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23 July 2026

Miscellaneous editorial and cultural topics

The content includes specific, high-relevance data points such as the UDISE report on education for children with disabilities and critical maritime security issues affecting India's trade, which are directly applicable to GS2 syllabus themes.

2 min read 3 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • Strait of Bab el-Mandeb is a critical maritime chokepoint for one-third of India's trade, connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden.
  • The Houthi group in Yemen has threatened to close the Strait, posing risks to global shipping and Indian economic interests.
  • Operation Prosperity Guardian (2023) and UNSC Resolution 2722 (2024) were previous international efforts to ensure freedom of navigation in the region.
  • Shipping disruptions lead to increased insurance costs, rerouting via the Cape of Good Hope, and delays in critical imports.
  • India's SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative emphasizes respect for maritime rules and norms.
  • The UDISE 2025-26 report indicates that the number of Children With Special Needs (CWSN) in schools has remained stagnant at approximately 21.66 lakh.
  • Estimates suggest only about 22% of CWSN are enrolled in schools, with a significant drop-out rate as students move to higher levels of education.
  • The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 recognizes 21 categories of disabilities, yet data collection often lags behind these standards.
  • Governance in Union Territories requires clear portfolio allocation and functional legislative institutions to ensure accountability and public service delivery.
  • The WHO reports approximately 3,00,000 annual deaths by unintentional drowning, a public health crisis often underreported in official statistics.

Questions

  1. The security of maritime chokepoints is vital for India's economic stability and strategic autonomy. In light of recent geopolitical tensions in the Red Sea, discuss the need for a collaborative maritime security framework and how India can leverage its regional partnerships to ensure freedom of navigation. 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00
  2. Despite legislative frameworks like the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, the enrollment of Children With Special Needs (CWSN) in the Indian education system remains low. Analyze the systemic challenges contributing to this trend and suggest measures to improve inclusive education. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  3. The effective functioning of a Union Territory's administration relies on the clear demarcation of executive responsibilities and legislative oversight. Discuss the constitutional importance of portfolio allocation and the role of the Speaker in ensuring administrative accountability in a parliamentary democracy. 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00

Prelims

  1. The Strait of Bab el-Mandeb connects which of the following bodies of water?

  2. Which of the following acts provides the legal framework for the recognition of 21 categories of disabilities in India?