Daily Current Affairs 9-October-2025

Nagpur’s Futala Lake

Context:

The Supreme Court of India has declined to classify Nagpur’s Futala Lake as a wetland under the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.
 A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) by an NGO sought to halt construction activities near the lake by seeking wetland status. The Court upheld the Bombay High Court’s earlier ruling, holding that Futala is a man-made lake, and thus excluded from the statutory definition of a wetland.

What are Wetlands?

• Definition: Wetlands are areas of land where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life — they can be natural or artificial, permanent or temporary, with static or flowing water, fresh, brackish, or saline.
  
  
• In India: Governed by the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017, notified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
  
  
• Exclusions: Rule 2(1)(g) specifically excludes man-made waterbodies constructed for purposes such as irrigation, drinking water, recreation, or industrial use, unless notified otherwise.
  
  
• Importance: Wetlands act as natural sponges, biodiversity hotspots, and climate regulators, essential for flood control, groundwater recharge, and supporting livelihoods.

Key Features of the Judgment:

• Man-made waterbody exclusion:
   The Court stated that Futala Lake was artificially created centuries ago for utilitarian purposes. Therefore, it is not a “wetland” under Rule 2(1)(g) of the 2017 Rules.
  
  
• No statutory wetland protection:
   Since Futala does not fall under the statutory category, it cannot claim protections or restrictions that apply to natural wetlands, such as limits on development or land use change.
  
  
• Permission for limited development:
   The Bench permitted temporary and reversible constructions — like a floating restaurant, musical fountain, and viewing gallery — provided they adhere to environmental safeguards and approved project plans.
  
  
• Reaffirmation of the Public Trust Doctrine:
   The Court, led by CJI B.R. Gavai, emphasized that even artificial lakes are part of the public trust, meaning the State is duty-bound to protect and preserve them for public use and ecological balance.
  
  
• Balancing ecology and development:
   The judgment reinforces sustainable development, permitting urban beautification projects only if they do not degrade the lake’s environment or ecological integrity.
  
  
• Accountability of authorities:
   Agencies such as NMRDA and MahaMetro, responsible for the lake’s redevelopment, were instructed to monitor pollution, prevent untreated sewage inflow, and maintain ecological stability.
  
  
• Broader implication:
   The ruling establishes a precedent that man-made waterbodies cannot automatically be treated as wetlands, yet they remain under the State’s environmental duty through broader constitutional principles.
  
  

In essence:
 The Supreme Court’s verdict draws a legal distinction between natural wetlands (protected by statute) and artificial lakes (outside the statutory definition but still ecologically valuable). It allows controlled development at Futala Lake while reaffirming the State’s trusteeship over environmental resources.

Nobel Prizes 2025: Science, Humanity, and the Power of Ideas

What are the Nobel Prizes?

The Nobel Prizes are among the world’s most prestigious international awards, conferred annually for outstanding contributions to humanity in six categories   Peace, Literature, Physics, Chemistry, Physiology or Medicine, and Economic Sciences.

Origin and History

• Established through the will of Alfred Nobel (1833–1896), a Swedish chemist, engineer, and inventor of dynamite.
  
  
• Nobel dedicated his fortune to fund prizes honoring those who “conferred the greatest benefit to humankind.”
  
  
• The first Nobel Prizes were awarded in 1901.
  
  
• The Sveriges Riksbank Prize in Economic Sciences was added later in 1969 (commonly referred to as the Nobel Prize in Economics).
  
  

Awarding Institutions

Field	Awarded by
Physics, Chemistry	Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences
Medicine	Karolinska Institute, Sweden
Literature	Swedish Academy
Peace	Norwegian Nobel Committee, Oslo
Economic Sciences	Sveriges Riksbank (Swedish Central Bank)

Nobel Prize in Physics 2025 – Quantum Behavior in Circuits

Laureates: John Clarke (USA), Michel H. Devoret (France/USA), and John M. Martinis (USA)
Discovery:
Awarded for the observation of macroscopic quantum mechanical tunnelling and energy quantisation in superconducting circuits.

Their experiments proved that quantum mechanics   once believed to govern only the microscopic world   also applies to human-engineered electrical circuits, bridging classical and quantum physics.

