Current Affairs

Editorials · 02 July 2026 · Indian Polity & Governance

Syllabus-mapped editorials, PIB updates, reports, judgments, and policy news for prelims and mains revision.

02 July 2026

GS-2Editorials02 Jul 2026thehindu.com

On curbing young adults on social media

The article analyzes the global trend of regulating social media access for children, prompted by the UK's proposed ban for under-16s and similar initiatives in other countries, including debates in India. It critically examines the efficacy and implications of such bans, highlighting issues like age verification challenges, circumvention, and privacy concerns related to data collection. The article advocates for an alternative approach focusing on platform governance, transparency, and accountability, rather than merely restricting access, while acknowledging the complexities involved in regulating powerful social media entities and the potential burden on regulatory and judicial bodies.

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GS-2Editorials02 Jul 2026thehindu.com

Yes and no: On the erosion of India’s grassroots democracy

A new report highlights the erosion of India's grassroots democracy, particularly concerning Gram Sabhas. It notes 'participation fatigue' among citizens due to a lack of outcomes and systemic issues like precarious rural labor. Despite the 73rd Amendment empowering Gram Sabhas, they are often reduced to clearinghouses for central/state schemes, with solutions like the NIRNAY app failing to address fundamental issues. Panchayats face fiscal constraints, dependent on central grants tied to national priorities (e.g., Jal Jeevan Mission, Swachh Bharat), limiting local autonomy. The PESA Act, which grants Gram Sabhas prior informed consent for land acquisition and mining in Scheduled Areas, is frequently bypassed, as seen in protests like Hasdeo Arand.

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