 73% decline in infant mortality rate.
   • Outpaces global averages significantly.
2. Universal Immunisation Programme
   • Introduction of 6 new vaccines since 2014.
   • 5.46 crore children and 1.32 crore pregnant women vaccinated.
   • Digitised via U-WIN portal – 10.68 crore beneficiaries and 42.75 crore doses recorded till May 2025.
3. Disease Elimination Milestones
   • Polio-free status achieved in 2014.
   • Maternal and neonatal tetanus eliminated by 2015.
   • Trachoma eliminated in 2024.
   • Malaria cases reduced by 80% (2015–2023).
   • Kala Azar eliminated in 2023.
   • TB incidence dropped by 77%; mortality reduced by 21% (WHO 2024).
4. Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE)
   • Dropped from 62.6% to 39.4% due to Free Drugs & Diagnostics Initiative.
5. Emergency Medical Services
   • 28 lakh patients benefited from the Pradhan Mantri National Dialysis Programme.
   • Expansion of National Ambulance Service (NAS) and Mobile Medical Units (MMUs).
6. PM-ABHIM (Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission)

• Major push to public health infra.
• Created over 1 lakh health facilities, including 1,802 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs, 6,002 critical care hospitals.

1. Healthcare Financing Reforms

• Government health expenditure as % of GDP increased from 1.13% to 1.8%.
• Focus on affordability and accessibility.

 Notes and Explanation of Peculiar Terms

1. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs – Rural health and wellness centres providing basic and preventive healthcare.
2. eSanjeevani – A national telemedicine service offering free doctor consultations online.
3. Tele-MANAS – Tele Mental Health Assistance and Networking Across States.
4. Out-of-Pocket Expenditure (OOPE) – Direct health expenses borne by patients, not reimbursed.
5. Kala Azar – A deadly parasitic disease; its elimination is a major public health feat.
6. U-WIN Portal – A digital platform for tracking immunisation.
7. NHM (National Health Mission) – A flagship scheme launched in 2005 to improve rural and urban healthcare infrastructure.

 3.EU’s New Climate Strategy – Integrating Carbon Credits into 2040 Emissions Target

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

Introduction:

In a crucial shift in climate diplomacy and global environmental governance, the European Commission has unveiled a proposed climate target for the year 2040, which introduces a novel mechanism—carbon credits—into the region’s core emissions reduction goal. For the first time, this allows EU countries to count carbon credits bought from developing nations as part of their official emissions reductions, marking a notable evolution in how climate targets can be met.

This development is significant not only from a climate policy perspective but also for CLAT 2026 aspirants, particularly those preparing with the best online coaching for CLAT. It encapsulates a range of contemporary issues—from international cooperation and environmental law to ethical debates on climate finance and carbon markets. As a part of the CLAT Current Affairs 2026 syllabus, this topic could appear in legal reasoning, GK, or comprehension sections.

Why in News:

• The European Commission has proposed a climate target for 2040, which allows countries to use carbon credits purchased from developing nations to meet up to 3 percentage points of the overall EU goal.
• This is the first time the EU’s climate targets will formally incorporate foreign carbon credits.

• The target aims at a 90% reduction in emissions by 2040 compared to 1990 levels.
• The proposal has stirred both support and criticism, making it a critical issue in global climate debates.

Point-Wise Summary:

1. What Are Carbon Credits?

• Definition: Carbon credits (also called offsets) represent a reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that can be purchased to compensate for emissions made elsewhere.
• Mechanism: Countries or entities fund emission-reduction projects (like reforestation or electric bus systems) in another region and earn credits for the emission cuts.
• Purpose: Helps meet legally binding or voluntary emissions reduction targets.

2. EU’s 2040 Target and Carbon Credits

• Target: Reduce emissions by 90% by 2040, compared to 1990 levels.
• Proposal: Up to 3 percentage points of this reduction can come from carbon credits purchased from outside the EU, especially from developing nations.
• Rationale: Due to internal political and economic resistance, the EU is seeking a more flexible and cost-effective way to meet its ambitious climate goals.

3. Why Is the EU Buying Carbon Credits?

• Slowing domestic progress: Internal decarbonization has plateaued in many member states.
• Affordability and flexibility: Carbon credits offer a cheaper alternative than some domestic emission-cutting efforts.
• International cooperation: Encourages collaboration with developing nations and channels investment into sustainable development projects abroad.
• Political compromise: Aims to balance environmental ambition with economic realities, especially after pushback from countries like Germany and Poland.

