Today's Brief 10/03/2025

IE Analysis:https://youtu.be/ilfKyx12DVs?si=vaz-KFtxT1DBHdqw

JN Analysis:https://youtu.be/yEBrIezJ6Tk?si=M3sCWlKhxkF6N1c6

1 .India and the European Union trade

(GS Paper 2: Governance, constitution, polity, social justice, international relations.)

both are embarking on the 10th round of free trade agreement negotiations in Brussels, a crucial step in their pursuit of enhanced economic collaboration.

The primary objectives of these discussions are to stimulate bilateral trade and investment by reducing or eliminating tariffs on goods, opening services markets, and establishing clear investment rules, alongside addressing geographical indications.

However, complex challenges persist, including market access for agricultural products, tariff reductions on automobiles, intellectual property rights in pharmaceuticals, the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, and data security, labor, and environmental standards.

A successful agreement holds the potential to significantly boost trade, create new opportunities for businesses and consumers, and strengthen the strategic partnership between India and the EU.

As both sides aim to finalize the trade deal by the end of 2025, this round of negotiations underscores their continued commitment to navigating these complexities and achieving a mutually beneficial outcome in the current global trade climate.

2 .The hatching of the first captive-bred Great Indian Bustard (GIB) chick of 2025

(GS Paper 3: Technology, economic development, biodiversity, environment, security, disaster management.)

in Rajasthan marks a significant milestone in the critical conservation efforts aimed at saving this critically endangered species.

Facing severe threats primarily from habitat loss, the GIB population has drastically declined, making captive breeding programs essential for its survival.

The successful application of artificial insemination in this breeding effort represents a crucial advancement in conservation technology, enhancing breeding success and maintaining genetic diversity.

The Great Indian Bustard (GIB) stands as a critically endangered avian species, facing an alarmingly high risk of extinction, primarily residing in the arid and semi-arid grasslands of Rajasthan and Gujarat, India. This majestic bird, one of the largest flying species, is characterized by its distinctive black cap, pale yellow neck, and omnivorous diet, encompassing insects, reptiles, mammals, and seeds.

However, the GIB's survival is severely threatened by habitat loss, collisions with power lines, hunting, and predation. Conservation efforts, including captive breeding, habitat protection, and mitigation of power line collisions, are crucial for its preservation, with Project Great Indian Bustard playing a pivotal role.

it holds the distinction of being Rajasthan's state bird, emphasizing its cultural and ecological significance.

3 .Mark Carney has become Canada's new Prime Minister, succeeding Justin Trudeau

4 .Indian authorities are actively urging tech giants Meta and Google

(GS Paper 3: Technology, economic development, biodiversity, environment, security, disaster management.)

to intensify their efforts in combating the spread of illegal online gambling platforms within the country.

The government's concern stems from the proliferation of these unregulated platforms, which operate outside the legal framework, posing risks of financial fraud and addiction. Recognizing the significant reach and influence of Meta and Google, Indian authorities are emphasizing their responsibility to prevent their platforms from facilitating illegal activities.

This includes proactively removing and preventing the advertisement and promotion of such gambling platforms, utilizing their technological capabilities to safeguard Indian citizens.

The government's push reflects growing concerns about the detrimental impact of illegal online gambling on vulnerable populations and the loss of revenue, underscoring the need for decisive action from these tech companies.

5 .2025 Champions Trophy: India's cricket team triumphed in the 2025 Champions Trophy, securing a decisive victory over New Zealand in the final match. This remarkable win marks India's third Champions Trophy title, igniting widespread celebrations across the nation.

6 .The United Nations Security Council (UNSC)

(GS Paper 2: Governance, constitution, polity, social justice, international relations.)

is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations, established in 1945 under the UN Charter with the primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security.

It consists of 15 members, including five permanent members—China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—known as the P5, and ten non-permanent members elected by the UN General Assembly for two-year terms. The P5 hold veto power, meaning any one of them can block substantive resolutions, even if all other members agree.

This has often led to criticism, as the veto can prevent action in critical situations, such as conflicts in Syria or Ukraine.

The UNSC has the authority to impose sanctions, authorize military action, deploy peacekeeping missions, and establish international tribunals, with its resolutions being legally binding on all UN member states.

Decisions on substantive issues require at least nine affirmative votes out of 15, with no veto from any P5 member, while procedural matters need only nine votes without the possibility of a veto.

The UNSC has been instrumental in addressing global conflicts, such as authorizing force against Iraq in 1990 and establishing peacekeeping missions in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.

However, the Council faces criticism for its lack of representation, as its structure reflects the post-World War II power dynamics and excludes emerging powers like India and Brazil.

Calls for reform, including expanding permanent membership and limiting veto power, have been ongoing but face resistance from the P5.

Despite its challenges, the UNSC remains a central body in global governance, playing a critical role in addressing threats to international peace and security.