Key Points:

• The team worked with Josephson junctions, tiny devices where electrons “tunnel” through insulating barriers   a direct demonstration of quantum tunnelling.
  
  
• They showed discrete energy levels in circuits, confirming that even an electric current can behave like an atom’s electrons under quantum laws.
  
  
• Their research forms the foundation of superconducting qubits, now used in cutting-edge quantum computers.
  
  
• Enabled advances in quantum sensing, metrology, and ultra-precise measurement systems.
  
  

 Nobel Prize in Medicine 2025 – Regulating the Immune Balance

Laureates: Mary E. Brunkow, Fred Ramsdell, and Shimon Sakaguchi
Discovery:
For groundbreaking work on peripheral immune tolerance   explaining how the body’s immune system distinguishes between “self” and “non-self,” and how it prevents self-destruction.

Key Points:

• Identified the critical role of regulatory T cells (Tregs) in suppressing immune overreaction.
  
  
• Found that mutations in the FOXP3 gene disrupt immune tolerance, causing autoimmune diseases.
  
  
• The research provides therapeutic targets for autoimmune disorders (like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes) and organ transplant management.
  
  
• Opens doors to personalized immunotherapy and cancer treatment through immune modulation.

Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2025 – Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs)

Laureates: Susumu Kitagawa (Japan), Richard Robson (Australia), and Omar M. Yaghi (USA)
 Discovery:
Honored for developing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs)   crystalline structures composed of metal ions linked by organic molecules, creating vast, tunable internal spaces.

Key Points:

• MOFs can trap gases like carbon dioxide, store hydrogen, and absorb water from desert air.
  
  
• Offer revolutionary potential for carbon capture, pollution control, and clean energy storage.
  
  
• Their surface area can exceed thousands of square meters per gram   enabling extreme efficiency in separation and storage.
  
  
• Seen as a futuristic solution for climate change mitigation, water scarcity, and green chemistry.

The 2025 Nobel Prizes reflect the spirit of modern science — curiosity-driven yet solution-oriented.
 From decoding quantum behavior to restoring immune balance and creating climate-friendly materials, these breakthroughs demonstrate how knowledge can directly serve humanity.

Tamil Nadu’s Initiative to Conserve Lesser-Known Endangered Species

Introduction

In a significant step towards biodiversity conservation, the Tamil Nadu government has sanctioned ₹1 crore for the protection of four lesser-known endangered species in the state. While flagship species like tigers and elephants often dominate conservation narratives, this initiative emphasizes the need to safeguard species that play crucial ecological roles but remain underrepresented in public awareness.

Species Targeted and Their Relevance

1. Lion-Tailed Macaque (Macaca silenus)
   
   1. Status: Endangered
      
      
   1. Habitat: Western Ghats, primarily in fragmented rainforest patches
      
      
   1. Ecological Role: Acts as a seed disperser, aiding forest regeneration and maintaining ecosystem health
      
      
   1. Conservation Measures: Canopy bridges for safe movement, habitat monitoring, staff training, and community awareness programs
2. Madras Hedgehog (Paraechinus hypomelas)
   
   1. Status: Data Deficient
      
      
   1. Habitat: Semi-arid regions of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala
      
      
   1. Ecological Role: Insectivore controlling insect populations and contributing to soil health
      
      
   1. Conservation Measures: Population surveys, habitat protection, human-wildlife conflict mitigation, and awareness campaigns.
3. Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena)
   
   1. Status: Near Threatened
      
      
   1. Habitat: Mudumalai Tiger Reserve and adjoining forests
      
      
   1. Ecological Role: Scavenger that regulates disease spread and aids nutrient cycling
      
      
   1. Conservation Measures: Population monitoring, community engagement, and forest staff capacity-building
      
      
4. Hump-Headed Mahseer (Tor remadevii)
   
   
   1. Status: Critically Endangered
      
      
   1. Habitat: Moyar River system
      
      
   1. Ecological Role: Indicator species for freshwater ecosystem health and riverine biodiversity
      
      
   1. Conservation Measures: In-situ breeding, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, and community participation in sustainable fishing practices
      
      

The funds will support habitat restoration, scientific research, community awareness, and capacity-building for forest staff.

