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The document is a compilation of current affairs for March 2025, covering various topics such as polity and governance, economic scenarios, international relations, social issues, science and technology, environment, art and culture, geography, security, and miscellaneous subjects. Key highlights include a decline in MPLADS funds, the launch of Pashu Aushadhi Kendras for affordable veterinary medicines, and significant developments in India's textile and pharmaceutical industries. The document serves as a resource for UPSC preparation, summarizing essential updates and trends relevant to current events.

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CA_Consolidation_March_Part_1

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Current

Affairs
(CONSOLIDaTION)

MARCH 2025
(Part – I)
Drishti, 641, First Floor, Dr. Mukharjee Nagar, Delhi-110009
Inquiry: +91-87501-87501
Email: care@groupdrishti.in
www.drishtiias.com Current Affairs March Part-1, 2025 2

Contents
Polity and Governance.........................................................................................................7
Decline in MPLADS Funds............................................................................................................................................... 7

Pashu Aushadhi Kendras under LHDCP.......................................................................................................................... 9

Namami Gange Programme......................................................................................................................................... 10

Electors Photo Identity Card Number.......................................................................................................................... 12

Boosting R&D for India’s Growth................................................................................................................................. 15

One Candidate Multiple Constituencies....................................................................................................................... 16

Reasonable Classification Test..................................................................................................................................... 18

Need for Balanced Cryptocurrency Regulation............................................................................................................ 19

Preventive Detention................................................................................................................................................... 22

PMMVY Implementation Concerns.............................................................................................................................. 23

NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy........................................................................................................................ 24

Strengthening Tribunals in India.................................................................................................................................. 27

State of Madras vs V.G. Row Case................................................................................................................................ 30

Champakam Dorairajan Case and Evolution of FRs and DPSPs ................................................................................... 31

Issue of Pradhan Pati in Panchayats............................................................................................................................. 32

Poshan Abhiyan............................................................................................................................................................ 33

Economic Scenario.............................................................................................................36
India’s Pharma Industry............................................................................................................................................... 36

District-Level GDP Estimation....................................................................................................................................... 37

Strengthening India’s Spice Industry............................................................................................................................ 39

Budgetary Dependence of CPSEs ................................................................................................................................ 41

IMF Report on India’s Financial System....................................................................................................................... 43

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India’s Textile Industry................................................................................................................................................. 45

Enhancing India’s Agri-Exports..................................................................................................................................... 47

12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum........................................................................................................... 50

India’s Path to a High-Income Economy....................................................................................................................... 51

Agritourism in India...................................................................................................................................................... 53

Initiatives in India’s Maritime Sector............................................................................................................................ 56

Tea industry and Jhumoir Dance.................................................................................................................................. 56

Farmers’ Earning in Agri Produce: RBI.......................................................................................................................... 59

International Relations.......................................................................................................60
India-Mauritius Relations............................................................................................................................................. 60

India’s Energy Strategy................................................................................................................................................. 62

Social Issues.......................................................................................................................65
International Women’s Day 2025................................................................................................................................ 65

Challenges in Slum Redevelopment............................................................................................................................. 68

SC Upholds Disability Rights as Fundamental.............................................................................................................. 69

Protein Deficiency in Rural India.................................................................................................................................. 71

Rising Obesity Burden in India..................................................................................................................................... 72

Science & Technology.........................................................................................................74

India’s AI Revolution..................................................................................................................................................... 74

Growth of India’s Biotechnology Sector ...................................................................................................................... 76

Space Debris Crisis........................................................................................................................................................ 78

HeroRATS for Tuberculosis Elimination........................................................................................................................ 78

Quantum Nature of Gravity......................................................................................................................................... 80

National Science Day 2025........................................................................................................................................... 82

Rise of India’s Private Space Industry........................................................................................................................... 83

Ultra-Conserved Elements........................................................................................................................................... 84

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Environment and Ecology...................................................................................................86

World Air Quality Report 2024..................................................................................................................................... 86

Seagrass Conservation................................................................................................................................................. 88

Concerns with Great Nicobar Island Project................................................................................................................ 90

NBWL and Wildlife Conservation................................................................................................................................. 92

Art and Culture...................................................................................................................95

Amir Khusrau and Sufism............................................................................................................................................. 95

Geography.........................................................................................................................97

Wallace Line................................................................................................................................................................. 97

Rising Avalanche Risks.................................................................................................................................................. 98

Security............................................................................................................................101

India 2nd Largest Arms Importer: SIPRI..................................................................................................................... 101

North Sea................................................................................................................................................................... 103

Miscellaneous..................................................................................................................104

Linguistic Diversity and Education.............................................................................................................................. 104

Rapid Fire Current Affairs.................................................................................................106

Railways’ Work Under Mission Amrit Sarovar........................................................................................................... 106

PM-YUVA 3.0.............................................................................................................................................................. 107

Mycelium Bricks......................................................................................................................................................... 107

APAAR ID.................................................................................................................................................................... 107

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Cassava....................................................................................................................................................................... 108

Water Ice Beyond Lunar Poles................................................................................................................................... 108

Turning Animal Liquid Waste into Fertilizer............................................................................................................... 110

Solar Maximum Spurs Solar Missions........................................................................................................................ 110

Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan Border Deal.......................................................................................................................... 112

Hantavirus.................................................................................................................................................................. 112

6th Edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian.................................................................................................................. 113

Ancient Stone and Bone Tools................................................................................................................................... 114

Hydrogen Peroxide..................................................................................................................................................... 114

Smooth-coated Otters................................................................................................................................................ 115

55th Anniversary of NPT............................................................................................................................................ 115

Govind Ballabh Pant................................................................................................................................................... 117

Exercise KHANJAR-XII................................................................................................................................................. 117

KVIC’s Honey Mission................................................................................................................................................. 118

Order of Freedom of Barbados.................................................................................................................................. 119

Vanuatu’s Citizenship By Investment Program.......................................................................................................... 120

Madhav National Park................................................................................................................................................ 121

US Withdrawal from Loss and Damage Fund............................................................................................................. 122

Pelican and Painted Stork........................................................................................................................................... 123

Bangus Valley............................................................................................................................................................. 123

Gut Bacteria and Vitiligo............................................................................................................................................ 124

Jan Aushadhi Diwas.................................................................................................................................................... 124

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Dramatic Performances Act, 1876............................................................................................................................. 124

Empowering Women PRIs Leaders............................................................................................................................ 125

Planetary Parade........................................................................................................................................................ 125

Endogamy................................................................................................................................................................... 126

Starlink and Eutelsat................................................................................................................................................... 126

Dholavira.................................................................................................................................................................... 126

Carbon Intensity......................................................................................................................................................... 127

Colossal A23a Iceberg Stuck....................................................................................................................................... 128

Taiwan’s Geopolitical Significance............................................................................................................................. 129

Crop Contingency Plan for Kashmir............................................................................................................................ 131

Blue Ghost Mission 1.................................................................................................................................................. 131

Narwhals.................................................................................................................................................................... 131

SPHEREx Mission........................................................................................................................................................ 132

Oscars Awards 2025................................................................................................................................................... 133

India’s Exploration of Critical Minerals....................................................................................................................... 135

Morarji Desai.............................................................................................................................................................. 136

Aditya-L1 Mission Captures Solar Flare...................................................................................................................... 136

State of India’s Digital Economy Report 2025........................................................................................................... 137

Algal Blooms in River Thames.................................................................................................................................... 138

Red Color of Mars....................................................................................................................................................... 139

CPI for Agricultural and Rural Labourers.................................................................................................................... 140

Cape Vultures Spotted in South Africa....................................................................................................................... 142

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Polity and Governance

Highlights
z Decline in MPLADS Funds z Preventive Detention
z Pashu Aushadhi Kendras under LHDCP z PMMVY Implementation Concerns
z Namami Gange Programme z NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy
z Electors Photo Identity Card Number z Strengthening Tribunals in India
z Boosting R&D for India’s Growth z State of Madras vs V.G. Row Case
z One Candidate Multiple Constituencies z Champakam Dorairajan Case and Evolution of FRs and DPSPs
z Reasonable Classification Test z Issue of Pradhan Pati in Panchayats
z Need for Balanced Cryptocurrency Regulation z Poshan Abhiyan

Decline in MPLADS Funds

Why in News?
The latest data by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) on the Members of Parliament
Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) indicates a decline in the total funds released by the central government
for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) compared to the 16th Lok Sabha (2014-2019).

What are the Key Highlights of the MoSPI Data on MPLADS?

¾ Decline in Funds: The MPLADS funds for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) totaled Rs 4,510 crore, a 65.2% decline
from the 16th Lok Sabha, primarily due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
¾ Utilization of Funds: In the 14th Lok Sabha, MPLADS funds saw 102% utilization, while the 16th and 17th Lok Sabhas
recorded 99% and 98% utilization, respectively.
¾ Regional Disparities: MPs from Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal received the highest MPLADS
funds, while those from Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab received the lowest.
¾ Sector-wise Fund Distribution: During the 17th Lok Sabha period, Rs 1679 crore were allocated to infrastructure
(railways, roads, bridges), followed by other public facilities and education.

What is MPLADS?
¾ About: MPLADS is a Central Sector Scheme introduced in 1993 that enables the Members of Parliaments (MP)
to recommend developmental work in their constituencies with an emphasis on creating durable community
assets based on locally felt needs.
¾ Implementation: A state-level nodal department oversees MPLADS, while district authorities sanction projects,
allocate funds, and ensure implementation.

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¾ Funding Allocation: Each MP is allocated Rs 5 crore per year since 2011-12. Funds are disbursed by the Ministry
of Statistics and Program Implementation (MoSPI) to district authorities in two installments of Rs 2.5 crore each.
Nature of Funds: Funds are non-lapsable and carried forward if not utilised in a given year. MPs must allocate
a minimum of 15% and 7.5% of their funds to create assets for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes
(STs), respectively.
¾ Special Provisions: MPs can allocate up to Rs 25 lakh annually outside their constituencies or states for projects
promoting national unity.
For severe natural calamities, MPs can allocate up to Rs 1 crore for projects anywhere in India.

¾ Projects Eligible Under MPLADS: MPLADS funds can be converged with the MGNREGS for durable asset creation
and integrated with the Khelo India program for sports infrastructure development.
Infrastructure support is permitted on lands owned by registered societies or trusts engaged in social welfare
for at least three years, but prohibited for societies where the MP or their family members are office-bearers.

What are the Main Arguments For and Against MPLADS?

Click Here to Read: Arguments For and Against MPLADS

Pashu Aushadhi Kendras under LHDCP

Why in News?
The government of India will launch Pashu Aushadhi Kendras under the Livestock Health and Disease Control
Programme (LHDCP) to provide affordable veterinary medicines to people engaged in animal husbandry and dairying.
What are Pashu Aushadhi Kendras?
¾ About: Pashu Aushadhi Kendras, modeled after Pradhan Mantri Bharatiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs), provide
“generic medicines” veterinary medicines to improve livestock health and reduce farmers’ expenses.
Pashu Aushadhi Kendras will also sell ethnoveterinary medicines, which are based on traditional Indian
knowledge and indigenous practices.
Pashu Aushadhi initiative introduced under the LHDCP, has a Rs 75 crore allocation for veterinary medicines
and sales incentives.

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¾ Operation Model: These stores will be run by Livestock Sector in India

cooperative societies and Pradhan Mantri Kisan
¾ Growth and Contribution: The livestock sector has
Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSKs).
grown at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
PMKSKs are one-stop-shops for farmers for multiple of 12.99% (2014-15 to 2022-23). It contributed
products such as seeds, fertilizers, pesticides etc. 5.50% of India’s total Gross Value Added (GVA)
¾ Aim: Prevent and treat livestock diseases such as in 2022-23.
Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Brucellosis, Peste The livestock sector contribution to agriculture
des Petits Ruminants (PPR) (also known as sheep and and allied sector GVA increased from 24.38%
goat plague), Classical Swine Fever (CSF) (affecting (2014-15) to 30.23% (2022-23).
pigs) and Lumpy Skin Disease (affects cattle). Livestock provides livelihood to two-third of rural

¾ Importance: India’s 20th Livestock Census (2019) reports

communities. It also provides employment to
about 8.8 % of the population in India.
around 536 million livestock, including 303 million
¾ Milk, Meat, and Egg Production: India ranks 1st
bovines. Diseases impact milk, meat yield, and farm
in milk production, contributing 24.76% of global
income, with high medicine costs burdening farmers.
production.
This initiative, alongside vaccination drives, aims
Milk production increased from 146.31 million
to reduce disease prevalence and financial strain. tonnes (2014-15) to 239.30 million tonnes
Note: “Generic medicines” are basically non-branded (2023-24), growing at a CAGR of 5.62%.
drugs, which are marketed under a non-proprietary or India ranks 2nd in egg production (1st China)

approved name rather than a proprietary or brand and 5th in meat production globally (Food and
name. Agriculture Organization, 2022).
z Egg production grew from 78.48 billion
What is a Livestock Health and Disease (2014-15) to 142.77 billion (2023-24) at a
Control Programme? CAGR of 6.87%.
z Meat production increased from 6.69 million
¾ About: The LHDCP is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme
tonnes (2014-15) to 10.25 million tonnes
implemented by the Department of Animal Husbandry
(2023-24) at a CAGR of 4.85%.
and Dairying (DAHD), Ministry of Fisheries, Animal
¾ Government Initiatives Driving Growth: Rashtriya
Husbandry, and Dairying. Gokul Mission promotes indigenous breed
LHDCP focuses on enhancing livestock health, conservation. The National Programme for Dairy
productivity, and disease management, with a Development enhances milk processing, while the
total outlay of Rs 3,880 crore from 2024-26. National Livestock Mission expands insurance and
¾ Objective: The program aims to eradicate PPR by fodder production.
2030, control CSF through nationwide pig vaccination. Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development
Fund (AHIDF) supports private investments in
¾ Components: LHDCP consists of three components:
dairy, meat, and veterinary infrastructure.
National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP),
Livestock Health & Disease Control (LH&DC), and
Pashu Aushadhi. Namami Gange Programme
LH&DC has three sub-components which are
Critical Animal Disease Control Programme Why in News?
(targets PPR and CSF for eradication), Establishment The Namami Gange Programme (NGP) has marked
and Strengthening of Veterinary Hospitals and significant progress in its mission to rejuvenate the sacred
Dispensaries - Mobile Veterinary Unit (supports River Ganga.
doorstep livestock healthcare ), and Assistance to ¾ It was launched in 2014 with a Rs 20,000 crore budget
States for Control of Animal Diseases (addresses until 2021, and now extended to March 2026 with
state-prioritized diseases). Rs 22,500 crore (total: Rs 42,500 crore).

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What is the Namami Gange Programme?

¾ About: It is a flagship programme for the rejuvenation of the Ganga River and its tributaries by reducing pollution,
improving water quality, and restoring the river’s ecosystem.
¾ Implementation: Five-Tier Structure for Ganga Rejuvenation.

¾ Key Interventions:
Pollution Abatement (Nirmal Ganga): Setting up sewage treatment plants (STPs), reducing industrial and
domestic waste discharge.
Improving Ecology and Flow (Aviral Ganga): Restoring natural flow and biodiversity, implementing water
conservation measures.
Strengthening People-River Connect (Jan Ganga): Promoting community participation and awareness, involving
local stakeholders in conservation efforts.
Facilitating Research and Policy (Gyan Ganga): Supporting scientific research and studies, formulating evidence-
based policies.
¾ Implementation: Under the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM), an Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) by the winning bidder
handles STP development, operation, and maintenance.
40% of costs are paid post-construction, 60% over the project’s lifespan.
¾ Key Achievements:
Pollution Abatement: Sewage treatment capacity surpassed the pre-2014 capacity by over 30 times.
Improvement in Water Quality: Water quality improved in Uttar Pradesh from BOD 10-20 mg/l (2015) to 3-6 mg/l (2022),
in Bihar from 20-30 mg/l (2015) to 6-10 mg/l (2022), and in West Bengal from 10-20 mg/l (2018) to 6-10 mg/l (2022).

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Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) measures oxygen needed by microorganisms to break down organic
z
matter in water. Higher BOD indicates more pollution; lower BOD means cleaner water.
Impact on Biodiversity: The Gangetic river dolphin population increased from 3,330 in 2018 to 3,936 in 2024,
with sightings in new stretches like Bithura to Rasula Ghat (Prayagraj), Babai, and Bagmati Rivers.
¾ Global Recognition: In December 2022, the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration acknowledged NGP as one of
the Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives.
The International Water Association awarded NGP the title of Climate Smart Utility.

Click Here to Read: What are the Challenges in the Namami Gange Programme?

Importance of River Ganga

¾ Lifeline of India: Supports 47% of India’s population across 11 states.
¾ Agriculture & Economy: 65.57% of the basin is used for agriculture.
¾ Cultural & Religious Significance: Sacred to million people across different religions.
¾ Water Scarcity: The Ganga River Basin is the second most water-stressed in India, receiving only 39% of the
average per capita annual rainwater input.

Electors Photo Identity Card Number

Why in News?
West Bengal Chief Minister has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of facilitating voter duplication
by allowing the same Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers for multiple voters across different states.

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¾ The ECI has denied any electoral malpractice, attributing ¾ Importance: It serves as a unique identifier link ing a
the issue to legacy data errors before the introduction voter to their photo, constituency, and polling station.
of ERONET (Electoral Roll Management System).
A mismatch in EPIC records could lead to voter
What is an EPIC Number? disenfranchisement or manipulation.
¾ About: The EPIC number, introduced in 1993 under ¾ EPIC Duplication Issue: ECI admitted that duplicate
the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, is a 10-digit EPIC numbers occurred due to manual data entry and
alphanumeric voter ID number issued by the ECI to decentralized systems before ERONET.
each registered voter. It is designed to prevent voter
¾ ECI Stance on EPIC Issue: ECI clarified that EPIC numbers
impersonation and electoral fraud.
alone don’t determine voting eligibility, voters can
¾ Issuance and Digital Management: The EPIC number
is generated via ERONET. only vote at their registered polling station. Even with
identical EPIC numbers, demographic details, polling
ERONET is a web-based platform for election officials
to manage registration, migration, and deletion of booths, and constituencies are unique across states.
names from electoral rolls, automating the electoral The ECI assured that ERONET 2.0 would be updated
roll process in multiple languages and scripts. to eliminate duplicate EPIC numbers.
Electronic Voting Machine

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¾ EVM (Electronic Voting Machine) is a device used to electronically record and count votes in elections. The
Indian EVM, also known as ECI-EVM, consists of Ballot Unit (BU), Control Unit (CU) and the later added Voter
Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT).
The CU, operated by polling officials, and the BU, where voters cast their votes. VVPAT is a system linked to
the EVMs, allowing voters to verify that their vote has been correctly recorded.

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¾ Government-Centric R&D: Indian R&D still relies

Boosting R&D for heavily on government funding and institutions. e.g.,
India’s Growth In 2020–21, the Private Sector Industry contributed
only 36.4% of R&D funding.
¾ Weak Academia-Industry Link: Indian research
Why in News?
institutions and industries operate in silos, reducing
India is the 2nd-largest producer of Science, innovation potential, and interdisciplinary research.
technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) e.g., Stanford University played a central role in
graduates after China. Despite this achievement, India the early development of Silicon Valley but such
ranks 39th on the Global Innovation Index 2024, coordination lacks in India.
significantly behind China (11th) showcasing low Research
¾ Lack of Diversification: India’s R&D efforts have
and development (R&D) funding in India.
historically focused on a few priority sectors, particularly
What are Key Highlights of the R&D Ecosystem? defense and space and ignored industrial R&D. e.g.,
¾ R&D Funding Status: India spent only 0.65% of its GDP more focus on missiles (Agni, BrahMos), at the cost
on R&D in 2022, China spent 2.43%, and Brazil 1.15%. of semiconductors.
Indian industries prefer importing technology (risk
¾ Need to Prioritize R&D:
averse), while startups and firms focus on IT and
Economic Growth: R&D is crucial for India to
e-commerce over deep-tech innovation.
compete globally and shed its lower-middle-income
¾ Hurdles in Technology Transfer: Research conducted
status, and achieve its productivity potential.
by DRDO, ISRO, and BARC often does not translate
Industrial Development: Key sectors such as
into commercial products due to bureaucratic hurdles.
pharma, chemicals, and automotive require
technological advancement to compete with What are India’s Initiatives Related to R&D?
developed nations and emerging economies. ¾ Vigyan Dhara Scheme
z Also, R&D is needed for deep-tech startups ¾ Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)
involved in quantum computing, biotechnology, ¾ Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy 2020
robotics, and nanotechnology.
¾ VAIBHAV Fellowship
Labour-Intensive Sectors: Rising labor costs
demand innovation like automated assembly lines, What Reforms Can Strengthen
integration of AI & digital tools for productivity, India’s R&D Ecosystem?
value, and exports. ¾ Increased R&D Investment: India should increase
¾ Global R&D Scenario: R&D spending over the next decade, with a significant
South Korea: In 1970, South Korea was poor but share coming from the private sector.
grew rapidly over two decades, increasing R&D Utilise Anusandhan National Research Foundation
spending from 0.4% to 2.5% of GDP. (ANRF) by encouraging private sector and
z Between 1975 and 2005, it became a developed philanthropic investments in research.
nation, and R&D investment by its corporate Rs 1 lakh crore innovation fund announced in the
sector rose 800 times. union budget 2025–26 should be disbursed within
China: R&D spending rose from 0.6% of GDP in 3–5 years to boost deep-tech R&D..
the late 1990s to 2.4% currently, coinciding with ¾ University-Led Research Model: Indian Higher
its best growth years. Education Institutions (HEIs) can carry out upstream
research pushing forward the frontiers of knowledge
What are the Challenges in and can help industry commercialise mature
India’s R&D Ecosystem? technologies for the market.
¾ Low Investment: India’s R&D spending is much ¾ Efficient Project Management: ANRF can follow the
lower than that of advanced economies such as the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency
US (3.46%), Japan (3.30%), Israel (5.56), and South (DARPA) model with efficient programme managers,
Korea (4.93). transparent funding, and a CEO-led team.

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¾ Risk Taking: Early-stage research involves open-ended What are the Key Challenges
exploration that may not always succeed but leads Associated with OCMC?
to future breakthroughs.
¾ Favors the Ruling Party: Ruling parties, with control
The government should track projects while
allowing some risk-taking. over state resources, gain an advantage in bye-elections,
making it harder for opposition parties.
¾ Financial Strain: Frequent by-elections due to multiple-
One Candidate Multiple seat wins increase costs and burden taxpayers.
Constituencies The 2024 Lok Sabha election cost Rs 6,931 crore,
with by-elections adding Rs 130 crore.
Why in News? z However, the larger concern is political party
spending, estimated at Rs 1.35 lakh crore, raising
The debate on electoral reforms in India has gained
momentum with the introduction of the One Nation, One questions about financial transparency and the
Election (ONOE) Bills. This has also highlighted the issue of possible influence of unaccounted funds (black
One Candidate, Multiple Constituencies (OCMC), where a money), ultimately impacting the public.
candidate contests elections from more than one constituency. Additionally, defeated candidates must recontest

¾ This trend, while legally permitted, raises concerns

within months, straining party resources and
about governance efficiency, public trust, and the hindering fair competition.
financial burden of frequent elections. ¾ Parachute Candidacy Issues: A parachute candidate refers
to a candidate contesting elections in a constituency
What are the Provisions Regarding OCMC? where they have little connection or local presence.
¾ Representation of Peoples Act (RPA), 1951: In OCMC, parachute candidates often lack local
Before 1996: No restriction on the number of engagement and accountability, sidelining grassroots
seats a candidate could contest. Winners could leaders and causing party dissatisfaction.
vacate all but one. ¾ Administrative Disruptions: Frequent elections lead
Post 1996: Section 33(7) of the RP Act restricts to the repeated enforcement of the Model Code of
candidates to contesting from a maximum of two Conduct (MCC), delaying government policies and
constituencies at the same time in an election. straining resources.
z If a person is elected to multiple seats in ¾ Breach of Voter Trust: Elections should serve the
Parliament or a State Legislature, they must people, but OCMC prioritizes political interests. It
resign all but one within the prescribed time. reduces accountability and favors politicians over
Otherwise, all their seats will be vacated under the electorate, leading to leader-centric politics and
Section 70 of the RP Act. undermining democratic processes.
z Bye-elections held to fill vacated seats within
¾ Potential Violation of Fundamental Rights: Could undermine
six months (Section 151A). Article 19(1)(a) (freedom of speech and expression) by
¾ Constitutional Provisions: Article 101 deals with
depriving voters of their chosen representative.
the vacation of seats, disqualifications, and dual
membership in Parliament. Global Practices of OCMC
Article 101(1) states that no person can be a member ¾ Australia: A sitting legislator must resign before
of both Houses of Parliament, and a law shall contesting for another parliamentary house.
provide for vacating one seat if elected to both. ¾ European democracies: The United Kingdom has
Article 101(2): No person can be a member of both banned OCMC since 1983, and most European
Parliament and a State Legislature. If elected to democracies have phased it out to ensure clear
both, they must resign from the State Legislature representation and accountability.
within the period specified by the President, or ¾ Italy: One cannot contest simultaneously for the
their Parliament seat is vacated. Senate and the Chamber of Deputies.
¾ Prohibition of Simultaneous Membership Rules, ¾ Pakistan & Bangladesh: Allow candidates to contest
1950: A person cannot hold membership of both multiple constituencies but require them to vacate
Parliament and a state legislature at the same time. all but one.

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What Reforms Can be Introduced to Regulate OCMC?

¾ Banning OCMC: The Election Commission of India (ECI) and the 255th Law Commission Report (2015) recommended
banning multiple seat contests.
This would enforce “One Election, One Candidate, One Constituency (OCOC)” strengthening democratic fairness.

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¾ Recover Bye-Election Costs: Candidates who vacate a arbitrary administrative actions, ensuring legislative
seat should bear the bye-election expenses to deter accountability.
seat-hopping. ¾ Limitations:
¾ Delay Bye-Elections: Extending the cooling off period Risk of Unjustified Differentiation: If not applied
for bye-elections to one year would allow defeated properly, it can lead to unjust differentiation and
candidates more time to prepare while also reducing potentially violate fundamental rights.
the ruling party’s unfair advantage in such elections. Subjectivity: Classification factors (e.g., age, gender,
¾ Mandatory Resignation: Candidates should resign physical strength) can be subjective, leading to
from their existing position before contesting another inconsistent judicial interpretations of the doctrine.
election to ensure commitment to their elected role. What is the Anwar Ali Sarkar Case, 1952?
¾ Background: In 1950, Anwar Ali Sarkar was convicted
Reasonable Classification Test under the West Bengal Special Courts Act, 1950 by
the Alipore Sessions Court that sentenced him to
Why in News? transportation for life.
The Anwar Ali Sarkar Case, 1952 is a landmark ¾ SC Judgement (1952): The SC invalidated a law
Supreme Court ruling that laid the foundation for the permitting the arbitrary referral of cases to special
reasonable classification test under Article 14 of the courts, stating that the classification lacked a logical
Indian Constitution. connection to a legitimate objective.
¾ This test has now become a standard for evaluating The ruling established the “reasonable classification”
the constitutionality of laws. test, which allows for exceptions to equality under
Article 14 under certain conditions.
What is a Reasonable Classification Test?
Article 14 (Equality Before the Law)
¾ About: It is a legal principle under Article 14 of the
Indian Constitution that ensures fair treatment by ¾ About: No person, whether a citizen or foreigner,
permitting the grouping of individuals or entities can be denied equality before the law or the equal
based on clear differences that are logically linked protection of the laws in India.
to the law’s objective. Equality Before the Law ensures no special

It prevents arbitrary discrimination while privileges, applying the same laws to all. Equal
acknowledging that not all cases are identical. Protection of the Laws guarantees equal
¾ Essential Features: treatment under similar circumstances.
Classification must be based on a clear and ¾ Reasonable Classification: Article 14 forbids class
reasonable distinction. legislation but allows reasonable classification based
The distinction must logically connect to the law’s on intelligible differentia (distinguishable differences).
purpose. Judicial Stand on Doctrine
The classification should address social or policy of Reasonable Classification
needs without violating rights. ¾ Saurabh Chaudri Case, 2004: Two key principles
Large groups cannot be arbitrarily selected for
were laid down by the SC:
different treatment (no class legislation). It must
Intelligible differentia: The classification must
ensure justified, not random, differences in treatment.
be based on clear and distinct reasons for
¾ Significance:
distinguishing a group.
Support Specific Regulations: It allows tailored
Rational nexus: The classification must have a
laws for distinct societal conditions, ensuring equal
logical connection to the objective of the law.
treatment doesn’t lead to unfairness.
¾ Shri Ram Krishna Dalmia, 1958: A law can be
z It guides lawmakers and judges in interpreting
statutes to prevent irrational outcomes. constitutional if it applies to a specific individual due
Legitimacy Testing: It assesses the legitimacy of laws,
to special circumstances, treating them as a class.
There is a presumption of constitutionality, and
ensuring rationality and reducing legal challenges.
Standard for Judicial Review: It offers a standard
the burden of proof is on challengers to show
for courts to review and nullify irrational or it violates constitutional standards.

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Need for Balanced Cryptocurrency Regulation

Why in News?
The US administration has embraced crypto assets, solidifying their place in global finance. While countries like
Vietnam push for clear regulations and the EU sets global standards with MiCA, India still waits for a discussion paper.
What is Cryptocurrency?
About
¾ A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that uses cryptography to secure transactions. It is a decentralized
currency (not controlled by any government or institution).

