
8th Pay Commission likely to be implemented by THIS date, Modi government gives MASSIVE update, Finance Ministry says...
According to the Ministry of Finance, the Centre is currently holding discussions with various departments and ministries, including the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Department of Personnel and Training, and several state governments. When is the Pay Commission formed?
The Central Pay Commission is constituted every ten years to adjust the basic salary and pension in line with inflation and other rising costs. The 7th Pay Commission was implemented in 2016, and according to the 10-year cycle, the next round of revisions was expected around 2024–25. How much can the salary increase?
Under the 8th Pay Commission, a big salary hike is expected for central government employees. According to the report: The basic salary may increase by 30 per cent to 34 per cent.
The minimum basic pay, which is currently Rs. 18,000, could go up to around Rs. 30,000.
The fitment factor (used to calculate revised salaries) is expected to be 1.8, which will give employees a real benefit of around 13 per cent in take-home pay.
The government employees must note that his time, the salary revision is likely to be based on a key parameter called the fitment factor, which is used to calculate the revised basic salary. In the 7th Pay Commission, this figure was 2.57. Now, experts estimate that a new fitment factor between 1.92 and 2.86 could be proposed in the 8th Pay Commission. At 1.92 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 54,528 HRA: Rs 13,086.72 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 71,214.72 NPS: Rs 5,452.80 CGHS: Rs 250
Net salary: Rs 65,511.92 At 2.57 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 72,988 HRA: Rs 17,517.12 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 94,105.12 NPS: Rs 7,298.80 CGHS: Rs 250
Net salary: Rs 86,556.32 At 1.92 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 73,152 HRA: Rs 17,556.48 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 94,308.48 NPS: Rs 7,315.20 CGHS: Rs 250
Net salary: Rs 86,743.28 At 2.57 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 97,917 HRA: Rs 23,500.08 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,25,017.08 NPS: Rs 9,791.70 CGHS: Rs 250
Net salary: Rs 1,14,975.38 At 1.92 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 1,12,512 HRA: Rs 27,002.88 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,43,114.88 NPS: Rs 11,251.20 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary:Rs 1,31,213.68 At 2.57 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 1,50,602 HRA: Rs 36,144.48 TA: Rs 3,600 Gross salary: Rs 1,90,346.48 NPS: Rs 15,060.20 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary: Rs 1,74,636.28 At 1.92 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 1,53,984 HRA: Rs 36,956.16 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 1,98,140.16 NPS: Rs 15,398.40 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary: Rs 1,82,091.76 At 2.57 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 2,06,114 HRA: Rs 49,467.36 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 2,62,781.36 NPS: Rs 20,611.40 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary: Rs 2,41,519.96 At 1.92 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 1,85,472 HRA: Rs 44,513.28 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 2,37,185.28 NPS: Rs 18,547.20 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary: Rs 2,17,988.08 At 2.57 fitment factor
Revised basic pay: Rs 2,48,262 HRA: Rs 59,582.88 TA: Rs 7,200 Gross salary: Rs 3,15,044.88 NPS: Rs 24,826.20 CGHS: Rs 650
Net salary: Rs 2,89,568.68
(Disclaimer: These are projections. Actual revised amounts may vary.)