Broader Conservation Context

Tamil Nadu has been proactive in conserving both flagship and lesser-known species. Other initiatives include:

• Dugong Conservation Reserve – Protection of the endangered marine mammal and seagrass habitat
  
  
• Kadavur Slender Loris Sanctuary – Conservation of nocturnal primates
  
  
• Project Nilgiri Tahr – Protection of endemic mountain ungulates
  
  

These initiatives contribute to India’s commitments under the Global Biodiversity Framework (30×30 goal), aiming to protect 30% of terrestrial and marine areas by 2030.

Significance

• Ensures ecosystem stability by protecting keystone and indicator species
  
  
• Highlights the importance of non-flagship species in biodiversity management
  
  
• Enhances scientific understanding of rare species for better policy formulation
  
  
• Strengthens community participation in conservation efforts
  
  

Conclusion

Tamil Nadu’s ₹1 crore initiative exemplifies a holistic approach to biodiversity conservation, going beyond charismatic species to include lesser-known but ecologically significant species. For UPSC aspirants, it underscores the importance of inclusive conservation policies that integrate ecological, scientific, and community dimensions to sustain India’s rich biodiversity.

Foreign Currency Settlement System Launched at GIFT IFSC

Introduction

On October 7, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman inaugurated the Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS) at the Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) during the Global Fintech Fest in Mumbai. This initiative marks a significant milestone in India’s journey to becoming a global financial hub.

What Is the Foreign Currency Settlement System (FCSS)?

The FCSS is a payment infrastructure that enables real-time or near-real-time settlement of foreign currency transactions within GIFT City’s International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). Previously, such transactions could take 36 to 48 hours due to reliance on correspondent banking arrangements involving multiple accounts.

Objectives of the FCSS

1. Real-Time Transactions: Accelerates the settlement process from 36–48 hours to near-instantaneous processing.
   
   
2. Enhanced Liquidity Management: Improves cash flow and operational efficiency for financial institutions.
   
   
3. Regulatory Compliance: Ensures alignment with legal and regulatory frameworks governing payment systems.
   
   
4. Global Competitiveness: Positions GIFT IFSC alongside international financial centers like Hong Kong and Tokyo with similar capabilities.

Significance for India

• Boost to International Trade: Facilitates smoother cross-border transactions, benefiting exporters and importers.
  
  
• Attracting Foreign Investment: Makes GIFT IFSC an attractive destination for global investors seeking efficient financial services.
  
  
• Fintech Leadership: Reinforces India’s position as a leader in real-time digital transactions.
  
  

Future Prospects

The Reserve Bank of India is exploring the possibility of extending the system to domestic banks across India. This expansion aims to integrate the benefits of FCSS into the broader Indian financial ecosystem, further modernizing financial infrastructure.

Conclusion

The launch of the FCSS at GIFT IFSC is a transformative step in modernizing India’s financial infrastructure. For UPSC aspirants, understanding this development is crucial, as it reflects India’s commitment to enhancing financial efficiency and global competitiveness.

Global Fintech Festival 2025: India’s Push for the Future of Digital Finance

Why in News

The Global Fintech Festival (GFF) 2025 witnessed the launch of several major initiatives by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and other key financial institutions to strengthen India’s digital payments ecosystem, promote innovation, and enhance global fintech collaboration.

About the Global Fintech Festival

• Organised by: The event is jointly organised by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Payments Council of India (PCI), and Fintech Convergence Council (FCC).
  
  
• Objective: To bring together global leaders, regulators, startups, and investors to discuss advancements in financial technology and promote financial inclusion.
  
  
• Significance: It serves as India’s largest fintech event, showcasing innovations in digital payments, blockchain, AI, cybersecurity, and financial inclusion.
  
