UPSC Current Affairs for 12ᵗʰ June 2026

By Educrat IAS Academy
June 12, 2026

R&D Underspending in India: Systemic and Cultural Causes Research and Development (R&D) is a critical driver of innovation, productivity, industrial competitiveness, and long-term economic growth. Despite being one of the world’s largest economies, India’s R&D expenditure remains around 0.6–0.7% of GDP, significantly lower than major innovation-driven economies. The challenge is not attributable to a single......

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R&D Underspending in India: Systemic and Cultural Causes

Research and Development (R&D) is a critical driver of innovation, productivity, industrial competitiveness, and long-term economic growth. Despite being one of the world’s largest economies, India’s R&D expenditure remains around 0.6–0.7% of GDP, significantly lower than major innovation-driven economies. The challenge is not attributable to a single factor but emerges from a combination of systemic, structural, and cultural constraints.

Cultural and Institutional Factors

Low Tolerance for Risk and Failure

Innovation inherently involves uncertainty, experimentation, and possible failures.
Indian business culture often remains cautious toward high-risk investments.
Firms prefer predictable returns over uncertain technological breakthroughs.
This discourages ambitious research and frontier technology development.

Weak Industry–Academia Linkages

Collaboration between universities and industries remains limited.
Research outcomes often fail to translate into commercial applications.
Technology transfer mechanisms are relatively underdeveloped.
Innovation ecosystems remain fragmented across sectors.

Inadequate Research Ecosystem

Public and private R&D spending remains insufficient compared to global leaders.
India faces shortages of advanced research infrastructure and funding support.
High-quality scientific talent often migrates to countries offering better opportunities.
Limited commercialization pathways reduce incentives for innovation.

Implications for India

Economic Consequences

Low R&D investment constrains productivity growth and industrial competitiveness.
Dependence on imported technologies increases strategic vulnerabilities.
Domestic firms struggle to move up global value chains.
Innovation deficits weaken long-term economic growth prospects.

Strategic Consequences

Technological dependence affects sectors such as semiconductors, defence, and AI.
India risks falling behind in emerging technologies shaping future economies.
Innovation gaps can limit strategic autonomy and national competitiveness.

Way Forward

Strengthening Innovation Ecosystems

Increase public and private R&D expenditure toward at least 2% of GDP.
Expand research grants, innovation funds, and venture capital support.
Strengthen industry-academia partnerships and technology transfer mechanisms.
Promote mission-driven research in strategic sectors.

Encouraging Long-Term Corporate Investments

Provide tax incentives and regulatory support for corporate R&D.
Reform executive incentive structures to reward long-term innovation.
Foster competitive markets that encourage continuous technological upgrading.
Build a culture that accepts experimentation and productive failure.

India’s R&D underinvestment is neither purely structural nor purely cultural; it reflects the interaction of historical legacies, market incentives, corporate priorities, and institutional weaknesses. Addressing this challenge requires a comprehensive strategy that promotes innovation, rewards long-term thinking, and strengthens research ecosystems. Sustained investment in R&D will be essential for India’s ambition to become a technologically advanced and globally competitive economy.

Prelims Boosters

Doctrine of Forum Non Conveniens

Context:

The Supreme Court recently observed that when a constitutional remedy is sought under Article 226(1) of the Constitution, the doctrine of forum non conveniens may rarely be applicable.

About Doctrine of Forum Non Conveniens

What is it?

The Doctrine of Forum Non Conveniens is a common law legal principle.
It allows a court to decline or stay proceedings even when it has jurisdiction over a case.
The court may do so if another forum (court/jurisdiction) is considered more appropriate for hearing the matter.

Meaning

The term “Forum Non Conveniens” is a Latin expression.
It means “inconvenient forum”.

Origin

Common Law Doctrine

Originated in English common law.
Widely used in countries following the common law legal tradition.

Area of Application

Commonly applied in Private International Law (Conflict of Laws).
Particularly relevant in disputes involving multiple countries or jurisdictions.

Objective

Ensuring Appropriate Forum

To ensure that cases are heard in the most suitable court.
Promoting Justice
To avoid unnecessary inconvenience to parties and witnesses.
To ensure efficient administration of justice.

Preventing Forum Shopping

Discourages litigants from choosing a court merely because it appears more favourable to their case.
This practice is known as forum shopping.

Nature of the Doctrine

Discretionary Principle

Application of the doctrine is discretionary.
Courts have significant freedom in deciding whether to apply it.

Case-Specific Decision

Each case is examined based on its own facts and circumstances.

Factors Considered by Courts

Convenience of Parties

Whether the parties can effectively participate in the proceedings.