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PREVIOUS CHECKLIST: UPSC Mains 2025 Revision: Top 15 Polity and Governance topics aspirants shouldn't miss The quantity of questions tells us that this theme is unavoidable. A significant number of questions have been asked on the bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements that involve India or affect India's interests. These questions often focus on India's participation in various groups such as the SCO, SAARC, BIMSTEC, I2U2, QUAD and AUKUS, particularly concerning India's foreign policy goals and strategic interests. Questions like 'BIMSTEC vs SAARC' or 'India's role in mitigating SCO problems' highlight the growing importance of these groupings in the main examination. Therefore, groups and summits that have been in the news could potentially be topics for the main examination. However, the questions in this section have mainly focused on analyzing these groupings from India's perspective. 📌 Why in News? The 2025 G7 Leaders' Summit was held in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15 to 17, 2025. Leaders of the Group of Seven countries meeting in Canada signed a joint statement calling for de-escalation of fighting between Israel and Iran while reaffirming that Iran cannot be allowed to have a nuclear bomb. PM Modi described his meeting with Canadian PM Mark Carney as 'fruitful', stating that the two countries agreed to deepen cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, space, critical minerals, fertilisers and more. The two leaders 'agreed to take calibrated steps to restore stability to the relationship' and decided to restore High Commissioners to each other's capitals. The Group of 7 (G7) is an informal group of seven countries represent 40% of global GDP and 10% of the world's population. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Group of Seven (G7)? • What is the history of the G7? • How does the G7 summit work and what are the key highlights of the G7 Summit 2024? • Why was India invited to the G7 summit and what is the significance of the G7 for India? • Does G7 require to revamp itself in order to reflect the contemporary world? • What are the challenges associated with the G7? What steps should be taken to ensure the relevance of the G7 in the dynamic world order? PYQ Insight: The PYQs tells us that regional and global grouping themes are unavoidable. A significant number of questions have been asked on the bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements that involve India or affect India's interests. These questions often focused on India's participation in various groups such as the SCO, SAARC, BIMSTEC, I2U2, QUAD and AUKUS, particularly concerning India's foreign policy goals and strategic interests. Thus, this topic holds importance. Other important article covering the same topic: G7 and India. 📌 Why in News? • Defence Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, meeting in Qingdao in China, failed to issue a joint statement on 26th June after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declined to sign the draft statement which omitted a reference to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in J&K. • Last year, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar attended the 23rd Council of Heads of Government (CHG) meeting of the SCO in Islamabad, Pakistan. It was the first visit to Pakistan by a high-ranking Indian minister in nearly a decade, amidst the ongoing tensions between the two nations over issues such as Kashmir and cross-border terrorism. The SCO is considered an influential economic and security bloc. In the context of all the recent development, it is important to know about the SCO and its significance for India from a broader perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation? How has the SCO evolved? • How does the SCO work and what are the key highlights of the SCO Summit 2024? • What is the significance of the SCO for India? • What are the shortcomings of the SCO? • By positioning the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation as a moral counterbalance to Western-aligned military action, is China seeking to extend the bloc's relevance far beyond its founding mandate? PYQ Insight: Previously, questions have been asked on SCO. 📍'Virus of Conflict is affecting the functioning of the SCO'. In the light of the above statement, point out the role of India in mitigating the problems. (UPSC CSE 2023) 📍Critically examine the aims and objectives of SCO. What importance does it hold for India? (UPSC CSE 2021) Other important article covering the same topic: SCO and India. 