UPSC Daily Current Affairs for 08 June 2026

8th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting

Context

EAM Dr. Jaishankar co-chaired the 8th India-Indonesia Joint Commission Meeting with Foreign Minister of Indonesia.

About

The two nations agreed to advance cooperation in defence, maritime security, digital connectivity and infrastructure.

Both Nations also exchanged perspectives on regional developments, advancing our multilateral coordination and deepening India — ASEAN ties.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and global developments of mutual interest and reaffirmed their commitment to closer cooperation.

Reforms to Expand Foreign Participation in G-Secs

Context

The Government of India has introduced tax exemptions and investment-related reforms for Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) and Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPIs) investing in Government Securities (G-Secs).

About FIIs and FPIs

Foreign Institutional Investment (FII) is a category of FPI that refers specifically to investments made by foreign institutional investors such as mutual funds, pension funds, insurance companies, and hedge funds. These institutions invest pooled funds in financial markets and typically play a more active role in investment research and decision-making.

India’s Cotton Mission and Challenges

Context

In 2026, the Union Cabinet approved the Mission for Cotton Productivity with an outlay of Rs 5,659 crore, to run from 2026-27 to 2030-31.

About

The intent of the Mission for Cotton Productivity is to raise lint productivity from 441 kg per hectare (in triennium ending (TE) 2025-26) to 755 kg/ha by 2031.

Experts argue that India's Mission for Cotton Productivity may struggle to revive yields and exports unless next-generation genetic technologies and science-led reforms are adopted.

Ease of Doing Business: Strengthening India’s Business Framework

Context

India has undertaken wide-ranging reforms to create a transparent, technology-driven, and trust-based business ecosystem, improving investor confidence and enhancing its global competitiveness.

India's Progress in Ease of Doing Business

India improved its rank in the World Bank's Doing Business Report from 142 in 2014 to 63 in 2019, reflecting significant improvements in the regulatory environment.

India's position in the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking improved from 43 in 2021 to 41 in 2025.

News In Short 08-06-2026

Context

The Supreme Court of India in the Prajwala vs. The Union of India case framed a comprehensive Victim Protection Plan for survivors of trafficking for commercial and sexual exploitation (CSE), citing a legislative vacuum and inadequate rehabilitation.

Key Elements of the Victim Protection Plan

Fundamental Right to Rehabilitation: The Court affirmed that the right to rehabilitation is an integral component of Article 21 (Right to Life with Dignity) and Article 23 (Right against Exploitation).

Relying on Bandhua Mukti Morcha v. Union of India and Neerja Chaudhary v. State of Madhya Pradesh, the Court held that rescue alone is insufficient; rehabilitation is an essential part of justice.