4. How Will It Work?

• The European Commission would allow member countries to buy credits from verified, high-quality international sources.
• Credits would be governed by strict rules:
  • Must ensure environmental integrity
  • Must prevent double counting
  • Must come from verified and transparent projects
• These would include projects in sectors like forest conservation, clean energy, or urban infrastructure.

5. Risks and Concerns

• Historical misuse: Some earlier credit systems were scams or failed to deliver real climate benefits.
• Environmentalists’ concern: Offsetting could reduce pressure on developed countries to decarbonize locally.
• Reduced domestic investment: Too much reliance on foreign credits might reduce momentum for homegrown clean technology development.

6. How Much Will It Cost?

• The cost of a carbon credit can vary from a few dollars to hundreds, depending on the project and its verified benefits.
• Analysts estimate that the carbon credit contribution could represent 1-3% of the EU’s total emissions target for 2040, translating into billions of euros.
• Example: In 2023, the Netherlands alone spent €1.3 billion on carbon offsets.

7. International Market Implications

• The EU’s entry into international carbon markets may:
  • Boost demand for high-quality carbon credits
  • Drive up prices for verified emission reduction projects
  • Provide financial aid to climate projects in the Global South
  • Strengthen international climate diplomacy under the Paris Agreement

8. The Commission’s Safeguards

• The EU stressed that it will:
  • Only accept high-integrity credits
  • Link credits with broader climate finance goals
  • Prevent fraudulent or speculative trading practices
  • Align with UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) protocols

Important Notes on Terms and Concepts:

1. Carbon Credit:

A permit that allows an entity to emit a certain amount of carbon dioxide or other greenhouse gases. One credit = one metric ton of CO₂.

2. Offset:

A method of compensating for emissions by funding equivalent carbon savings elsewhere.

3. Emission Reduction Project:

Activities like reforestation, wind farms, or clean cooking stoves that reduce or avoid GHG emissions.

4. Double Counting:

When more than one country or entity claims credit for the same emissions reduction. A major concern in international markets.

5. UNFCCC:

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change – the global treaty guiding international climate action.

6. Environmental Integrity:

Ensuring that carbon credits represent real, measurable, and additional reductions in greenhouse gases.

Legal, Ethical, and Policy Implications:

1. For International Climate Law:

• The EU’s move sets a precedent that might influence COP negotiations.
• Ties directly with Article 6 of the Paris Agreement, which permits voluntary carbon markets under international cooperation.

2. For Climate Justice:

• Raises ethical questions: Should rich nations buy their way out of responsibility?
• Could increase climate finance to poorer nations, if managed well.

3. For Environmental Law:

• Will require new regulatory mechanisms within the EU and possibly in host countries.
• Monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems need legal backing.

4. For Domestic Political Law:

• EU countries will need domestic legislation to regulate:
  • Use of foreign credits
  • Credibility of carbon offset partners

Avoidance of greenwashing and fraud

4.Fields of the Future: The Case for Embracing Gene Technology in Indian Agriculture

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

 Introduction: Why in News?

This article from The Indian Express (July 7, 2025) highlights the rising global pressure, particularly from the United States, for India to open its agricultural markets to Genetically Modified (GM) crops. With the July 9 negotiation deadline for trade discussions nearing, GM adoption has emerged as a flashpoint, especially since India has been reluctant to approve new GM crops beyond Bt cotton. The article explores India’s journey with Bt cotton, the science and politics of GM crops, and the way forward for India’s agricultural transformation.

This issue is crucial for students preparing for CLAT Current Affairs 2026 as it relates to international trade, biotechnology, environmental policy, and India’s agrarian economy—all key focus areas of CLAT GK and legal awareness.

 Point-wise Summary for CLAT 2026 Preparation:

1. India’s Current GM Crop Status:
   • Bt cotton remains the only GM crop officially allowed in India.
   • Approved in 2002 during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure.
   • Over 90% of India’s cotton is now Bt cotton.
2. Importance of Bt Cotton:
   • Cotton production rose from 13.6 million bales (2002-03) to 39.8 million bales (2013-14).
   • Yield increased by 87%, cultivated area grew by 56%.
   • Contributed to India becoming the world’s largest exporter of cotton.
3. Concerns Around GM Crops:
   • Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman warned that GM imports may harm farmer livelihoods and food safety.
   • Environmental, ethical, and health concerns are still debated.
   • Despite scientific progress, GM foods face resistance due to fears of biodiversity loss and unknown long-term impacts.