  

Major Initiatives Announced in 2025

1. Next-Gen UPI Enhancements by RBI
   
   
   1. Introduction of IoT-based UPI payments enabling transactions through connected devices such as cars or wearables.
      
      
   1. Launch of UPI Reserve Pay, allowing users to set aside a pre-approved credit limit for quick repeat transactions.
      
      
   1. AI-based UPI Help System for automatic grievance redressal, transaction tracking, and dispute resolution.
      
      
   1. Interoperable NetBanking System for seamless digital payments across banks and platforms.
      
      
2. Biometric & Aadhaar-Linked Security Upgrades
   
   
   1. On-device biometric authentication (fingerprint/face ID) for faster and safer UPI payments.
      
      
   1. Aadhaar-based face verification for UPI PIN setup and high-value transaction authorisation.
      
      
   1. Introduction of multi-signatory UPI accounts for joint and business transactions.
      
      
3. Integration of Wearables and Micro-Devices
   
   
   1. Expansion of UPI Lite to smart glasses, watches, and other IoT devices.
      
      
   1. Cash withdrawals enabled at micro-ATMs through UPI at business correspondent outlets, promoting rural inclusion.
      
      
4. Foreign Currency Settlement via GIFT City
   
   
   1. India launched a mechanism for foreign currency settlement through GIFT IFSC, reducing dependency on overseas clearing systems and boosting India’s position as a global financial hub.
      
      
5. Global and Domestic Fintech Collaboration
   
   
   1. Entry of international fintech players like Revolut into the Indian market, reflecting growing investor confidence.
      
      
   1. Public sector banks announced tech-driven collaborations for AI-based onboarding and credit access for self-help groups and MSMEs.
      
      

Significance

• Strengthens India’s position as a leader in digital payments and fintech innovation.
  
  
• Promotes financial inclusion, especially in rural areas, through UPI-based micro-transactions.
  
  
• Enhances security, convenience, and transparency in digital payments.
  
  
• Supports India’s vision of becoming a $5 trillion digital economy and a global fintech hub.
  
  

Conclusion

The Global Fintech Festival 2025 reflects India’s strategic effort to align technology, innovation, and regulation for inclusive financial growth. It underlines how India’s fintech ecosystem—anchored by UPI and driven by RBI, NPCI, and private innovation—is setting global benchmarks in digital finance.

India’s First Animal Birth Control Training Centre in Jarhara

Introduction

The Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC), in collaboration with the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI), Uttar Pradesh Government, and Humane World for Animals India, inaugurated the Animal Birth Control (ABC) Training Centre.

The centre aims to serve as a national hub for training professionals in humane street dog management, sterilisation, and vaccination.

Key Features of the Centre

• Objective: Strengthen street dog sterilisation and rabies control while promoting animal welfare practices.
  
  
• Training Duration: 15-day course combining theoretical and practical learning.
  
  
• Modules Covered: Dog catching and handling, anaesthesia, sterilisation surgery, vaccination, and post-operative care.
  
  
• Participants: Veterinarians, para-veterinarians, animal handlers, NGOs, and municipal officers.
  
  
• Certification: Participants receive accreditation, authorising them to conduct ABC programmes effectively and ethically.

Why was it Necessary?

• Rising Street Dog Population: As per the 20th Livestock Census (2019), India has 1.53 crore stray dogs — with states like UP, Maharashtra, and MP reporting the highest numbers.
  
  
• Rabies Concern: India accounts for 36% of global rabies deaths, mostly due to stray dog bites.
  
  
• Lack of Trained Professionals: Prior to this centre, there was no structured training facility to standardise ABC procedures.
  
  
• Urban Health and Safety: Growing urbanisation has increased human–animal conflicts, making population management essential.

Government Initiatives on Animal Birth Control

• Animal Birth Control (Dogs) Rules, 2001 & 2023: Mandate humane sterilisation and vaccination of community dogs.
  
  
• National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP): Aims to eliminate dog-mediated human rabies by 2030 in line with WHO’s target.
  
  
• Partnership with Local Bodies: The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying assists Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) to implement ABC in collaboration with NGOs.
  
  
• One Health Approach: Recognises interconnection between people, animals, and environment in controlling zoonotic diseases.

Uses and Wider Implications

• Reduces stray dog population humanely without mass culling.
  
  
• Helps achieve rabies-free India by 2030 through sterilisation–vaccination synergy.
  
  
• Promotes scientific training and uniform standards for animal welfare officers.
  
  
• Enhances public safety, cleanliness, and community health in urban areas.

Conclusion

The ABC Training Centre in Jarhara marks a progressive shift from ad-hoc animal control to scientific, humane, and policy-driven interventions. It will serve as a model for other states, ensuring that animal welfare and public health progress together, under India’s broader commitment to the One Health framework.