¾ Transactions with cryptocurrency are recorded on a public digital ledger called blockchain.
This ledger is maintained by a network of computers around the world, and each new transaction is verified
and added to the blockchain by these computers.

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¾ The decentralization and use of cryptography make it difficult for anyone to manipulate the currency or the
transactions recorded on the blockchain.
¾ Some examples of cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Litecoin.

Difference Between Cryptocurrency, e-Money, Physical Currency

Category Cryptocurrency e-Money Physical Currency (Rs)
Access to e-devices such as
Largely limited to Internet Physical access to cash, ATMs, and
Accessibility mobile phones and an agent
connection bank branches
network
Equal to amount of fiat
Determined by supply, demand Backed by the government,
Value currency exchanged into
and trust in the system determined by monetary policy
electronic form

Required adequate customer Not required for transactions, but

Customer ID Anonymous
identification required for bank accounts

Digitally issued against

Mathematically generated
Production/ receipt of equal value of fiat
(“mined”) by community of Central bank (RBI)
Issuer currency of central authority
developers, called “miners”
by RBI
Regulator or
Mostly Unregulated Central Bank/Board Central Bank (RBI)
Oversight

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Regulations
¾ Global: Most cryptocurrencies operate outside national government regulations, serving as alternative currencies
beyond state monetary policies.
Switzerland has embraced crypto with a well-defined regulatory framework, ensuring investor protection while
fostering blockchain innovation.
In September 2021, El Salvador became the first country to adopt Bitcoin as legal tender.

¾ India: Cryptocurrency in India is unregulated but not specifically banned.

Why Does India Need a Policy for Cryptocurrency?

¾ Preventing Talent Exodus: A blanket ban on cryptocurrencies could lead to a significant brain drain, along with
the flight of capital as seen after the RBI’s 2018 ban, with blockchain experts moving to crypto-friendly countries
and halting blockchain innovation in India.
¾ Integrating into the Global Financial Ecosystem: By embracing cryptocurrency, India can position itself as a key
player in the global financial ecosystem, attracting investments and fostering growth in crypto startups through
initiatives like ‘crypto export zones.’
¾ Leveraging New Technology and Services: The growing demand for blockchain applications in scalability, security,
and analytics presents an opportunity for India to develop a large talent pool with expertise in crypto technologies,
driving technological advancement.
¾ Encouraging Financial Innovation: The dynamic nature of blockchain technology offers vast potential for innovative
business models and applications, with long-term impacts that could revolutionize various sectors, necessitating
a balanced regulatory approach.

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¾ Enhancing Investor Protections: To safeguard investors, ¾ The ruling struck down Nagaland’s detention orders
India needs to implement robust education and for lacking proper justification and violating legal
guidelines against mis-selling, regulate crypto assets principles.
as commodities, which can also boost government What is the SC Ruling Regarding
tax revenues by increasing tax base. Preventive Detention?
Stricter oversight is also needed to prevent their
¾ Case: Two individuals were preventively detained
use in sophisticated fraud schemes, including
under the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic
ransomware attacks and investment scams.
Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988
What are the Challenges (PITNDPS Act) after a drug seizure, based on police
Cryptocurrency Poses? allegations of resumed trafficking if released, but
without separate grounds.
¾ Market Volatility: Cryptocurrency is highly
speculative, leading to significant price fluctuations ¾ SC Judgment: The Supreme Court ruled that the
and potential for substantial losses when investing detention orders violated Section 6 of the PITNDPS
large amounts. Act by lacking separate, specific grounds.

¾ Risk of Misuse: The ease of transferring cryptocurrency The SC noted that detainees, who did not understand
across borders without accountability increases the English, were orally informed in Nagamese, but
risk of it being used for money laundering and terror ruled this insufficient, citing the Harikisan vs.
financing. State of Maharashtra (1962) Constitution Bench
ruling, which held that mere oral communication
¾ Scalability Issues: Blockchain’s growing data size
of detention grounds is inadequate.
limits capacity, making rapid large-scale transactions
challenging, especially during national emergencies. The court stressed that preventive detention affects
fundamental rights and must strictly comply with
¾ Economic Imbalance: The rise of the cryptocurrency
statutory norms. Consequently, the court quashed
market can disrupt the circular flow of money in the
the detention orders.
Indian economy, differing significantly from traditional
cash creation processes. What is Preventive Detention?
¾ Lack of Regulatory Oversight: The absence of a ¾ About: It refers to detaining an individual without
dedicated forum or grievance redressal mechanism trial to prevent anticipated unlawful activities.
for crypto assets leaves consumers vulnerable to Unlike punitive detention, which follows due
transactional and informational risks. process and conviction, preventive detention
curtails individual liberty based on suspicion.
Preventive Detention ¾ Constitutional Provisions: The protection against arrest
and detention under Articles 22(1) and 22(2) does
Why in News? not apply to individuals detained under preventive
The Supreme Court (SC) of India, in Mortuza Hussain detention laws, as stated in Article 22(3).
Choudhury vs State of Nagaland, 2025, reaffirmed that A person can be detained without trial for up to
preventive detention is a draconian measure (severe) three months unless extended by an Advisory
requiring strict adherence to constitutional and statutory Board (consisting of persons qualified to be High
safeguards. Court judges).

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The detainee must be informed of the reasons for ¾ Objectives: PMMVY ensures maternal nutrition,
their detention unless it harms public interest. They promotes institutional deliveries, supports financial
have the right to legal representation, although stability, and encourages the birth of girl children.
this right can be restricted in certain cases. ¾ Key Features: Provides financial assistance to support
¾ Key Laws Related to Preventive Detention: maternal health and nutrition.
National Security Act, 1980: Allows detention to First child: Rs 5,000 is provided, and additional
prevent threats to national security and public order. benefits under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) ensure
that women receive around Rs 6,000 in total.
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967: Prevents
Second child (only if a girl): Rs 6,000 is given to
activities threatening India’s sovereignty, security,
promote gender equality and discourage female
and integrity.
feticide.
Public Safety Act, 1978: Used in Jammu & Kashmir
¾ Concerns:
for preventive detention on grounds of public
Restricted Coverage: The scheme violates the
order and security.
NFSA, 2013, which mandates universal maternity
¾ Judicial Precedents: In Ameena Begum vs The State benefits, by limiting benefits to only the first two
Of Telangana (2023), the SC ruled that preventive children, with the second child covered only if it
detention is an exceptional measure and must not is a girl.
be used arbitrarily. Budget Cuts: In 2023-24, the central government
In the Jaseela Shaji vs the Union of India case allocated just Rs 870 crore for the scheme, only
(2024), the Supreme Court ruled that detainees one-third of what was allocated in 2019-20.
must be ensured a fair opportunity to challenge z Covering 90% of births at Rs 6,000 each would
their detention. require at least Rs 12,000 crore.
Poor Implementation: The scheme’s effective
PMMVY Implementation coverage dropped from 36% in 2019-20 to just
9% in 2023-24.
Concerns
Bureaucratic and Digital Hurdles: The scheme is
plagued by Aadhaar-based verification issues,
Why in News?
complex application processes and frequent
Despite maternity benefits being a legal entitlement software failures, making it difficult for poor and
under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, the digitally illiterate women to access benefits.
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) faces
Note: State-specific schemes outperform PMMVY, with
significant implementation challenges, leaving millions
Tamil Nadu (84%) and Odisha (64%) achieving higher
of pregnant women without essential benefits. coverage than PMMVY (<10%). They offer Rs 18,000
What is PMMVY and its Concerns? and Rs 10,000 per child, respectively, highlighting
PMMVY’s inefficiency.
¾ PMMVY: The PMMVY is Centrally Sponsored scheme
launched in 2017 under the Ministry of Women and What are the Provisions for Maternity
Child Development, provides maternity benefits to Benefits Under NFSA?
eligible pregnant and lactating women. ¾ NFSA 2013: Aims to provide food and nutritional
However, government employees and those security by ensuring access to affordable food grains
receiving similar benefits are not eligible. for a large section of India’s population.

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The Act marks a shift from welfare-based to

What are the Key Highlights of NITI Aayog’s
rights-based food security, making the Public Report on Quantum Computing?
Distribution System (PDS) more structured and ¾ Global Quantum Investments: Over 40 billion USD
legally binding. pledged by 30+ governments worldwide. China leads
¾ Maternity Benefits Under the NFSA, 2013: All pregnant with a 15 billion USD investment, followed by the
women (except those in the formal sector) are entitled US and Europe.
to Rs 6,000 per child as maternity benefits. ¾ India’s Scenario: The National Quantum Mission
Maternity benefits help ensure proper nutrition, (NQM) was launched with a budget allocation of
healthcare, and rest for pregnant women, which Rs 6,003 crore to develop indigenous capabilities in
is crucial for maternal and child health. quantum technology and position India as a global
leader in this emerging field.
Note: Women in the formal sector in India receive 26
¾ Implications: It has dual-use applications in the military
weeks of paid maternity leave, as per the Maternity
and intelligence sectors, quantum technology can
Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017. enhance encryption, improve surveillance systems,
¾ Globally, 51% of countries provide maternity and advance weaponry, giving nations a technological
leave of at least 14 weeks, the standard set by the edge in defense and national security.
International Labour Organization (ILO) Maternity Economically, they can drive innovation, create
Protection Convention, 2000. high-tech industries, and attract investment.
What are the Challenges Highlighted By Niti
NITI Aayog Calls for Aayog Report on Quantum Computing?
Quantum Strategy ¾ Lower Funding Compared to Global Peers: India has
allocated ₹6,003 crore (~USD 750 million) for the
Why in News? NQM, which is significantly lower than that of other
A research paper titled “Quantum Computing: global players. This limits India’s ability to compete
National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness” in quantum infrastructure, cutting-edge research,
by NITI Aayog’s Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH), highlights and talent acquisition.
the importance of quantum computing for India’s security Funding gaps hinder large-scale commercialization,
and economy, urging a multi-pronged approach to delaying India’s progress in building quantum
address national security risks from quantum supremacy.
advancements. ¾ Weak Domestic Supply Chain: Quantum computing
Quantum Computing relies on highly specialized components, such as
¾ It refers to a class of technologies that leverage Cryogenic systems for cooling quantum processors,
the principles of quantum mechanics to perform High-purity materials for building stable quantum
computations and achieve capabilities not possible circuits. India lacks indigenous manufacturing
with traditional technology. capabilities, leading to heavy dependence on foreign
¾ It uses qubits (quantum bits), which govern the suppliers.
behavior of matter at the atomic level. Unlike classical ¾ Limited Startup and Industry Participation: Unlike
systems, which work in a predictable way, qubits the US and Europe, where tech giants like Google,
behave unpredictably, enabling quantum computers IBM, and Microsoft drive quantum innovation, India’s
to perform tasks that traditional technologies can’t. quantum ecosystem is primarily driven by academia.

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Lack of private sector investment and venture capital funding limits the scalability and commercialization of
Indian quantum innovations.
¾ Cybersecurity Risks: Quantum computers will eventually be capable of breaking current encryption standards,
making existing cybersecurity frameworks obsolete.
Sensitive government, military, financial, and personal data stored using traditional encryption methods will
be at risk.
Online banking, digital payments, and secure communications could be compromised, leading to economic
instability and cyber fraud.
¾ Intelligence & Espionage: Quantum computing will significantly improve Signals Intelligence (SIGINT), allowing
nations to decrypt intercepted communications at an unprecedented scale.
Confidential diplomatic cables, military strategies, and classified intelligence could be exposed, posing serious
risks to national security.
Nations with quantum decryption capabilities will gain a strategic advantage in intelligence gathering and cyber
warfare.
Adversaries equipped with quantum-powered defense systems could gain an upper hand in military strategy
and warfare technologies.
What is Quantum Technology?
¾ Click Here Read More: Quantum Technology
¾ Click Here Read More: Challenges and the Way Forward Related to Quantum Computing.

What is the National Quantum Mission?

¾ About: The Union Cabinet approved the National Quantum Mission (NQM) on 19th April 2023 for the period
from 2023-24 to 2030-31.
It aims to seed, nurture and scale up scientific and industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative ecosystem
in Quantum Technology.
¾ Key Objectives:
Development of Quantum Computers: Create intermediate-scale quantum computers with 50-1000 physical
qubits over 8 years, using platforms like superconducting and photonic technologies.
Secure Communications: Satellite-based secure quantum communication between ground stations over
2000 km within India.
z Long-distance secure quantum communications with other nations.
Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Development of high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks for
precision timing, communications, and navigation.
Establishment of Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Set up 4 T-hubs in top academic and national R&D institutes in
the domains of:
z Quantum Computing
z Quantum Communication
z Quantum Sensing & Metrology
z Quantum Materials & Devices

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What are the Recommendations Suggested by Niti Aayog on Quantum Computing?

¾ Enhancing National Security Policy: Establish a Task Force to continuously track global quantum advancements
and assess potential threats.
Develop an Early Warning System to identify and mitigate emerging quantum threats before they impact
national security.
Implement a Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Transition Plan to secure government, financial, and industrial
data against future quantum cyberattacks.
¾ Boosting R&D: Increase R&D funding to accelerate quantum startups and support indigenous hardware development.
Encourage private sector involvement to bridge the gap between academia and industry for faster commercialization.

¾ Strengthening Domestic Supply Chain: Develop a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem for critical quantum
hardware components such as cryogenic systems, high-purity materials, and specialized lasers.
Reduce dependency on foreign imports by investing in quantum chip fabrication and hardware production facilities.

¾ Expanding Global Partnerships: Forge bilateral agreements with leading quantum nations such as the US, European
Union, and Japan to gain access to cutting-edge research, hardware, and expertise.
Advocate for relaxed export controls on critical quantum components to ensure uninterrupted access to
essential technologies.

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Strengthening Tribunals in India

Why in News?
The Supreme Court (SC) is examining key issues affecting tribunals and reviewing the constitutional validity of
the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021.
¾ It underscored the importance of strengthening tribunals to ensure efficient adjudication and maintain public confidence.

What is the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021?

About
¾ The Act was enacted to streamline the functioning of tribunals by dissolving certain appellate tribunals and
transferring their functions to existing judicial bodies like the High Courts.
¾ It was introduced in response to the Supreme Court’s ruling in the case of Madras Bar Association vs. Union of
India (2021), which struck down certain provisions of the Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of
Service) Ordinance, 2021.
Key Provisions
¾ Abolition of Tribunal: The Act dissolves multiple appellate tribunals and shifts their functions to High Courts and
other judicial bodies.

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¾ Search-cum-Selection Committee: It has been established to recommend the appointment of tribunal chairpersons
and members.
For Central Tribunals:

z Chairperson: Chief Justice of India (CJI) or a Supreme Court judge nominated by the CJI (casting vote).

z Two Secretaries nominated by the Central Government.

z Sitting/outgoing Chairperson of the tribunal, or a retired Supreme Court judge, or a retired Chief Justice
of a High Court.
z Non-voting member: Secretary of the relevant Union Ministry.

For State Administrative Tribunals:

z Chairperson: Chief Justice of the respective High Court (casting vote).

z Chief Secretary of the State Government.

z Chairman of the State Public Service Commission.

z Sitting/outgoing Chairperson of the Tribunal or a retired High Court Judge.

¾ Tenure and Age Limits: Tenure for Chairperson and Members 4 years, with a minimum age of 50 years.
The maximum age limit is 67 years for tribunal members and 70 years for chairpersons, or completion of the
4-year tenure, whichever is earlier.
Tribunal Chairpersons and Members are eligible for reappointment, with preference given to their past service.

¾ Removal of Tribunal Members: Central government on the recommendation of the Search-cum-Selection Committee
can remove Chairperson or a Member.
What are Tribunals?
¾ About: A tribunal is a quasi-judicial body that deals with the resolution of disputes pertaining to administration,
taxation, environment, securities, etc.

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¾ Functions: It performs various functions, including adjudicating disputes, determining rights between parties,
making administrative decisions, and reviewing existing administrative rulings.
¾ Constitutional Provisions: Tribunals were introduced in the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment Act,
1976, as they were not part of the original Constitution.
Article 323-A: Deals with Administrative Tribunals for public service matters.

Article 323-B: Provides for tribunals on various matters, including: Taxation, Foreign exchange, import and
export, Industrial and labor disputes, Elections to Parliament and state legislatures, Food security.
Click Here to Read More: What is the Difference Between Tribunal and Court?
What are the Key Challenges Related to Tribunals?
¾ Staff Shortage: The lack of presiding officers, judicial, and technical members has increased case pendency and
reduced tribunal effectiveness, such as in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) cases, as noted by the SC.

¾ Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many tribunals, including the NGT, face inadequate courtrooms, digital case management,
and technical support, affecting case efficiency. The NGT’s limited reach in urban areas also restricts access to
justice for marginalized communities in environmental disputes.

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¾ Procedural Inefficiencies: Frequent adjournments, ¾ Significance:

missed deadlines, and weak enforcement hinder Evolution of Constitutional Jurisprudence: The
tribunals’ efficiency, leading litigants to higher courts. reasonableness test became foundational,
For instance, the NCLT and NCLAT face severe
evolving into the structured proportionality test
delays, with 67% of insolvency cases exceeding used today to evaluate state actions that limit
the 330-day timeline under the IBC.
fundamental rights.
¾ Political and Administrative Indifference: Lack of
commitment, budget constraints, and cost-cutting Impact on Modern Legal Frameworks: Laws like
measures by the Finance Ministry hinder tribunal the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA),
efficiency, affecting infrastructure and timely Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act
appointments. (TADA), and Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA)
have been scrutinized under this to ensure they
do not arbitrarily infringe on civil liberties.
State of Madras vs
Note:
V.G. Row Case
¾ In Anuradha Bhasin v. Union of India, 2020,
Why in News? the SC ruled that restrictions on movement
and communication must meet the test of
The Supreme Court’s ruling in State of Madras vs
proportionality.
V.G. Row, 1952, established the test of reasonableness
SC held that indefinite internet suspension
for laws restricting fundamental rights.
violates Article 19(1)(a) & 19(1)(g) unless justified
¾ It set a precedent for judicial review, ensuring that
under Article 19(2) and must be necessary,
restrictions on civil liberties must be fair, just, and
not excessive. proportionate, and subject to judicial review.
¾ Article 19 of the Indian Constitution guarantees
What is the State of Madras vs V.G. Row Case? fundamental rights, including speech, assembly,
¾ Background: The case challenged the Criminal and movement.
Law Amendment Act, 1950, which empowered the Article 19(2) allows reasonable restrictions for
government to restrict associations deemed prejudicial specific purposes: protecting sovereignty, state
to public order, under which the Madras government security, diplomatic relations, public order,
banned the People’s Education Society in 1950. morality, judiciary (contempt of court) etc.
V.G. Row, a member of the banned society,
contended that the law violated Article 19(1) What are the Landmark Cases on Balancing
(c) (Right to Form Associations) and imposed Rights and Restrictions?
an unreasonable restriction under Article 19(4).
¾ Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala, 1973: It
¾ Supreme Court (SC) Ruling:
established the basic structure doctrine.
In 1952, the SC struck down the law as
unconstitutional, ruling that excessive executive ¾ Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India, 1978: It expanded
discretion in banning associations was arbitrary the scope of Article 21, requiring that any restriction
and violated Article 19(1)(c). must be fair, just, and reasonable.
It emphasized that restrictions must be fair, just, ¾ Shreya Singhal v. Union of India, 2015: Struck
and not excessive in relation to their objective. down Section 66A of the IT Act for being vague and
SC laid out a framework to test reasonableness overbroad.
of restriction based on factors like the nature of ¾ Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India, 2017.
the right infringed, purpose and extent of the
restriction, proportionality to the issue addressed, Read more: Fundamental Rights (Part-1), Fundamental
and prevailing socio-political conditions. Rights (Part-2)

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This led to the 1st Constitutional Amendment Act,

Champakam Dorairajan Case 1951 to restore education reservations.
and Evolution of FRs and DPSPs ¾ 1 st Constitutional Amendment Act, 1951: The
government amended Article 15 by introducing
Why in News? Article 15(4), which allowed the state to make special
Champakam Dorairajan Case, 1951 presented the provisions for the advancement of socially and
first instance of conflict between the Fundamental Rights educationally backward classes (SEBCs), Scheduled
(FRs) and Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSPs). Castes(SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

What is Champakam Dorairajan Case, 1951? This amendment provided the constitutional basis
for reservations in educational institutions.
¾ Background of the Case: In 1948, the Madras
government introduced the Communal General What are Key Constitutional Provisions
for Vulnerable Groups?
Order (GO), which reserved seats in educational
¾ Article 15(1): Prohibits discrimination on grounds
institutions based on caste and religion.
of religion, race, caste, sex, or place of birth.
The government cited Article 46, which mandates
promoting the education and economy of SCs, ¾ Article 15(4): Allows special provisions for the
STs, and weaker sections. advancement of SEBCs, SCs, and STs, thus enabling
reservations in educational institutions.
Champakam Dorairajan, a woman from Madras,
challenged the order in the Madras High Court ¾ Article 16(4): Permits reservations in public
(HC), citing a violation of her right to equality employment for backward classes.
(Article 14). ¾ Article 17: Abolishes untouchability.
¾ Madras High Court Verdict, 1950: The Madras HC ¾ Article 46 (DPSP): Mandates the promotion of
struck down the Communal GO as unconstitutional educational and economic interests of SCs, STs,
for using caste and religion as basis of classification, and weaker sections.
but the Madras government appealed to the Supreme
What Provisions were Amended by the 1st
Court (SC). Constitutional Amendment Act, 1951?
¾ Supreme Court Verdict, 1951: A five-judge Supreme
¾ Fundamental Rights:
Court bench upheld the Madras HC ruling, declaring
the Communal GO unconstitutional. Article 15(4): Allowed special provisions for SEBCs,
SCs, and STs.
The judgment stated that it violated fundamental
rights under Article 14 (Right to Equality) and Article Article 19: Expanded reasonable restrictions on
15(1) (Prohibition of Discrimination on Grounds free speech (Article 19(2)), including security of
of Religion, Race, Caste, Sex, or Place of Birth). the state, public order, and incitement to offenses.
The SC ruled that FRs prevail over DPSPs and z The State can set professional qualifications
established that Parliament can amend FRs through and regulate or nationalize trade, business,
constitutional amendments. or industry through State-owned corporations.
¾ Impact of the SC Ruling: The ruling struck down caste- ¾ Parliament and State Legislatures:
based reservations in education, as the Constitution Article 85 & 174: Ensured that the gap between
then allowed reservations only in public jobs (Article two parliamentary or state legislative sessions
16(4)). does not exceed six months.

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Article 87 and 176: The President/Governor’s principles of the Constitution cannot be altered
address to the legislature was now required or destroyed through amendments. E.g., Judicial
only once after each general election and at the review, limited amending power etc.
beginning of the first session each year. ¾ Minerva Mills Case, 1980:
¾ Land Reforms: Background: 42nd Constitutional Amendment
Article 31A: Secured laws related to the acquisition Act, 1976 extended Article 31C’s protection to all
of estates and property rights from being challenged DPSPs, prioritizing them over FRs under Articles
under fundamental rights. 14, 19, and 31.
Article 31B: Created the Ninth Schedule, Verdict: The SC struck down the 42nd Amendment’s
protecting listed laws from judicial review regarding expansion of Article 31C, ruling that there is a
fundamental rights. harmonious construction between FRs and DPSPs
¾ SCs and STs: The President was given authority to and DPSPs cannot override FRs, preserving the
specify SCs (Articles 341) and STs (Articles 342) for Constitution’s balance.
each State separately. ¾ Current Status: FRs take precedence over DPSPs, but
Parliament can amend Articles 14 and 19 to implement
What are Other Judgements on Conflict
Articles 39(b) and 39(c).
Between FRs and DPSPs
Golaknath Case, 1967: The SC overturned its
¾
Issue of Pradhan
Champakam Dorairajan ruling, declaring that
Parliament cannot amend FRs, ensuring their absolute Pati in Panchayats
protection.
Why in News?
¾ Kesavananda Bharati Case, 1973:
A panel constituted by the Ministry of Panchayati
Background: 25th Constitutional Amendment Act, Raj in 2023 has submitted its report, Transforming
1971 introduced Article 31C, which contained two Women’s Representation and Roles in Panchayati Raj
key provisions: Systems and Institutions: Eliminating Efforts for Proxy
z Laws for implementing DPSPs on resource Participation, recommending “exemplary penalties” to
distribution (Article 39(b) & (c)) were shielded curb the practice of ‘Pradhan Pati’.
from judicial review, even if they violated FRs ¾ The report suggests policy reforms, training, and
provided under Article 14, 19, or 31. technology-driven solutions to empower women
z Any law designed to implement the Article 39(b) leaders.
& (c) was protected from judicial review, even What are the Key Reforms
if it did not fully achieve its goals. Suggested by the Committee?
Verdict: The SC upheld the first provision, ensuring ¾ Strict Penalties for Proxy Leadership: Enforcement of
laws implementing Article 39(b) and (c) remained ‘exemplary penalties’ for proven cases of male relatives
valid even if they conflicted with Fundamental acting as proxies for elected women representatives
Rights. in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
¾ Structural and Policy Reforms: The committee
z It struck down Article 31 C’s second provision
recommends gender-exclusive quotas in panchayat
barring judicial review.
subject and ward-level committees (like Kerala’s model),
z The SC also introduced the concept of Basic annual ‘Anti-Pradhan Pati’ awards to recognize efforts
Structure that states that certain fundamental against proxy leadership,

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Proposes appointment of women’s ombudspersons Threats, violence, and social pressure discourage
to handle related complaints. It also suggests women from actively participating in governance.
public swearing-in ceremonies in Gram Sabhas The committee cautions that strict penalties may
to reinforce women pradhans’ authority. push the issue underground instead of addressing
Suggests creation of a federation of women root causes like patriarchy.
panchayat leaders for peer support and collective Read more: SC Calls for Reform to Empower Women
decision-making. Leaders
¾ Technological Interventions: The committee proposes
Governance of PRIs
Virtual reality (VR) simulation training to enhance
governance skills, Artificial intelligence (AI) powered ¾ State Subject: Local governance falls under the
query-driven guidance in vernacular languages for jurisdiction of state governments, with PRIs operating
real-time legal and governance support as per respective State Panchayati Raj Acts.
¾ Constitutional Framework:
WhatsApp groups linking Women Elected
Representatives (WERs) with officials for issue 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act (1992)

resolution. established a three-tiered Panchayat system

and mandated 1/3rd reservation for women,
Additionally, the Panchayat Nirnay Portal will
later increased to 50% in 21 states and 2 UTs.
enable citizens to track pradhans’ participation,
Article 243D provides for reservation for
ensuring transparency and accountability.
Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and
The committee suggests collaborating with
Backward Classes in PRIs.
prominent educational institutions and international
Article 40 of the Constitution, a Directive
agencies for leadership programs.
Principle of State Policy, mandates the State to
What is the Issue of Pradhan Pati in PRIs? establish village panchayats and grant them the
necessary powers and authority to function as
¾ Pradhan Pati: Also known as ‘Sarpanch Pati’ or
self-governing units.
‘Mukhiya Pati,’ this practice involves the husbands of
elected women panchayat leaders exercising power ¾ The Panchayats Extension to Scheduled Areas
on their behalf. (PESA) Act, 1996, grants Gram Sabhas in Scheduled
Areas special powers to manage natural resources
As a result, many WERs serve as mere figureheads,
and protect tribal culture and livelihoods.
undermining their autonomy and leadership. It
reinforces patriarchy and weakens the intent of
the 73rd Constitutional Amendment. Poshan Abhiyan
¾ Menace of Pradhan Pati: India has about 2.63 lakh
panchayats across three levels (Gram Panchayat, Why in News?
Panchayat Samiti, and Zila Parishad). Women make up Poshan Abhiyaan aims to improve nutritional
46.6% (15.03 lakh) of 32.29 lakh elected panchayat outcomes through technology, cross-sectoral
representatives. convergence, and community involvement.
However, their effective participation remains What is Poshan Abhiyan?
low, especially in northern states like UP, Bihar, ¾ About: It is a flagship initiative of the Ministry of
Haryana, and Rajasthan, where male relatives Women and Child Development, launched on 8th
often control decision-making. March 2018 in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. The program aims
¾ Challenges in Addressing Pradhan Pati: Patriarchal to address the nutrition needs of adolescent girls,
norms and bureaucratic neglect undermine women’s pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children (0-6
authority, often reducing them to figureheads. years) through a targeted and convergent approach.

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¾ Objectives: It aims to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, anaemia (among young children, women and adolescent
girls) and reduce low birth weight by 2%, 2%, 3% and 2% per annum respectively
¾ Strategic Pillars: It operates through four strategic pillars:
Quality Services: Strengthens health services via ICDS, NHM, and PMMVY, focusing on a child’s first 1,000 days.

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Cross-Sectoral Convergence: Integrates ministries like Water & Sanitation for holistic nutrition.

z The National Council on India’s Nutrition Challenges, led by NITI Aayog, guides policy and reviews nutrition
convergence quarterly.
Technology: Uses the Poshan Tracker for real-time data and monitoring and ICDS-Common Application Software
to strengthen delivery of Anganwadi Services.
Jan Andolan: Promotes community-led nutrition awareness and behavioral change.

¾ Nutritional Improvement: As per the NFHS-5 (2019-21) for children under 5 years.