Location of Evidence

Availability and accessibility of relevant documents and evidence.

Availability of Witnesses

Ease of producing witnesses before the court.

Applicable Law

Which jurisdiction’s law is most closely connected with the dispute.

Fair Trial Considerations

Whether a fair and effective trial can be conducted in the alternative forum.

Interests of Justice

The most important consideration.
Courts assess whether justice would be better served elsewhere.

Role of the Defendant

Invocation of the Doctrine

Usually raised by the defendant.

Burden of Proof

The defendant must show that: Another suitable forum exists, The alternative forum has jurisdiction, The alternative forum can provide an adequate remedy.

Conditions for Alternative Forum

Jurisdiction

The alternative court must have authority over: The parties and The subject matter of the dispute.

Adequate Remedy

The plaintiff should be able to obtain meaningful relief in that forum.

Fair Procedure

The alternative forum should provide a fair judicial process.

Position in India

Relevance under Article 226

Article 226

Empowers High Courts to issue writs for: Enforcement of Fundamental Rights. And Any other legal right.

Recent Supreme Court Observation

The Supreme Court stated that where a constitutional remedy is invoked under Article 226(1), the doctrine of forum non conveniens may have limited application.
Constitutional rights and remedies generally receive greater protection than ordinary civil disputes.

RISA – Timeless Tribal

Context:

The Ministry of Tribal Affairs, through the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED), has launched a premium tribal brand called RISA – Timeless Tribal.

About RISA – Timeless Tribal

What is it?

RISA – Timeless Tribal is a dedicated premium brand for tribal textiles, embroidery, and handicrafts.
It aims to showcase India’s rich tribal heritage through high-quality products.
It seeks to position tribal products in premium domestic and international markets.

Launched By

Ministry of Tribal Affairs.
Implemented through TRIFED.

Objectives

Creating a Distinct Brand Identity

To establish a unique and recognizable identity for tribal products.

Strengthening Market Linkages

To connect tribal artisans with larger national and international markets.

Design Development

To promote innovation while preserving traditional craftsmanship.
To support product diversification and modernization.

Promoting Tribal Heritage

To showcase indigenous traditions, skills, and cultural heritage.

Enhancing Livelihoods

To generate better income opportunities for tribal artisans and weavers.

Preservation of Traditional Knowledge

To safeguard traditional crafts and indigenous knowledge systems for future generations.

First Phase of Implementation

Selection Criteria

Products were selected based on: Cultural significance, Market potential.

Tribal Textiles and Embroidery Included

Assam

Eri Silk

Known for its durability and eco-friendly production.

Muga Silk

Famous for its natural golden colour and high quality.

Jharkhand

Santal Cotton

Traditional cotton weaving associated with the Santal tribal community.

Ladakh

Changpa Pashmina

Fine wool produced by Changpa pastoral communities.
Known for its softness and premium quality.

Odisha

Kotpad Cotton

Naturally dyed handwoven tribal textile.

Dongria Embroidery

Traditional embroidery practiced by the Dongria Kondh tribe.

Tamil Nadu

Toda Embroidery

Unique embroidery tradition of the Toda tribal community.
Recognized for its distinctive geometric patterns.

Tribal Handicrafts Included

Manipur

Longpi Pottery

Traditional black pottery made without a potter’s wheel.

Ladakh

Turtuk Brass Cutlery

Traditional handcrafted brass utensils and cutlery.

Chhattisgarh

Dokhra Art

Ancient metal casting craft using the lost-wax technique

Implementation Mechanism

National Design Centre (NDC)

Role

Nodal agency for implementation.
An autonomous organization under the Ministry of Textiles.

Major Activities

Design development.
Product diversification.
Capacity building of artisans.
Development of garment prototypes.
Establishment of stitching facilities.
Strengthening weaving and handicraft clusters.
Improvement in product presentation and packaging.

Role of Designers

Design Interventions

Eminent fashion designers have been associated with the initiative.
Aim is to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary market demand.

Sustainable Packaging

National Institute of Design (NID), Haryana

Responsibility

Developing premium and environmentally sustainable packaging solutions.

Objective

Improve product appeal in domestic and international markets.

First Exclusive RISA Store

Location

Gallery No. 2, Rajiv Gandhi Handicrafts Bhawan.
Connaught Place, New Delhi.

Key Organizations Involved

Ministry of Tribal Affairs

Overall policy guidance and support.

TRIFED

Marketing and promotion of tribal products.

National Design Centre (NDC)

Design development and implementation.

National Institute of Design (NID), Haryana

Sustainable packaging development.

