1. The 51st G7 Summit: India’s Rising Global Role and the Quest for Collective Solutions

Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the 51st G7 Summit Outreach Session held in Kananaskis, Canada, marking his sixth consecutive appearance at the prestigious global gathering. The summit served as a vital platform for strategic dialogue, bringing together world leaders to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time.

Theme of the 2025 G7 Outreach: Shaping a Resilient Future:

The 2025 G7 Outreach Summit, hosted by Canada, focused on three pivotal themes:

• Protecting Communities Across the World
• Building Energy Security and Accelerating the Digital Transition
• Securing Future Partnerships

This summit also marked 50 years of G7 partnership and cooperation, highlighting the evolution of this informal bloc into a cornerstone of multilateral diplomacy.

India’s Strategic Engagement at the Summit:

PM Modi addressed a critical session on ‘Energy Security: Diversification, Technology and Infrastructure to Ensure Access and Affordability in a Changing World’. India emphasized its commitment to:

• Ensuring affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy
• Promoting the voice and concerns of the Global South
• Strengthening global cooperation on green energy and technological transformation

In addition to the multilateral meetings, PM Modi engaged in bilateral discussions with the leaders of Germany, Canada, Ukraine, and Italy, reinforcing India’s global partnerships.

Understanding the G7: A Key Global Power Bloc

The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal consortium of the world’s most advanced economies, consisting of:

• Canada
• France
• Germany
• Italy
• Japan
• United Kingdom
• United States
• European Union (as an observer)

Founded in 1975 in response to the global oil crisis, the G7 has since evolved into a leading platform for coordinating economic and geopolitical policies.

In 1998, Russia was temporarily added, forming the G8, but was suspended in 2014 following the annexation of Crimea.

The G7 now represents about 10% of the world’s population, but nearly 30% of global GDP.

India and the G7: A Steadily Growing Partnership

Although not a formal G7 member, India has been a regular invitee to the G7 Outreach Sessions since 2003, and has attended every year since 2019.

As the world’s fifth-largest economy, India’s participation highlights its rising geopolitical stature and leadership in representing the Global South.

India contributes actively on issues such as:

• Climate change
• Clean energy
• Digital inclusion
• Global health
• Geopolitical stability

Why the G7 Summit Matters Globally:

1. Economic Powerhouse: G7 nations collectively wield immense economic influence, shaping global trade, investment flows, and financial regulation.
2. Crisis Response Hub: The group plays a crucial role in crafting coordinated responses to global crises, including pandemics, financial shocks, and armed conflicts.
3. Catalyst for Climate and Innovation: The G7 leads global initiatives on climate policy, energy transition, AI governance, and technology frameworks.
4. Symbol of Multilateralism: It remains a symbol of rules-based international order, consensus-building, and democratic cooperation.

Did You Know?

• The first G7 summit was hosted in Rambouillet, France, in 1975.
• Japan will take over the presidency in 2026, continuing the tradition of rotating leadership.
• The G7 does not have a permanent secretariat, making each presidency critical in setting the agenda.
• India’s inclusion is often linked to its role as a balancing power between developed and developing economies.

Conclusion: A Platform of Promise and Partnership

The 51st G7 Summit reaffirmed the power of dialogue, inclusivity, and shared responsibility. With India playing an increasingly vital role, the summit demonstrated how global cooperation can be leveraged to build a safer, greener, and more equitable world. As we move into a future shaped by energy transformation, digital innovation, and geopolitical flux, forums like the G7 remain central to shaping a collaborative global order.

2. Hydraulic Systems: Powering Precision and Strength in Modern Engineering

Context: Hydraulic systems have revolutionized how we perform heavy-duty tasks across industries. By transforming energy into smooth, controlled mechanical motion, these systems make possible everything from lifting massive loads to executing intricate movements with pinpoint accuracy. With a global market worth over $45–50 billion and growing, hydraulics remain indispensable in the world of advanced machinery.

Understanding Hydraulic Systems: What Makes Them Work

• A hydraulic system uses incompressible fluids (usually oil) to transmit force. This principle enables amplified power output with minimal input, offering a high power-to-weight ratio, efficient heat management, and precise control. These systems are particularly vital in fields that demand consistent and reliable mechanical force.

The Science Behind It: Pascal’s Law in Action

At the core of hydraulic operation is Pascal’s Law, which states:

“Pressure applied to a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished in all directions.”

In practice, this means that applying a small force on a small piston can generate a much larger force on a larger piston, thanks to the uniform pressure distribution in the fluid. This is what gives hydraulics their incredible lifting power.

In contrast, pneumatic systems use compressible fluids like air, making them suitable for lighter and faster operations, but generally less powerful than hydraulics.