Indicator NFHS-4 (2015-16) NFHS-5 (2019-21)

Wasting (Low weight-for-height) 21% 19.30%

Undernutrition (Low weight-for-age) 35.70% 32.10%

Stunting (Low height-for-age) 38.40% 35.50%

¾ Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: It is also known as Mission Poshan 2.0, that fosters health, wellness,
and immunity and infrastructure upgrades for Anganwadi Centre (AWCs) e.g., dedicated buildings, functional
toilets, with drinking water access.
India’s Nutritional Status as per Global Hunger Index 2024

nnn

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Economic Scenario
Highlights
z India’s Pharma Industry z 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum
z District-Level GDP Estimation z India’s Path to a High-Income Economy
z Strengthening India’s Spice Industry z Agritourism in India
z Budgetary Dependence of CPSEs z Initiatives in India’s Maritime Sector
z IMF Report on India’s Financial System z Tea industry and Jhumoir Dance
z India’s Textile Industry z Farmers’ Earning in Agri Produce: RBI
z Enhancing India’s Agri-Exports

What is the Status of India’s

India’s Pharma Industry Pharmaceutical Industry?
¾ About: India ranks 3rd globally in pharmaceutical
Why in News?
production by volume and 14th largest in terms of
The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) has value, supplying over 50% of global vaccine demand
proposed zero customs duty on US medicine imports to and 40% of generic medicines in the US.
prevent reciprocal US tariffs and maintain India’s ¾ Size: India’s pharmaceutical market for FY 2023-24 is
dominance in the American pharmaceutical market. valued at USD 50 billion, contributing around 1.72%
Why is the IPA Advocating to the GDP, and is projected to reach USD 130 billion
for Zero Import Duties? by 2030.
India’s biotechnology sector, valued at USD 137
¾ Importance of US Market: The US imports USD 9
billion in 2022, aims for USD 300 billion by 2030.
billion worth of pharmaceutical formulations from
¾ Key Segments:
India annually, making up one-third of India’s total
pharma exports. Generic Medicines: India is the world’s largest
supplier, meeting 20% of global demand.
¾ Zero Import Duties: India has minimized import duties
on life-saving medicines. A zero-duty policy helps Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs): India

counter reciprocal US tariffs and safeguard exports. produces over 500 APIs, contributing 8% to the
global API market.
Lower duties strengthen trade ties and prevent
Medical Devices: The market is projected to grow
strict US measures against Indian pharma like
amending India’s Patents Act, 1970 to dilute its from USD 11 billion to USD 50 billion by 2030.
Section 3(d). ¾ Growth Drivers:
¾ Amending Patent Act, 1970: The US and other western Affordable Pricing: Indian drugs are significantly

countries urge India to remove or dilute Section 3(d) cheaper than Western alternatives.
of the Patents Act, 1970 which prevents evergreening Government Support: Policies such as the
of patents. Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme promote
Amending Section 3(d) to allow easier patenting domestic manufacturing.
of modified drugs (evergreening of patents) could Strong R&D Base: India has a large pool of scientists
threaten Indian pharma companies by restricting and engineers driving innovation e.g., India now
reverse engineering and delaying generic drug ranks 6th globally in terms of patent applications,
production. with 64,480 patent filings in 2023.

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Increasing Global Demand: Rising chronic diseases

and an aging global population fuel demand for District-Level GDP
cost-effective medicines. Estimation
¾ Exports: India exports medicines to over 200 nations,
with FY24 exports reaching USD 27.82 billion. Why in News?
India ranks 12th globally in medical goods exports, India’s economic growth has long been assessed
driven by rising demand for biosimilars and through national and state-level Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) estimates, leaving districts (District Domestic
specialty drugs.
Product (DDP) Estimation) overlooked in economic
¾ Government Initiatives: Production Linked Incentive assessments.
Scheme (PLI), Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks Scheme, ¾ Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized that to
National Medical Device Policy 2023. achieve the USD 5 trillion economy target, India must
Note: APIs are the biologically active components in determine district-wise contributions and implement
a drug that produce the intended therapeutic effect. localized development strategies.
They are the key ingredients responsible for treating What is the Current GDP
or managing a medical condition. Estimation Methodology?
What Challenges Does the ¾ Current GDP Estimation Methodology: India’s GDP
Pharma Industry Face? is estimated using a mix of top-down and bottom-up
approaches, depending on the sector.
¾ Quality Issues: Concerns over the quality of Indian The primary sector (agriculture, forestry, fishing,
medicines have emerged due to incidents like the and mining) follows a bottom-up approach,
Gambia cough syrup deaths in 2022. aggregating data from the district level upwards.
¾ Regulatory Hurdles: Compliance with evolving Good The secondary (manufacturing, construction)

Manufacturing Practice (GMP) and quality control and tertiary (services, trade, banking) sectors
regulations is costly. follow a top-down approach, where national GDP
is apportioned to states and districts based on
¾ Dependence on API Imports: India imports 70% of
indicators like employment levels and infrastructure
APIs, primarily from China, creating supply chain
presence, rather than measuring economic activity
vulnerabilities. directly at the district level.
¾ Pricing Pressures: Strict price controls under National ¾ Limitations: Current GDP Estimation method overlooks
List of Essential Medicines (NLEM), impact the local sectoral strengths, particularly in the secondary
profitability of pharma companies hindering innovation and tertiary sectors.
incentives for Industry. Economic growth varies across districts even within

¾ Global Competition: There is rising competition the same state, but a lack of granular data leads
from China, the US, and the EU (highly sophisticated to generic policies.
and well researched products), while Vietnam and z The approach misses real-time activity, causing

Indonesia emerge as manufacturing hubs. inaccuracies, while data gaps in the unorganised
sector (unpaid labor (especially by women)
¾ Skill Shortage: There is a lack of trained professionals weaken GDP estimates.
in biotechnology, biosimilars, and drug discovery.
The State of Working India (SWI 2023) report
E.g., dependence on generic drugs rather highlights that the link between GDP growth and
than innovative formulations affects global employment is weak at the national level, and this
competitiveness. issue is even more pronounced at the district level.

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z Without employment-linked GDP data, development policies may focus solely on economic output rather
than job creation and social equity.
Case Study
¾ During Covid-19, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) applied a uniform GDP
distribution, leading to discrepancies.
Uttar Pradesh (UP) objected, citing significant errors in its estimated Gross State Value Added (GSVA). With
25% GSVA from agriculture and 65% of its workforce in the sector, UP argued that its economy was less
affected than industrial states.
¾ The one-size-fits-all approach exaggerated UP’s GDP decline, highlighting the need for a bottom-up, district-
level GDP estimation for accuracy.

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What are the Challenges in Implementing ¾ Policy Reforms: The 15 th Finance Commission
District-Level GDP Estimation? recommended performance-based grants for local
governance, district GDP data can help allocate these
¾ Informal Sector: Regional units like districts face
resources effectively.
challenges in DDP estimation due to the high reliance
on informal labor and the unorganized sector, leading State and national policies should be adjusted

to underestimation. based on district-level economic insights.

Additionally, the free movement of goods, services,
and factor payments across district boundaries Strengthening India’s Spice
further complicates accurate assessment.
¾ Financial & Logistical Barriers: Setting up a robust
Industry
statistical framework for district-level GDP estimation
requires significant investment in infrastructure, Why in News?
training, and digital tools. The World Spice Organisation (WSO) highlights that
¾ Inconsistent Data Collection: Statistics under the despite being the largest spice producer, India holds just
Concurrent List creates fragmentation between the 0.7% of the global seasoning market, and calls for higher
Centre and States, while the decentralized statistical production, value addition, to achieve the USD 10 billion
system across ministries lacks uniformity, making DDP export target by 2030.
estimation inconsistent. Note: The WSO, headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, is a
The absence of standardized district-level data not-for-profit organisation focused on food safety,
collection leads to inaccuracies across states. sustainability, and biodiversity in the spice industry.
¾ Lack of Standardized Methodology: No internationally
accepted framework, like the System of National What is the Status of Spice in India?
Accounts (SNA) 2008, for estimating DDP. ¾ Production: In 2022-23, India produced 11.14 million
Defining key metrics such as the base year is tonnes of spices, a slight increase from 11.12 million
challenging due to variations in economic activities tonnes in 2021-22.
across districts. India produces 75 of 109 International Organization
¾ Political and Administrative Hurdles: States are for Standardization (ISO)-listed spice varieties,
responsible for compiling Sub-State/DDP but often with chilli, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and coriander
fail to execute it effectively. accounting for 76% of total production.
Variability in state policies and political priorities In terms of production, garlic, ginger and chilli were
leads to delays and inconsistencies in data the top three spices produced in FY23.
collection, affecting the uniformity and reliability
¾ Largest Spices-Producing States: Madhya Pradesh,
of DDP estimation.
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana,
What are the Benefits of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, etc.
District-Level GDP Estimation? ¾ Exports: Major exports include pepper, cardamom,
¾ Boosting Fiscal Federalism: Decentralized economic celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg, curry
data empowers district administrations to develop powder, and spice oils.
tailored strategies, ensuring better resource utilization In 2023-2024, India exported spices worth USD
and targeted investments. 4.4 billion (nearly 14 lakh tonnes). Chilli is India’s
¾ Accurate Economic Analysis: Helps assess how national top exported spice, accounting for 31% of total
or state-level policies impact different districts. spice exports.
¾ Equitable Growth: Ensures rural and underdeveloped India exports spices to 200 destinations worldwide,
districts are included in the growth narrative, preventing with China, Bangladesh, West Asian countries,
economic disparities. and the US being key markets.

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¾ Concerns: Despite being a leader in raw spice exports, India holds only 0.7% of the global seasoning market, far
behind China (12%) and the US (11%).
This is due to low value addition, with only 48% of exports being processed products.
Instances of Adulteration and pesticide residues have led to export rejections, tarnishing India’s reputation in
international markets.
Growing competition from Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, China, and countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and
Madagascar further challenges India’s dominance.
Heavy reliance on traditional crop varieties, poor processing, and inadequate post-harvest handling reduce
quality and shelf life. Additionally, limited mechanization increases production costs and lowers efficiency.
¾ Measures to Expand Market: Country’s share in value-added spices should rise up to 70%.
India’s 15 agro-climatic zones support diverse spice cultivation. Developing high-yielding and climate-resistant
varieties can boost production and enhance exports.

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Government Initiatives to Boost ¾ Reduced Private Sector Participation: CPSEs’ reliance

on budgetary support has deterred private investment.
Spice Production & Exports
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was
¾ Spices Board of India (SBI): Established under the
expected to raise 38% of its funding from private
Spices Board Act 1986, functions under the Ministry
capital, but its IEBR fell to nil in FY23-FY24 due to
of Commerce & Industry.
rising debt (Rs 3.48 lakh crore in 2022) and policy
SBI, headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, promotes
instability, discouraging private investment.
cardamom and 52 spices, regulates quality,
High debt limits CPSEs’ ability to raise capital
supports research, and links Indian exporters
to global markets. independently and weakens their financial health.
National Sustainable Spice Program (NSSP)
¾ Policy Concerns: The Standing Committee on Transport
under SBI and WSO unites stakeholders to (FY22) noted that high budgetary support alone may
address sustainability in India’s spice industry. not meet CPSE investment needs, urging private
sector engagement.
¾ Spices Parks: SBI established eight crop specific
Spices Parks across the country, to assist farmers If CPSEs continue relying on government support,

in post-harvest handling, value addition, and better it could strain fiscal resources, reducing funds
pricing. available for social and developmental programs.
¾ Spice Complex in Sikkim: Aimed at improving spice ¾ Pay High Dividends: The government’s pressure
processing and value addition in the Northeastern on CPSEs to prioritize dividend payments over
region. reinvestment limits their ability to expand, modernize,
and make independent long-term growth decisions.
¾ Limited Financial Autonomy: CPSEs, unlike private
Budgetary Dependence firms, lack the flexibility to respond to market changes,
of CPSEs leading to slow decision-making.
Past mergers and acquisitions (e.g., acquisition of
Why in News? Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL)
Concerns arise as Central Public Sector Enterprises by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC))
(CPSEs) shift their capital expenditure (capex) strategy, reduced CPSE cash reserves, further restricting
relying more on budgetary support than self-financing capex capabilities.
or private investment. What are the Key Facts About CPSEs?
¾ This shift has sparked debate on the long-term financial
sustainability and autonomy of CPSEs. ¾ About: CPSEs are companies where the Central
Government or other CPSEs hold at least 51% stake.
What are the Concerns Regarding CPSEs? The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE)
¾ Overdependence on Budgetary Support: CPSEs are oversees CPSEs’ performance, finance, and policies
increasingly relying on budgetary support (equity under various ministries.
and loans from the government) rather than their Post-independence, India’s socialist model led to
own Internal and Extra Budgetary Resources (IEBR). CPSEs in heavy industries, banking, oil & gas, steel,
Budgetary support for CPSEs has risen by over and power. The 1991 economic reforms ushered
150% in five years, from Rs 2.1 lakh crore in FY20 in corporatization, heightened competition, and
to Rs 5.48 lakh crore in FY25 (Revised Estimate). a sharper focus on profitability and efficiency in
IEBR, which CPSEs use to finance their own capex,
CPSEs.
has declined significantly from Rs 6.42 lakh crore ¾ Significance: CPSEs play a crucial role in India’s economic
in FY20 to Rs 3.63 lakh crore in FY23 and estimated development, infrastructure creation, employment
at Rs 3.82 lakh crore in FY25. generation, and industrial growth.
z The decline in IEBR restricts CPSEs’ financial ¾ Classification: CPSEs are categorized into Miniratna,
flexibility and forces greater dependence on Navratna, and Maharatna based on size, financial
government funding. performance, and strategic importance.

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In February 2025, Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and Indian Railway Finance

Corporation (IRFC) as the country’s 25th and 26th Navratna companies respectively.
¾ Current Status of CPSEs: According to the Public Enterprises Survey 2023-24, as of March 2024, India has 448
CPSEs (only 272 operating in FY24).
¾ Financial Performance of CPSEs: Gross revenue of the operating CPSEs declined by 4.7% to Rs 36.08 lakh crore in FY24.
¾ Contributions to the Economy: CPSEs contributed Rs 4.85 lakh crore in FY 2023-24 to the Contribution to Central
Exchequer (via taxes, duties, and dividends), marking a 5.96% increase from Rs 4.58 lakh crore in FY 2022-23.
In FY 2023-24, all CSR eligible CPSEs spent around 4,900 crore on CSR activities, reflecting a 19.08% increase
from FY 2022-23.
CPSEs earned Rs 1.43 lakh crore in foreign exchange reserves in FY 2023-24, contributing to India’s trade balance
and global business engagement.

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Note: Other types of public enterprises include Public Sector Banks (PSBs), where the Central/State Government
or other PSBs hold at least 51%, and State Level Public Enterprises (SLPEs), where the State Government or other
SLPEs hold at least 51%.
What Measures Can Address CPSEs’ Concerns?
¾ Disinvestment: Under Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM) and New Public Sector
Enterprise Policy, 2021 non-strategic CPSEs can be prioritized for privatization to attract private investment and
reduce the fiscal burden, while strategic ones are retained.
Implement policy reforms to reduce regulatory bottlenecks and financial risks for private investors.
¾ Raise Capital Independently: Encourage CPSEs to revive IEBR financing through bonds, external commercial
borrowings (ECBs), and partnerships with private players and reduce their dependence on budgetary support.
¾ Digital Transformation: CPSEs lag behind private companies in digital adoption, impacting operational efficiency.
Integrating advanced digital infrastructure and automation in sectors like railways, power, and telecom can reduce
operational costs.
¾ Limiting High Dividend Payout: As recommended by the 15th Finance Commission (2020-21), CPSEs should balance
their dividend payments with reinvestment in infrastructure expansion.
¾ CPSE Performance Reviews: The 2005 Sengupta Committee recommended limiting CPSE performance reviews
to twice a year for better efficiency.

IMF Report on India’s Financial System

Why in News?
The International Monetary Fund (IMF), in its report titled “India Financial System Stability Assessment”, has
flagged concerns about the stress in Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) and its potential risks to India’s
financial system.

What are the Key Highlights of the IMF Report on India Financial System?
¾ NBFC Stress and Systemic Risk: 63% of power sector loans in FY 2024 were from the three largest Infrastructure
Financing NBFCs, up from 55% in 2019-20.
56% of NBFC lending is financed by market instruments (mutual funds, and corporate bond markets), with the
remaining from bank borrowings.

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State-owned NBFCs like Indian Renewable Energy Improve data sharing on NBFC credit and exposure
Development Agency (IREDA) are at higher risk to assess risks better.
due to their exposure to the power sector which z IMF recommends state-owned NBFCs should
face delays, and financial stress. Without expected have the same regulatory burden as private
revenues, NBFCs asset-liability mismatches that sector NBFCs to create a level playing field.
hinder repayments. IMF recommends prioritizing financial stability
NBFCs can’t accept demand deposits, lack deposit over aggressive lending for economic development.
insurance, and have no direct Reserve Bank of India
(RBI) liquidity access, making them vulnerable to India’s Textile Industry
financial stress.
¾ Stagflation Risk and Impact on PSBs: The report warns Why in News?
that geopolitical risks and miscalculated monetary India’s textile industry has the potential to become
policies by major central banks could lead to rising a global leader, driven by a growing domestic market,
interest rates and slow economic growth, affecting and rising global interest.
both NBFCs and banks. ¾ However, key issues such as high production costs,
IMF stress tests indicate that Public Sector Banks fragmented supply chains, and sustainability challenges
(PSBs) may struggle to maintain the 9% Capital have slowed growth and exports.
Adequacy Ratio (CAR) if stagflation (slow growth
What are the Key Facts About
+ high inflation) occurs.
India’s Textile Industry?
RBI mandates 12% CAR for PSBs and 9% for
¾ Economic Contribution: The textile industry contributes
scheduled commercial banks.
2.3% to India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP),
¾ Financial Inclusion Growth: Nearly 80% of Indian projected to reach 5% by 2030.
adults have financial accounts, supported by an As of FY24, it accounts for 13% of industrial
extensive banking network and digital infrastructure production, 12% of exports, and employs 4.5
like Unified Payments Interface (UPI). crore workers.
The rapid rise of retail investors in equities has In FY24 exports stood at USD 35.9 billion, with key
transformed India into one of the world’s largest markets in the US, EU, and UAE.
equity options trading markets. ¾ Position in Global Textile Trade: India has the 2nd
¾ Financial System Assets: India’s financial system largest textile manufacturing capacity globally and
assets (including banks, NBFCs, insurance companies, ranks as the 6th largest exporter of textiles and
mutual funds, and pension funds) amount to nearly apparel in 2023 (accounting for 3.9% of global trade).
190% of GDP, with banks holding 60% of total India is the 2nd largest producer of cotton in the
financial assets. world (23.83% of world cotton production), with
¾ Recommendations For Financial Stability: Instead production expected to reach 7.2 million tonnes
of paying dividends to the government, PSBs by 2030.
should retain earnings to bolster their capital India is the largest producer of jute in the world,
reserves and support economic recovery in case and 2nd largest producer of man-made fibres (MMF),
of downturns. including polyester, viscose, nylon, and acrylic.

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¾ Market Growth Projections: India’s textile and apparel market is projected to reach USD 350 billion by 2030.
¾ Government Initiatives: PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (MITRA) Parks, Production Linked
Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles, National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM).
100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) allowed in textiles under the automatic route to attract foreign investment.

What are the Key Challenges Facing India’s Textile Industry?

¾ Lack of Trade Agreements: Countries like Vietnam and China benefit from Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with
major markets, making its exports more competitive.
India lacks similar FTAs in key textile-consuming regions like the US.

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¾ Stagnant Growth and Declining Exports: Textile What are the Trends in India’s
sector contracted by 1.8% annually (FY20-FY24), while Agricultural Exports?
apparel sector shrank by 8.2% per year.
Apparel exports fell from USD 15.5 billion in FY20
¾ Shift in Cotton Trade: India is now a net importer
to USD 14.5 billion in FY24. of cotton, reversing its earlier status as an exporter.
¾ Expensive Raw Materials: Government-imposed Once the 2nd-largest exporter after the US, India’s
Quality Control Orders (QCOs) restrict imports of cotton exports fell from USD 4.3 billion in 2011-12
polyester and viscose, forcing domestic yarn makers to USD 1.1 billion in 2023-24.
to rely on costlier local alternatives. ¾ Shrinking Agricultural Trade Surplus: India’s agricultural
Polyester fibre in India is 33-36% costlier than in
trade surplus peaked at USD 27.7 billion in 2013-14,
China, while viscose fibre is 14-16% more expensive.
fell to USD 16 billion in 2023-24.
¾ Low Export Competitiveness: India’s textile exports
are costlier than those of China and Vietnam due to ¾ Impact of Global Commodity Prices: Between 2013-
supply chain integration issues. 14 and 2019-20, falling global food prices reduced
Unlike vertically integrated supply chains (company
India’s agri-export competitiveness.
takes ownership of suppliers) in China, India’s Post Covid-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war, prices
fragmented supply chain spread across states surged, boosting exports to USD 53.2 billion in
and complex customs increase logistics costs and 2022-23.
reduce competitiveness.
¾ Major Export Commodities:
Additionally, Bangladesh, as a Least Developed
Country (LDC), enjoys duty-free exports, gaining Marine Products: Export of marine products,
a cost advantage over India in many markets due India’s leading agri-export, declined in 2023-24,
to preferential trade policies. with the downward trend continuing in 2024-25.
¾ Sustainability Pressures: Global brands are enforcing Sugar & Wheat: Sugar and wheat exports fell in
strict environmental norms, requiring higher renewable 2023-24 due to government restrictions aimed
energy use, waste recycling, and traceability of raw at controlling domestic food inflation.
materials.
Rice: Rice exports, especially non-basmati, remained
The European Union has implemented several
regulations (2021-2024) covering the fashion industry, strong despite a ban on white rice and export duty
impacting nearly 20% of India’s textile exports. on parboiled rice.
z Basmati rice, spices, coffee, and tobacco exports
Note: The global textile and garment sector contributes
are set to reach record highs in 2024-25.
6-8% of global carbon emissions (~1.7 billion tonnes/
year). Cash Crops: Coffee and tobacco exports surged
¾ Textile production causes 20% of global water
due to adverse weather affecting key producers
pollution from dyeing and finishing and the textile like Brazil, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
sector was the 3rd largest source of water degradation Others: India has also consolidated its position
and land use in 2020. as the world’s leading exporter of chilli, mint
products, cumin, turmeric, coriander, fennel, etc.
Enhancing India’s ¾ Major Import Commodities:
Edible Oil: Edible oil imports in 2024-25 are
Agri-Exports
projected to be the highest mainly due to price
Why in News? hikes caused by the Russia-Ukraine war.
Pulses: Pulses imports averaged USD 1.7 billion
India’s agricultural exports grew by 6.5% to USD 37.5
billion (Apr-Dec 2024), while imports rose by 18.7% to (2018-23) due to higher domestic pulses production
USD 29.3 billion that has reduced the agricultural trade but are expected to surpass USD 5 billion (2024-
surplus. 25) due to low production in 2023-24.

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¾ Key Destinations:
Exports:

z Asia: In 2023, India exported USD 48 billion in agri-products, with the Global South (75%) and Asia (58%)
as key markets.
China and the UAE each imported USD 3 billion each in Indian agri-products, while Vietnam imported
USD 2.6 billion.
z Africa: Africa accounted for 15% of India’s total agri exports.

z US: US accounts for 13.4% of Indian agri exports primarily consisting of rice (Basmati & Non-Basmati), sesame
seeds, and fresh fruits.
z Europe: Europe accounts for 12.6% of Indian agri exports primarily consisting of tobacco, fresh fruits and
ornamental plants.
Imports:

z Global South: The Global South supplies 48% of India’s agri-imports, led by Brazil, China, Mexico, Argentina
and Indonesia.
z Developed Economies: Top three suppliers are the US, the Netherlands, and Germany.

¾ Agricultural Start-ups:

Click Here to Read: What is Agricultural Export Policy?

What are Challenges in India’s Agricultural Exports?
¾ Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs): Developed countries impose stringent Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Technical
Barriers to Trade (TBT) creating trade barriers for Indian agricultural exports. E.g.,
India’s basmati rice and tea exports have faced European bans over pesticide contamination.

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Japan has banned imports of cut flowers from India over zero-tolerance pest rules in floricultural products,
although such pests are found in Japan.
¾ Unfair Level Playing Field: Developed nations’ heavy farm subsidies to their farmers and high tariffs on Indian
agri exports create a disadvantage for Indian farmers.
The US provides USD 61,286 per farmer annually, while India gives only USD 282, lowering global prices and
hurting Indian farmers.
¾ Challenges to India’s MSP Policy: Developed countries like the US, Canada, and Australia challenge India’s MSP at
the WTO, claiming it exceeds the 10% limit (Amber box) under the AoA, risking dispute proceedings.
India can provide uncapped input subsidies under the AoA’s ‘Development Box’ for developing nations, but
developed countries seek limits that can threaten small farmers’ livelihoods in India.
¾ Challenges from FTAs: India’s FTAs with countries like Singapore, ASEAN, and Japan lower tariffs on imported
agri-products, hinders farmers’ adoption of new technologies and investment in infrastructure, reducing global
competitiveness.
¾ Frequent Export Restrictions: India’s export restrictions to control price shocks deter foreign importers and
domestic investment in post-harvest management and food processing.
Frequent onion bans disrupt supply chains and reduce India’s reliability in the global market, prompting import
partners to seek alternatives.

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What are Government Initiatives to Boost Agriculture Exports?

¾ Agricultural Export Policy (AEP), 2018
¾ APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
¾ PM Formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM-FME) Scheme
¾ Krishi Udan Yojana 2.0
¾ National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP)

12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum

Why in News?
India (Jaipur, Rajasthan) hosted the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific emphasising
on sustainable waste management and circular economy.
¾ A circular economy focuses on durable, reusable, and recyclable products, ensuring materials are continuously
repurposed, remanufactured, or used for various purposes.
What are the Key Highlights of the 12th Regional Forum Meeting?
¾ About: It is a regional platform that promotes 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) principles and circular economy
practices across the Asia-Pacific region.
It brings together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and partners to advance resource efficiency
strategies.

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¾ Historical Context: It was launched in 2009 to promote ¾ E-Waste Management Rules, 2022: For FY 2024-
3R principles and resource efficiency. 25, 5,82,769 MT of e-waste was collected, with
The Hanoi 3R Declaration (2013-2023) set 33 5,18,240 MT successfully recycled.
voluntary goals for a resource-efficient and circular ¾ Plastic Waste Management (Amendment) Rules,
economy. 2021: India banned single use plastic on 1st July
¾ Theme: Realizing Circular Societies Towards Achieving 2022.
SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific.
¾ Objectives: Discuss and agree a voluntary, non-binding India’s Path to a High-
“3R and Circular Economy Declaration (2025-2034)” Income Economy
for a resource-efficient, low-carbon, and resilient
Asia-Pacific. Why in News?
Discuss and pave way towards realization of a A World Bank report titled “Becoming a High-Income
Circular Economy Alliance Network (CEAN) towards Economy in a Generation” highlights that India must
Zero Waste Cities and Societies. achieve an average annual growth rate of 7.8% over the
next 22 years to reach high-income country (HIC) status
Discuss circular economy strategies to achieve
by 2047.
net-zero targets and SDGs.
¾ The report stresses that ambitious reforms and their
¾ Key Announcements:
effective implementation will be necessary to meet
P-3 (Pro Planet People) Approach: India’s PM this goal.
advocated the P-3 approach for sustainable
What are the Key Highlights of the Report
lifestyles and eco-friendly behavior.
on Becoming a High-Income Economy?
Cities Coalition for Circularity (C-3): The C-3, a
¾ India’s Economic Journey: India’s share in the
global alliance for city collaboration, knowledge-
global economy has doubled from 1.6% in 2000
sharing, and private sector partnerships, was
to 3.4% in 2023, making it the 5th largest economy
launched. in the world.
CITIIS 2.0: A key MoU for CITIIS 2.0 (City Investments For two decades before the pandemic, India’s
to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain) was signed economy grew at an average annual rate of 6.7%,
that focuses on integrated waste management second only to China among major economies.
and climate action. ¾ 2047 High-Income Economy Goal: India aspires to
Click Here to Read: What is a Circular Economy? become a HIC by 2047.
To achieve this, its gross national income (GNI)
India’s Leadership in Circular Economy & 3R Policies
per capita would have to increase by nearly 8
¾ Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U): Achieved
times from USD 2,540 in 2023 (currently India is
108.62% of the household toilet construction
in lower-middle-income category).
target and successfully processed 80.29% of
z In 2023, the World Bank classified countries
solid waste.
with GNI per capita above USD 14,005 as high
¾ GOBAR-Dhan Scheme: 1,008 biogas plants are
income and those between USD 4,516– USD
operational, covering 67.8% of India’s districts. 14,005 as upper middle income.

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¾ Growth Scenarios: The report outlines three possible scenarios for India’s growth trajectory.

Scenario Growth Rate (Real GDP) Outcome

Slow Reforms Below 6% India remains upper-middle income, falls short of HIC.

Business as Usual 6.60% India improves but does not reach high-income status.

Accelerated Reforms 7.80% India will become a high-income country by 2047.

However, only few countries (Chile, Romania, Poland, Czech Republic, and Slovakia) have transitioned to high-
income status within 20 years, while nations like Brazil, Mexico, and Turkey remain stuck in the upper-middle-
income category, making this an ambitious but achievable target.

What are the Key Challenges in Achieving HIC Status?