      4.Global GM Adoption Trends:

1. • Over 200 million hectares of GM crops like soybean, maize, and canola cultivated globally across 76 countries.
   • India’s resistance seen as a roadblock in trade deals, particularly with the USA.
2. HT-Bt Cotton Controversy:
   • HT (Herbicide Tolerant)-Bt cotton, designed to resist glyphosate, is grown illegally in many states.
   • Approval for HT-Bt has been withheld despite pressure from industry bodies.
3. Regulatory Deadlocks:
   • GEAC (Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee) has not approved new GM crops like Bt brinjal or GM mustard since 2009.
   • Bt brinjal and GM mustard await commercialization after trials.
   • GM rice approval halted after international resistance.
4. Ideological vs. Scientific Conflict:
   • Activist-led opposition from 2003-2021 blocked wider GM adoption.
   • Farmers’ demand for higher-yield, pest-resistant crops not matched with official support.
   • Seed companies operate under threat of legal or regulatory backlash.
5. Impact on Trade and Innovation:
   • India’s hesitation is seen as hampering research and commercial progress in agriculture.
   • Delays in technology adoption could weaken India’s competitive edge in global agri-exports.
6. Future Pathways:
   • Prime Minister Modi’s slogan: “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan” (Hail the soldier, the farmer, science, and research).
   • Budget allocation of ₹1.13 lakh crore for RDI (Research, Development & Innovation).
   • A roadmap for commercializing Bt brinjal, GM mustard, GM soy, and GM corn is being reconsidered.
7. Need for Balanced Policy:
   • India must adopt a science-based, transparent, and accountable biotech policy.
   • Requires farmer education, biosafety frameworks, and structured commercialization.

 Explanation of Peculiar Terms:

• Bt Cotton: Genetically modified cotton containing Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes that kill bollworm pests.
• GM Crops: Plants modified using genetic engineering techniques to improve yield, resistance, and nutritional value.
• HT-Bt Cotton: A variety of Bt cotton that also tolerates glyphosate herbicide, allowing easier weed control.
• GEAC: Government of India’s Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee—approves GM crop trials and commercialization.
• RDI: Research, Development, and Innovation—a sector India is promoting for self-reliance and growth.
• Bt Brinjal: Genetically modified eggplant resistant to shoot borer pest—cleared for trials, not commercialized.
• GM Mustard: Engineered mustard with higher yield—pending clearance from environmental and health regulatory agencies.

5.Gukesh Shines with Third-Place Finish in Grand Chess Tour; Carlsen Clinches Victory in Zagreb

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

 Introduction (Why in News):

Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh, aged 19 and the reigning Classical World Chess Champion, secured a remarkable third-place finish at the Grand Chess Tour SuperUnited Rapid and Blitz 2025 held in Zagreb, Croatia. The tournament featured intense competition over five days and 27 games. Gukesh’s performance stands out as he overcame past weaknesses in blitz (speed) chess, defeating top-ranked players and regaining composure to finish on the podium. Meanwhile, Norwegian GM Magnus Carlsen clinched the overall title with strategic dominance and calm execution.

This event has gained significant attention, not only for showcasing India’s rising chess stature but also because it reveals how top international chess tournaments function with changing dynamics across rapid and blitz formats.

This current affairs topic is highly relevant for aspirants of the CLAT 2026 exam and is covered as part of the CLAT Current Affairs 2026 section curated by CLAT Gurukul, the best online coaching for CLAT.

 Point-wise Summary:

1. Tournament Overview:
   • The event was part of the Grand Chess Tour held in Zagreb.
   • It comprised 27 games over five days, including rapid and blitz formats.
   • Gukesh finished 3rd overall; Magnus Carlsen won the tournament.
2. Gukesh’s Journey:
   • Gukesh dominated the Rapid segment, leading with a comfortable three-point lead.
   • In the Blitz segment, he faced setbacks, losing 7 out of 9 games including 5 consecutive losses on Saturday.
   • Losses to Wesley So and Nodirbek Abdusattorov threatened his position, but he bounced back on Sunday.
3. Key Victory:
   • Gukesh defeated Jan-Krzysztof Duda, who was his training partner during the World Championship.
   • This win was pivotal in reviving his position and morale.
4. Draw Against Magnus Carlsen:
   • A crucial game between Gukesh and Carlsen ended in a Grandmaster’s draw in just 14 moves.
   • Gukesh, known for his aggressive play, opted for pragmatic strategy.
5. Final Round Drama:
   • Gukesh, Duda, and Wesley So were all tied with 19 points.
   • Duda lost to Anish Giri; So won against Caruana due to a missed move.
   • Gukesh drew with R. Praggnanandhaa, which led to So securing 2nd place.
6. Magnus Carlsen’s Victory:
   • Carlsen finished with 22.5 points, a full 2.5 points ahead of second place.
   • Known for his consistent dominance, Carlsen was relaxed and said the win didn’t feel particularly special.
7. Prize Money and Recognition:
   • Gukesh earned $25,000 in prize money.
   • He is being praised for his remarkable progress in blitz chess and sportsmanship.
8. Chess Legend’s Commentary:
   • Garry Kasparov commented on the event and praised Gukesh’s maturity.
   • Carlsen, in his signature style, posted a meme on Instagram with the caption: “Haters.”

6. The ‘Invisible Hand’ in India’s Foreign Trade: Rise of Services and Remittances Over Goods Exports

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

Introduction:

In a significant economic shift, India’s foreign trade is witnessing a powerful transition—from the traditional export of tangible goods to an overwhelming dominance of “invisibles,” such as services and private remittances. According to a recent report in The Indian Express (dated 7 July 2025), the earnings from these invisible components now exceed the foreign exchange inflows from visible goods exports. This reversal marks a new paradigm in India’s trade profile, highlighting a lesser-known but increasingly critical dimension of India’s economic structure.

This analysis explores the rising trend of India’s invisible trade components, their immunity to global disruptions like tariff wars and geopolitical uncertainties, and their stabilizing effect on the country’s current account balance.

Why in News:

• The Reserve Bank of India’s data reveals that India’s invisible receipts stood at $576.54 billion in 2024-25, compared to goods exports of $441.79 billion—indicating that invisible earnings have overtaken tangible exports.
• Services exports and private remittances (like those sent by Indian workers abroad) have emerged as dominant forces in India’s foreign exchange earnings.
• This development has played a key role in stabilizing India’s current account amidst goods trade deficits, thereby cushioning the economy during times of global volatility.

This article is crucial for CLAT 2026 aspirants, as it links contemporary economic shifts with key constitutional and legal implications concerning international trade, economic policy, and fiscal stability. Candidates preparing with the best online coaching for CLAT must be aware of such structural economic transformations.

Point-Wise Summary:

1. Visible vs Invisible Exports: The Data Shift

• Visible exports refer to physical goods like textiles, machinery, petroleum, etc.
• Invisible exports refer to services (IT, business, consulting, etc.) and private transfers (remittances from Indians abroad).
• According to Table 1:
  • In 2003-04: Goods exports = $63 bn; Invisible receipts = $53.5 bn
  • In 2024-25: Goods exports = $441.79 bn; Invisible receipts = $576.54 bn
  • Hence, invisibles have overtaken visible exports in foreign exchange earnings.

2. Role of Services and Remittances

• Services include IT, software exports, consultancy, management services, and computer data storage.
• Private transfers (remittances) are non-commercial money inflows from Indian individuals abroad to their families.
• Together, they constitute the bulk of India’s invisible trade.

3. Tangible vs Intangible Trade

• Traditional trade (visible) involves physical goods movement via ships, planes, and land routes.
• Invisible trade is borderless, technology-driven, and largely digital.
• India’s foreign trade is becoming more intangible, reducing dependency on maritime and material goods trade.

4. Trade Trends: A Shift Over Two Decades

• From 2003 to 2013, India’s goods exports increased almost five-fold.
• However, between 2014 and 2020, growth stagnated due to:
  • Global economic uncertainty
  • COVID-19 disruptions
• Post-2020, the rebound in goods trade was modest, but invisible exports surged steadily.
• Services exports in 2024-25 = $387.54 bn; Private remittances = $135.43 bn.

5. Invisible Trade’s Resilience

• Unlike goods, invisible exports have remained unaffected by tariff wars, supply-chain disruptions, and geopolitical tensions.
• The pandemic accelerated digitization and global outsourcing, benefiting India’s IT and service sectors.