Key Components of a Hydraulic System:

To deliver such efficient mechanical output, a hydraulic system is made up of the following core components:

• Pump – Converts mechanical energy into hydraulic energy by creating fluid flow.
• Valves – Direct, regulate, and control the flow and pressure of the hydraulic fluid.
• Actuators (Cylinders or Motors) – Convert fluid energy into linear or rotary motion.
• Reservoirs and Pipes – Store and transport the hydraulic fluid throughout the system.
• Sensors and Control Units – Monitor system performance and ensure safety and responsiveness.

Real-World Applications of Hydraulic Technology:

Hydraulic systems have become the backbone of many modern industries, thanks to their reliability and power:

• Construction Machinery: Used in excavators, cranes, bulldozers, and loaders to provide the lifting, digging, and moving capabilities essential on any construction site.

• Aerospace and Aviation: Aircraft utilize hydraulic systems in landing gear, flaps, rudder control, and brake systems, where precise control and fail-safe operation are non-negotiable.
• Manufacturing and Automation: Hydraulic presses, injection molding machines, and robotic arms rely on hydraulic power for repetitive, high-force operations that demand speed and accuracy.
• Automotive Sector: From brake systems in passenger cars to hydraulic lifts in service stations, these systems offer both safety and functionality.

Fun Fact: Hydraulics in Nature:

Hydraulic principles are even found in nature! For example, spiders use hydraulic pressure in their legs to extend and move swiftly—when they die, their legs curl up due to the loss of pressure!

Conclusion: The Future is Fluid-Powered

As industries continue to evolve toward automation, precision, and energy efficiency, hydraulic systems will remain at the forefront of innovation. Whether in space exploration, smart manufacturing, or green energy solutions, their unmatched capability to control and amplify force makes hydraulics an enduring foundation of modern engineering excellence.

3. India to Introduce Air Conditioner Temperature Guidelines for Energy Efficiency

Context: With temperatures soaring across the country, air conditioners (ACs) have become a household necessity in India. However, the unchecked use of ACs is significantly increasing power demand, straining the national electricity grid and the environment. In response, the Indian government is preparing to implement new temperature guidelines for ACs to promote energy conservation and sustainable cooling.

Rising Cooling Demand in India: A Growing Challenge

• Cooling systems currently account for nearly 50 GW—or 20% of India’s peak power demand.
• With over 10 crore AC units already in operation and 1.5 crore units added each year, India is experiencing one of the fastest-growing cooling demands globally.
• Studies show that every 1°C increase in AC temperature setting can lead to approximately 6% energy savings, showcasing the immense potential of optimized temperature regulation.

How Do Air Conditioners Work? Understanding the Cooling Cycle

An air conditioner works by transferring heat from indoors to outdoors using a vapor-compression cycle. This process relies on a refrigerant fluid and the interaction of four key components:

• Evaporator – Absorbs indoor heat and removes moisture.
• Compressor – Compresses vapor; it’s the most energy-intensive part.
• Condenser – Releases the collected heat outside and condenses the vapor into liquid.
• Expansion Valve – Regulates pressure and temperature before recycling the refrigerant.

This entire cycle enables the AC to provide effective cooling—but at the cost of significant electricity usage.

Why Standardizing AC Temperatures Matters:

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has recommended a default AC temperature setting of 24°C in both residential and commercial buildings. This is based on scientific studies and human comfort guidelines:

• Public spaces often maintain ACs at 18–21°C, which leads to unnecessary energy consumption and causes discomfort due to overcooling.
• According to global comfort standards, indoor temperatures up to 25°C are comfortable when combined with air circulation and moderate humidity.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) advises maintaining indoor temperatures above 18°C to prevent health issues such as respiratory illnesses, hypertension, and reduced cognitive function.

Existing Challenges to Overcome:

Despite India’s push toward energy efficiency, several key issues hinder progress:

• Only 20% of AC units sold in India are 5-star rated, meaning the majority are still energy-inefficient.
• BEE’s current rating standards are outdated and need a revamp by 2028 to meet global benchmarks.
• Implementation of the Energy Conservation Building Code (ECBC) remains inconsistent, especially in urban construction.
• There is limited use of passive cooling techniques like thermal insulation, natural ventilation, and reflective building materials.

The Way Forward: Strategies for Sustainable Cooling

To ensure that India’s cooling future is both eco-friendly and economically viable, the government and stakeholders must work together on multiple fronts:

Promote Passive Cooling Architecture

Encourage climate-responsive building designs that include:

• Cross-ventilation
• Shaded facades
• Cool roofs and green cover
• Thermal mass insulation

Conclusion: Regulating to Refresh India’s Cooling Future

In a country like India, where climate change and urbanization are intensifying the need for cooling, air conditioners are no longer a luxury—they are a necessity. However, without regulation, their energy footprint could become unsustainable.