¾ Declining Investment Rate: Investment-to-Gross Domestic Product (GDP) peaked at 35.8% in 2008 but fell to
27.5% in 2024.
¾ FDI Challenges: India’s FDI-to-GDP ratio is just 1.6%, far lower than Vietnam (5%) and China (3.1%).
¾ Declining Labor Force Participation: India’s labor force participation rate (LFPR) is 55% in 2023, lower than most
emerging economies (China 65.8% in 2023).
¾ Women in Workforce: Female labor force participation (FLFP) has improved to 41.7% in 2023-24 (global benchmarks
is over 50%).
¾ Issues in Job Creation: 45% of India’s workforce is still in agriculture (disguised unemployment), a sector with
low productivity.
In contrast, the share of manufacturing in total employment was around 11% and modern market services
accounted for only 7%, much lower than in East Asian economies.
In 2023-24, 73% of India’s workforce is in informal jobs, compared to just 32.7% in other emerging economies.
¾ Declining Trade Openness: India’s exports and imports make up 46% of GDP (2023), down from 56% in 2012.
¾ Low Global Value Chain (GVC) Participation: India has made significant gains in mobile phone exports, but high
tariffs and non-tariff barriers are limiting broader trade expansion.
z India’s services sector (IT & BPO) is strong, but manufacturing lags.

What are the Key Reforms Needed for Achieving HIC Status?
¾ Boosting Investment: Increase investment rate from 33.5% to 40% of GDP by 2035. Strengthen financial sector
regulations for better credit flow.
¾ Boosting Credit Access & Debt Resolution: Improve Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) access to
formal credit. Strengthen mechanisms for bankruptcy resolution and bad debt recovery.
¾ Creating More and Better Jobs: Raise labor force participation closer to economies like Vietnam (73%) and the
Philippines (60%).

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Encourage private sector investment in job-

rich sectors like agro-processing, hospitality, Agritourism in India
transportation, and care economy.
Why in News?
Expand skilled workforce and improve access to
Himachal Pradesh (HP) is promoting agri-tourism to
finance. Strengthen modern manufacturing and
strengthen its economy where tourism contributes around
high-value services. 7% to the State’s GDP.
¾ Boosting Global Trade Competitiveness: Invest in
Agritourism Opportunities in HP
export-oriented sectors and integrate into GVCs.
¾ Orchards: Himachal can grow high-value crops like
¾ Formalizing the Workforce: Simplify labor laws to tulips (Kangra region), saffron, and medicinal herbs.
reduce informal employment and promote better ¾ Educational Agritourism: Students can explore
wage conditions. farms to learn about food and sustainability, while
¾ Strengthening Human Capital and Innovation: Enhance farmers can host educational tours for a fee.
secondary school enrollment and vocational training ¾ Nutraceutical Farming: Himachal can promote
to match industry needs. Himalayan herbs, attracting nutraceutical tourism
Expand R&D investments in key sectors like Artificial focused on health and organic farming.
Intelligence, Biotechnology, and clean energy. ¾ Cultural Connection: Engage local youth to share
Middle-income Trap farm stories and develop agritourism sites showcasing
¾ About: The Middle-Income Trap, coined by the traditional farming and culture.
World Bank (2007), refers to economies that grow What is Agritourism?
rapidly but fail to reach high-income status. It
¾ About: Agritourism is a form of commercial enterprise
applies to countries with a GNI per capita between
that connects agriculture with tourism, attracting
USD 1,000 - USD 12,000 (2011 prices).
visitors to farms for education or entertainment while
Countries in the middle-income trap struggle providing additional income to farmers.
with rising labor costs, weak innovation,
¾ Benefits:
income inequality, demographic challenges
Boosting Rural Economy: It provides farmers with
and overreliance on specific industries further
alternative income through farm/home stays,
hinder growth
tours, and hands-on experiences, reducing reliance
¾ India’s Risks of Falling into the Trap: India is among on uncertain crop yields and stabilizing finances.
the most unequal countries in the world, with the
z It creates jobs for artisans, guides, cooks, and
top 10% of the population holding 57% of the total
transport providers, offering rural women and
national income. The share of the bottom 50% has
youth new employment opportunities.
gone down to 13%.
Sustainable Tourism: It promotes organic farming,
High GST and corporate tax cuts benefit the
water conservation, and eco-friendly stays, unlike
wealthy, further widening the gap. mass tourism, which strains resources.
In India, stagnant or declining wages, coupled Preserving Agricultural Heritage: It helps preserve
with inflation, high household debt, and low traditional farming, crafts, folk music, and
savings, make the country vulnerable to the indigenous knowledge, allowing tourists to
middle-income trap. experience and support rural heritage.

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z It preserves folk arts, pottery, weaving, and ¾ Potential:

traditional food processing/cuisine and organic Bihar: Muzaffarpur’s litchi orchards offer agri-
produce. tourism, while Nalanda’s organic farms attract
Builds Social Capital: It builds social capital by wellness tourists.
fostering connections between rural and urban Rajasthan: Rajasthan’s desert agriculture, camel
communities through shared experiences, farming, and Bishnoi village stays offer insights
knowledge exchange, and economic interactions. into rural life, sustainable farming, and wildlife
Educational Experiences: It educates visitors conservation.
on organic farming, animal husbandry, and
North-East India: North-East has rich biodiversity
environmental conservation, with schools and
and traditional farming methods that can attract
universities organizing farm visits for hands-on
eco-conscious travelers.
learning.
z E.g., Wet Rice Cultivation by Apatani tribe in
Aligning with Government Policies: Schemes like
Ziro Valley (Arunachal Pradesh), Bamboo Drip
Dekho Apna Desh, and Agriculture Infrastructure
Irrigation (Meghalaya).
Fund support farmers in agri-tourism by improving
infrastructure, marketing, and training. Chhattisgarh: Tribal farm tourism in Bastar allows
visitors to experience traditional Mahua brewing
¾ State-Level Initiatives:
and organic farming.
Maharashtra: Maharashtra was the first state to
Gujarat: Kutch’s Banni Grasslands offer pastoral
promote agritourism, establishing the Agro-Tourism
tourism with the Rabari community, while Anand
Development Corporation (ATDC) in 2005.
features dairy tourism with Amul.
z ATDC runs a 28-acre pilot project in Baramati,
Pune, with 328 agritourism centers across 30 ¾ Government Policies & Initiatives:
districts. Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Develop theme-based
z E.g., Vineyards (Nashik, Pune) and mango tourism circuits to boost local economies by
(Ratnagiri, Raigad) orchards in Maharashtra. showcasing India’s culture, heritage, and natural
resources. E.g., Tribal Circuit.
Karnataka: Karnataka’s Coorg offers coffee
plantation stays where visitors experience coffee PMJUGA: As a part of Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya
production from picking to brewing. Unnat Gram Abhiyan (PMJUGA), 1,000 homestays
Kerala: Launched the Kerala Agro-Tourism Network are being developed in tribal areas to boost tourism
that offers visitors a chance to explore aromatic and livelihoods.
gardens, learn about spice cultivation, and buy Dekho Apna Desh Scheme: It boosts domestic
organic spices. tourism, encouraging Indians to explore lesser-
Sikkim: Sikkim, India’s first organic state, offers agri- known destinations.
tourism with farm visits, sustainable agriculture National Strategy for Promotion of Rural
lessons, and farmer interactions. Homestays, 2022: Prepared by the Ministry of
Punjab: Tractor rides, traditional meals (sarson Tourism, it supports agritourism as part of the
da saag and makki di roti), and folk performances Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative.
showcase and preserve rural culture. ¾ Agro-Tourism Destinations in India:

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What Challenges are Associated with Agritourism?

¾ High Competition: Low awareness and competition from eco, cultural, and adventure tourism limit agro-tourism
growth.
¾ Poor Accessibility: Poor roads, transport, and healthcare deter tourists, while financial limits hinder farmers’
investment in accommodation, training, or marketing.
E.g., Agro-tourism sites in Uttarakhand remain inaccessible during monsoons.
¾ Land Use Conflict: Agri-tourism can divert land from farming, with farmers prioritizing tourism over crop production
as income from tourism through homestays, resorts, and restaurants is more profitable and provides immediate
cash flow.
¾ Monoculture: Monoculture dominated by wheat and rice in northern states like Punjab, Haryana, UP, MP etc
discourages agritourism as tourists prefer interactive farming activities like horticulture, floriculture, and livestock
rearing.
¾ Seasonal Dependency: Agri-tourism income fluctuates with seasons, peaking during crop harvests but declining
in off-seasons or due to harsh weather events.
E.g., Rajasthan’s desert farms face low summer tourism due to heat, while Assam’s tea estates see declines
in monsoons due to floods and roadblocks.
¾ Security Concerns: Remote agro-tourism sites face risks like theft, wild animals, and limited emergency services.
E.g., Wild elephant threats in Karnataka.
¾ Lack of Skills: Farmers and rural entrepreneurs lack training in customer service, tour management, and
accommodation, making visitor engagement challenging.
Poor planning further hampers the balance between farming and tourism.

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It promotes cleaner fuels and eco-friendly

Initiatives in India’s port management, aiming to build a future-
Maritime Sector ready maritime ecosystem aligned with global
environmental goals.
Why in News? Initiatives for Maritime Sector in
The Ministry for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Union Budget 2025-26
launched major initiatives to modernize India’s maritime ¾ Maritime Development Fund (MDF): It is a Rs
infrastructure. 25,000 crore MDF to support the maritime sector
What are the Key Initiatives Taken to through equity and debt financing.
Modernize Maritime Infrastructure? ¾ Ship Breaking Credit Note Scheme: It incentivises
ship scrapping by issuing a credit note of 40% of
¾ One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP): Standardizes port
the scrap value which can be reimbursed to buy
operations, reducing documentation inconsistencies. new Made in India ships.
Through the ONOP process, the Ministry standardized ¾ Infrastructure HML: Large ships will be added to
documentation, reducing container operation the Infrastructure Harmonised Master List (HML),
documents by 33% and bulk cargo documents enabling long-term financing, tax incentives, private
by 29%. investment, and fleet modernization.
¾ Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index
(LPPI) 2023-24: Evaluates port efficiency based on
turnaround time, berth idle time, and cargo handling.
Tea industry and
¾ Bharat Global Ports Consortium: Expands India’s Jhumoir Dance
maritime reach by integrating key stakeholders in port
operations, finance, and infrastructure development.
Why in News?
The consortium of India Ports Global Ltd Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended Jhumoir
(operations), Sagarmala Development Company Binandini 2025, a cultural event in Guwahati, Assam,
Limited (finance), and Indian Port Rail & Ropeway celebrating 200 years of Assam’s tea industry and its Tea
Corporation Limited (infrastructure development) Tribe through the traditional Jhumoir dance.
will drive port expansion, operations, and financing, What is Jhumoir Dance?
strengthening India’s role in global trade and
¾ About: Jhumur, a traditional folk dance of Assam’s
logistics. Adivasi tea tribes, was brought by the tea garden
¾ MAITRI Platform: Master Application for International community from Jharkhand’s Chotanagpur region.
Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI) to digitize It belongs to the Sadan ethnolinguistic group
trade documentation, reduce processing time, (origins to the Chotanagpur region) and is
optimize trade flows, and contribute to sustainable performed during harvest, weddings, and gatherings.
development. ¾ Performance and Style: Jhumur is performed by men
It enables the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) between and women in a circular formation.
India and the UAE (under IMEC) and aims to expand It features rhythmic footwork, and lively music,
to BIMSTEC and ASEAN using AI and Blockchain accompanied by Madal, Dhol, Taal, and Flute.
for efficiency and security.
¾ Cultural Significance: Jhumur dance reflects unity, pride,
¾ NCoEGPS: National Centre of Excellence in Green and the struggles of Assam’s tea garden communities,
Port & Shipping (NCoEGPS) to promote eco-friendly with songs narrating migration, exploitation, and social
shipping and carbon footprint reduction. struggles of the tea garden community.

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environment, and temperatures above 35°C

and below 10°C are harmful for the bush.
z Tea grows best in slightly acidic, well-drained
soil with porous subsoil for water percolation.
Fresh leaves contain ~4% caffeine. Tea seeds yield
tea oil, used for cooking but different from tea
tree oil used for medicinal purposes.
¾ Tea Varieties: India holds Geographical Indication
(GI) tags for Darjeeling Tea, Assam Orthodox Tea,
Nilgiri Orthodox Tea and Kangra Tea.
Darjeeling tea, known for its unique aroma and
flavor, was India’s first GI-tagged product.
Assam’s Tea Tribe
¾ India’s Tea Industry: India has 39,700 tea estates and
¾ Assam’s Tea Tribe or Tea Garden Communities refers employs over one million workers.
to a multi-ethnic community of tea garden workers
India is the second-largest tea producer after
and their descendants. China, contributing 21% of global tea production
¾ They migrated from Central India (Jharkhand, Odisha, and the world’s largest producer of black tea.
Chhattisgarh, West Bengal) in the 19th century to India is the 4th largest exporter of tea. In 2023-24,
work in British tea plantations. the tea export value stood at 781.79 Million USD.
Many were forcibly brought under exploitative z India exports tea to over 120 countries, the top
conditions, facing harsh labor, low wages, and importers are Iraq, UAE, Russia, US, UK, Germany.
restricted mobility. India consumes 80% of its tea production and
¾ The tea tribe community forms 17% of Assam’s 18% of global black tea.
population and influences around 40 out of 126 The tea industry directly employs 1.16 million
Assembly seats. The community remains a crucial workers and indirectly supports an equal number.
part of Assam’s tea production and cultural fabric. Small Tea Growers (STGs) contribute 52% of total
production, with 2.3 lakh growers involved.
What are the Key Facts About Tea?
¾ Regional Production Trends:
¾ Origin of Tea in India: Tea cultivation began in the
North India (83% of total production): Assam
early 19th century when the British discovered the
(Assam Valley, Cachar), West Bengal (Dooars,
Singpo tribals of Assam consuming a drink from
Terai, Darjeeling).
wild tea bushes. Recognizing its potential, the British
commercialized tea cultivation. South India (17% of total production): Tamil Nadu,
¾ Characteristics of Tea Plants: Tea belongs to the Kerala, Karnataka.
Camelliaceae family, with two main species Camellia ¾ Tea Board of India (TBI): The TBI is a statutory body
sinensis (Short-leaved ‘China’ variety) and Camellia established in 1954 under the Tea Act, 1953, under
assamica (Broad-leaved ‘Assam’ variety). the Ministry of Commerce.
It is an evergreen shrub, growing up to 30 feet if Headquartered in Kolkata, it also has overseas
unpruned. Thrives in sub-tropical climates. offices in London, Dubai, and Moscow.
z Tea thrives in 16-32°C, 150 cm annual rainfall, The Board consists of 31 members, including the
and 80% humidity. It requires a frost-free Chairman, and is reconstituted every three years.

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What are the Challenges in the Indian Tea Industry?

¾ Declining Tea Production: India’s tea production fell by 66 million kg in Jan-Oct 2024, with a further 45-50 million
kg decline expected.
Loss of first and second flush crops (which fetch the highest prices) is impacting revenue and pushing tea prices
higher.

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¾ Impact of Climate Change: Extreme temperature Wheat Farmers: Wheat farmers received 67% of

fluctuations, including heat, rain deficits, and excess the consumer price, the highest among surveyed
rainfall, harm tea bushes, reducing yield and quality. crops, with 25% selling at MSP for an assured market.
Rice and Other Cereals: Rice farmers’ share in
¾ Pesticide Ban: The ban on pesticides like Aldrin, and
Captafol has increased production costs as growers retail prices was 52% in 2024 that remained stable
over the years i.e., 45% in 2022, and 49% in 2018.
seek alternatives, while demand for pesticide-free
Pulses and Oilseeds: Lentil (Masoor) farmers
tea has risen in Russia, Ukraine, and Central Asia,
received around 66%, while Gram (Chana) farmers
growers struggle with pest control.
received 60% of the consumer price.
¾ Wages of Tea Workers: The Comptroller and Auditor-
z Mustard farmers received 52%, slightly lower
General of India (CAG) report highlights inadequate than the 55% recorded in a 2021 study.
wages and lapses in labor law implementation for Perishable Crops: Farmers’ share in fruits and
Assam’s tea workers. vegetables ranged from 40-63%, significantly
State-owned Tea Corporation workers face delayed lower than for cereals and pulses.
or irregular salary payments. z The combined share of traders and retailers in

Lack of basic worker welfare measures, including consumer prices was more than 50% for most
housing, healthcare, and retirement benefits. perishable crops (except tomatoes).
z Perishable crops (fruits and vegetables) had
¾ Rising Costs and Market Pressures: Production losses
a lower farmers’ share compared to Non-
and rising costs are putting financial strain on STGs .
perishable crops (such as wheat and pulses).
Competition from Kenya, Sri Lanka, and China is
Perishable products have short shelf
making Indian tea exports less competitive. life, seasonal production, varied quality,
special logistics, strict standards, demand
Farmers’ Earning in Agri fluctuations, climate dependency, and supply
chain uncertainties.
Produce: RBI
¾ Digital Transactions: Cash transactions still dominate
Why in News? agriculture, but electronic payments have risen
significantly in the 2024 survey compared to 2018
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) conducted a pan-
and 2022.
India survey on farmers’s share in consumer prices in
rabi crops. ¾ Supply Chain Challenges:
¾ It covered mandis and villages across 18 states An unorganized supply chain with multiple

analysing 12 rabi crops and including inputs from intermediaries limits transparency in product
farmers, traders and retailers. movement, finances, and pricing, reducing farmers’
share of consumer prices.
What are the Key Findings of the Survey on
A lower farmers’ share discourages crop
Farmers’ Earning in Agri Produce?
diversification away from cereals.
¾ Farmers’ Share in Consumer Prices: Farmers received
40-67% of the final consumer price for major rabi Click Here to Read: Middlemen Gain as Farmers Earn
crops surveyed. Less in Agri Produce: RBI
nnn

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International Relations
Highlights
z India-Mauritius Relations z India’s Energy Strategy

¾ Developmental Support: India announced its first-

India-Mauritius Relations ever rupee-denominated Line of Credit to support
Mauritius in replacing its water pipelines.
Why in News? India will help Mauritius establish a police academy

During the Prime Minister (PM) of India’s visit to and a maritime information-sharing center.
The Mauritius President inaugurated the Atal
Mauritius, both nations signed multiple agreements on
trade, maritime security, and defense, emphasizing Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Public Service and
regional cooperation and elevating their ties to an Innovation, a health center, and 20 Indian-funded
enhanced strategic partnership. community projects.
¾ New Parliament Building: India will construct a
¾ PM also received the highest national award of
new Parliament building for Mauritius, which India
Mauritius, the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of
described as a gift from the “Mother of Democracy”.
the Star and Key of the Indian Ocean.’
¾ Multilateral Engagements: India reaffirmed its
What are the Key Outcomes of India’s commitment to working with Mauritius in regional
PM Visit to Mauritius? and international forums like the Colombo Security
Conclave, IORA, and the Indian Ocean Conference.
¾ Enhanced Strategic Partnership: Both elevated their ties
to an Enhanced Strategic Partnership, strengthening Historical Connection Between India and Mauritius
security, trade in local currencies, and development ¾ Pre-Independence of India: The first Indians in
while reaffirming their commitment to a free and Mauritius arrived during French colonial rule
secure Indian Ocean. (1700s) as artisans and masons from Puducherry
Both countries agreed to ratify the protocol (Mauritius was once a French colony, before being
amending the Double Taxation Avoidance taken over by the British).
Agreement (DTAA) to align with international Under British rule, about 500,000 Indian

treaty standards. indentured workers migrated between 1834

¾ ‘Mahasagar’ Vision: India introduced the MAHASAGAR
and the early 1900s, with two-thirds settling
in Mauritius.
(Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and
Mahatma Gandhi visited Mauritius in 1901,
Growth Across Regions) initiative for the Global South.
advocating education and political empowerment
The MAHASAGAR vision builds on SAGAR,
for the Indian community.
enhancing engagement with the Global South As a tribute to Gandhi, Mauritius celebrates
through technology sharing, concessional loans, its National Day on 12th March, marking the
grants, trade, and mutual security cooperation. Dandi March.
¾ Security Cooperation: India and Mauritius agreed ¾ Post-Independence of India: India and Mauritius
to enhance the use of Agalega Island’s new runway established diplomatic ties in 1948, two decades
and jetty, developed by India. before Mauritius gained independence (1968).
India also reaffirmed support for Mauritius’s Mauritius’ first Prime Minister, Seewoosagur
sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. Ramgoolam, was closely associated with Indian
Cooperation will be strengthened in white shipping,
leaders like Gandhiji, JL Nehru, and Netaji
blue economy, and hydrography. Subhash Chandra Bose.

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Why are India and Mauritius Important for Each Other?

Importance of Mauritius for India
¾ Maritime Significance: Mauritius’ strategic location in the western Indian Ocean makes it a key maritime partner
under India’s SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative (now MAHASAGAR).

¾ Countering China’s Presence: With China’s expanding presence in the Indian Ocean, India’s strong ties with Mauritius
help safeguard securing Sea lines of communication (SLOC) and India’s strategic interests.
¾ Economic Relations: Mauritius is a gateway for India’s trade and investment in Africa, being part of the African
Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

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India is one of Mauritius’s largest trading partners,

¾ The decision enhances India’s energy security while
and Mauritius is the 2nd-largest FDI source into strengthening economic ties amid global geopolitical
India (FY 2023-24) after Singapore. shifts.
¾ Cultural Links: About 70% of Mauritius population
are of Indian origin that help promote Indian culture,
Why is India Expanding Energy
language, and heritage. Trade with the US?
Mauritius shares strong cultural ties with India, ¾ Energy Security: India, the world’s 3rd-largest oil
with grand Maha Shivratri celebrations and Ganga importer and consumer, relies on imports for over
Talao as a revered Hindu pilgrimage site. 85% of its crude needs. With primary energy demand
Importance of India for Mauritius set to nearly double to 1,123 million tonnes of oil
equivalent by 2040 driven by a projected Gross
¾ Leading Development Partner: India has been Domestic Product (GDP) rise to USD 8.6 trillion,
Mauritius’s key development partner since its
making supply stability crucial.
independence (1968), providing USD 1.1 billion in
Expanding energy trade with the US reduces
the last decade alone.
dependency on West Asia and Russia, while
India has supported Mauritius in implementing
key infrastructure projects, including the Metro diversifying sources mitigates risks from geopolitical
Express, Supreme Court Building, Hospitals, etc. disruptions.
¾ Maritime Security Assistance: India is Mauritius’s ¾ Bilateral Trade Growth: Expanding energy imports
key security partner, supporting EEZ protection helps balance India’s USD 45.7 billion trade surplus
through naval patrols, joint maritime surveillance, with the US in 2024, while advancing the ‘Mission
and hydrographic surveys. 500’ initiative to double bilateral trade to USD 500
¾ Disaster Assistance: India has been Mauritius’s first billion by 2030.
responder in crises, providing aid during Cyclone ¾ Infrastructure Boost: Competitively priced US crude
Chido (2024), the Wakashio Oil Spill (2020), and the and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) aim to make the US a
Covid-19 pandemic. leading supplier to India, supporting industrial growth,
¾ Capacity Building: Mauritius is a key beneficiary of refining expansion, and petrochemical investments.
India’s Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation ¾ Geopolitical Benefits: Stronger US energy ties support
(ITEC) program, with 4,940 Mauritians trained since India’s bid for full membership in the International
2002. Energy Agency (IEA).
India also offers customized training to civil servants
Strengthened US-India ties in energy can
of Mauritius through National Centre for Good
counterbalance China’s influence in global
Governance (NCGG).
energy markets.
Click Here to Read:
What is the State of India’s
¾ What are the Key Facts Regarding the Chagos
Archipelago?
Energy Consumption?
¾ What is Agelega Project? ¾ Crude Oil:
Total Imports (2023-24): 234.26 million tonnes
of crude oil.
India’s Energy Strategy
Import Dependence: India’s crude oil import

Why in News? dependence increased to 87.8% in 2023–24, with

domestic production meeting less than 13% of
India has committed to increasing its oil and natural
the total demand.
gas imports from the US, with energy trade expected to
rise from USD 15 billion to USD 25 billion in the near Future Projection: Crude oil consumption is

future. This move is part of a broader goal to double expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth
bilateral trade to USD 500 billion. Rate (CAGR) of 4.59% to 500 million tonnes by FY40.

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¾ Petroleum Products and Diesel:

¾ Natural Gas and Cleaner Fuels: India aims to increase natural gas’s share in the energy mix to 15% by 2030 (from
the current ~6%).
Total LNG Imports (2023-24): 31.80 billion cubic meters (bcm) worth USD 13.405 billion.

Ethanol Blending Target: Advanced to 20% by 2025-26 to reduce reliance on fossil fuels, with ethanol production
capacity reaching around 1,600 crore litres as of September 2024.
z The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) programme has reduced CO₂ emissions by 544 lakh metric tons and
substituted 181 lakh metric tons of crude oil.
What is India Doing to Meet the Energy Needs?
¾ Increasing Domestic Production: India aims to double its oil & gas exploration area from 0.5 million sq. km by
2025 to 1 million sq. km by 2030.
New projects in the Krishna-Godavari (KG) Basin and offshore exploration efforts are expected to boost output.

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¾ Global Energy Partnerships: India’s diversified ¾Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR): SPR Program
import strategy from sources like US, Russia, acts as a buffer against supply disruptions and price
Brazil, Canada, and Africa helps ensure supply volatility in global markets.
security amid geopolitical disturbances, though India aims to commercialize 50% of its SPR to raise

it may not fully shield against long-term price funds and build additional storage tanks to offset
volatility. high oil prices.
¾ Clean & Renewable Energy: India targets 500 GW of
Russia now supplies 40% of India’s crude imports
renewable energy capacity by 2030 with expansion
(largest supplier of crude oil to India) (less than of solar, wind, and hydro projects to reduce reliance
1% before 2022). on fossil fuels.
India is strengthening ties with IEA, Organization The government promotes ethanol blending,
of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)+ biodiesel, and compressed biogas (CBG) while
for long-term contracts. announcing a USD 67 billion investment in hydrogen
The Global Biofuel Alliance, an initiative by India
energy projects in 2024.
which intends to expedite the global uptake of ¾ Policy Reforms: The government allows 100% FDI

biofuels. under the automatic route for oil & gas PSUs and
upstream and private sector refining projects, boosting
¾ LNG & Gas Pipeline Expansion: The Unified Pipeline
investment and energy sector growth.
Tariff aims for “One Nation, One Grid, One Tariff,”
The Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy
benefiting remote consumers and boosting gas aims to increase domestic oil and gas production.
market growth. Subsidies are provided for electric vehicles (EVs),
India is expanding city gas distribution networks, green hydrogen, and biofuels to reduce dependence
and import terminals to support growing demand. on crude oil.
nnn

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Social Issues
Highlights
z International Women’s Day 2025 z Protein Deficiency in Rural India
z Challenges in Slum Redevelopment z Rising Obesity Burden in India
z SC Upholds Disability Rights as Fundamental

International Women’s Day 2025

Why in News?
International Women’s Day is celebrated globally on 8th March to recognize women’s achievements across cultural,
economic, and political spheres.
¾ Additionally, the year 2025 is significant as it marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform
for Action (BPfA), a landmark commitment to women’s rights.

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What is International Women’s Day?

¾ About: It is a special day dedicated to honoring women’s achievements and highlights gender disparities and
advocates for women’s rights in politics, society, and the economy.
The theme for 2025 is “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment”.

¾ History: German activist Clara Zetkin proposed the idea, leading to the first celebrations in 1911 in the USA and
Europe.
In 1975, the United Nations officially recognized 8th March as International Women’s Day.

¾ Purpose: It serves as a platform to discuss crucial issues such as workplace equality, reproductive rights, and
leadership representation.
Governments and organizations use the day to promote policies for women’s empowerment and ending
discrimination.
What is the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action?
¾ About: The Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (1995) was adopted at the 4th World Conference on
Women, held in Beijing, China, in 1995.
It is a key blueprint for women’s and girls’ rights, promoting legal protection, service access, youth engagement,
and social change.
India is a signatory to BPfA.

¾ Areas for Action: It identified 12 key areas for urgent action on gender equality and provided strategies for ensuring
equal opportunities for all. Prominent areas are:
¾ Beijing+30 Action Agenda: It marks the 30th anniversary (1995-2025) of the BPfA to review and appraise its
implementation.
It focuses on six key areas:

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What is the Current Status of Women in India?

¾ Maternal Health: Institutional deliveries have risen to 95%, contributing to a decline in maternal mortality from
130 to 97 per 100,000 births (2014-2020).
Modern contraceptive use among married women stands at 56.5%, enhancing reproductive health choices.