📌 Why in News? The 6th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) summit was convened in Bangkok (Thailand) on April 4, bringing together the leaders of seven member countries: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The theme of the sixth BIMSTEC summit was 'Prosperous, resilient, and open BIMSTEC (PRO BIMSTEC)'. This was the first physical meeting of the BIMSTEC leaders since the 4th BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu, Nepal, in 2018. The last summit was held in Colombo in March 2022 in virtual format. Key dimensions to cover: • What is BIMSTEC? (Thought Process: Know about the history of BIMSTEC, its objectives, member countries.) • Why is the Bay of Bengal considered a critical node in the Indo-Pacific architecture? • How is BIMSTEC different from SAARC? • What is Bangkok Vision 2030? • What is the significance of BIMSTEC for India? • Growth of BIMSTEC as a regional forum and India's role-Analyse • What are the challenges within BIMSTEC? PYQ Insight: 📍Do you think that BIMSTEC is a parallel organisation like the SAARC? What are the similarities and dissimilarities between the two? How are Indian foreign policy objectives realized by forming this new organisation? (UPSC CSE 2022) Other important article covering the same topic: BIMSTEC. 📌 Why in News? The BRICS 2025 summit of heads of state and representatives was held from 6-7 July in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The motto of the Brazilian presidency of BRICS is 'Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance'. BRICS, originally comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, expanded in 2024 to include Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates, with Indonesia joining in 2025. BRICS now accounts for 45 per cent of the global population and contributes over 35 per cent to the world's GDP. Key dimensions to cover: • Evolution of BRICS from Russia-China (RC) to Russia-India-China (RIC) to Brazil- Russia-India-China (BRIC) to Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) • What is the Fortaleza Declaration? • Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Economy-Key Features • Why BRICS Matters? • What is the significance of BRICS for India? • How is BRICS rewriting some of the rules of global politics, and increasingly positioning itself as a challenger to the Western-led liberal international order? • By claiming to be a platform for those countries that didn't have a seat at the table when the post-war world order was designed, BRICS presents itself as a voice for the Global South. Do you agree? • How do theoretical perspectives, realist, liberal, and constructivist, help explain why the BRICS came about, what it aims for, and why the West is starting to take it more seriously? PYQ Insight: A significant number of questions have been asked on the bilateral, regional, and global groupings and agreements that involve India or affect India's interests. These questions often focus on India's participation in various groups particularly concerning India's foreign policy goals and strategic interests. Therefore, groups and summits that have been in the news could potentially be topics for the main examination. However, the questions in this section have mainly focused on analyzing these groupings from India's perspective. Other important article covering the same topic: BRICS Key dimensions to cover: Is QUAD a military bloc? What is the significance of the Quad for India? Initiatives of QUAD PYQ insight: 'Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)' is transforming itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times – Discuss. (UPSC CSE 2020) If you want to start with a topic frequently asked, pick up your Atlas and start looking at India's immediate neighbours. In previous years, a good number of questions have been asked regarding India and its neighbouring countries. These questions covered India's relations with neighbouring nations such as Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Pakistan, China and the Maldives. The focus has been on India's efforts in maintaining peace and stability, as well as addressing challenges stemming from political crises, terrorist activities, and regional security issues in neighbouring countries. 📌 Why in News? The political turmoil in Bangladesh that resulted in the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the establishment of an interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus has introduced new dynamics in regional politics. As a neighbouring country of India, Bangladesh has always played a crucial role in India's 'neighbourhood first' policy. Therefore, it is essential to understand the recent evolution of India's bilateral relations with Bangladesh. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the history of the Liberation of Bangladesh and what role did India play in it? • What are the areas of cooperation between India and Bangladesh? • What are the challenges in India and Bangladesh ties? • How have the recent political changes affected India-Bangladesh relations? • How has India assisted Bangladesh in capacity building and human resource development? • What is a Land Boundary Agreement? • What is the significance of Bangladesh for India? • How are India–Bangladesh ties under strain as China strengthens its foothold? • Discuss the prospects for India to successfully navigate the uncertainties caused by the political developments in Bangladesh. PYQ Insight: 📍Critically examine the compulsions which prompted India to play a decisive role in the emergence of Bangladesh. (UPSC CSE 2013) 📍The protests in Shahbag Square in Dhaka in Bangladesh reveal a fundamental split in society between the nationalists and Islamic forces. What is its significance for