Current Affairs

Editorials · 22 May 2026 · Social Justice & Development

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

22 May 2026

GS-2Editorials22 May 2026thehindu.com

Should the NEET-UG be decentralised?

The article discusses the controversies surrounding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET-UG), including paper leaks, corruption, and administrative lapses by the National Testing Agency (NTA). It explores the debate on whether the exam should be decentralized, with arguments for and against a national single-window exam. Proponents of decentralization highlight the disadvantages faced by rural, poor, and government school students due to unequal access to coaching and resources, and suggest allowing states to conduct their own exams. They also point to issues with private medical college fee regulation and the high-stakes nature of the exam. The article mentions the K. Radhakrishnan Committee's recommendations, such as a two-stage examination system and limiting attempts, which were largely not implemented. It emphasizes the need for reforms to ensure fairness, equity, and reduce student distress.

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GS-2Editorials22 May 2026thehindu.com

Caste away: On the Court and caste count

The Supreme Court dismissed a petition to halt the caste census, which is planned as part of the delayed Census 2027. The Chief Justice of India emphasized the need for the government to know the number of backward people requiring welfare. This marks a significant policy shift for the Narendra Modi government, which had previously opposed the idea. The last comprehensive caste enumeration was in 1931. Post-independence, early governments avoided caste enumeration to discourage caste reinforcement, despite simultaneously implementing positive discrimination policies. The 2027 census will involve asking individuals their specific caste, unlike previous censuses that only recorded Scheduled Caste/Tribe status. A previous attempt, the Socio-Economic and Caste Census (SECC) 2011, faced significant data errors and its findings remain largely unpublished. The article highlights the paradox of using caste data for welfare while aiming for a casteless society, noting that while it can help target welfare, it may also ossify identities.

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GS-2Editorials22 May 2026thehindu.com

Regulation, not bans, can protect online gamers

The article argues that the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming (PROG) Act, 2025, which aimed to protect vulnerable populations from the adverse impacts of online games involving money, has been counterproductive. Instead of curbing the issue, the ban implemented by the Act has led to a significant rise in the use of illegal offshore betting and gambling platforms. These platforms not only circumvent domestic laws but also pose risks of money laundering and terror financing. The author advocates for a strong regulatory framework with accountability and consumer safeguards, similar to approaches in the UAE and Sri Lanka, rather than outright bans, to effectively address the challenges and generate tax revenue.

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