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¾ Education & Skills: Schemes such as Beti Bachao Beti ¾ Barriers in Education & Food: 110 million girls and
Padhao have contributed to improving the sex ratio young women may remain out of school by 2030.
(1020 females per 1000 males as per NFHS - 5) and By 2030, 24% of women and girls may face food
female higher school enrollment (28% since 2014-15). insecurity, while only 44% of nations are improving
Similarly, Vigyan Jyoti (2020) aims to encourage their education and training.
girls’ participation in STEM education , particularly ¾ Legal Barriers: In 28 countries, women lack equal rights
in underrepresented regions. in marriage and divorce, while 67 nations have no
¾ Financial Inclusion: 100 million women have gained legal protections against gender-based discrimination
financial access through Self-Help Groups (SHGs), (UN Women Report).
while PMGDISHA has trained 35 million rural women
in digital literacy.
Challenges in Slum
Gender-responsive budgeting stands at 8.8%
(2025-26), allocating USD 55.2 billion to gender- Redevelopment
specific programs.
¾ Addressing Gender-Based Violence: 770 One Stop Why in News?
Centres provide medical, legal, and psychological Following a Supreme Court (SC) directive, the Bombay
support to women victims. e.g., Odisha’s blockchain High Court (HC) has initiated a first-of-its-kind review of
system enables swift, confidential survivor support the Maharashtra Slum Areas Act, 1971.
to women victims.
¾ The review aims to address systemic gaps causing delays
¾ Political Representation: The Women’s Reservation
in slum redevelopment projects, which violate slum
Act, 2023 secures 33% legislative representation for
dwellers’ right to shelter (Article 21) and livelihood.
women, and India leads globally with 1.4 million
women in local governance. Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement,
¾ Women in Science & Technology: Gender Advancement Clearance and Redevelopment) Act, 1971
for Transforming Institutions (GATI) supports women
¾ Key Provisions of the Act:
in STEM, while the G20 TechEquity platform trains
thousands of young women in emerging technologies. Empowers the Maharashtra government to declare
an area as a “slum area” and can acquire (if needed).
What are the Challenges to Establishes the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA)
Women Empowerment? to oversee redevelopment via private developers.
¾ Political Underrepresentation: Women hold only 27% ¾ Maharashtra Slum Rehabilitation Scheme 1995:
of parliamentary seats, 36% of local government
Under it, private developers (in agreement with the
positions, and 28% of management roles that hinders
slum dwellers) fund redevelopment and provide
inclusive policy-making.
finished tenements free of cost.
¾ Gender-Based Violence: Despite 88% of countries
having laws against violence against women, conflict- In exchange, they receive some additional area
related to sexual violence has risen by 50% since for construction and selling in the open market.
2022, with 95% of victims being women and girls. Developers receive incentives like higher Floor
¾ Workplace Discrimination: 61% of prime working-age Space Index (FSI) and saleable areas in exchange
women work, compared to 91% of men, earning just for free housing for slum dwellers.
51% of men’s income, deepening inequality.
What are Slums?
¾ Unpaid Care Work: Women spend 2.3 times more
daily on unpaid care work than men. By 2050, they ¾ About: According to the United Nations, a slum is a
will still spend 9.5% more time, limiting education run-down area of a city characterized by substandard
and job opportunities. housing and poverty and lacking in tenure security.

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Slums are chaotic, overcrowded, and neglected What are the Challenges in Slum
areas that have emerged as unplanned and Rehabilitation?
unintended settlements due to urban development
¾ Land and Legal Issues: Land acquisition and legal
processes. clearances often hindered by bureaucratic processes,
The slum population constitutes 17.4% of the total and regulatory authorities are major bottlenecks in
urban population of India (census 2011). slum redevelopment projects.
¾ Reasons for Growth of Slums: ¾ Financial Constraints: Securing substantial financial
Population growth and poverty drive the urban poor investment for slum rehabilitation projects is
into expanding slums, with 40% of the population challenging, as private developers are often reluctant
expected to live in urban areas by 2026, creating due to low returns on investment.
high land demand. ¾ Social and Cultural Barriers: Rehabilitation in slum
Climate-induced crises, such as food insecurity and communities can face resistance as slum dwellers
fear losing their strong social and cultural ties.
frequent disease outbreaks, can drive population
growth in urban slums, further exacerbating ¾ Environmental Considerations: Environmental
unplanned urbanization. challenges in slum rehabilitation include limited
green spaces and waste accumulation, as slums often
Regional development imbalances drive rural-to-
lack proper waste management systems, leading to
urban migration from less developed (Bihar and environmental degradation.
Odisha) to prosperous states like Maharashtra and
¾ Implementation and Governance Issues: Developers
Gujarat (highest slum population in Maharashtra:
delaying projects to inflate land costs hinder slum
1.18 crore).
rehabilitation, as seen in Mumbai’s SRA model,
Inefficient urban local bodies, unplanned city criticized for slow execution and lack of transparency.
management, and a lack of political will to develop
slums contribute to the worsening of slum conditions
(Dharavi, India’s largest slum in Mumbai). SC Upholds Disability Rights
What are the Issues Due to the Neglecting as Fundamental
of Slum Development? Why in News
¾ Illusion of Urban Opportunity: Slums may lure the The Supreme Court has ruled that visually impaired
rural poor with the promise of better opportunities, candidates can participate in judicial service exams,
but they often mask the harsh realities and challenges affirming that the right against disability-based
of life in urban slums. discrimination under the Rights of Persons with
¾ Health Risks in Slum Areas: Residents in slum areas face Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, should be treated as a
significant health risks, particularly from waterborne fundamental right.
diseases like typhoid and cholera. What is the SC Ruling on Disability
¾ Exploitation of Vulnerable: Women and children in Rights in Judicial Services?
slums are often victims of prostitution, begging, and
¾ Striking Down Discriminatory Provisions: The recent
child trafficking.
ruling came while deciding petitions concerning the
¾ Crime and Social Neglect: The slums are commonly Madhya Pradesh Judicial Service Examination Rules,
believed to have high incidences of crime due to 1994, and Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010,
inadequate government attention to education, law aligning them with the RPwD Act.
enforcement, and public services. Rule 6A of the MP Judicial Service Rules, 1994
This contributes to issues like hunger, malnutrition, was struck down as it excluded visually impaired
and limited access to education. candidates despite their educational qualifications.

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¾ Recognition of Disability Rights: Any exclusion of Hearing Impairment, Speech & Language Disability,
visually impaired candidates from judicial services Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Cerebral
violates the Constitutional right of equality (Article Palsy, and Dwarfism, among others.
14) and non-discrimination (Article 15). ¾ Constitutional Provisions for PwDs:
¾ Affirmative Action: The Court ruled that the State must Fundamental Rights: Article 14, Article 19 and
adopt a rights-based approach rather than a charity- Article 21.
based one, ensuring equal access to employment. DPSP: Article 41 (Advocates for public assistance
The judgment reinforced that reasonable in cases of unemployment, old age, sickness, and
accommodations (bench cited the Indra Sawhney disability).
judgment, directing a separate cut-off for visually Responsibilities of Panchayats and Municipalities:
impaired candidates in the selection process), as z 11th Schedule: Focuses on social welfare, including
mandated by United Nations Convention on the that of persons with disabilities (Entry 26 of
Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), and Article 243-G).
the RPwD Act, 2016, must be provided to persons z 12th Schedule: Ensures the protection of weaker
with disabilities(PwDs). sections, including persons with disabilities
It allowed relaxations in eligibility criteria, similar (Entry 9 of Article 243-W).
to SC/ST candidates, when an adequate number ¾ Laws Related to Disability Rights:
of PwD candidates are not available. RPwD Act, 2016: It aims to ensure equal

Landmark Cases Related to PwDs opportunities, protect rights, and enable the full
¾ Suchita Srivastava v. Chandigarh Administration, participation of persons with disabilities.
2009: The Supreme Court upheld the reproductive National Trust Act, 1999: This Act established a

rights of a mentally retarded woman. national body to address the welfare of persons
¾ Govt. of India v. Ravi Prakash Gupta, 2010: The with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation,
Supreme Court ruled that predefined job criteria and Multiple Disabilities, among other matters.
cannot be used to deny reservations to visually Mental Health Care Act, 2017: This Act protects the

impaired candidates, ensuring fair appointments. rights and dignity of persons with mental illness.
¾ Union of India v. National Federation of the Blind, What are the Challenges
2013: Clarified that 3% reservation applies to Faced by PwDs in India?
vacancies in total cadre strength, not just identified
posts. ¾ Social Barriers: PwDs often face challenges in securing
employment, education, and adequate income,
¾ Deaf Employees Welfare Association v. UoI, 2013:
Directed equal transport allowance for hearing- which hinders their ability to fully exercise their rights.
impaired government employees, ensuring non- Stereotypes, stigma, prejudice, and discrimination

discrimination among disabled as well. limit social integration and create a cycle of
¾ Om Rathod vs Director General of Health Services exclusion and isolation.
Case, 2024: SC ruled that the functional assessment ¾ Transportation Barriers: According to the World
of a candidate’s abilities should take precedence Report on Disability, inaccessibility in transportation
over rigid eligibility criteria. systems, the built environment, significantly limits the
ability of PwDs to function independently in society.
What is the Status of PwDs in India?
¾ Communication Barriers: PwDs related to hearing,
¾ About: As per the 2011 Census, persons with disabilities speaking, reading, or writing face difficulties in effective
make up 2.21% (2.68 crore) of the total population. communication due to non-effective communication
As per RPwD Act, 2016, there are 21 recognized channels such as absence of non-verbal communication
types of disabilities, including Visual Impairment, skill.

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¾ Policy and Programmatic Barriers: Challenges such What are the Key Findings of the ICRISAT
as inconvenient scheduling and lack of accessible Study on Hidden Hunger?
equipment hinder the delivery of essential public
¾ Dominance of Cereal-Based Diets: Rural diets are
healthcare programs.
heavily dependent on rice and wheat, which contribute
¾ Intersectional Marginalization: Women with disabilities 60–75% of daily protein intake.
face dual discrimination based on gender and disability,
However, these cereals lack essential amino acids,
limiting their access to education, employment, and
leading to an imbalanced diet.
healthcare.
¾ Underutilization of Protein-Rich Foods: Despite the
Among the total disabled population 44% are
availability of protein-rich foods like pulses, dairy,
females (Census 2011), mostly live in rural areas
and livestock products, their consumption remains
and face greater exclusion.
low due to cultural preferences, limited nutritional
What are India’s Initiatives for the awareness, and financial constraints.
Empowerment of PwDs? ¾ Public Distribution System (PDS) Limitations: While
¾ PM-DAKSH (Divyang Skill Development and the PDS effectively ensures calorie intake, it reinforces
Rehabilitation Scheme) a cereal-heavy diet without incorporating sufficient
¾ Accessible India Campaign protein-rich options, exacerbating protein deficiency.
¾ DeenDayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme ¾ Education and Nutrition Link: Women’s education
levels significantly influence household dietary
¾ Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/fitting
patterns. Better-educated women tend to ensure a
of Aids and Appliances
more balanced and diversified diet for their families.
¾ National Fellowship for Students with Disabilities
¾ Regional Variations in Protein Consumption: Factors
affecting protein intake vary across states and districts,
Protein Deficiency highlighting the need for region-specific nutritional
interventions.
in Rural India Many wealthier families, despite economic
capability, fail to consume adequate protein.
Why in News?
Click Here to Read: Rising Obesity Burden in India
A recent study conducted by the International Crops
Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) What are the Consequences of Protein
revealed that rural Indians suffer from ‘hidden hunger’
Deficiency in the Human?
despite the availability and affordability of protein-rich foods.
¾ Muscle Atrophy and Weakness: Long-term protein
Note: deficiency leads to muscle atrophy, causing
¾ Hidden Hunger: It refers to a form of malnutrition weakness, fatigue, and reduced mobility.
where people consume sufficient calories but lack Severe cases result in frailty, impairing daily activities.
essential micronutrients and macronutrients,
¾ Weakened Immune System: Protein is essential
particularly proteins.
for antibody and immune cell production, and its
¾ International Crops Research Institute for the
deficiency weakens immunity, increasing infection
Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT):
risk and slowing recovery.
Established: 1972
Status: Recognized as a specified “International
¾ Stunted Growth and Developmental Delays: In
Organisation” by the Government of India under children, protein deficiency causes stunted growth,
Section 3 of the United Nations (Privileges and cognitive impairment, and delayed puberty.
Immunities) Act, 1947. If untreated, it leads to permanent developmental

Vision: Achieving prosperity, food security, and issues, impacting long-term health and productivity.
resilience in dryland tropics. ¾ Organ Damage: Protein deficiency strains the liver
Mission: Alleviating poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and kidneys, causing metabolic imbalances, fatty
and environmental degradation in dryland regions. liver, and renal dysfunction over time.

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What are the Key Recommendations ¾ Obesity Statistics:

as per ICRISAT Report? India:
¾ Diversification of PDS: Reform the PDS to include z NFHS-5: As per the National Family Health Survey
pulses, millets, and protein-rich foods while expanding (NFHS)-5 (2019-21), 24% of Indian women and
fortified food distribution programs to enhance protein 22.9% of Indian men are overweight or obese.
intake among vulnerable populations. As per NFHS-5 (2019-21), the percentage of
¾ Nutrition Education: Integrate nutrition education into overweight children under five increased to
school curricula and public health initiatives while 3.4% from 2.1% in NFHS-4 (2015-16) at the
promoting community-based awareness programs all-India level.
on balanced diets and protein consumption. Overweight and obesity rates vary from 8%
¾ Empowering Women: Enhance women’s education to 50% across states, genders, and rural-
to improve dietary choices and strengthen self-help urban areas.
groups to facilitate better access to protein-rich foods. Global: From 1990 to 2022, obesity in children
¾ Diversified Farming Practices: Provide incentives for and adolescents (5–19 years) grew from 2% to
cultivating protein-rich crops like pulses and millets 8%, a fourfold increase.
while promoting sustainable agriculture models to z In adults (18+ years), it more than doubled
ensure both food and nutrition security. from 7% to 16%.
¾ Targeted Regional Strategies: Given that factors ¾ Associated Health Risks: Obesity, the mother of all
influencing protein consumption vary by region, diseases, significantly increases the risk of various
customized policies should be developed to address non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
state-specific nutritional gaps. Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs): Indians experience
CVDs like heart attacks, and hypertension at least
Rising Obesity 10 years earlier than people in other countries.
Diabetes: India has the highest number of
Burden in India

diabetes cases (101 million), and obesity

Why in News? increases the risk of Type 2 diabetes by causing
insulin resistance.
The Prime Minister expressed concern over the rising
Cancer: Obesity is linked to cancer, with India’s
obesity, especially among children, and urged people to
cases expected to rise from 14.6 lakh in 2022
adopt a healthier lifestyle.
to 15.7 lakh by 2025.
Click Here to Read: Reevaluating Obesity Metrics
Joint Disorders: Excess weight strains joints,
What is Obesity? increasing the risk of degenerative diseases like
¾ About: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines knee osteoarthritis and back pain.
obesity as abnormal or excessive fat accumulation Psychosocial Impact: Stigma and bullying cause
that poses health risks, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) low self-esteem, depression, anxiety, and impact
of 25 or above classified as overweight and 30 or school performance and quality of life in children.
above as obese. ¾ Economic Implications: In 2019, obesity cost
BMI is a basic method to assess whether an adult India USD 28.95 billion (Rs 1,800 per capita), or
has a healthy weight, calculated by dividing weight 1.02% of GDP, due to healthcare expenses and
in kilograms by height in meters squared (kg/m²). lost productivity.

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By 2030, India’s obesity-related economic burden ¾ Socioeconomic Barriers: Public distribution systems
may rise to Rs 4,700 per capita or 1.57% of GDP. mainly provide staple grains (rice and wheat), leading
The Economic Survey 2024-25 recognizes obesity to imbalanced diets while high costs limit nutritious
as a health challenge and suggests higher taxes food (fruits, vegetables, and pulses) for low-income
on ultra-processed foods (UPF). groups.
Click Here to Read: What are Overweight, Thinness, India has moved from ‘food or calorie deficit’

and Obesity? to becoming ‘food or calorie sufficient (with

inequitable distribution), as 55% (78 crore) can’t
What are the Causes of Obesity? afford a healthy diet, and 40% lack adequate
¾ Unhealthy Diets: Increased consumption of High nutrients.
Fat, Salt, and Sugar (HFSS) foods, and UPF high in
What are Government Initiatives
unhealthy fats.
for Obesity Prevention?
¾ Low Physical Activity: According to The Lancet,
sedentary lifestyles from office jobs and screen time ¾ National Programme for Prevention and Control
leave nearly half of Indians insufficiently active. of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)
¾ Poor Urban Infrastructure: Lack of safe cycling ¾ Ayush Holistic Wellness Centre (Specialized Ayurvedic
lanes, shrinking green spaces, and traffic congestion Care, Ayurswasthya Yojana, )
discourage active commuting and outdoor exercise. ¾ Mission Poshan 2.0
¾ Air Pollution: It causes inflammation, raises cardio-
¾ Fit India Movement
metabolic risks, promotes fat accumulation, and
discourages outdoor activities. ¾ Eat Right Mela
nnn

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Science & Technology

Highlights
z India’s AI Revolution z Quantum Nature of Gravity
z Growth of India’s Biotechnology Sector z National Science Day 2025
z Space Debris Crisis z Rise of India’s Private Space Industry
z HeroRATS for Tuberculosis Elimination z Ultra-Conserved Elements

National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 integrates

India’s AI Revolution AI education at all levels.
India ranks 1st in Global AI Skill Penetration (Stanford
Why in News?
AI Index 2024), with 263% AI talent growth since
India is undergoing a holistic transformation in 2016 and a 14 times rise in AI-skilled workforce
Artificial Intelligence (AI), led by proactive government
(2016-2023).
policies under the IndiaAI Mission.
India has around 520 tech incubators and
¾ This initiative aligns with the vision of Viksit Bharat
by 2047, positioning India as a global AI powerhouse. accelerators, making India 3rd largest startup
ecosystem globally.
How is India Transforming into a Global AI ¾ Indigenous AI Models: BharatGen world’s first
Powerhouse? government-funded multimodal Large Language
Model (LLM) initiative for AI-driven public services.
¾ Strengthening AI Infrastructure: The government is Sarvam-1, a 2-billion-parameter model supporting
setting up a high-end computing center with 18,693 10 Indian languages for translation and content
Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), nearly 9 times more
generation.
than DeepSeek and two-thirds of ChatGPT’s capacity.
AI Kosha is a government-backed platform designed
Open GPU Marketplace allows startups, researchers,
and students to access affordable high-performance to provide non-personal datasets to help businesses,
computing. researchers, and startups develop AI solutions.
India aims to develop its own GPUs within 3-5 Digital India BHASHINI is an AI-powered language
years, reducing dependency on foreign technology translation platform for digital accessibility.
such as Quantum chips. Chitralekha is an open-source video transcreation
IndiaAI Dataset Platform provides high-quality, tool for Indic languages.
anonymized datasets for AI research and ¾ AI with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): AI integrated
development.
with Aadhaar, Unified Payments Interface (UPI),
India has established AI Centres of Excellence(CoEs)
DigiLocker to improve efficiency.
in Healthcare, Agriculture, and Sustainable Cities
in New Delhi. Union Budget 2025 allocated Rs 500 AI-driven crowd monitoring optimized railway
crore for a new AI CoE in Education. passenger movement, and MuleHunter.AI
¾ AI Skilling: Five National AI Skilling Centres will train developed by Reserve Bank of India to detect
youth for AI industries, aligning with Make for India, mule bank accounts used for fraud and money
Make for the World vision. laundering.

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¾ AI-Driven Economic Growth: 80% of Indian companies prioritize AI as a core strategic goal. 69% plan to increase
AI investments in 2025.
Indian Generative AI (GenAI) startup funding surged 6 times, reaching USD 51 million in FY2025 (NASSCOM
Report).
India holds 16% of the world’s AI talent, driving AI-powered automation, fintech, and healthcare.

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78% of Small & Medium Businesses (SMBs) using

¾ Regulatory Uncertainty: India lacks a dedicated AI
AI reported revenue growth. regulatory framework, current policies are fragmented
India’s AI market is projected to grow at 25-35% across different ministries.
Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR). AI talent Comprehensive AI ethics guidelines are absent,
demand is expected to reach 1 million by 2026. leaving bias, accountability, and transparency
¾ AI Regulation: India’s AI regulation framework unaddressed.
includes the Information Technology Act of 2000, ¾ Environmental Impact: AI hardware and data centers
Principles for Responsible AI (2021) and National contribute 1% of global GHG emissions, expected to
Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2018) to ensure safety, double by 2026. India lacks regulations on AI data
transparency, and accountability. centers’ water usage and carbon footprint.
India is avoiding overregulation while addressing
risks like deep fakes, privacy, and cybersecurity What Steps Can India Take to Address
threats. AI Transformation Challenges?
¾ Global AI Governance Leadership: India is actively ¾ Strengthening AI Hardware: Boost domestic AI chip
shaping international AI regulatory frameworks manufacturing under Semicon India Programme.
by hosting the Global INDIAai Summit 2024 and Incentivize fabless chip design startups and AI
showcasing its AI initiatives at G20, Paris AI Summit hardware R&D.
2025 and Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence Support development of quantum AI processors
(GPAI) Summit. through the National Quantum Mission.
What is IndiaAI Mission? ¾ AI Workforce: Expand FutureSkills Prime to train young
Click here to Read: IndiaAI Mission individuals in AI and digital technologies, reinforcing
India’s position as a Digital Talent Nation.
What are the Concerns in India’s ¾ AI Regulatory Framework: Enact a dedicated AI &
AI Transformation? Quantum Act to regulate AI development and its
¾ Limited AI Hardware Capabilities: India is still environmental impact, drawing inspiration from the
dependent on foreign-made GPUs and semiconductor EU AI Act (2024) and the US Artificial Intelligence
technologies. Environmental Impacts Act (2024).
Many AI startups depend on cloud computing ¾ Ensuring Inclusive AI Growth: Under RAISE 2020,
services from global tech giants (AWS, Google, promote AI as a tool for social transformation, inclusion,
Microsoft). and empowerment through responsible development.
Limited Indian AI chip manufacturing means ¾ Sustainable AI Development: Design AI algorithms
startups must rely on foreign-made AI chips. and infrastructures that consume less energy and
¾ Skilling Challenges: While India leads in AI skill integrate AI into smart grids to optimize power use.
penetration, there is a shortage of highly specialized
AI researchers. Most AI professionals are engaged in
service-based roles rather than deep-tech innovation.
Growth of India’s
Automation could displace up to 60 million workers Biotechnology Sector
in India’s manufacturing sector by 2030. Uneven
AI adoption in rural and Tier-2/Tier-3 cities is Why in News?
widening the digital divide. At the “Emerging Innovations in Biochemistry and
¾ Ethical Concerns: Risks of bias in AI models due to Biotechnology” conference, the Union Minister of Science
insufficiently diverse datasets. & Technology highlighted the evolution of India’s
No dedicated AI law to regulate data usage, facial biotechnology sector and biotechnology potential of the
recognition, and deepfake risks. Himalayan region, especially J&K.

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What are the Key facts Related to the Biotechnology Sector in India?
¾ About: It is the use of biological systems, organisms, or their components to create products and technologies
that benefit agriculture, medicine, industry, and sustainability.
¾ Types:

¾ Growth & Potential: India’s bioeconomy grew over 10 times in a decade (2014-24), rising from USD 10 billion in
2014 to USD 130 billion in 2024, with a target of USD 300 billion by 2030.
Potential in J&K: Rich flora and medicinal plant diversity offer potential for pharmaceutical and herbal industries.
z Biotechnological research can optimize high-altitude crops for climate resilience and productivity.
z Aroma Mission, Floriculture Revolution (commercial flower farming).
Key Breakthroughs in 2024: Development of the world’s first Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
z Discovery of ‘Nafithromycin,’ a groundbreaking indigenous antibiotic.
z First successful gene therapy experiment for Hemophilia.
¾ Government’s Key Initiatives: BioE3 Policy, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), Bio-RIDE Scheme
(2014: 50 biotech startups, 2025: 9,000).
¾ Progress in Global Innovation: India improved its ranking from 80th in 2014 to 39th in the Global Innovation Index
2024.
India ranks 3rd in the Asia-Pacific and 12th globally in biomanufacturing.
Over 5,352 Indian researchers now feature in the world’s top 2% of scientists.
Aroma Mission (Lavender Revolution)
¾ About: Started in J&K, it boosts India’s aroma industry by promoting aromatic crops and essential oil production.
¾ Focus: Cultivation of lemongrass, lavender, vetiver, palmarosa etc for fragrant oils used in cosmetics, aromatherapy,
and food flavoring.
¾ Nodal Agency: CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow.
¾ Potential Impact: Over 2000 tonnes of oils worth Rs 300 crores yearly, 60 lakh rural jobs, and Rs 60,000–70,000
per hectare annual farmer income.

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liability for space object damage on Earth, requiring

Space Debris Crisis no proof of negligence, but enforcement is weak.
Voluntary UN Guidelines on Deorbiting: The UN
Why in News? recommends deorbiting satellites within 25 years,
A 500-kg metal object crashed in Kenya, sparking but compliance rate is only around 30%.
concerns over space debris and highlighting the increasing ¾ Initiatives to Remove Space Debris:
global issues of accountability and safety measures for Global: ClearSpace-1 and Remove DEBRIS (by ESA),
debris reentries. OSAM-1 (NASA).
What is Space Debris? India: Debris Free Space Mission (DFSM), Network
for Space object TRacking and Analysis (NETRA).
¾ About: According to the UN Committee on the
Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS) ‘Space
debris is all man-made objects, including fragments HeroRATS for
and elements thereof, in Earth orbit or re-entering
the atmosphere, that are non-functional’. Tuberculosis Elimination
It includes defunct satellites, rocket stages, and
Why in News?
fragments from explosions or collisions.
¾ Origin: Most space debris comes from on-orbit A Tanzanian non-profit organization conducts
breakups i.e., satellites or rocket stages explode, research to train African giant pouched rats, or HeroRATS,
collide, or fragment in space. to detect Tuberculosis (TB).
NASA estimates 23,000 debris pieces larger than
¾ These rats show high accuracy, especially in resource-
a baseball, 500,000 marble-sized scraps, and 100 limited areas. This research could help speed up TB
million fragments over one millimeter orbiting Earth. detection in countries like India.
¾ Space Debris Destruction: Debris loses altitude and What are the Key Findings of
burns up on re-entry due to atmospheric drag. It is the Research on HeroRATS?
intensified by the 11-year solar activity cycle that
¾ HeroRATS: These rats have an exceptional sense
expands the atmosphere, accelerating the decay of
of smell due to their sensitive olfactory receptors,
low-orbit debris.
allowing them to detect diseases like TB.
¾ Associated Risks:
HeroRATS undergoes a training program, learning
On-Orbit Risks: Large debris can destroy satellites,
to detect TB in sputum samples (thick mucus from
while even 1 cm fragments can disable spacecraft. lungs). They can screen 100 samples in just 20
Millimeter-sized particles erode surfaces and minutes, compared to 3–4 days for traditional
damage solar panels. methods.
Re-entry Risks: Most debris burns up, but some
z Detected samples are then confirmed using
large fragments may reach Earth, though the risk Ziehl-Neelsen and fluorescent microscopy.
of injury is very low.
¾ Increased Detection Rates: HeroRATS doubled TB
Kessler Syndrome: Kessler Syndrome is a chain
detection rates in children compared to conventional
reaction of debris collisions creating even more testing.
debris, potentially making orbits unusable for
The rats were six times more effective at detecting
future space missions.
TB in patients with a low bacillary load compared
¾ International Regulations: to those with a higher concentration of bacteria.
Outer Space Treaty (1967): Article VI of the
They outperformed traditional microscopy, which
treaty makes states responsible for all national often fails in such cases.
space activities, including private ones, but lacks
enforcement mechanisms. Note: Earlier, Magawa, a Tanzanian-born African giant
Convention on International Liability for Damage pouched rat, was trained to detect landmines and alert
Caused by Space Objects (1972): It imposes absolute handlers for their safe removal.

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How can HeroRATS Help India’s TB Elimination Efforts?

¾ Potential Benefits for India: HeroRATS provide fast, cost-effective TB screening, especially for children and smear-
negative cases, aiding early diagnosis and reducing transmission, thereby contributing to lowering the TB burden
in India.
Integrating rat-based TB detection into the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) through a
phased rollout, starting in high-TB burden states, can enhance case detection.
¾ TB in India: India has the highest burden of TB with two deaths occurring every three minutes from TB.
NTEP, implemented under the aegis of the National Health Mission, aims to make India TB-free by 2025, ahead
of the global 2030 target.
TB incidence declined by 17.7% (237 to 195 per 100,000) from 2015 to 2023, while TB deaths fell by 21.4%
(28 to 22 per lakh).
What are the Key Facts About Tuberculosis?
¾ About: TB is a bacterial infection (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) affecting the lungs, spreading through the air.
Preventable and curable with antibiotics. About 25% of the global population is infected, but only 5–10%
develop symptoms.