India? ( UPSC CSE 2013) 📍Analyze internal security threats and transborder crimes along Myanmar, Bangladesh and Pakistan borders including Line of Control (LoC). Also discuss the role played by various security forces in this regard. (UPSC CSE 2018) Other important article covering the same topic: India-Bangladesh relations 📌 Why in News? Following the Pahalgam terror attack, which led to the deaths of 26 people last month, India took multiple steps. In this context, understanding the India-Pakistan relations from a broader perspective becomes important. Key dimensions to cover: • History of India-Pakistan relations and current status. • What are the areas of conflict? • Know about the Indus water treaty and Shimla agreement. • Read about Operation Sindoor. • India's new counter-terrorism doctrine—What do you know about the same? • What is the significance of Operation Sindoor in India's counter-terrorism strategy? • How Operation Sindoor played a key role in shaping India's approach towards state-sponsored terrorism? • Military cooperation of Pakistan and China– Challenge for India. PYQ Insight: 📍Terrorist activities and mutual distrust have clouded India – Pakistan relations. To what extent the use of soft power like sports and cultural exchanges could help generate goodwill between the two countries? Discuss with suitable examples. (UPSC CSE 2015) Other important articles covering the same topic: Knowledge Nugget | What should you know about the Pahalgam terror attack and the Indus Waters Treaty of 1960 for the UPSC Exam India-Pakistan relations and its effect on regional cooperation in South Asia 📌 Why in News? India is proud to be the most trusted friend of the Maldives, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said recently after announcing a Rs 4,850-crore line of credit to the island nation. The Maldives holds an important place in India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy, Modi said, underlining that mutual cooperation in defence and security is a testament to mutual trust. In this context, it becomes important to cover India-Maldives relations from a broader perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • Know the historical background of the India-Maldives relationship? • What are the challenges seen between the nations in recent years? • How significant is the Maldives for India? • What are the areas of cooperation between India and the Maldives? • What is the 'India-out' campaign? How did it affect the India-Maldives relationship? • What are SAGAR and MAHASAGAR? • How Maldive-China relations impact India's interest? PYQ Insight: 📍Discuss the geopolitical and geostrategic importance of Maldives for India with a focus on global trade and energy flows. Further also discuss how this relationship affects India's maritime security and regional stability amidst international competition? (UPSC CSE 2024) Other important articles covering the same topic: Maldives, India, China: history shapes the present Key takeaways from the India-Maldives vision document: health, education, start-ups, political exchanges One bilateral relation you should know everything about is India-China relations. In India's neighbourhood, China has been a significant geopolitical player on which various kinds of questions have been asked in the mains. These questions have delved into India-China relations, both on a bilateral level and within larger regional contexts such as the South China Sea and the Indo-Pacific. For instance, questions on the 'String of Pearls', China's economic influence transforming into military power, and its impact on India's strategic interests highlight the UPSC's focus on China's role in regional geopolitics. Besides this, questions also have been asked concerning the power tussle between the USA and China. 📌 Why in News? India and China reviewed the situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and prepared the ground for the next round of Special Representatives' talks to be held in India later this year. In a related development, as part of the ongoing efforts to repair bilateral ties, India said it would resume issuance of tourist visas to Chinese nationals, after a gap of five years. This comes almost a month after resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra on June 30. But on the other hand China formally started the construction of the USD 167.8 billion dam over the Brahmaputra river in Tibet, closer to the Indian border in Arunachal Pradesh. It has raised concerns in the lower riparian countries, India and Bangladesh. Key dimensions to cover: • History of India-China relations • Areas of cooperation and conflict between India and China • What are the internal security challenges along the LAC? • India-China Border Dispute- Know the background • Know the terms 'De-induction' 'Disengagement' and 'De-escalation' • What coordination mechanism do India and China have on transboundary rivers? • What is the Yarlung Tsangpo project? Why does China want this megaproject? • What are the specific concerns of India on China's dam on Brahmaputra river ? • What are some of the environmental concerns associated with constructing a large dam on the Brahmaputra River? • What are some