4. Kerala High Court Cracks Down on Single-Use Plastics in Ecologically Fragile Hill Stations

Context: In a landmark move, the Kerala High Court has enforced a ban on single-use plastics in ecologically sensitive hilly tourist destinations across the state. This decisive action also includes the regulation of plastic bottle usage during mass gatherings such as weddings, public celebrations, and government-sponsored events.

Importantly, the court has excluded non-woven polypropylene bags with a thickness of 60 GSM and above from this ban, recognizing their reusability and relatively lower environmental footprint.

Why This Ban Matters: The Environmental and Public Health Impact

Hilly regions are environmentally delicate ecosystems. Plastic pollution in these areas has far-reaching consequences:

• Biodiversity Threat: Plastic debris contaminates soil and water, threatening native flora and fauna and disrupting local food chains.
• Public Health Risks: Stagnant plastic waste encourages mosquito breeding, leads to water contamination, and diminishes the visual appeal of scenic tourist spots.
• Climate Vulnerability: Plastics contribute to microplastic contamination and disrupt carbon sinks like forests and mountain soil.

The Real Challenge: Waste Governance in Mountain Terrains

Despite repeated attempts, managing waste in hilly regions remains a tough challenge due to:

• Lack of Local Infrastructure: Most hill towns lack basic facilities for waste segregation, collection, and disposal.
• Weak Enforcement: Though plastic bans exist in theory, in practice, there is poor monitoring, low compliance, and limited alternatives available for local vendors and tourists.
• Low Awareness: Tourists often overlook sustainable practices, and many businesses lack awareness of their responsibilities under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations.
• Geographic Isolation: Scattered settlements, steep terrain, and seasonal inaccessibility make logistics complex and costly.

India’s Broader Push Against Plastic Pollution:

Kerala’s initiative aligns with India’s national strategy to tackle the growing plastic menace:

• Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Makes plastic producers accountable for post-consumer waste management.
• Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2022: Bans the use of plastic bags thinner than 120 microns to reduce litter and increase recyclability.
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: A national mission focusing on cleanliness and waste segregation, including plastic collection drives in both urban and rural areas.
• Plastic Parks: India has established dedicated zones for recycling and reprocessing plastic waste, promoting circular economy principles.
• Judicial Activism: Indian courts, invoking Article 21 (Right to Life), have increasingly intervened in cases of environmental degradation, reinforcing the legal right to a clean and healthy environment.

The Way Forward: Building a Sustainable, Mountain-Friendly Future

To protect India’s fragile mountain ecosystems, a multi-pronged strategy is essential:

• Tailored Waste Policies: Formulate regulations that respect local customs, geographic limitations, and ecological importance of hill areas.
• Community-Led Waste Management: Encourage decentralized, low-cost systems rooted in traditional practices and local governance.
• Eco-Tourism Mandates: Implement mandatory waste audits, zero-waste event protocols, and tourist education drives, especially near pilgrimage sites and water bodies.
• Green Incentives: Offer incentives for businesses and tourists adopting sustainable practices — such as discounts for reusable containers or recognition programs for plastic-free accommodations.

Additional Insight: Global Parallels and Lessons

Countries like Nepal and Bhutan have also faced plastic waste crises in their mountainous regions. For instance:

• Bhutan, known for its Gross National Happiness model, banned plastic bags in 1999 and promotes eco-tourism as a national policy.
• In Switzerland, mountain resorts employ underground waste suction systems to minimize visual and environmental impact.

Kerala’s new ban could serve as a model for other Indian states with hilly terrains such as Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Sikkim, helping the country collectively move toward a plastic-free and sustainable future.

Conclusion: A Step in the Right Direction

The Kerala High Court’s intervention is a timely reminder that sustainable development must respect environmental limits, especially in climate-sensitive zones. As plastic pollution continues to escalate, especially in tourist hotspots, proactive legal measures, community engagement, and eco-conscious tourism are no longer optional — they are imperative.

5. Croatia in Focus: A Strategic European Partner in the Spotlight

Context: Croatia, a picturesque country nestled in South-Eastern Europe, has recently gained attention following a high-level visit by the Prime Minister of India. This visit marks a significant step in bolstering bilateral relations, particularly in the realms of trade, tourism, defence, and cultural exchange.

Political Ladscape: A Key Player in the Balkans

Situated on the Balkan Peninsula, Croatia shares its borders with five countries:

• Hungary to the north
• Montenegro to the south
• Slovenia to the west
• Serbia and Bosnia & Herzegovina to the east

With its capital in Zagreb, Croatia is a member of both the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). This dual membership underscores its strategic position in European security and economic networks.

Croatia joined the EU in 2013, becoming the 28th member, and adopted the Euro as its official currency in January 2023, replacing the Croatian Kuna.