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¾ Risk Factors: Weak immune system, diabetes, ¾ This effort aims to bridge the gap between General
malnutrition, tobacco, and alcohol use. Relativity (explains gravity at macroscopic scales) and
¾ Diagnosis: WHO recommends rapid molecular tests Quantum Mechanics (governs atomic and subatomic
(Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra). Traditional methods struggle with interactions).
low bacterial loads, especially in children difficult due to Since these theories are fundamentally
their inability to produce sufficient sputum for testing. incompatible, the research contributes to the
¾ Prevention: The Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine pursuit of a unified theory of quantum gravity.
is given to infants to prevent TB.
¾ Treatment: Standard TB treatment lasts 4-6 months. What is the Experiment Proposed to
Incomplete treatment leads to drug-resistant TB. Test the Quantumness of Gravity?
¾ Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB): It is resistant to
¾ About Experiment: Scientists propose an experiment
isoniazid and rifampicin (medicines used to treat
TB), treatable with costlier alternatives. using quantum superposition, where particles exist
¾ Extensively Drug-Resistant TB: It is more severe, with in multiple states until measured.
limited treatment options. Nanocrystals will test if gravity follows quantum
¾ TB and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): HIV mechanics.
patients are 16 times more vulnerable to TB, a leading A test mass crystal will be placed in superposition
cause of their deaths.
(existing in two places at once) while another mass
Macromatic Species Used for Disease Detection interacts with it via gravity.
¾ Macromatic Species: These species have a highly After measuring the second crystal, scientists will
developed sense of smell, unlike microsmatic species check if gravity causes the test mass to collapse
with a reduced olfactory ability. Few macromatic into a definite state, potentially indicating that
species are:
gravity follows quantum principles.
Dogs: With 125–300 million olfactory receptors
and a special sensory organ called the Jacobson’s ¾ Significance:
organ, they can detect diseases like Parkinson’s If successful, the experiment may prove that
and potentially lung cancer and diabetes. gravity is not just a classical force but also exhibits
Ants: A French study found ants can detect quantum properties, as current theories suggest
cancer cells within three days using chemical that gravity should show quantum effects.
cues, offering a faster, cheaper alternative to
Most quantum gravity tests rely on strong gravity
traditional diagnostics.
(e.g., black holes), which is impractical to test.
Honeybees: Posses highly sensitive olfactory
antennal lobes, can detect lung cancer, with 88% z This experiment proposes studying weak gravity
accuracy using synthetic biomarkers (artificial near small objects, making quantum gravity
human breath that contains cancerous odours) testing more feasible.
in human breath. ¾ Challenges:
¾ These highlight the growing field of bio-detection,
The experiment requires extreme precision since
where nature’s instincts are harnessed for medical
advancements. even small disturbances (like air molecules or
seismic activity) can affect the results.
Scientists need to create a near-perfect vacuum
Quantum Nature of Gravity and measure the results very quickly.
The technology to perform this experiment is still
Why in News?
being developed.
Scientists are conducting experiments with
nanocrystals to explore if gravity follows quantum Read More: What are the Key Features of Quantum
principles. Mechanics?

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What is Quantum Mechanics and General Relativity?

¾ Quantum Mechanics:
About:

z Quantum mechanics is the branch of physics that explains how sub-atomic particles, like electrons and
photons, can behave both as particles (small bits of matter) and waves (energy disturbances).
z This concept is known as wave-particle duality and is a fundamental principle of quantum physics.

Key Principles:

z Wave-particle Duality: Particles can behave both as waves and particles.

z Superposition: A particle can exist in multiple states until measured.

z Entanglement: Two particles can be correlated in such a way that the state of one instantly affects the other,
even across vast distances.
z Uncertainty Principle: The position and momentum of a particle cannot both be precisely measured at the
same time.

¾ General Relativity:
About: It is the modern theory of gravity proposed by Albert Einstein in 1915 as an extension of Newton’s
law of universal gravitation.
z It describes gravity not as a force, but as the curvature of spacetime caused by mass and energy.

Key Principles:

z Space-time curvature: Massive objects like the Sun bend space-time, causing planets to orbit.

z Time Dilation: Time moves slower in stronger gravitational fields (e.g., near black holes).

z Equivalence Principle: Acceleration and gravitational forces are indistinguishable in a closed system.

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National Science Day 2025

Why in News?
India celebrates National Science Day (NSD) on 28th February annually to honor Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata
(CV) Raman’s discovery of the Raman Effect in 1928.
¾ The 2025 theme, “Empowering Indian Youth for Global Leadership in Science and Innovation for Viksit Bharat”,
highlights the role of scientific innovation and youth leadership and aligns with the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision.
Note: In 1986, the Government of India designated 28th February as National Science Day, which was first celebrated
in 1987.
What are the Key Facts About CV Raman?
¾ Early Life: CV Raman was born on 7th November 1888, in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. He earned his M.A. in Physics
from Presidency College, Madras and contributed significantly to atomic physics and optics.
He founded the Raman Research Institute (1948), Indian Journal of Physics (1926), and Indian Academy of
Sciences (1934).
His research spanned optics, light scattering, X-rays, acoustics, and sea colors, leading to the discovery of the
Raman Effect.
¾ Honors & Recognition: Knighted in 1929 by the British government, CV Raman won the 1930 Nobel Prize in Physics
for Raman Effect, making him the first Asian to receive a Nobel Prize in science.
He was also honored with the Bharat Ratna in 1954, India’s highest civilian award.

¾ Raman Effect: It refers to the phenomenon where incoming excitation light interacts with a sample, undergoes a
change in wavelength, and generates scattered light due to interactions with molecular vibrations. This phenomenon
is known as Raman scattering.
Applications of Raman Effect: It forms the basis of Raman Spectroscopy (analyzing molecular vibrations), widely
used to study material properties.
z Its applications expanded after the advent of lasers in the 1960s, aiding chemical analysis by identifying
substances without breaking them.
z It also helps forensic science detect drugs in sealed evidence bags and enables safe nuclear waste analysis
using fiber-optic probes.

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India’s Advancements in Science accelerated innovation and investment by opening the

and Technology in 2024 industry to private players.
¾ Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) continued
¾ Innovation and IP: India ranked 39th in the Global
achievements, along with India’s space tech startups,
Innovation Index 2024 and 6th in global Intellectual
are driving rapid advancements in space technology,
Property (IP) filings (World Intellectual Property
exploration, and commercialization.
Organisation 2024 Report).
The Network Readiness Index 2024 saw India
How Has India’s Private
rise to 49th from 79th (2019), highlighting progress
Space Industry Grown?
in ICT and digital transformation. ¾ Private Participation: Over 200 space startups are
¾ Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): now active in India, leveraging ISRO’s facilities (ISRO’s
Launched under the ANRF Act 2023, boosts India’s testing, launch, and ground station facilities).
R&D ecosystem with key programs like promoting Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation
electric vehicles (EVs) in India. Centre (IN-SPACe) has provided regulatory and
financial support (with a Rs. 1,000 crore Venture
¾ National Quantum Mission (NQM): Aims to
Capital (VC) Fund) to accelerate the growth of
position India as a leader in quantum computing,
India’s space sector.
communication, sensing, and materials.
Antrix Corporation, ISRO’s commercial arm, has
¾ National Supercomputing Mission (NSM): A total played a key role in facilitating satellite launches
of 33 supercomputers with a combined computing and technology transfers to private players.
capacity of 32 petaflops have been deployed in the
The POEM (PSLV Orbital Experimental Module)
country under NSM.
program has carried an increasing number of
Future plans aim to increase capacity to 77 startup payloads, from 6 in 2022 to 24 in 2024.
PetaFlops using indigenous technology. ¾ Private Investment: Private funding is gaining
¾ Artificial Intelligence: The BharatGen initiative is momentum and drives the space economy.
developing India’s first multimodal, multilingual MountTech Growth Fund – Kavachh (MGF-Kavachh)
Large Language Model (LLM) for Generative AI is boosting domestic investments through venture
(GenAI). capital funding, with startups securing Rs 2,500
¾ Geospatial Science: Geospatial technology adoption crore in the past 3 years.
has increased through Spatial Thinking Programs in z MGF-Kavachh is a Securities and Exchange
Schools, covering 116 schools across seven states. Board of India (SEBI) registered Alternative
¾ Climate Research: India has strengthened climate Investment Fund (AIF) under Category II.
resilience by launching four Centres of Excellence ¾ Indian Startups Advancements: GalaxEye achieved
for flood and drought risk mapping, enhancing the world’s first fusion of Synthetic Aperture Radar
disaster preparedness and adaptation strategies. (SAR) with optical imagery, enabling rapid data
compression.
Pixxel is developing world’s most advanced
Rise of India’s Private
hyperspectral satellite constellations (Firefly),
Space Industry while InspeCity (IIT Bombay) is working on in-orbit
docking for satellite repair and refueling.
Why in News? z Skyroot and Agnikul are pioneering private
The rise of private participation in India’s space launch vehicles for cost-effective satellite
sector, driven by the Space Sector Reforms of 2020, has deployment.

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Space Sector Reforms 2020

Ultra-Conserved Elements
¾ India’s Space Sector Reforms 2020 expanded private
participation across all space activities, including Why in News?
satellite design, launch vehicle manufacturing, and
A study found that Ultra-Conserved Elements (UCEs)
ground station services, to enhance India’s global
in the Tra2b (Transformer-2 beta) gene have remained
space economy share.
unchanged for 80 million years due to their role in
¾ IN-SPACe was established as a regulatory
preventing infertility by regulating protein levels.
body to facilitate and promote private sector
participation and enables non-government What are Key Findings of the Study on
private entities (NGPEs) to engage in space- Ultra-Conserved Elements?
based activities rather than being just vendors
¾ Findings of the Study: Deleting the UCE in mouse
for ISRO.
testes caused excess Tra2β protein, sperm cell death,
¾ The reform has also encouraged technology transfer and infertility.
from ISRO to private entities through NewSpace
A UCE in the Tra2b gene regulates Tra2β protein
India Limited (NSIL).
production by acting as a poison exon.
What are the Challenges Facing z When Tra2β protein levels are too high, the
India’s Space Industry? UCE triggers an extra exon in the gene’s RNA,
¾ Funding and Investment Gaps: While venture capital introducing a stop codon that halts protein
interest is rising, early-stage funding remains limited, synthesis, preventing overproduction.
making it difficult for startups to scale. Mutations disrupting UCE’s protein-limiting
¾ Talent Shortage: The lack of specialized educational function cause infertility, preventing inheritance.
institutions and courses in space technology hinders Thus Natural selection has preserved UCEs across
talent development. species for millions of years.
Only one Indian Institute of Space Technology ¾ Ultra-Conserved Elements: UCEs are Deoxyribonucleic
(IIST) exists, creating a need for more institutions acid (DNA) sequences of at least 200 base-pairs that
and industry-academia collaborations. have remained completely unchanged across multiple
¾ Global Competition: Nations like the US, China, and species for 80 million years or more.
Russia have advanced space programs, including These sequences are found in humans, mice, rats,
reusable spacecraft, space tourism, and extensive chickens, and even fish, indicating their critical
satellite constellations. biological importance.
India is catching up, but longer R&D cycles and z Across the human genome (an entire set of
limited high-end capabilities pose hurdles. DNA instructions found in a cell), there are
¾ Foreign Launch Vehicles: While India has developed nearly 500 UCEs.
launch capabilities, many startups still rely on foreign Characteristics of UCEs: UCEs exhibit nearly
rockets like SpaceX’s Falcon-9 due to cost and schedule identical DNA sequences across diverse species,
constraints. even those that are evolutionarily distant.
Developing more efficient and reusable launch Functions of UCEs: They do not usually code for
vehicles is essential for reducing dependence. proteins but are involved in gene regulation.

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DNA to Protein Conversion

¾ DNA Structure: DNA is a double-helix molecule, with each strand consisting of four bases that pair up to hold
the strands together.
¾ Gene: A gene is a short segment of DNA, typically a few thousand base-pairs long, that carries instructions for
making proteins.
¾ Transcription: When a gene is expressed (information encoded in a gene is turned into a function), the cell
transcribes its DNA sequence into messenger RNA (mRNA).
Ribosomes read the mRNA sequence and assemble amino acids to form a protein (Protein Synthesis). The
process halts at a stop codon, signaling the completion of protein synthesis.

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Environment and Ecology

Highlights
z World Air Quality Report 2024 z Concerns with Great Nicobar Island Project
z Seagrass Conservation z NBWL and Wildlife Conservation

Pollution Sources: Major contributors include

World Air Quality vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and the
Report 2024 burning of biomass.
z Northern India faced extreme pollution levels
Why in News? with crop stubble-burning contributing to 60%
The World Air Quality Report 2024, released by Swiss of PM2.5 levels.
company IQAir, ranked India as the 5th most polluted ¾ Global: The most polluted countries by annual average
country globally. PM2.5 levels are Chad (91.8 µg/m³), Bangladesh (78
µg/m³), Pakistan (73.7 µg/m³), and Congo (58.2 µg/m³).
What are the Key Findings of the
The report highlights that most of the global
World Air Quality Report?
population is breathing polluted air, with only 12
¾ India: India is the 5th most polluted country in 2024, countries, regions, or territories reporting PM2.5
improving slightly from 3rd place in 2023. concentrations below the WHO’s recommended
Polluted Cities: Delhi remains the most polluted limit.
capital globally with a Particulate matter (PM) Air Pollution
2.5 concentration of 91.6 µg/m³ (micrograms per ¾ Air pollution is the contamination of air by chemical,
cubic metre). physical, or biological agents that alter its natural
z 6 of the world’s 10 most polluted cities and 13 composition.
of the top 20 are in India, with Byrnihat (Assam- Major sources include combustion, vehicles,
Meghalaya border) topping the list at a PM2.5 industries, and fires. Pollutants like PM, CO, O₃,
concentration of 128.2 µg/m³. NO₂, and SO₂ cause respiratory diseases and
Other polluted cities include Mullanpur high mortality.
(Punjab), Gurugram, Faridabad, Bhiwadi, ¾ WHO reports that 99% of the global population
and Noida. breathes polluted air, with low- and middle-income
PM2.5 Reduction: India saw a 7% decrease in countries most affected.
PM2.5 levels, averaging 50.6 µg/m³ in 2024, down Prolonged PM2.5 exposure cuts life expectancy
from 54.4 µg/m³ in 2023. by 5.2 years in India, linked to 1.5 million annual
z However, this is still 10 times higher than deaths between 2009–2019, as per the Lancet
the World Health Organization (WHO’s) Planetary Health Study.
recommended safe limit of 5 µg/m³. 35% of ¾ WHO Air Quality Guidelines (AQG) aim to help
Indian cities reported PM2.5 levels exceeding governments reduce air pollution and improve
this limit. public health.

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Seagrass Conservation
Why in News?
A study in Nature reports that seagrasses are declining at a rate of 1–2% annually, with nearly 5% of species
endangered due to human activities, highlighting the need to protect 30% of seagrass by 2030 to preserve biodiversity.
What are Seagrasses?
¾ About: Seagrasses are submerged, flowering marine aquatic plants that grow in shallow coastal waters such as
bays and lagoons.
They possess small flowers and strap-like or oval leaves, forming dense underwater meadows.

¾ Classification: Seagrasses belong to the order Alismatales and are classified into 4 families with around 60 species.
Some of the important seagrasses are Sea Cow Grass (Cymodocea serrulata), Thready Seagrass (Cymodocea
rotundata), Needle Seagrass (Syringodium isoetifolium), Flat-tipped Seagrass (Halodule uninervis), etc.
¾ Key Features:
Like terrestrial plants, seagrasses conduct photosynthesis and support marine biodiversity and enhance
oceanic oxygen levels.
Seagrasses reproduce both sexually and asexually.

z In sexual reproduction, submarine pollination transfers male pollen to female flowers underwater.
Asexually, they propagate through rhizomes-horizontal underground stems, that enable regeneration after
disturbances like grazing or storms.
¾ Threats to Seagrass:
Pollution: Industrial, agricultural, and urban waste degrade seagrass meadows.

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Coastal Development: Tourism and infrastructure projects disturb fragile ecosystems.

Climate Change: Rising temperatures and ocean acidification threaten seagrass survival.
Weak Enforcement: Despite existing laws, conservation efforts lack strict implementation.
What is the State of Seagrass Conservation?
¾ Current Status: Seagrass covers 0.1% of the ocean floor but supports marine life, major fisheries, and thrives
in tropical and temperate coastlines.
¾ Seagrasses in India: India’s seagrass meadows span 516.59 sq km, sequestering 434.9 tonnes of CO₂ per sq
km annually, with major concentrations in the Gulf of Mannar, Palk Bay, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep,
and the Gulf of Kutch.
¾ Conservation Efforts:
India’s Initiatives

z 2011-2020: 14 acres of seagrass restored in the Gulf of Mannar & Palk Bay (85-90% success rate).

z Community-led projects using bamboo frames & coconut ropes for transplantation in Palk Bay.

Global Efforts:

z 23.9% of seagrass areas fall under Marine Protected Areas (MPA). Successful restoration in Virginia, USA
(1,700 hectares of Zostera marina).
What is the Significance of Seagrasses?
¾ Carbon Sequestration: Seagrasses store 11% of oceanic organic carbon and absorb 83 million tonnes of atmospheric
carbon annually, sequestering carbon 35 times faster than rainforests.

¾ Biodiversity Hotspot: It supports marine species, including endangered dugongs (sea cow) and green turtles, and
sustains commercially important species like squids and cuttlefish.

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¾ Ecological Importance: Seagrass meadows support zThe Galathea Bay WLS, designated for marine
750 fish species and 121 threatened marine species turtle conservation in 1997, was denotified in
including endangered dugongs (sea cow), green 2021 for the port, contradicting India’s Marine
turtles, squids and cuttlefish. Turtle Action Plan (2021).
These ecosystems contribute to 20% of global Compensatory Afforestation Issues: The diversion

fishery landings. of pristine Nicobar forests is being “compensated”

¾ Coastal Protection: They improve water clarity by
by land in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh, which
trapping sediments, filter land-based pollutants, does not replicate the biodiversity lost.
and prevent coastal erosion by stabilizing the seabed Coral Reef Destruction: The coastline falls under

with their root systems. Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ 1a), making ship-
repair and other industrial activities a threat to
¾ Livelihoods & Fisheries: Seagrasses provide safe
marine ecosystems.
breeding grounds for juvenile fish and shield marine
¾ Legal Concerns:
organisms from strong currents and predators,
supporting ecosystems essential for fisheries and Violation of SC Orders: The SC appointed Shekhar

global food security. Singh Commission 2002 report recommended a

total ban on tree felling in tribal reserves and
national parks and afforestation before felling,
Concerns with Great a rule not being followed.
Lack of Tribal Consultation: The project disregards
Nicobar Island Project the rights and survival of indigenous communities
like the Shompen, whose existence is deeply tied
Why in News?
to these forests.
The proposed Rs 80,000 crore mega infrastructure Lack of Transparency: The government withheld
project on Great Nicobar Island (GNI) has raised serious environmental clearance details citing national
concerns among environmental activists. security, but experts argue only the airport has a
¾ The project, spearheaded by NITI Aayog, includes a defense link, not the entire project.
transshipment terminal in Galathea Bay, an greenfield ¾ Government Stand:
airport, a greenfield township, and a tourism project Contradictory Stance: The Ministry of Home Affairs
with a gas-powered plant. cites security concerns to withhold project details,
Click Here to Read: while the Ministry of Shipping promotes high-end
tourism, creating a strategic contradiction.
¾ What is the Great Nicobar Island Project?
Unplanned Additions: New additions like cruise
¾ What is Great Nicobar Island?
terminals, shipbuilding, and EXIM ports can create
What Concerns are Associated with the additional pressure on the environment.
Great Nicobar Island Project? The transshipment terminal’s cost rose by 20%
from 2021 to 2024. With new additions like a
¾ Environmental Concerns: cruise terminal and ship-repair facilities likely to
Massive Deforestation: The project will destroy raise it further.
130 sq km of primary tropical rainforest, leading
to biodiversity loss and ecological imbalance. Note: CRZ 1A, a subcategory under the Coastal Zone
Management Plan 2019, includes ecologically sensitive
z Initial estimates of tree cutting (8.65–9.64
coastal areas e.g., presence of coral reefs vital for
lakh) have been found to be significantly lower
than actual numbers, potentially exceeding 10 biodiversity and stability.
million trees. ¾ The Shekhar Singh Commission Report (2002)
Impact on Wildlife: The project threatens species
assessed the environmental and socio-cultural
like the nesting leatherback sea turtle in Galathea impacts of developmental activities in the Andaman
Bay Wildlife Sanctuary (WLS). and Nicobar Islands.

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What is the Significance of the Great ¾ Theme 2025: Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing
Nicobar Island Project for India? in People and Planet.
It emphasizes the importance of financial
¾ Strategic Importance: Nicobar’s strategic location
investment in wildlife conservation to ensure a
near the Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok Straits allows
sustainable future.
India to monitor key sea routes vital for global trade
and energy supply. What are the Key Announcements During
It is aligned with India’s Act East Policy 2014 and the 7th meeting of NBWL?
the QUAD’s Indo-Pacific strategy, reinforcing ¾ New Initiatives:
regional security. Great Indian Bustard Conservation: A National
A greenfield airport will speed up defense Great Indian Bustard Conservation Plan was
deployment, strengthening India’s ability to announced to address the declining population
monitor Chinese naval activity. of this critically endangered species.
¾ Economic Significance: The International Container Gharial Conservation: A new Gharial conservation
Transshipment Terminal (ICTT) is expected to reduce initiative was launched to arrest the dwindling
India’s reliance on foreign ports like Singapore and population of gharials.
Colombo and position India as a global transshipment Centre for Human-Wildlife Conflict: The Centre for
hub, attracting ships and investment. Excellence in Human-Wildlife Conflict Management
It is part of Maritime India Vision 2030 and Amrit was announced and it will be located at the Wildlife
Kaal Vision 2047, supporting India’s long-term Institute of India’s Coimbatore campus.
economic strategy. z It will equip rapid response teams with advanced

¾ Sustainable Development: It can boost high-end tracking and surveillance, deploy detection
tourism like Singapore and the Maldives while ensuring systems in conflict zones, and train field staff
sustainable development. and communities in mitigation.
A new township will attract businesses, improve z PM emphasized using AI, ML, remote sensing,

living standards with better infrastructure, and and geospatial mapping to tackle forest fires
promote renewable energy and sustainable housing and human-animal conflicts.
with minimal environmental impact. z WII and Bhaskaracharya National Institute
for Space Applications and Geo-informatics
(BISAG-N) will collaborate to tackle human-
NBWL and Wildlife wildlife conflict.
National Referral Centre for Wildlife: PM laid the
Conservation foundation stone for the National Referral Centre
for Wildlife in Junagadh, a hub for wildlife health
Why in News?
and disease management.
The Prime Minister chaired the 7th meeting of the New Task Forces: New task forces were formed for
National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at the Gir National the conservation of Indian Sloth Bear, Gharials,
Park (Junagadh, Gujarat) on the occasion of the World and Great Indian Bustard.
Wildlife Day (3rd March) and announced several initiatives ¾ Expansion of Project Cheetah: The government
for wildlife conservation. announced Project Cheetah’s expansion to Gandhi
Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh) and Banni
What is World Wildlife Day? Grasslands (Gujarat).
¾ About: It is observed annually on 3rd March (adopted ¾ Strengthening Project Lion: The government extended
CITES in 1973) to highlight the urgent need to protect the Project Lion for 10 years to expand Asiatic Lions’
biodiversity amid the triple planetary crisis of climate range across Gujarat’s Saurashtra region.
change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The 16th Asiatic Lion population estimation will be
¾ Origin: It was established by the UN General Assembly conducted in May 2024 that is conducted every
(UNGA) in December 2013. five years (last done in 2020).

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¾ Riverine Dolphin Estimation: India’s 1st Riverine Dolphin Estimation Report was released that revealed 6,327
dolphins in the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus river basins.
¾ Traditional Knowledge in Wildlife Conservation: Modi urged NBWL and the ministry to collect traditional knowledge
and manuscripts on forest and wildlife conservation for research and development.

¾ Community Participation: He emphasized community involvement in wildlife conservation, forest fire management,
and sustainable coexistence
E.g., Role of Maldhari community in lion conservation.

Click Here to Read: Who are Maldharis?

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What is NBWL? Officials involved in wildlife conservation

¾ About: NBWL is a statutory body constituted under The Chief of Army Staff, Defence Secretary,
z

the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 (WPA, 1972). and Expenditure Secretary.
z Ten eminent conservationists, ecologists, and
It is the apex body on wildlife conservation and
environmentalists nominated by the central
development.
government.
¾ Composition: The NBWL is a 47-member committee
¾ Functions: It is mandated to promote conservation
headed by the Prime Minister, who serves as and development of wildlife and forest.
the ex-officio Chairperson, while the Minister of ¾ Role in Tiger Reserves: It ensures that no tiger reserve
Environment, Forest, and Climate Change serves as is diverted to unsustainable use without its approval,
the Vice-Chairperson. with advice from the National Tiger Conservation
Its members include: Authority (NTCA).
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Art and Culture

Highlights
z Amir Khusrau and Sufism

¾ Contributions: He made lasting contributions to Indian

Amir Khusrau and Sufism classical music, Sufi qawwali, and Persian literature.
Language: He is credited for developing Hindavi,
Why in News? a precursor to modern Hindi and Urdu.
The Prime Minister praised Amir Khusrau and Sufism, z His literary works blended Persian, Arabic, and

highlighting it as India’s pluralistic heritage. Indian traditions, enriching Indian linguistic

heritage.
Who is Amir Khusrau? z His literary works include Divans (poetry
¾ About: He was a 13th century Sufi poet and musician collections), Mathnawis (narrative poetry),
who was bestowed with the title of Tuti-yi-Hind, the and treatises.
‘Parrot of India’. Music: He is credited with creating new ragas and

His real name was Abu’l Hasan Yamin ud-Din developing musical forms like Khayal (a form of
Khusrau and was born in Patiali, Etah district of classical Hindustani music), and Tarana (a rhythmic,
Uttar Pradesh. fast-paced vocal composition),
z It is said that Amir Khusrau was one of the first
expounders of the art of making Ghazal and
Qawwali (devotional Sufi music traditions).
z He is believed to have invented musical
instruments such as the sitar and tabla.
¾ Role in the Delhi Sultanate: He served at least five
Sultans i.e., Muiz ud din Qaiqabad, Jalaluddin Khalji,
Alauddin Khalji, Qutbuddin Mubarak Shah, and
Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, and many other powerful
patrons over five decades.
Sultan Jalaluddin Khalji honored him with the title
of Amir in recognition of his literary excellence.
¾ Sufi Influence: Amir Khusrau was the beloved disciple
of Nizamuddin Auliya and drew spiritual inspiration
from him, shaping his poetry and music.
What is Sufism?
¾ About: Sufism is the mystical and spiritual dimension
of Islam, focusing on inner purification, love, and
direct connection with God (Allah).
It emerged in the 7th and 10th centuries CE against the
rigidity of institutionalised religion and emphasizes
devotion, self-discipline, and renunciation of
materialism to attain spiritual enlightenment.

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It ran parallel to the spiritual Bhakti movement

It combined religious knowledge with mysticism,
z
in Hindu tradition emphasizing devotion (bhakti), stressing personal experience and inner
love, and inner realization over ritualistic practices. purification for divine knowledge.
¾ Core Practices: Sufis organized themselves into Naqshbandi Order: It emphasised the primacy
communities centered around khanqahs (hospices), of Shariat and opposed innovations (biddat) and
led by a master (shaikh or pir). rejected Sufi traditions like musical assemblies
Sufis established silsilas (Orders of Sufi) linking (sama) and pilgrimages to saints’ tombs.
disciples to the God, and Sufi tombs (dargahs) z Mughal emperor Aurangzeb followed the
became pilgrimage sites for spiritual blessings.
Naqshbandi Order.
Sufis practice self-mortification, zikr (remembrance
Rishi Order (Kashmir): It was established by Shaikh
of God), sama (musical recitals), and Fana-o-Baqa
(dissolution of self for union with God) to induce Nuruddin Wali and flourished in Kashmir during
mystical states of ecstasy. the 15th and 16th centuries..
¾ Sufism in India: Al-Hujwiri was the earliest prominent z It draws inspiration from the popular Shaivite

Sufi in India, settled in Lahore, and authored Kashf- bhakti tradition and being rooted in the socio-
ul Mahjub. cultural milieu of the region.
The 13th and 14th centuries marked the growth of ¾ Impact:
Sufism, spreading messages of compassion and Religious: Emphasized personal devotion, tawhid
love for all, known as sulh e-kul. (oneness of God), and equality, fostering Hindu-
¾ Sufi Orders in India: By the 12th century, the Sufis Muslim coexistence.
were organised in 12 orders or Silsilas. Major Sufi z The Chishti order welcomed all faiths.
Orders are:
Social: Attracted marginalized groups, weakened
Chishti Order: It is the most influential Sufi order
caste hierarchies, and established khanqahs and
in India and was founded by Khwaja Moinuddin
madrasas as learning centers.
Chishti in Ajmer.
Cultural: Influenced Indian music, notably qawwali,
z Key persons associated with it were Akbar
(follower of Salim Chishti), Qutbuddin Bhaktiyar and enriched vernacular literature through poets
Kaki, Baba Farid, Nizamuddin Auliya, and Amir like Bulleh Shah and Sultan Bahu.
Khusrau. Political: Inspired Sulh-i-Kul, shaping Akbar’s
Suhrawardi Order: It was founded by Bahauddin religious tolerance policies. Rulers patronized
Zakaria in Multan and embraced luxury and state Sufis to reinforce authority and manage religious
support. diversity

Similarities Between Bhakti and Sufi Movements

Aspect Bhakti Movement Sufi Movement
Devotion to a personal God (Saguna/
Core Belief Love for God (Ishq-e-Haqiqi) and inner purification
Nirguna Bhakti)
Rejection of They opposed Brahminical dominance,
Provided alternative to orthodox Islamic legalism.
Rituals and elaborated rituals.
Emphasis on Love Love as a way to unite with God (Fana – merging
Bhakti as a path to liberation (Moksha)
and Devotion with God)
Simple Language Used vernacular languages (Hindi,
Composed poetry in Hindavi, Persian, and Urdu
for Masses Marathi, Tamil, etc.)
Music and Poetry Bhajans and Kirtans (Mirabai, Tulsidas) Qawwalis and Sufi poetry (Amir Khusrau, Rumi)
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Geography

Highlights
z Wallace Line z Rising Avalanche Risks

Wallace Line
Why in News?
In the 19th century, Alfred Wallace observed a change in species composition between Asia and Australia. This
difference in species composition later developed as the Wallace Line.
What is the Wallace Line?
¾ About: The Wallace Line is an imaginary boundary separating the distinct faunal regions of Asia and Australia.
It marks a major biogeographical division with stark species differences on either side of the line.