potential consequences of altering the natural flow of the Brahmaputra River for downstream communities? PYQ Insight: 📍'The USA is facing an existential threat in the form of a China, that is much more challenging than the erstwhile Soviet Union.' Explain (UPSC CSE 2021) 📍'China is using its economic relations and positive trade surplus as tools to develop potential military power status in Asia', In the light of this statement, discuss its impact on India as her neighbor. (UPSC CSE 2017) 📍With respect to the South China sea, maritime territorial disputes and rising tension affirm the need for safeguarding maritime security to ensure freedom of navigation and over flight throughout the region. In this context, discuss the bilateral issues between India and China. (UPSC CSE 2014) 📍What do you understand by 'The String of Pearls'? How does it impact India? Briefly outline the steps taken by India to counter this. (UPSC CSE 2013) Other important article covering the same topic: India-China relations Every smart candidate will definitely know what not to leave when it comes to IR. Here's that topic. With the rapidly changing global order, questions also have been asked regarding India's economic and strategic partnerships with countries such as the US and Russia especially in the areas of defense cooperation, energy security, and trade. You need to develop good interest to deal with such topics effectively. 📌 Why in News? Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit last year. The visit became a point of discussion as, by visiting Russia for his first bilateral visit after being sworn in, PM Modi broke the tradition of India's new Prime Minister travelling first to a neighbouring country. In the context of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and the West's sanctions on Russia, it becomes important to understand India-Russia relations from a broader perspective. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the history of India-Russia bilateral relations? • What are the areas of cooperation between India and Russia? • What are the emerging challenges to India-Russia ties? • What are the key highlights of the 22nd India-Russia Annual Summit? • India-Russia relations in the light of Growing Moscow-Beijing Ties. • What is India's stand on the Ukraine-Russia War? • Why is the widening trade gap Between India and Russia benefiting the yuan? • What are the Chennai-Vladivostok (Eastern Maritime) Corridor and the International North-South Transport Corridor? • What is India's Russia dilemma in the light of the US-Russia relations. PYQ Insight: 📍What is the significance of Indo-US defence deals over Indo-Russian defence deals? Discuss concerning stability in the Indo-Pacific region. (UPSC CSE 2020) Other important article covering the same topic: India-Russia relations 📌 Why in News? India's bilateral relations with the United States are central to its foreign policy. In the light of the various developments, such as the return of Donald Trump to the White House, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump's first bilateral meeting after Trump returned to office, Trump's announcement of reciprocal tariffs and whatnot. It becomes important to cover India-US relations comprehensively. Key dimensions to cover: • Current status of India-US bilateral relations. • Areas of cooperation between both nations. • The recent agreements signed between India and the USA? • Challenges in India-US bilateral relations. • What is the status of trade and economic cooperation between India and Russia, and how does it affect India's relations with the US? • Why does America want India to reduce defence and energy imports from Russia? • What are the concerns related to GM food crops in India? • The US's imposition of tariffs on India and its potential impact. PYQ Insight: 📍'What introduces friction into the ties between India and the United States is that Washington is still unable to find for India a position in its global strategy, which would satisfy India's National self-esteem and ambitions'. Explain with suitable examples. (UPSC CSE 2019) Other important articles covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | PM Modi's US Visit: 4 Key Questions You Must Know for Prelims and Mains UPSC Issue at a Glance | From Trump's reciprocal tariffs announcement to 90-day pause: Everything in between You are preparing for not just 'any' exam. It is UPSC which demands you to have some depth. This is that area. From time to time, questions have been asked on India's popular foreign policies and doctrines. This includes India's Look East Policy and its engagement with ASEAN nations, as well as the Gujral doctrine. 