Geography and Climate: A Diverse Natural Landscape

Croatia boasts a stunning geographical mix that includes:

• The Dinaric Alps, a prominent mountain range running parallel to the Adriatic coast.
• A long, scenic coastline along the Adriatic Sea, featuring over 1,000 islands, making it a hub for European tourism.
• Major rivers such as the Sava and Drava, which play vital roles in agriculture, transport, and hydropower.

The nation experiences two distinct climate zones:

• Continental Climate: Characterized by hot summers and cold winters, especially in inland areas like Zagreb.
• Mediterranean Climate: Along the coast, the weather remains mild and sunny, attracting millions of tourists every year.

Additional Insights: Croatia’s Global Relevance

• Croatia has a high Human Development Index (HDI) and is known for its excellent healthcare and education systems.
• The country is famous for its cultural heritage, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Old City of Dubrovnik, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Adriatic”.
• It has made a name for itself in sports, particularly in football, with the national team finishing second in the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Conclusion: Strengthening Partnerships Across Continents

Croatia’s strategic location, EU-NATO membership, and cultural ties with both Western and Eastern Europe make it an important player on the international stage. India’s recent diplomatic outreach signals a growing partnership rooted in mutual interests, from economic cooperation to global security.

As the world continues to shift toward multi-polar global alliances, engaging with nations like Croatia will be essential for India’s expanding global footprint.

6. Bihar Pioneers E-Voting for Urban Elections: A Leap Towards Digital Democracy

Context: In a groundbreaking move towards digitizing the electoral process, Bihar is set to become the first Indian state to introduce mobile-based e-voting in its upcoming urban local body elections. This innovative initiative by the Bihar State Election Commission is poised to transform how citizens engage with the democratic process, making voting more accessible, secure, and user-friendly.

The e-voting system, scheduled for rollout later this month, will allow voters to cast their ballots through Android-based mobile applications—a major milestone in India’s journey toward electoral modernization.

Key Features of Bihar’s E-Voting System:

1. Mobile-Based Voting: The system uses two specialized Android apps—one developed by the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) and the other by the Bihar State Election Commission. The apps will be available for verified voters to cast their votes remotely.
2. Advanced Security Protocols: Security is at the heart of this system. It incorporates:

• Blockchain technology to ensure tamper-proof data storage
• Liveness detection to verify that a real person is casting the vote in real time
• Facial recognition and matching to confirm the voter’s identity, including live scans and photo comparisons

3. Transparent Audit Mechanism: Like the VVPAT system used with EVMs, Bihar’s e-voting platform will maintain an audit trail, enabling vote tracking and verification. This ensures accountability and transparency, boosting public trust in the system.

Why E-Voting Matters: The Advantages

1. Greater Accessibility: This system empowers traditionally underrepresented groups such as:

• Migrant workers
• Senior citizens
• Persons with disabilities
• Voters living in remote or urban-transit areas

2. Youth Engagement: With India’s youth making up over 50% of the electorate, mobile e-voting appeals to their digital fluency, encouraging first-time voters to participate and build a lifelong habit of voting.
3. Boosting Voter Turnout: By eliminating the need to travel to polling booths, this system could significantly increase voter turnout, especially in urban areas where daily life is fast-paced and often mobility-restricted.
4. Eco-Friendly Option: E-voting can potentially reduce the use of paper ballots, printed lists, and manual resources, making elections more sustainable and cost-efficient over time.

Challenges and Concerns:

Despite its promise, e-voting raises several valid concerns:

• Cybersecurity Risks: Vulnerabilities to hacking, data breaches, and system manipulation remain key issues.
• Digital Divide: Those without smartphones, internet access, or digital literacy—often the elderly and rural poor—may face exclusion.
• Coercion and Privacy Issues: Voting from home or shared spaces may compromise the secrecy and freedom of individual choices.
• Legal and Logistical Readiness: There’s a need for clear legal frameworks, robust grievance redressal systems, and voter education campaigns to support this shift.

Global Context: E-Voting Around the World

Countries like Estonia have already successfully implemented nationwide internet voting (i-voting) since 2005, with robust security protocols and high public trust. Switzerland and Canada have also experimented with online voting in select regions. Bihar’s step aligns with global trends in making elections digital, inclusive, and forward-looking.

Conclusion: A Bold Step Towards Electoral Innovation

Bihar’s adoption of mobile-based e-voting is a historic initiative that could serve as a blueprint for the rest of the country. If implemented effectively, it can revolutionize the electoral landscape by making it more inclusive, efficient, and future-ready.

However, the real test lies in ensuring cybersecurity, accessibility, and voter confidence. With the right safeguards, Bihar’s model could herald a new era of digital democracy in India, where every eligible citizen has the power to vote anytime, anywhere—securely and confidently.