¾ Geographical Location: It runs through the Makassar Strait, which lies between the east coast of Borneo and the
western coast of Sulawesi.
It extends between Bali and Lombok, separating the Sunda and Sahul continental shelves.

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¾ Species Distribution: West of the Wallace Line (Bali, Borneo, Java, and mainland Asia), fauna consists of monkeys,
apes, rhinos, squirrels, tigers, and hornbills, which are characteristic of the Asian ecosystem.
East of the Wallace Line (Lombok, Sulawesi, Timor, and Australia), fauna includes tree kangaroos, cockatoos,
and honeyeaters, linked to the Australian ecosystem.
¾ Wallacea Region: The region between the Wallace Line and the Weber Line (another faunal boundary to the east)
is known as Wallacea and includes islands like Sulawesi, Flores, Lombok, and Timor.
Isolated Wallacean islands have lower biodiversity than nearby continents but host unique species like the
Komodo dragon, babirusa, and giant bees.
Sulawesi is home to both Asian species like tarsiers and anoas, and Australian marsupials like the dwarf cuscus.

¾ Reason for Formation:

Continental Drift: About 85 million years ago, Australia separated from Antarctica and drifted northward,
isolating species and driving independent evolution.
Deep Oceanic Barriers: It aligns with deep waters like the Makassar Strait, which remained submerged even
during ice ages, limiting species movement between Asia and Australia.
Geological Climate Change: Asian and Australian species, suited to their respective climate, struggled to
migrate either side of the line.

Rising Avalanche Risks

Why in News?
A massive avalanche occurred in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, burying people and properties under snow and debris.
¾ Warmer temperatures, more rain, and less snowfall are altering snow conditions, increasing avalanches in the Himalayas.

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What is an Avalanche?
¾ About: An avalanche is the rapid flow of snow, ice, and debris down a mountain slope. It often carries earth,
rocks, and rubble, causing destruction.
Avalanche risk peaks from December to April due to heavy winter snowfall (snow accumulation) and spring
thaw (weakening snow layers).
¾ Types:
Loose Snow Avalanche: It starts from a single point where snow is not well bonded, spreads in an inverted
V-shape as snow particles fall, and is less dangerous due to lower volume and speed.
Slab Avalanche: It occurs when a cohesive snow slab breaks away from underlying layers, often reaching speeds
of 50–100 km/h and causing significant destruction.
Gliding Avalanche: The snowpack slides down a smooth surface, like grass or rock slabs, leaving a broad
fracture line separating it from stationary snow.
Wet-Snow Avalanche: A wet-snow avalanche is naturally triggered by rising temperatures or rain, as meltwater
weakens the snow layer bonds.
What are the Causes of Avalanche?
Natural
¾ Snow Accumulation: Continuous or excessive snowfall increases the weight of the snowpack, leading to instability.
E.g., Himachal Pradesh avalanche (January 2020).
Windy conditions on fresh snow slopes can enhance instability.
¾ Weak Snow Layers: Temperature changes weaken the snowpack, e.g., fresh snow over a weak base may lead to
an avalanche.
Sudden warming weakens the snowpack, leading to wet-snow avalanches.
¾ Earthquakes: Seismic activity can destabilize snow layers. E.g., Nepal earthquake 2015 triggered avalanches in
the Langtang Valley, Nepal.
Human-Induced
¾ Deforestation: Tree roots stabilize slopes, but deforestation, like in Himalayan road projects, raises avalanche
and landslide risks.
¾ Adventure Tourism: Skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering can trigger avalanches by disturbing the snowpack.
E.g., In February 2024, skiers in Gulmarg triggered an avalanche by skiing in a non-ski zone.
¾ Global Warming: Rising global temperatures cause frequent freeze-thaw cycles, increasing avalanche risks.

How Avalanche Differ from Landslides?

Basis Avalanche Landslide
A type of landslide that occurs in snowy regions, A form of mass wasting where a large area of
Definition
involving the movement of snow and air. land moves under the force of gravity.
Heavy snowfall, Unstable snowpack, ice pellets,
Earthquakes, Volcanic eruptions, Heavy rains
Causes Strong winds depositing snow on slopes,
and floods, Deforestation, Wildfires
Temperature fluctuations
Flowing Matter Composed of snow and air. Consists of soil, rocks, or mud.
Occurs in snowy regions where snowpacks are
Occurrence Happens on land with steep slopes.
weakly held by snow layers.
Speed of Very fast (up to 250 miles per hour in extreme Can be fast like avalanches or slow-moving
Movement cases) over time

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Why are Himalayas More Prone to Avalanches?

¾ Rising Temperatures: The Himalayas are warming faster than average, causing glacier melt and retreating snow
lines.
Avalanches in the western Himalayas have increased significantly since the 1970s.
¾ Wetter Snow: Warmer temperatures cause rain instead of snow, making the snowpack wetter and unstable.
Rainwater percolating into the snowpack weakens its structure, reducing friction between snow layers and
increasing avalanche risks.
¾ Permafrost Melting: The melting of permafrost causes water accumulation at their base, making ice layers more
prone to sliding.
¾ Increased Wind Speeds: Rising temperatures are causing higher wind speeds, which increase snow transport and
make fresh snow layers more unstable.
¾ Steep Slopes: The steep and rugged terrain of the Himalayas makes it easier for snow to slide down due to gravity.
¾ Earthquakes: The Himalayas lie in a seismically active zone, and earthquakes can trigger avalanches by shaking
the unstable snow layers.
Karakoram Anomaly
¾ The Karakoram Anomaly refers to the unusual behavior of glaciers in the Karakoram Range, where they have
either remained stable or experienced slight mass gains, contrary to the widespread trend of glacier retreat
observed globally due to climate change.
Karakoram Range is a mountainous region spanning Pakistan, India, Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and China.

How to Mitigate Avalanche Risk?

¾ Early Warning Systems (EWS): EWS can reduce avalanche risk by monitoring snow conditions (using sensors and
satellites), issuing alerts (weak snow layers), and aiding rescue efforts (timely preventive action).
E.g., In 2022, India’s first avalanche monitoring radar was installed in Sikkim that can detect avalanches within
3 seconds of trigger.
¾ Snow Test: Snow tests can be conducted regularly to assess the stability of the snowpack and predict avalanche risks.
¾ Defensive Structures: Snow sheds can be constructed over transportation routes to shield vehicles from falling snow.
Wall reinforcement and splitting wedge can help strengthen structures and deflect avalanches away from
buildings.
¾ Dual-Purpose Infrastructure: Build dams to protect against flooding and debris flows after snowmelt, ensuring
year-round disaster mitigation.
¾ Artificial Avalanche Triggering: Controlled explosions trigger small avalanches to prevent larger ones, protecting
roads, settlements, and ski slopes.
¾ Afforestation: Encouraging forest growth can help in natural avalanche control over time.
nnn

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Security

Highlights
z India 2nd Largest Arms Importer: SIPRI z North Sea

zIndia procured Rafale jets and Scorpene

India 2nd Largest Arms submarines from France.
Ukraine saw a 100-fold increase in arms imports
Importer: SIPRI
due to the war with Russia. It received 8.8% of
Why in News? global arms imports, with the US, Germany, and
Poland as top suppliers.
India’s share of global arms imports fell to 8.3% in
¾ Russia: Russia’s global arms exports dropped by 64%,
2020–24, making it the 2nd-largest arms importer, after falling to 7.8% of global exports (third place) due to
Ukraine, as per the Stockholm International Peace Western sanctions and production constraints.
Research Institute (SIPRI) report.
However, India (38%), China (17%), and Kazakhstan
What are the Key Findings of the (11%) remained its top buyers.
Report on Arms Trade? ¾ Middle East: Arms imports fell by 20%, but the region
¾ India: India’s arms imports declined by 9.3% compared remains a major importer, with Qatar becoming the
3rd-largest arms importer globally.
to 2015-19. Russia remained India’s top supplier, but its
share dropped from 72% (2010-14) to 36% (2020-24). ¾ Global Arms Transfers: Global arms transfers remained
stable compared to 2015–19 and 2010–14, but were
France emerged as India’s second-largest supplier
18% higher than 2005–09, with rising imports in
(28% of its total exports went to India). Europe and the Americas offset by decreases in other
¾ India’s Neighbors: Pakistan’s Arms Imports Grew regions like China.
by 61%. China supplied 81% of Pakistan’s total arms
imports. What are India’s Initiatives
For the first time since 1990-94, China dropped out
to Reduce Arms Imports?
of the top 10 arms importers as its arms imports ¾ Budget: Rs 6.21 lakh crore allocated for defence in
declined by 64%, reflecting a stronger domestic Budget 2024-25, with 75% of capital procurement
defense industry. reserved for domestic manufacturers.
Self-Reliant Initiatives through Joint Action (SRIJAN)
¾ Asia and Oceania: India, Pakistan, Japan, and Australia
ranked among the 10 largest arms importers globally portal launched to facilitate procurement from
Indian vendors.
in 2020-24.
¾ Production: India’s defence production reached a
¾ US: Retains position as the largest arms exporter,
record value of Rs 1. 27 lakh crore in 2023-24, a 174%
supplying weapons to Ukraine, North Atlantic Treaty rise from 2014-15.
Organization (NATO) allies, and Asia-Pacific nations.
The top three destinations for India’s defence exports
¾ Europe: European arms imports surged by 155%, as in 2023-24 were the US, France, and Armenia.
countries increased defense spending in response to
¾ Positive Indigenization Lists: Five ‘Positive
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Indigenization Lists’ comprising defence items have
France overtakes Russia as the 2nd-largest arms been released. These lists place an embargo on the
exporter, with India (28%) as the top buyer, import of these items, ensuring they are produced
followed by Qatar. within India.

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¾ Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020: Prioritizes domestic procurement over foreign purchases.
Introduced categories like “Buy (Indian-IDDM)” (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured).

Promotes Make-I and Make-II projects to encourage private-sector participation in defence manufacturing.

¾ Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs): Two corridors established in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to boost defence
manufacturing.
¾ Private Sector & FDI Participation: 74% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) via the Automatic Route and 100% via
the Government Route in defence manufacturing.
21% of India’s total defence production now comes from the private sector.

¾ Defence Public Sector Units (DPSUs): India has 16 DPSUs, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat
Electronics Ltd (BEL), and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders.
Major indigenization projects led by DPSUs include INS Vikrant (India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier), LCA
Tejas (advanced fighter jet developed by HAL).
¾ R&D & Innovation: iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) initiative promotes startups and MSMEs in developing
cutting-edge military technology.
¾ Future Goals: India is aiming for Rs 1.75 lakh crore worth of defence production in 2025, with a target of Rs 3 lakh
crore by 2029.

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North Sea
A cargo ship carrying toxic chemicals collided with a US military-chartered oil tanker in the North Sea.
North Sea:
¾ Location: A shallow, northeastern arm of the Atlantic Ocean between the British Isles and mainland northwestern
Europe.
It is connected to the Atlantic by the Strait of Dover and the English Channel and to the Baltic Sea through
the Skagerrak and Kattegat.
The deepest point in the North Sea is the Norwegian Trench (725 meters).

¾ Borders: Surrounded by the United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.
¾ Economic Importance: Major trade route for Europe, linking key ports in the UK, Scandinavia, and mainland Europe.
The 1958 Geneva Convention on the Continental Shelf established countries’ rights over adjacent shelves,
enabling North Sea exploration, which is rich in oil and gas with extensive offshore drilling.

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Miscellaneous
Highlights
z Linguistic Diversity and Education

¾ Policy Recommendations: The report calls for context-

Linguistic Diversity specific language policies and curriculum adjustments.
and Education Support for teacher training, multilingual materials,
and inclusive learning environments.
Why in News? Focus on fostering inclusion through school
leadership and community collaboration.
A United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) report, titled “Languages Matter: Note: International Mother Language Day was proposed
Global Guidance on Multilingual Education,” released on by Bangladesh, approved during the 1999 UNESCO
the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language General Conference, and has been observed globally
Day, highlights the impact of language barriers on global on 21st February since 2000.
education outcomes.
¾ The day also honors Bangladesh’s struggle to protect
What are the Key Highlights of the its mother language, Bangla.
UNESCO Report on Language? ¾ UNESCO advocates for cultural and linguistic diversity
¾ Language Barrier in Education: 40% of the global to promote sustainability, tolerance, respect, and
population lacks access to education in a language peace.
they speak or understand. In low- and middle-income
How Has India’s Linguistic
countries, this percentage rises to 90%, affecting over
250 million learners. Landscape Evolved?
Migration is increasing linguistic diversity, with ¾ Prehistoric Times: While human habitation in India
over 31 million displaced youth facing language predates Sanskrit, no written records exist from
barriers in education. prehistoric times, making it difficult to reconstruct
¾ Legacy of Colonialism: Many post-colonial nations early languages.
continue to use non-native languages as the medium ¾ Indus Valley Civilization: The Indus script (2600–1900
of instruction. Local languages remain undervalued BCE) remains undeciphered, making it unclear whether
in formal education, disadvantageing native speakers. it represents an early form of Dravidian, Indo-Aryan,
¾ Immigration and Education: Immigration has led to or another language family.
linguistically diverse classrooms, especially in high- ¾ The Rise of Sanskrit, Prakrits, and Tamil: Writing
income countries. These countries struggle with appeared in India 24 centuries ago, mainly through
language acquisition support, inclusive curricula, inscriptions and manuscripts.
and fair assessments. Sanskrit and Prakrits: Sanskrit emerged as a
Policy responses vary, some countries promote dominant literary and scholarly language, while
bilingual education, while others prioritize quick Prakrits (a group of vernacular classical Middle
immersion in the dominant language. Indo-Aryan languages) coexisted with it.
¾ Challenges in Implementation: Despite growing Tamil: Tamil developed as an independent classical
awareness, challenges like limited teacher capacity, language, with the Sangam literature (3rd century
lack of materials, and community opposition hinder BCE – 3rd century CE) marking its rich literary
the adoption of multilingual education. tradition.

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¾ Influence of Foreign and Regional Languages: ¾ Emergence of Modern Indian Languages: Regional
Foreign Languages: With the spread of Islamic rule, languages like Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Kannada, Marathi,
Persian and Arabic influenced Indian languages, and Telugu gained literary and political recognition.
leading to linguistic amalgamations like Urdu. Languages in the Eighth Schedule of the Indian
z Over the last 5,000 years, India absorbed languages Constitution see higher speaker numbers, whereas
like Avestan, Austro-Asiatic, Tibeto-Burman, languages not included face decline.
and Indo-Aryan, creating a rich linguistic legacy.
z Many languages spoken by Adivasi communities,
Dravidian and Tibeto-Burman Growth: The
especially from the Austro-Asiatic and Tibeto-
Dravidian languages (Tamil, Telugu, Kannada,
Burman families, face extinction due to
Malayalam) and Tibeto-Burman languages of the
demographic shifts.
Northeast flourished with regional literature and
administrative use. Despite the rise of print capitalism and digital
¾ Printing Revolution: The use of paper and later printing technology, the growth of English poses a challenge
transformed literacy, leading to mass production of to Indian languages, especially in urban areas.
books in regional languages. Note: The Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009, and
¾ Post-Colonial Language Shift: National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 both emphasize
Colonial Impact: English became a language the importance of mother tongue in education.
of administration, education, and economic
¾ NEP 2020 recommends using the home language/
opportunity under British rule.
mother tongue as the medium of instruction till
Decline of Persian and Sanskrit: As English gained
Grade 5, preferably till Grade 8, to promote regional
prominence, Persian declined in administration
languages and ensure effective, inclusive learning
and Sanskrit remained confined to religious and
scholarly use. through multilingual education.
nnn

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Rapid Fire Current Affairs

Highlights
z Railways’ Work Under Mission Amrit Sarovar z Gut Bacteria and Vitiligo
z PM-YUVA 3.0 z Jan Aushadhi Diwas
z Mycelium Bricks z Dramatic Performances Act, 1876
z APAAR ID z Empowering Women PRIs Leaders
z Cassava z Planetary Parade
z Water Ice Beyond Lunar Poles z Endogamy
z Turning Animal Liquid Waste into Fertilizer z Starlink and Eutelsat
z Solar Maximum Spurs Solar Missions z Dholavira
z Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan Border Deal z Carbon Intensity
z Hantavirus z Colossal A23a Iceberg Stuck
z 6th Edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian z Taiwan’s Geopolitical Significance
z Ancient Stone and Bone Tools z Crop Contingency Plan for Kashmir
z Hydrogen Peroxide z Blue Ghost Mission 1
z Smooth-coated Otters z Narwhals
z 55th Anniversary of NPT z SPHEREx Mission
z Govind Ballabh Pant z Oscars Awards 2025
z Exercise KHANJAR-XII z India’s Exploration of Critical Minerals
z KVIC’s Honey Mission z Morarji Desai
z Order of Freedom of Barbados z Aditya-L1 Mission Captures Solar Flare
z Vanuatu’s Citizenship By Investment Program z State of India’s Digital Economy Report 2025
z Madhav National Park z Algal Blooms in River Thames
z US Withdrawal from Loss and Damage Fund z Red Color of Mars
z Pelican and Painted Stork z CPI for Agricultural and Rural Labourers
z Bangus Valley z Cape Vultures Spotted in South Africa

Railways’ Work Under Mission Amrit Sarovar

The Indian Railways has been integrated into the Mission Amrit Sarovar initiative to aid in water conservation
by constructing and rejuvenating ponds across the country.
¾ Indian Railways will desilt, excavate, or create water bodies near railway lines in coordination with district authorities
and the Ministry of Rural Development.
About Mission Amrit Sarovar: It was launched in April 2022 to construct or rejuvenate 75 ponds per district. As
of October 2024, over 68,000 ponds have been completed.

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¾ It ensures long-term water availability through They are biodegradable, fire-resistant, lightweight,
community participation, and climate resilience to and good heat insulators, making them suitable
secure sustainable water resources. for interior panelling, filters, and electronics.
¾ It is an initiative of the Ministry of Rural Development Potential applications include interior panelling,
and Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space liquid filters, sports equipment, and electronic
Application and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) is the components.
Mission’s technical partner.
¾ Challenges Hindering Adoption: Mycelium bricks have
¾ It is implemented through convergence with schemes low load-bearing capacity, high moisture absorption,
like MGNREGA, 15th Finance Commission Grants, and a short lifespan due to biodegradability and
PMKSY, and state programs. vulnerability to termites, making them less durable
Read More: Mission Amrit Sarovar than concrete.
Tropical weather conditions, high humidity, and
PM-YUVA 3.0 lack of infrastructure in India make large-scale
manufacturing expensive and impractical.
The Ministry of Education launched PM-YUVA 3.0 ¾ Potential Solutions: Flame retardants and Ultra
(Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors)-Prime Violet Coatings can improve fire resistance and
Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors. durability, while R&D and policy support can enhance
¾ It aims to train young authors (below 30 years) to competitiveness with clay bricks.
promote reading, writing, and book culture while
projecting Indian literature globally.
¾ Themes:
Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building

Indian Knowledge System

Makers of Modern India (1950-2025)

¾ National Book Trust (NBT), under the Ministry of

Education, is the implementing agency.
Books to be published by NBT and translated
into multiple Indian languages under Ek Bharat
Shreshtha Bharat.
¾ It aligns with NEP 2020 to support empowerment of
young minds and prepares future leaders.
Read More: YUVA Scheme for Young Writers

Mycelium Bricks
In the face of climate change, the construction Read more: Energy Efficiency in Construction Sector
industry is seeking low-carbon alternatives, and mycelium
bricks have emerged as a promising innovation.
APAAR ID
¾ Mycelium Bricks: Created from fungal spores, husk,
and sawdust, mycelium bricks form a lightweight, The Automated Permanent Academic Account
fibrous structure with a low environmental impact Registry (APAAR) ID, aims to standardize student records.
compared to traditional fired clay bricks, which emit However, concerns over implementation, data privacy
nearly 300 million tonnes of CO₂ annually. have sparked debates among activists.

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¾ APAAR ID: Introduced under the National Education

Policy 2020 and aligned with the National Credit Cassava
Framework, it aims to establish a “One Nation, One
Student ID” system to streamline academic records Indigenous farming has preserved cassava’s genetic
and facilitate transitions between educational levels. diversity and earned the title of the ‘bread of the tropics’
for feeding nearly a billion people.
APAAR assigns a 12-digit ID, linking academic records
to DigiLocker and Academic Bank of Credits for About Cassava: Cassava (Yuca or Manioc) is a starchy
storage and verification. root vegetable and the source of tapioca (a starch used
Schools record data, while Higher Education
in bakery products, paper, and adhesive industries).
Institutions & Skill Institutes access verified ¾ It is native to South America and widely cultivated in
academic records for admissions and recruitment. tropical regions (Africa, Asia, and Latin America) for
¾ Concerns About APAAR ID: APAAR’s Aadhaar its resilience to drought and poor soils.
linkage is causing issues due to spelling mismatches, Cassava cultivation in India is mostly confined to
necessitating updates. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and North-
While the Education Ministry claims APAAR is Eastern States.
voluntary, Central Board of Secondary Education’s ¾ It is grown through stem cuttings, but Brazil’s Kukurro
push for 100% enrolment of APAAR raises concerns tradition promotes genetic diversity by encouraging
of implicit mandates, contradicting the Supreme seed-based reproduction.
Court ruling in Justice (Retd.) K.S. Puttaswamy v.
¾ It supports gut health, regulates blood sugar, controls
Union of India (2019), which held that Aadhaar
cannot be required for basic education access. appetite, and lowers type 2 diabetes risk.
¾ It is used in the production of bioethanol and
The Advocacy groups are concerned about risks in
handling minors’ sensitive personal data without biodegradable plastics, while its peels and leaves
robust data protection. serve as animal fodder.
z The Data Protection Act, 2023 (not yet enforced)
mandates that consent must be free, informed,
and unambiguous, which activists argue is
being ignored.

Water Ice Beyond

Lunar Poles
Recent Chandrayaan-3’s ChaSTE (Chandra’s Surface
Thermophysical Experiment) data suggests that water-
ice may exist outside the Moon’s polar regions, particularly
Read more: APAAR: One Nation One Student ID Card in high-latitude areas.

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¾ ChaSTE is a sort of a thermometer that measures surface and sub-surface temperatures near the Moon’s poles.
¾ ChaSTE data suggests shaded lunar slopes may resemble polar regions, potentially hiding subsurface water-ice.
¾ Colder slopes away from the Sun may trap water-ice, extending its presence beyond polar craters for easier access
in future missions.
¾ Lunar water can support drinking, oxygen production, and splitting it into hydrogen and oxygen enables fuel
production for deep-space missions.
¾ Chandrayaan-3 soft-landed near the Moon’s south pole on 23rd August, 2023, at a site later named ‘Shiv Shakti Point’.

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Turning Animal Liquid Waste into Fertilizer

Scientists have developed an innovative electrochemical technique to extract urea from urine, transforming it
into a fertilizer while addressing wastewater treatment challenges.
¾ The new electrochemical process converts urine’s urea into Percarbamide, a crystalline peroxide derivative that
can be used as fertilizer.
It has achieved nearly 100% purity in extracting percarbamide from both human and animal urine.

The extracted Percarbamide gradually releases nitrogen, enhancing crop growth and completing the nitrogen
cycle.
¾ Urine contains essential nutrients like phosphorus, potassium, and nitrogen (urea), making it a potential natural
fertilizer.
¾ An adult produces 450–680 liters of urine annually that can produce 4 kg nitrogen, and 0.3 kg phosphorus, enough
to grow wheat for a daily loaf of bread for a year.
¾ It can help in achieving ODF++ status under the Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban (SBM-U) that involves solid and
liquid waste management and the dairy sector to reduce GHG emissions.

Solar Maximum Spurs Solar Missions

NASA’s PUNCH mission, aimed at studying the Sun’s corona, is the third major solar mission since 2023, reflecting
a rise in solar missions linked to the solar cycle, which is nearing its solar maximum.

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Solar Cycle:
¾ The solar cycle is an 11-year period during which the Sun’s magnetic field flips, causing the north and south poles
to switch places.
¾ During the solar maximum (when the Sun is most active), solar activity—such as sunspots, solar flares, and coronal
mass ejections—increases, impacting satellite communications and power grids.
Sunspots are small, dark, and cooler areas where the magnetic field is particularly strong.

¾ The cycle ends with the solar minimum (when sunspot activity is at its lowest), leading to a decline in solar activity
until the next cycle begins.
The solar cycle is tracked by counting sunspots.

Surge in Solar Missions:

¾ The increased number of solar missions is due to the Sun approaching its solar maximum (2022-2024), providing
the best opportunity to study its behavior.
The next peak in solar activity is expected after 2035-2036.

¾ Earlier Solar Missions: Aditya L1 (India), Proba-3 (European Space Agency)

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Kyrgyzstan & Tajikistan Border Deal

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have agreed to exchange disputed lands, improving access to farmland and water
resources, bringing an end to their long-standing border conflict.
Reasons for Conflict:
¾ The conflict arises from border disputes due to differing maps and the arbitrary division of the Fergana Valley,
leading to ethnic tensions among Kyrgyz, Tajiks, and Uzbeks.
Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan: Both are Central Asian nations, gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991.
¾ Kyrgyzstan borders Kazakhstan, China, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, with Bishkek as its capital.
¾ Tajikistan shares borders with Afghanistan, China, Kyrgyzstan, and Uzbekistan, with Dushanbe as its capital.
¾ Both share the Fergana Valley with Uzbekistan.

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¾ Symptoms:
Prodromal Phase (1-8 weeks after exposure): Flu-like symptoms (fever, chills, muscle aches, fatigue, nausea,
vomiting, and diarrhea).
Severe Phase (HPS onset): Shortness of breath, coughing, chest tightness, fluid buildup in the lungs, and
potential heart failure.
¾ High-Risk Groups: Farmers, construction workers, hikers, campers, and those handling rodent-infested areas.
Children under five, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid contact with pet rodents.

¾ Treatment: No specific antiviral treatment, management includes oxygen therapy and intensive care for severe cases.
¾ Prevention: Keeping homes and workplaces rodent-free by sealing entry points, and wear protective gear when
cleaning areas with rodent activity can significantly reduce the risk.
Read more: HMPV Virus

6th Edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian

The 6th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian, a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, successfully
concluded in Japan enhancing defense and interoperability cooperation.
¾ Exercise Dharma Guardian: It is an annual exercise conducted alternately in India and Japan, enhancing combat
readiness through counter-terrorism training in urban terrain and including United Nations Peacekeeping
Operations (UNPKO) and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) drills.
¾ India-Japan Multilateral Exercises: Veer Guardian (air force), SHINYUU Maitri (air force), JIMEX (naval), and
Malabar (naval) (along with Australia and the US).

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Ancient Stone and Bone Tools

A recent study found that ancient ancestors used bone tools 1.5 million years ago, nearly a million years earlier
than believed, challenging the idea that toolmaking was unique to humans.
¾ Origin of Toolmaking: The earliest stone tools (3.3 million years) and bone tools (1.5 million years), indicating
that tool use predates Homo and was likely practiced by earlier hominins.
It is argued that toolmaking required conceptual thought and was unique to humans.
¾ Fossil of Human Evolution: Discovered in 1974, Lucy, a 3.2-million-year-old human ancestor, played a key role in
evolution, possibly using her hands for tools.
¾ Stone Tools in India’s Human History:

Period Tools & Technology Key Sites

Lower Palaeolithic Hand axes, cleavers, choppers (for Bori (Maharashtra), Son & Sohan valleys
(600,000 – 150,000 BCE) cutting, chopping, skinning) (Punjab), Didwana (Rajasthan), Bhimbetka (MP)

Middle Palaeolithic Flakes, blades, points, borers, scrapers Narmada valley, Belan valley (UP), Tungabhadra
(150,000 – 35,000 BCE) (from small stone pieces) region (South India)

Upper Palaeolithic Blades, burins, scrapers (more refined Bhimbetka (MP), Karnataka, Maharashtra,
(35,000 – 10,000 BCE) and diverse) Gujarat sand dunes

Mesolithic Age (9000 Microliths (tiny stone tools, often used Bagor (Rajasthan), Adamgarh (MP), South of
– 4000 BCE) as composite tools) Krishna River

Neolithic Age (7000 Mehrgarh (Balochistan), Burzahom (Kashmir),

Rectangular axes, polished stone axes
– 5500 BCE) Gufkral (Kashmir), Senuwar (Bihar)

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Smooth-coated Otters
Two smooth-coated otters (Lutrogale perspicillata) were brought to the Delhi zoo after two decades.
¾ About Smooth-coated Otters: They are a species of otter found in freshwater habitats across South and Southeast
Asia.
¾ Physical Traits: They have smooth, velvety fur, a round head with a prominent naked nose, a flattened tail, and
webbed feet.
¾ Behavior: They are social animals and hunt fishes in groups.
¾ Protected Areas: Corbett and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves, Katerniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Kaziranga National Park,
Periyar Tiger Reserve and the Nagarhole National Park.
¾ Conservation Status:
IUCN: Vulnerable.

WPA, 1972: Schedule I.