📌Why in News? India's proactive 'Act East' policy speaks volumes about its commitment to strengthen strategic, economic, and cultural ties with countries in Southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific. Thus, knowing about it from a broader perspective becomes important. Key dimensions to cover: • Read about the 'Look East' policy and 'Act East' policy. • How has India's 'Look East' policy evolved into 'Act East' policy? • What was the reason behind adding the strategic dimension to it? • How India's proactive Act East policy enables it to position itself as a counterweight to China in the region? • Progress made under the Act East Policy • Factors inhibiting the success of Act East Policy • Significance of India's 'Act East' policy • Act East policy and India's Northeast • India-Southeast Asia connections and the Cold War • How is India's North-East a vital part of the 'Act East' policy? • How is India's proactive 'Act East' policy helping it deepen its strategic, economic, and cultural ties with countries in Southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific? • Challenges of Act East Policy and Way forward. PYQ Insight: 📍Evaluate the economic and strategic dimensions of India's Look East Policy in the context of the post-Cold War international scenario. (UPSC CSE 2016) Other important articles covering the same topic: India's evolving engagement with Southeast Asia and Indo-Pacific Significance of India's 'Act East' policy amid disputes around the South China Sea — On August 8, 1967, five Southeast Asian leaders – the Foreign Ministers of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand met in Bangkok. Thailand was mediating certain conflicts between Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines, and the occasion eventually resulted in the signing of a document. — Over the next several decades, five more countries joined: Brunei Darussalam, Lao PDR, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Vietnam. — The ten-nation group has an anthem, a flag, and biannual meetings (twice a year) with a rotating chairperson. 📌 Why in News? India's emerging strategic posture in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has become central to its foreign policy, particularly in light of growing geopolitical rivalries and maritime security concerns. In this context, it's crucial to know the initiatives like Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) and MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions). Key dimensions to cover: • What is the SAGAR initiative? • How has SAGAR evolved into the MAHASAGAR initiative? • Significance of island nations in India's IOR strategy. • India's strategic collaboration with QUAD members—the United States, Japan, and Australia. • IOR as a strategic theatre • India's strategic presence in IOR. • How India's strategic presence in the IOR complements its growing coordination with QUAD members? • India's evolving maritime doctrine. • How does the MAHASAGAR doctrine reflect India's evolving maritime vision in the Indian Ocean Region? PYQ Insight: Questions about India's actions in safeguarding freedom of navigation in its maritime areas, especially concerning China's influence have been asked. Additionally, questions have been asked about India's participation in different alliances aimed at ensuring maritime security. Other important articles covering the same topic: From SAGAR to MAHASAGAR, the growing warmth in Indo-Mauritian ties India–Mauritius partnership and the new maritime geopolitics 📌 Why in News? The Neighbourhood First policy is an important component of India's foreign policy, as it guides India's relations with countries in its immediate neighbourhood. It focuses on creating mutually beneficial, people-orientated, regional frameworks for stability and prosperity through the building of physical, digital and people-to-people connectivity. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the Neighbourhood First policy? • What is the Gujral doctrine? • What is the status of India's relationship with the neighbouring countries? • What is the Gujral doctrine? • What are the significance and challenges of India's neighbourhood-first policy? • What initiatives have been taken by the government to promote the neighbourhood first policy? PYQ Insight: Previously, questions have been asked on India's popular foreign policies and doctrines; thus, knowing the Neighbourhood First policy in the context of China's increasing regional dominance becomes important. Other important articles covering the same topic: Yogendra Yadav writes: Is India really 'neighbourhood first'? External Affairs Ministry gets Rs 20,516 crore, emphasis on 'Neighbourhood First' policy The syllabus of IR doesn't seem to leave anything. The economic and political influence of the Indian diaspora, especially in the West and Southeast Asia has also been asked. Questions majorly have focused on how the diaspora contributes to diplomacy, economic relations, and political influence, which in turn strengthens India's soft power on a global scale. 