Jordan

Context:

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) reportedly launched ballistic missiles targeting the Al-Azraq Air Base in Jordan, bringing attention to Jordan’s strategic location in West Asia.

About Jordan

What is it?

Jordan is an independent Arab country located in Southwest Asia (West Asia).
Officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
It is a constitutional monarchy ruled by the Hashemite dynasty.
Jordan is known for its relatively stable political system and active diplomatic role in the Middle East.

Historical Background

Was part of the Ottoman Empire until 1918.
Came under British administration after World War I.
Gained independence in 1946.

Capital

Amman

Capital and largest city of Jordan.
Political, economic, and cultural centre of the country.

Location

Region- Located in West Asia (Middle East).

Borders

North

Syria

East

Iraq

South and Southeast

Saudi Arabia

West

Israel
West Bank

Major Physical Features

Great Syrian Desert

Location

Covers more than 80% of Jordan’s territory.

Characteristics

• Predominantly arid and sparsely populated.
Contains basalt plains in the north.
Features sandstone and granite landscapes in the south.

Eastern Uplands

Description

Elevated limestone plateau running through central Jordan.

Height

Average elevation ranges from 600–900 metres.

Highest Point

Jabal Umm ad Dami is generally considered the highest point (about 1,854 m).
The Wadi Rum region contains several prominent peaks including Mount Rum.

Jordan Valley

Importance

Forms part of the larger Great Rift Valley system.
One of the most significant geographical features of Jordan.

Dead Sea

Unique Feature

Located along Jordan’s western border.

Global Distinction

Dead Sea contains the lowest exposed land point on Earth, about 430 metres below sea level.

Rivers and Drainage

Jordan River

Importance

Principal river of Jordan.
Flows into the Dead Sea.

Climate

Western Jordan

Mediterranean-type climate.
Receives relatively higher rainfall.

Eastern Jordan

Desert climate.
Very low rainfall and sparse vegetation.

Khamsin Winds

Hot, dry, dust-laden winds that occasionally affect the region.

Water Scarcity

Jordan is among the world’s most water-scarce countries.
Freshwater availability remains a major challenge.

Disqualification of Rajya Sabha Candidature

Context:

The Rajya Sabha nomination of senior Congress leader Meenakshi Natarajan was rejected by the Returning Officer during scrutiny of nomination papers.

About Disqualification of Rajya Sabha Candidature

What is it?

Disqualification of a Rajya Sabha candidature refers to the rejection of a candidate’s nomination papers or the loss of membership of the Rajya Sabha.
It occurs when a person fails to satisfy constitutional or statutory requirements.
The objective is to maintain the integrity and credibility of Parliament.

Constitutional Provisions

Article 102 of the Constitution

What does it provide?

Lays down the grounds for disqualification of Members of Parliament.
Applies to both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha members.

Grounds of Disqualification

Office of Profit

Holding an office of profit under the Government may lead to disqualification.
Prevents conflict between executive influence and legislative independence.

Unsound Mind

A person declared of unsound mind by a competent court is disqualified.

Undischarged Insolvent

A person who has not cleared bankruptcy-related liabilities can be disqualified.

Loss of Citizenship

A person who is not an Indian citizen or has voluntarily acquired foreign citizenship becomes ineligible.

Disqualification under Law Made by Parliament

Parliament may prescribe additional disqualifications through legislation.

Statutory Basis

Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RPA)

Provides detailed provisions relating to electoral disqualifications.

Specifies conditions under which a person cannot contest elections or continue as a member.

Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961

Form 26 Affidavit

Every candidate must submit a sworn affidavit containing: Criminal cases, Assets and liabilities, Educational qualifications, Income tax details, Financial interests.

Authority Responsible

Returning Officer (RO)

Powers

Scrutinizes nomination papers.
Verifies eligibility and required documents.
Can reject nominations if: Forms are incomplete, Legal requirements are not fulfilled, Material information is concealed.

Grounds of Disqualification under the Representation of the People Act, 1951

Criminal Convictions (Section 8)

Section 8(1): Serious Offences

Immediate disqualification upon conviction for offences such as:

Bribery, Corruption, Rape, Promoting communal hatred, Insulting the National Flag.

Section 8(2): Specific Economic and Social Offences

Convictions involving:

Hoarding, Profiteering, Food adulteration, Drug adulteration (Disqualification applies when imprisonment is six months or more)

Section 8(3): General Criminal Convictions

Any conviction resulting in imprisonment of two years or more leads to:

Disqualification during imprisonment.
Continued disqualification for six years after release.

Corrupt Practices (Section 8A)

Examples

Bribery, Booth capturing, Voter intimidation, Electoral manipulation.

Penalty

Disqualification for up to six years.