6. India’s Current Account Dynamics (Table 2)

• Current Account Balance (CAB) includes trade in goods, services, and remittances.
• India has historically had a goods trade deficit, offset by surpluses in invisible receipts.
• For example:
  • In 2024-25: Goods Trade Balance = -$278.21 bn (deficit), Invisible Balance = $263.85 bn (surplus)
  • CAB = -$23.37 bn (moderate, due to invisible trade cushion)

 7.Economic Significance of Invisibles

• Invisible earnings help maintain foreign exchange reserves and stabilize the rupee.
• They reduce dependence on merchandise exports, which are vulnerable to tariffs and sanctions.
• They also reflect India’s growing soft power and intellectual capital in the global economy.

8. Policy and Legal Implications

• Increased reliance on services and remittances may influence India’s trade policy focus, favoring digital infrastructure and human capital development.
• There is a need for updated legal frameworks under WTO and bilateral agreements to protect and promote service exports.
• Taxation, data protection, cross-border digital transactions, and cybersecurity laws will gain importance.

Notes on Key Terms:

1. Invisible Trade:

Refers to exports and imports that are not tangible—mostly services and remittances.

2. Remittances (Private Transfers):

Money sent by Indians living abroad to their families in India. This is a key component of the “invisibles.”

3. Current Account Balance (CAB):

The net balance of a country’s trade in goods and services, remittances, and other income.

4. Trade Deficit:

Occurs when the value of a country’s imports exceeds the value of its exports.

5. Services Exports:

Refers to sale of IT, consultancy, finance, education, tourism, and other services to foreign clients.

6. Tariff Wars:

Economic conflicts where countries impose tariffs on each other’s goods to protect local industries.

8.BRICS Leaders Condemn Pahalgam Terror Attack: A Firm Global Stance Against Terrorism

CLAT 2026 | Environmental Law, Data Ethics & Institutional Accountability | CLAT Gurukul Current Affairs Series

 Introduction

At the recent BRICS Summit held in Rio de Janeiro, global leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa collectively issued a strong condemnation of the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu & Kashmir, which occurred on April 22, 2025. The attack had claimed the lives of 26 Indian citizens. The declaration reinforced the bloc’s zero-tolerance policy toward terrorism, while also subtly pointing to the need for accountability concerning cross-border terror, widely interpreted as a reference to Pakistan.

This development becomes a critical point of study for CLAT 2026 aspirants under international relations, India’s foreign policy, and global security frameworks. The Pahalgam Declaration is a powerful diplomatic moment emphasizing India’s growing role in international counterterrorism diplomacy.

Why in News?

• The Pahalgam terror attack of April 22, 2025, triggered a wave of international criticism.
• BRICS used its platform to unanimously condemn terrorism and reaffirm commitment to global peace and security.
• It underscores India’s increasing clout in shaping global security narratives.

 Point-wise Summary of the Article

1. Event Background:
   • BRICS summit was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
   • A joint declaration was released on July 6, 2025.
2. Pahalgam Terror Attack Reference:
   • The attack occurred in Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025.
   • 26 civilians were killed in the cross-border terror act.
   • BRICS leaders condemned the incident in “the strongest terms.”
3. India’s Position:
   • PM Modi stated it was a direct attack on the “soul, identity, and dignity of India.”
   • Urged the international community to adopt a zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.

Subtle Reference to Pakistan:

1. • The declaration avoided naming countries but highlighted cross-border terrorism, financing, and safe havens — widely understood as implicating Pakistan.
2. Call for Unified Global Response:
   • Stressed combating terrorism in all forms and manifestations.
   • Emphasized rejecting double standards in tackling terrorism.
3. Diplomatic Unity Among BRICS:
   • All five member states endorsed the declaration.
   • Aimed at showing solidarity with India and pushing for global norms against terrorism.
4. Strategic Implications:
   • India’s global diplomacy gains a boost as it garners multilateral support.
   • Pushes for international accountability in dealing with terrorism.
5. Policy Alignment and Recommendations:
   • Encouraged sanctions on entities or nations supporting terror.
   • Sought to isolate terrorism sponsors diplomatically.

 Explanation of Peculiar Terms

• BRICS: An acronym for five major emerging national economies — Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• Cross-border terrorism: Terrorism that is planned, supported, or originates from across national borders.
• Pahalgam: A town in Jammu & Kashmir, a frequent target due to its strategic and symbolic importance.
• Zero Tolerance: A strict policy or stance against certain actions with no exceptions.

Double Standards: Applying different sets of principles for similar situations; often used in international diplomacy to critique inconsistency.