📌 'Why in News? Prime Minister Narendra Modi on January 9th launched the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas in Odisha and hailed India's rapid economic development over the last 10 years. The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas honor the contributions of the Overseas Indian community to the development of India. This date was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, led India's freedom struggle, and changed the lives of Indians forever. Since 2015, the centenary year of Gandhi's return, the format of the event has been revised to take place once every two years. The topic of the Indian diaspora is significant from multiple perspectives. It is explicitly mentioned in the syllabus for the UPSC CSE General Studies Paper II and connects closely with India's economy and foreign policy. Additionally, the UPSC has previously asked about the economic and political influence of the Indian diaspora. Therefore, it is an important topic to be covered. Key dimensions to cover: • What is the history of the evolution of the Indian diaspora? • Which countries host the largest Indian diaspora populations? • How has the Indian diaspora shaped India's soft power globally and contributed to India's economic growth? • What are the initiatives taken by the Government of India to engage with the Indian diaspora? PYQ Insight: 📍Indian diaspora has scaled new heights in the West. Describe its economic and political benefits for India. (UPSC CSE 2023) 📍Indian diaspora has a decisive role to play in the politics and economy of America and European Countries.' Comment with examples (UPSC CSE 2020) 📍Indian Diaspora has an important role to play in South-East Asian countries' economy and society. Appraise the role of Indian Diaspora in South- East Asia in this context. (UPSC CSE 2017) Other important articles covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | The role of Indian diaspora in nation's economic growth and cultural diplomacy Knowledge nugget of the day: 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Top 10 countries with the largest Indian diaspora You've spent days and months covering this theme for your prelims – from all possible sources you had at your disposal, making sure that you only gain marks from here. Here is a chance to brush up on this topic for your Mains too. International organizations form a crucial part of the International Relations section. On average, one question related to international organizations such as the WTO, UN, WHO, and IMO is asked every year. These questions typically focus on the structure, mandate, and India's stance regarding these organizations. UPSC tends to explore how India engages with global institutions like the IMF, World Bank, and UNSC to further its economic and strategic interests. It also examines how India approaches issues of reform within these institutions. 📌 'Why in News? India has called out attempts to introduce new parameters such as religion and faith as the basis for representation in a reformed UN Security Council, asserting that this runs completely counter to the accepted basis of regional representation. India's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador P Harish, told the Inter-Governmental Negotiations (IGN) meeting on 'Size of the Future Council and Cluster Discussion on Regional Representation' that those opposed to text-based negotiations do not seek progress on UNSC reforms. He added that the argument that an expanded and reformed Security Council would not be efficient is an attempt to stall real reforms. UNSC reform has also been at the centre of demand for multilateral reforms, and as the world's largest democracy and an emerging global power, India has been advocating strongly for UNSC reforms, seeking a permanent seat to ensure greater inclusivity in global governance. In this context, understanding the demand of UNSC reforms from a broader perspective becomes important. Key dimensions to cover: • Read about the United Nations. • What is the composition and mandate of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)? • Why is there a growing demand for reforming the UNSC? • What role has India as a founding member of the UN played in UN peacekeeping missions since their inception? • Why should India be a permanent member of the UNSC? • How does India's status as the world's largest democracy influence its advocacy for UN Security Council reforms? • In what ways could expanding the Security Council enhance global governance and address contemporary challenges, and what are the potential obstacles in it? • In what ways could non-western organisations like SCO and BRICS challenge the legitimacy of the United Nations' collective security mechanisms? PYQ Insight: 📍Discuss the impediments India is facing in its pursuit of a permanent seat in UNSC. (UPSC CSE 2015) Other important articles covering the same topic: UPSC Issue at a Glance | Understanding UNSC: Composition, need for reform, and India's claim for permanent membership United Nations Day 2024: India continues to push for Security Council Reform Subscribe to our UPSC newsletter. Stay updated with the latest UPSC articles by joining our Telegram channel – Indian Express UPSC Hub, and follow us on Instagram and X. 🚨 Click Here to read the UPSC Essentials magazine for July 2025. Share your views and suggestions in the comment box or at Roshni Yadav is a Deputy Copy Editor with The Indian Express. She is an alumna of the University of Delhi and Jawaharlal Nehru University, where she pursued her graduation and post-graduation in Political Science. She has over five years of work experience in ed-tech and media. At The Indian Express, she writes for the UPSC section. Her interests lie in national and international affairs, governance, economy, and social issues. 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