Government Service-Related Disqualifications

Dismissal for Corruption (Section 9)

A government employee dismissed for: Corruption, Disloyalty to the State- Is disqualified from contesting elections for five years.

Government Contracts (Section 9A)

Persons having active contracts with the government may be disqualified.
Prevents conflict of interest.

Government-Controlled Companies (Section 10)

- - Holding certain managerial positions in government-controlled companies may attract disqualification.
- Ensures neutrality and fairness in public office.

Election Expenditure-Related Disqualification

Failure to Submit Election Expenses (Section 10A)

Requirement: Candidates must submit a correct account of election expenses within the prescribed period.

Consequence: Failure may lead to disqualification for three years.

Concealment of Information

False or Incomplete Form 26 Affidavit

Concealment of:

Criminal cases, Assets, Liabilities, Financial interests.

Consequence

Nomination may be rejected.
Legal proceedings may also follow.

Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) [FCNR(B)]

Context:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a special dispensation allowing banks to mobilize fresh 3- to 5-year FCNR(B) deposits.

About FCNR(B)

What is FCNR(B)?

FCNR(B) stands for Foreign Currency Non-Resident (Bank) Deposit.
It is a fixed-term deposit account maintained in foreign currency with Indian banks.
It is available to: Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs)

Key Feature

Deposits are maintained in foreign currency itself.
Unlike many NRI accounts, funds are not converted into Indian Rupees.
Depositors are protected from exchange rate fluctuations between the Rupee and foreign currencies.

Objectives

For Depositors

Provides an investment avenue in India without currency conversion risk.
Offers tax benefits on interest income.
Enables savings to be held in internationally accepted currencies.

For Indian Banks

Mobilizes stable foreign currency resources.
Provides access to overseas funding at relatively lower cost.

For the Economy

Strengthens India’s foreign exchange reserves.
Supports the capital account by attracting foreign currency inflows.

Eligible Currencies

Commonly Accepted Currencies: US Dollar (USD), Pound Sterling (GBP), Euro (EUR), Japanese Yen (JPY), Australian Dollar (AUD), Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Tenure

Deposit Period

FCNR(B) deposits generally have a maturity period ranging from 1 year to 5 years.
Under the recent RBI dispensation, banks can raise fresh deposits with 3- to 5-year maturities.

How Does FCNR(B) Work?

Deposit Placement

An NRI deposits money in a designated foreign currency account with an Indian bank.

Currency Retention

The deposit remains in the chosen foreign currency throughout the tenure.
Principal and interest are repayable in the same foreign currency.

RBI Swap Mechanism

Purpose

To encourage banks to attract more FCNR(B) deposits.

First Leg: Spot Transaction

Banks sell foreign currency received from FCNR(B) deposits to RBI.
Transactions occur at the reference exchange rate published by Financial Benchmarks India Private Limited (FBIL).

Second Leg: Forward Buyback

RBI agrees to sell back the same amount of foreign currency at maturity.

Benefit

The exchange rate for both transactions remains the same (par rate).
Banks do not bear forward exchange risk.
RBI absorbs the forward premium cost.

Key Features of FCNR(B)

Foreign Currency Deposit

Maintained entirely in foreign currency.
No exposure to Rupee depreciation.

Repatriability

Both principal and interest are fully repatriable (can be transferred abroad).

Tax Benefits

Interest earned is exempt from income tax in India.
Benefit is available as long as the depositor retains non-resident status under Indian tax laws.

Fixed Returns

Depositors earn interest at predetermined rates for a fixed period.

Regulatory Benefits for Banks

CRR Exemption

Fresh FCNR(B) deposits mobilized under the special window are exempt from: Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) requirements.

SLR Exemption

Also exempt from: Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) requirements.

Significance

Enhances banks’ lending capacity.
Improves profitability of FCNR(B) deposits.

Interest Rates

Benchmark Linked

Interest rates are linked to international market conditions.

Lower than Domestic Deposits

FCNR(B) rates are generally lower than domestic Rupee fixed deposits.

Example

FCNR(B) rates: Around 3%–3.65%.
Domestic fixed deposits: Often above 6%.

Competitive Pressure

Rising global interest rates may encourage Indian banks to offer higher FCNR(B) returns to attract overseas deposits.

Comparison with Other NRI Accounts

Feature	FCNR(B)	NRE Account	NRO Account
Currency	Foreign Currency	Indian Rupees	Indian Rupees
Exchange Rate Risk	No	Yes	Yes
Repatriability	Fully Repatriable	Fully Repatriable	Restricted
Main Purpose	Foreign currency savings	Overseas earnings in India	Managing income earned in India