UPSC Current Affairs — Friday, 15 May 2026

What You Need to Know

The article discusses China's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2001 and its subsequent rise as an export-driven economic powerhouse. It highlights how China's entry into the WTO, initially seen as a win-win for both China and the rest of the world, has led to a complex relationship with the organization and the global economy. The article also touches upon the current challenges faced by the WTO and the rise of protectionism.

Why It Matters for UPSC

The rise of China and its implications for the WTO are crucial for understanding the dynamics of global trade, the challenges faced by multilateral institutions, and the shifting economic and political landscape. China's economic growth has been phenomenal, with its share in world exports and imports being significant. However, this growth has also led to trade tensions, particularly with the US, and has raised questions about the future of multilateral trade agreements.

Current Relevance

The article is relevant in the current context as it discusses the recent developments in global trade, including the trade war between the US and China, and the challenges faced by the WTO in promoting free trade and resolving disputes. The article also highlights the implications of China's rise for India's economic and trade policies.

Key Points for Revision

• •China joined the WTO in 2001 and has since become the largest exporter in the world.
• •China's share in the world's merchandise trade has doubled from 6% in 2003 to 13% in 2024.
• •The US-China trade war has led to a significant increase in protectionism and has challenged the WTO's dispute resolution mechanism.
• •The WTO has been criticized for being ineffective in addressing China's unfair trade practices.
• •China's economic rise has been driven by its large-scale reforms, including the privatization of state-owned enterprises and the liberalization of its markets.
• •The US has been critical of China's trade policies and has imposed tariffs on Chinese exports.

Prelims Practice MCQs

What You Need to Know

The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act, 1971, was amended in 2021 to expand the permissibility of abortions from 20 weeks up to 24 weeks of gestation. The Act allows for the termination of pregnancy in cases of contraceptive failure and rape. The Supreme Court has recently allowed abortion beyond 24 weeks in cases where the woman's health is at risk or in cases of rape.

Why It Matters for UPSC

The MTP Act is crucial as it recognizes 'anguish' and 'grave injury to the mental health of the pregnant woman' in cases of contraceptive failure and rape. The length of pregnancy is not an obstacle for termination at any stage in case of the detection of fetal abnormalities. The Act seeks to respect women's reproductive autonomy, a fundamental right. The Supreme Court's recent rulings have upheld this right, allowing for abortion beyond 24 weeks in exceptional cases.

Current Relevance

The Supreme Court has recently permitted abortion beyond 24 weeks with explicit observations upholding women's reproductive autonomy. In two notable cases, the SC allowed abortion for a 15-year-old minor and a woman with a psychiatric disorder. The Court emphasized that the law must follow the way and respect women's anguish caused by unwanted pregnancies.

Key Points for Revision

• •The MTP Act was amended in 2021 to allow abortions up to 24 weeks of gestation.
• •The Act allows for termination in cases of contraceptive failure and rape.
• •The Supreme Court has allowed abortion beyond 24 weeks in exceptional cases.
• •Women's reproductive autonomy is recognized as a fundamental right.
• •The length of pregnancy is not an obstacle for termination in case of fetal abnormalities.
• •The SC has upheld the right to abortion in cases where the woman's health is at risk.

Prelims Practice MCQs