CITES: Appendix I

55th Anniversary of NPT

The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) marks 55 years on 5th March, 2025.
¾ It was approved by the UN General Assembly on 12th June, 1968 and came into force on 5th March, 1970.
¾ About NPT: It is the only multilateral binding treaty for Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS) to disarmament while
promoting peaceful nuclear energy use.

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¾ Key Provisions: It defines NWS as countries possessing nuclear weapons before 1st January , 1967 (USA, UK,
France, China, and USSR/Russia).
Non-nuclear states agree not to develop nuclear weapons, while nuclear states pledge not to transfer them.

It allows peaceful use of nuclear energy and provides a withdrawal option if national security is threatened.

¾ Membership: 191 members with 5 NWS (US, Russia, UK, France & China).
India is not a member.

¾ Monitoring: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitors compliance.

¾ India and NPT: India opposes the NPT, calling it discriminatory, as it legitimizes nuclear weapons for five countries
while denying the same right to others.
India follows a “No First Use” (NFU) policy and is committed to global nuclear disarmament.

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Govind Ballabh Pant

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister paid tribute to Govind Ballabh (G.B.) Pant (1887-1961), a revered freedom fighter
and the 1st chief minister (CM) of the Uttar Pradesh (UP) on his death anniversary (7th March)
¾ GB Pant Early Life: Born in Almora, Uttarakhand, Pant was inspired by Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Madan Mohan
Malaviya.
¾ Role in the Freedom Movement: Active participant in the Salt March(1930) and Civil Disobedience Movement(1930)
and Quit India Movement (1942).
¾ Political Journey: Became a member of the Constituent Assembly, contributing to the framing of the Indian
Constitution.
GB Pant as CM of UP worked towards Zamindari abolition and emphasized modernization.

GB Pant was appointed as Union Home Minister by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1955, he was instrumental in establishing
Hindi as one of the official languages of India.
¾ Honour and Legacy: In 1957, he was conferred with the Bharat Ratna. His political legacy includes mentoring UP
leaders like Chaudhary Charan Singh.

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¾ The exercise aims to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism and special operations in urban and high-altitude
terrain.
¾ Key areas of focus include sniping, building intervention, and mountain warfare. Additionally, cultural exchanges,
including Kyrgyz festival Nowruz celebrations, will strengthen bilateral ties.
¾ This exercise reinforces India-Kyrgyzstan defence cooperation, addressing regional security challenges like
terrorism and extremism, while promoting peace and stability in the region.
¾ Kyrgyzstan, located in Central Asia, shares the Fergana Valley with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. The region is rich in
hydrocarbons, making it crucial for India’s energy security.

KVIC’s Honey Mission

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) has distributed bee boxes, honey colonies, and toolkits to
beekeepers under the ‘Honey Mission’ to spread the Sweet Revolution.
¾ Honey Mission (2017): It is an initiative of KVIC that promotes beekeeping and honey production (apiculture),
and integrates bee farming with agriculture for additional income.
Apiculture products include honey, royal jelly, beeswax, pollens that are widely used in pharmaceuticals, food,
beverages, beauty, and other industries.
¾ KVIC: It is a statutory body established under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act, 1956 and functions
under the Ministry of MSME.

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It plans, promotes, and implements programs for Khadi and village industries, coordinating with rural
development agencies.
Note: Like KVIC’s Honey Mission, the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare implements the National Beekeeping
& Honey Mission (NBHM), a Central Sector Scheme aimed at promoting scientific beekeeping to promote the
Sweet Revolution in India.
¾ Sweet revolution promotes apiculture (beekeeping) to boost the production of high-quality honey and other
bee-derived products.

Order of Freedom of Barbados

India’s Prime Minister has been conferred the ‘Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados’ in recognition of his
strategic leadership and support during the Covid-19 pandemic.
¾ It was announced during a meeting with India’s PM in November, 2024, in Guyana during the India-CARICOM Summit.
¾ India and Barbados established diplomatic ties in 1966.
¾ In 2021, Barbados officially removed Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state and became the world’s newest
republic with Dame Sandra as the first head of state (President) of the Republic of Barbados.
Barbados got independence from Britain on 30th November, 1966.

¾ Barbados is a Caribbean island in the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela.

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¾ PM Modi’s list of international awards now includes 19 prestigious recognitions. Notable awards include Russia’s
“Order of St. Andrew the Apostle” and the US’s “Legion of Merit.”
Read More: Barbados: World’s Newest Republic

Vanuatu’s Citizenship By Investment Program

Vanuatu’s citizenship-by-investment (CBI) program, commonly known as the “golden passport, allows wealthy
individuals to purchase its passport, raising concerns over security and transparency.
¾ Vanuatu’s CBI Program: Allows individuals to acquire citizenship in a country by making significant financial
contributions to its economy.
As per the Henley Passport Index 2025, Vanuatu’s passport ranks 53rd, granting visa-free access to 113 countries,
ahead of China (59) and India (80).
As a tax Haven, Vanuatu has no personal income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, making it attractive for
high-net-worth individuals.
¾ Vanuatu: An island nation in the South Pacific, consists of 83 islands and lies to the east of Australia and the north
of New Zealand. Its capital is Port Vila.
It is home to active volcanoes like Mount Yasur, Vanuatu experiences frequent volcanic activity.

¾ Concerns: Criminals, and fraudsters acquire Vanuatu citizenship to evade scrutiny and access global markets.
Countries like the UK and EU have called the scheme a potential gateway for money laundering and tax evasion.

¾ Citizenship in India: The Indian Constitution (Articles 5-11) defines citizenship. India does not grant citizenship
solely based on financial contributions.

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Madhav National Park

Madhav National Park, located in the Chambal region of MP, has been declared India’s 58th Tiger Reserve (9th
Tiger Reserve of MP). The reserve currently houses 5 tigers.
Madhav National Park:
¾ Located in Shivpuri District, it is part of the upper Vindhyan hills and was historically a hunting ground for Mughal
emperors and the Maharaja of Gwalior.
¾ It was designated a National Park in 1959.
¾ The park has a rich ecosystem, including lakes, dry deciduous, and dry thorn forests, and is home to species like
tigers, leopards, Nilgai, Chinkara, Chousingha, and various deer species.
¾ It is part of one of India’s 32 major tiger corridors, operationalized through the Tiger Conservation Plan under
the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
¾ As of 2022, India’s tiger population was estimated to range between 3167- 3925, growing by 6.1% annually, and
now holds 75% of the world’s tigers.

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US Withdrawal from Loss and Damage Fund

The US has withdrawn from the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF), furthering its disengagement from global climate
commitments like the Paris Agreement and Green Climate Fund.
¾ LDF: Created at UN Climate Change Conference COP 27 in Egypt, the LDF supports developing and small island
nations facing climate-induced losses like rising sea levels, heatwaves, and extreme weather, with contributions
from developed nations.
The LDF is managed by a Governing Board, with the World Bank as its interim trustee.

Nearly USD 750 million pledged under LDF, with the US contributing USD 17.5 million before withdrawing.

¾ Implications of US Withdrawal: Vulnerable nations, including India (which alone faced USD 56 billion in weather-related
damages (2019 - 2023)), face growing uncertainty in climate aid, further straining North-South climate negotiations.
Read more: Loss and Damage Fund

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Pelican and Painted Stork

Pelicans and painted storks were sighted at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam.
¾ About Pelicans: Pelicans (genus Pelecanus) are large water birds known for their long beaks and large throat
pouches used for catching fish.
Pelicans are highly social birds, living in colonies of hundreds.

They are carnivores, primarily eating fish but also consuming amphibians, crustaceans, insects, birds, and
small mammals.
They inhabit all continents except Antarctica, preferring warm coastal and inland waters like lakes and rivers.

¾ About Painted Stork (Mycteria Leucocephala): It is a large bird inhabiting South and Southeast Asian wetlands,
featuring bright pink flight feathers, a white body, and black markings.
They are predominantly non-migratory and most make only local movements and are social in nature.

IUCN Status: Near threatened.

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It is surrounded by Rajwar and Mawar Mountains

in the east, Shamasbury and Dajlungun in the Jan Aushadhi Diwas
west, and Chowkibal and Karnah Guli in the Every year, March 7th is celebrated as Jan Aushadhi
north. Diwas to raise awareness about affordable generic
The landscape includes grasslands at lower altitudes medicines under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi
and dense coniferous forests (Taiga biome). Pariyojana (PMBJP).
It offers lush green meadows, low-lying mountains ¾ Jan Aushadhi Diwas: Initiated on 7th March 2019,
covered with dense forests, and a serene under the PMBJP. The initiative includes a week-long
environment. celebration, ‘Janaushadhi Week,’ from 1st-7th March
Read More: Agritourism in India across the nation.
¾ 2025 Theme: “Daam Kam - Dawai Uttam,” emphasizing
affordable and high-quality medicines for all.
Gut Bacteria and Vitiligo ¾ PMBJP: The PMBJP was originally launched in 2008
Research suggests that gut-friendly bacteria could as the Jan Aushadhi Scheme under the Ministry
play a crucial role in treating vitiligo. of Chemicals & Fertilizers to provide affordable
medicines through outlets called Pradhan Mantri
¾ The treatment suppresses harmful T cells that
Bhartiya Janaushadhi Kendras (PMBJKs).
attack pigment and boosts protective regulatory
T cells. In 2015, the scheme was revamped as the Pradhan
Mantri Jan Aushadhi Yojana, and in 2016, it was
¾ About Vitiligo: Vitiligo is a skin condition where the
renamed as the PMBJP.
skin loses its pigment (melanin), leading to white
¾ Features of PMBJP: Jan Aushadhi Kendras offer
patches. It is an autoimmune disorder.
medicines at 50-80% lower prices than branded
Causes: It results from melanocytes (pigment- alternatives.
producing cells) destruction due to autoimmune
A one-time Rs 2.00 lakh incentive is given to
responses, genetic mutations, stress, or PMBJKs in targeted regions or opened by women,
environmental triggers. ex-servicemen divyang, a person from SC and ST.
Affected Population: Vitiligo affects 0.5%–2% of Suvidha Sanitary Napkins launched in 2019 at Rs 1
the global population, with India’s prevalence per pad, reached 72 crore in sales by January 2025.
ranging from 0.25% to 4%. The Jan Aushadhi SUGAM App locates nearby
¾ About Gut-Friendly Bacteria (Probiotics): They are Kendras, compares prices, and suggests affordable
beneficial microorganisms that help maintain a alternatives.
healthy gut microbiome. E.g., Read more: Credit Assistance Program for Jan Aushadhi
Lactobacillus: Aids lactose digestion, prevents Kendra
diarrhea.
Bifidobacterium: Enhances gut health, reduces Dramatic Performances
inflammation, boosts immunity. Act, 1876
Saccharomyces Boulardii: Probiotic yeast that
prevents diarrhea, supports gut balance. Recently, the Prime Minister, while highlighting the
government’s efforts to repeal archaic and obsolete laws,
Read More: Microbiome Link to Autism
referenced the Dramatic Performances Act, 1876.

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¾ This law was among those enacted by the British serving as a beacon for gender-sensitive and girl-
to clamp down on the budding Indian nationalist friendly governance practices.
sentiment. ¾ Addressing Gender Violence: A comprehensive “Primer
¾ Article 372 of the Constitution allows pre-independence on Law Addressing Gender Based Violence and Harmful
laws to remain in force, but colonial laws lack the Practices” for panchayat elected representatives was
presumption of constitutionality, requiring government also introduced.
defense when challenged. ¾ Over 1.4 million women elected in PRIs, with states
¾ Dramatic Performances Act, 1876, gave the government like Bihar (50%) witnessing higher representation
beyond quotas (not less than 33%).
(British) powers to “prohibit public dramatic
performances which are scandalous, defamatory, ¾ The ministry also stressed eliminating “Mukhiya
seditious or obscene”. Pati” or “Sarpanch Pati” culture, ensuring WERs
independently exercise authority.
The Act had been declared unconstitutional by the
Allahabad High Court in State versus Baboo Lal Read More: Issue of Pradhan Pati in Panchayats
And Ors Case, 1956. The law was formally repealed
in 2018 as part of the government’s exercise to Planetary Parade
weed out obsolete laws.
The Planetary Parade is a rare celestial event where
¾ The Vernacular Press Act, 1878, and the sedition law seven planets- Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn,
of 1870 were among the harsh laws enacted during Uranus, and Neptune, align on one side of the Sun.
this period to suppress nationalist activities and stifle ¾ This occurs because planets orbit the Sun along a flat,
opposition to colonial rule. disc-shaped path called the ecliptic plane.
Read more: Press and Registration of Periodicals Bill, ¾ Occurrence: Such planetary alignments are extremely
2023 rare, occurring only once in a few decades. The next
occurrence is expected in 2040.
Empowering Women ¾ Visibility: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn
can be seen with the naked eye, while Uranus and
PRIs Leaders Neptune require telescopes due to their distance
The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has launched the and faintness.
Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan and Model Women-
Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) to advance gender-
sensitive governance at the grassroots level.
¾ Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan: It is a nationwide
capacity-building initiative aimed at strengthening the
leadership skills of Women Elected Representatives
(WERs) of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
Objective: Strengthening leadership, decision-
making, and active participation of WERs in rural
governance.
¾ MWFGP: It aims to establish at least one Model
Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat in each district, Read More: Rare Planetary Alignment

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¾ Eutelsat: Eutelsat, Starlink’s closest competitor,

Endogamy operates 630 LEO satellites and 35 geostationary
A study highlights how endogamy has contributed satellites, offering speeds up to 150 Mbps.
to population-specific genetic diseases and variations ¾ India lacks widespread commercial satellite internet,
in drug metabolism in India. but the Telecommunications Act, 2023 provides for the
¾ Key Findings of the Study: Indian communities assignment of spectrum through an administrative
show higher prevalence of genetic disorders due to process for satellite-based services, whereas terrestrial
inbreeding (breeding of individuals that are closely spectrum is allocated through auctions.
related genetically).
Read more: Starlink Project
For example, high incidence of ankylosing
spondylitis (type of arthritis) found in the Reddy
community of Andhra Pradesh. Dholavira
¾ Endogamy: The practice of marrying within a specific
The President of India visited Dholavira, appreciating
ethnic, cultural, social, religious, or tribal group
the technological advancements of the Harappan
to preserve identity, wealth, and traditions, unlike
civilization.
exogamy, which involves marrying outside one’s
social group. ¾ Harappan (Indus Valley) Civilization:
¾ Negative Impacts of Endogamy: It was an urban civilization that flourished along
Limited Gene Pool: Reduced genetic diversity in the Indus River from around 3300-1300 BCE. It
endogamous groups limits adaptability to changing was discovered by John Marshall in the 1920s.
environmental conditions. Major sites of the Harappan civilization include
Social Consequences: Leads to restrictive societal Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Banawali, Dholavira,
practices such as honor killings and rigid caste- Lothal, and Ropar.
based hierarchies.
¾ Dholavira:
Read more: Consanguinity It is located in Kutch (arid island of Khadir), Gujarat,
is a significant archaeological site inhabited from
Starlink and Eutelsat 3000 BCE to 1800 BCE.
Ukraine’s military and civilians rely on Starlink for z It was discovered by Jagatpati Joshi in 1968.
communication, but SpaceX’s restrictions on its use for It is the fifth-largest site of the Indus Valley
attack drones have raised concerns. As a result, Eutelsat, Civilization and lies between two seasonal streams,
a European satellite company, is being considered as an Mansar and Manhar.
alternative.
Archaeological findings include terracotta pottery,
¾ Starlink: Developed by SpaceX, it is a satellite-based seals, ornaments, and evidence of metallurgy. It
internet service designed to provide high-speed,
was a trade hub for copper, jewelry, and timber,
low-latency connectivity, especially in remote areas.
with inscriptions in Indus Valley script.
Starlink’s around 7,000 low-earth orbit (LEO)
satellites form a mega-constellation, ensuring z No human remains have been found at the site.
global coverage. Dholavira features a walled city with a fortified
India has not approved Starlink due to security, castle, middle and lower towns, and a cemetery.
privacy, and pricing concerns, along with opposition z Its advanced water system includes 16 reservoirs
from the local telecom and satellite industry. and step wells.

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It was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2021.

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Colossal A23a Iceberg Stuck

The world’s largest iceberg, Colossal A23a (3,672 sq. km), is stuck about 70 km from South Georgia Island, likely
avoiding ecological harm to its wildlife habitats.
¾ A23a broke from the Filchner Ice Shelf (Antarctica) in 1986 and remained stuck in the Weddell Sea for over 30
years and started drifting north in 2020 towards South Georgia Island.
¾ Nutrients released from the iceberg’s grounding and melting may boost marine food availability, supporting the
regional ecosystem.
¾ South Georgia Island: The UK administers South Georgia (also claimed by Argentina) as a British overseas territory.
¾ Icebergs: Icebergs are large floating masses of freshwater ice that break off (calve) from glaciers or ice shelves
and drift in oceans or seas.
Since ice is less dense than water, 90% of an iceberg stays submerged, with only the top visible.

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Taiwan’s Geopolitical Significance

The US revised its Taiwan factsheet, omitting “we do not support Taiwan independence” and backing Taiwan’s
global participation, drawing Taiwan’s support but China’s opposition.
¾ Taiwan Relations Act (1979): Promotes US-Taiwan ties, ensuring trade, cultural exchange, and defensive arms
sales despite Beijing’s objections.

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¾ Significance of Taiwan: Taiwan located in the East China Sea, is crucial for regional trade, with the Taiwan Strait
being a key global shipping route.
Additionally, Taiwan manufactures over 60% of the world’s semiconductors and around 90% of the most
advanced chips, making it a critical player in the global tech supply chain.
¾ China and Taiwan: China follows the One China Policy, asserting that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China and
must eventually reunite.
However, Taiwan sees itself as a self-governing democracy with its own constitution and elected leaders.

¾ India’s Stand One China Policy: India follows the One China Policy, in 2003 India signed a joint declaration with
China recognizing Tibet Autonomous Region as part of the territory of China.

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¾ The mission is nicknamed “Ghost Riders in the Sky”,

Crop Contingency and was launched in January, 2025, aboard a SpaceX
Plan for Kashmir Falcon 9 rocket.
¾ It landed (lander name: Golden) near Mons Latreille,
The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural a volcanic formation on the Moon’s northeastern
Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) has devised a Crop near side.
Contingency Plan to tackle the drought-like conditions
¾ It is part of NASA’s collaboration with industry to
expected in Kashmir due to an 80% rainfall deficit in
reduce costs and support the Artemis Program, the
winter 2024.
mission to return astronauts to the Moon.
¾ Key Components of Crop Contingency Plan:
¾ Upcoming Lunar Missions:
Alternative Crop Promotion: Instead of water-
IM-2 mission: Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission,
intensive rice, SKUAST promotes drought-resistant
featuring its lander Athena, will be launched in
maize hybrids (SMC-8, SMH-5) and pulses, which
March 2025.
require less water.
z In February 2024, Intuitive Machines became
z Recommends heat-tolerant crops like cowpea,
the first private company to achieve a soft
which can withstand dry conditions.
lunar landing and the first US landing since
Water Conservation Strategies: Apollo 17 in 1972.
z Mulching: Covering topsoil with organic materials NASA’s CLPS Program: The US aims to establish
to retain moisture and improve soil health. routine private lunar missions through NASA’s
z Micro-Irrigation: Encourages drip irrigation and USD Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS)
mist sprayers for optimal water use. program.
Recommends micro-sprinkler systems Read More: Challenges in Lunar Landing Missions
and organic soil amendments to sustain
vegetable farming.
z Anti-Transpirant Agents: Applying chemicals to
Narwhals
reduce water loss from plants (Transpiration). Scientists have recorded narwhals (often referred
Resilient Farming Practices: Recommends the as Sea unicorns) using their tusks for hunting for the first
use of growth regulator sprays to prevent early time, offering key behavioral insights and adaptation in
blooming and anti-transpirants in fruit crops to a warming Arctic.
conserve moisture. ¾ About Narwhals (Monodon monoceros): They are
Pest Control: Rising temperatures have made pests medium-sized toothed whales found in the deep
like aphids and leaf miner blotch more invasive. Arctic waters.
SKUAST is issuing advisories on chemical pest Physical Features: Males have long, spiral tusk (up
control measures. to 3m), which is an elongated upper left tooth.
Read more: Climate Resilient Agriculture z It is different from all other toothed whales in
that it has no teeth in its mouth.
Some narwhals have up to two tusks, while
Blue Ghost Mission 1 z

others have none.

A US company, Firefly Aerospace, successfully landed z They use their tusks to stun and manipulate
its Blue Ghost Mission 1 on the Moon, marking the 2nd prey, especially Arctic char, and competition
private lunar landing and the 1st to land upright. for mates.

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IUCN Status: Least Concern.

Social Behavior: Highly social species, found in pods of 2-25 individuals.
Migration: Unlike some whales, narwhals do not migrate long distances.
Diet: Feed on Greenland halibut, Arctic and polar cod, squid, and shrimp.

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¾ It will study cosmic inflation, the rapid expansion of the universe after the Big Bang (13.8 billion years ago), and
analyze molecular clouds to detect water, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
¾ It will measure the collective glow of light from intergalactic space to identify unknown cosmic phenomena.
¾ The Big Bang Theory explains the universe’s origin as a singular, hot, and dense point that expanded around 13.8
billion years ago, leading to its continuous expansion.

Oscars Awards 2025

The 97th Oscars Awards (Academy Awards) were held in Los Angeles. Film ‘Anora’ by Sean Baker secured the
most 5 Oscars including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

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About Oscar Awards

¾ The Awards were established in 1929 are prestigious annual honors recognizing excellence in the global film industry.
¾ They are presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), a professional organization
with over 9,000 members.
The ceremony is traditionally held in late February or early March.

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India’s Exploration of Critical Minerals

India is expanding global partnerships in Africa, South America, and Australia to secure critical minerals.
¾ The government has allocated Rs 4,000 crore for domestic and international mineral exploration under the
National Critical Minerals Mission.

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Key Highlights: z He was detained during Individual Satyagraha

¾ India secured 9,000 sq km in Zambia for copper-cobalt (1941) and arrested during Quit India Movement
exploration, led by Geological Survey of India (GSI), (1942).
with mining rights expected in 2-3 years. Post Independence: He became Commerce and
Zambia ranks 7th in copper and 14th in cobalt
Industry Minister in 1956, and took over the
production (2023) with existing investments by Finance portfolio in 1958.
Canada and China. z He resigned from the Union Cabinet under

¾ India is engaging with Democratic Republic of the the Kamaraj Plan (1963) that urged the senior
Congo, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Rwanda to Congress leaders holding government positions
acquire critical mineral assets. to voluntarily resign to focus on grassroots
strengthening.
¾ India is already active in South America (Argentina,
Chile) and Australia, where Khanij Bidesh India Ltd z He was appointed Chairman of the 1 st

(KABIL) is exploring lithium and cobalt assets. Administrative Reforms Commission (1966)
Critical minerals are minerals that are vital to a to restructure the government administration.
country’s economy and national interest. z He led the Janata Party to a landslide victory

¾ India has identified 30 key minerals, including lithium,

in the 1977 Lok sabha elections and became
cobalt, graphite, nickel, and rare earth elements (REEs). Prime Minister. During his tenure, the 44th
Amendment Act, 1978 was enacted to uphold
Read More: National Critical Mineral Mission, India’s the rule of law.
Critical Minerals Roadmap .
Read More: Shri Morarji Desai Birth Anniversary

Morarji Desai
Aditya-L1 Mission
Lok Sabha Speaker paid tributes to Morarji Desai,
former Prime Minister of India, on his birth anniversary. Captures Solar Flare
¾ About Morarji Desai: He was born on 29th February The Aditya-L1 mission has captured the first-ever
1896 and served as the 4th Prime Minister of India image of a solar flare ‘kernel’ in the lower solar atmosphere
(1977 to 1979) during the 6th Lok Sabha. using the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)
payload.
¾ Solar Observation: SUIT detected an X6.3-class solar
flare, one of the most intense solar eruptions, in the
Near Ultraviolet (NUV) wavelength (200-400 nm).
¾ Solar Flares: Solar flares are massive explosions on
the Sun’s atmosphere that release energy, light,
and high-speed particles into space, often linked to
coronal mass ejections (CMEs).
Solar flares are classified into A, B, C, M, and X
categories, with each class increasing 10-fold in
energy. X-class flares are the most powerful.
¾ Aditya-L1: It is India’s first space-based solar
observatory, designed to study the Sun from the
Role in Freedom Struggle: He resigned as Deputy Lagrange Point 1 (L1) in a halo orbit. This is ISRO’s
Collector in 1930 after 12 years in British service second astronomy observatory-class mission after
to join India’s independence movement. AstroSat (2015).

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State of India’s Digital Economy Report 2025

A State of India’s Digital Economy (SIDE) Report, 2025, report by Indian Council for Research on International
Economic Relations (ICRIER) highlights that while India is the 3rd- largest global economy, it ranks only 28th in digital
user spending, reflecting a gap in per capita digital adoption.
¾ The report uses the Connect-Harness-Innovate-Protect-Sustain (CHIPS) framework to measure digitalisation,
focusing on technological, economic, and societal factors.

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¾ Key Findings:
Rapid Digital Growth: India’s digital economy is growing twice as fast as its overall economy and is projected
to contribute 20% of GDP by 2029.
Internet vs. Digital Spending: While India has strong internet penetration, actual digital spending remains
lower than global standards, highlighting an economic participation gap.
India’s AI Positioning: India is 11th in AI research and 16th in AI infrastructure.

z The US, China, South Korea, Singapore, and the Netherlands lead in AI innovation.

z When considering both economic size and digital user economy, India ranks 8th globally.

¾ ICRIER: It is an independent Indian think tank, providing policy research on economic growth, trade, digital
economy, and climate change to support India’s development.
Read more: Navigating India’s Digital Growth

Algal Blooms in River Thames

A study has revealed that climate change is increasing the risk of algal blooms in the River Thames (England)
despite an 80% reduction in phosphorus loads over four decades.
¾ An algal bloom is the overgrowth of microscopic algae or algae-like bacteria in fresh, salt, or brackish waters.

Key Findings
¾ Rising river temperature is driving the growth of spring diatom blooms and summer cyanobacterial (blue-green
algae) blooms, which deplete oxygen, harm aquatic life, and increase drinking water treatment costs.
Algal blooms also restrict recreational activities like fishing and swimming.

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¾ Despite an 80% reduction in phosphorus since 1985, its concentration remains above safe limits, sustaining algal
growth.
Excess nitrogen and phosphorus block sunlight and deplete oxygen, threatening marine ecosystems.

River Thames
¾ It is 346 km long (Longest in England, second longest in the UK after River Severn).
¾ It originates from Thames Head, Gloucestershire, and drains into the North Sea via the Thames Estuary, with
Nore sandbank at its mouth.
London is on the bank of Thames.

¾ It supplies two-thirds of London’s drinking water and has been a vital trade route.

Red Color of Mars

The study, based on data from several space missions and ground-level observations, suggests that Mars’ red
color is primarily due to Ferrihydrite—a water-formed iron oxide—rather than the previously assumed Hematite.
¾ Ferrihydrite forms in cool, water-rich conditions, whereas hematite forms in dry, warm conditions.
It suggests that Mars once had liquid water, potentially supporting life. Additionally, the study revealed hydrogen
bound to iron-rich minerals, further indicating past interactions with liquid water on Mars.

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Mars: Mars is the 4th planet from the Sun and the second-smallest in the Solar System after Mercury.
¾ About half Earth’s size, it hosts Olympus Mons (largest volcano), and has 2 moons (Phobos and Deimos).
¾ Mars completes a rotation every 24.6 hours, making its day nearly identical in length to Earth’s (23.9 hours).
Martian days are called sols.
A year on Mars lasts 669.6 sols, which is the same as 687 Earth days.

¾ Its axis is tilted at 25 degrees relative to its orbit, similar to Earth’s axial tilt of 23.4 degrees.
Mars experiences seasons like Earth, but they are longer in duration.

¾ Important Mars Missions:

NASA’s Mars Mission, India’s MOM, UAE’s Hope

Tianwen-1: China’s Mars Mission

CPI for Agricultural and Rural Labourers

The Labour Bureau, Ministry of Labour & Employment has released the All-India Consumer Price Index for
Agricultural Labourers (CPI-AL) and Rural Labourers (CPI-RL).
¾ The CPI-AL and CPI-RL series is presently compiled monthly for 20 states and at the All-India level.

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¾ It recorded inflation rates of 4.61% and 4.73% in January 2025 respectively, marking a notable decline, indicating
reduced price pressures on essential goods and services in rural India.
¾ CPI-AL: It measures changes in cost-of-living for rural agricultural laborers and is used to adjust minimum wages
for agricultural workers across different states.
z CPI(AL) is a subset of CPI(RL).

¾ CPI-RL: It measures the changes in the cost of living for rural laborers.
The base year for both CPI-AL and CPI-RL is 1986-87.

z The base year is a reference point for comparing statistical changes over time. E.g., GDP, inflation etc.

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Cape Vultures Spotted in South Africa

After 30 years, the Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres) has been sighted in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province
near Mountain Zebra National Park.
¾ About Cape Vulture: It is exclusive to Southern Africa and found in South Africa, Lesotho, Botswana, and
Mozambique.
It has creamy-buff plumage with dark flight and tail feathers, honey-colored eyes, a bluish throat, and a black bill.

It feeds only on carrion, lives in groups, and is monogamous i.e., raising one chick per season.
It is listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red list.
Only three species are exclusive to Africa i.e., White-headed Vulture, Hooded Vulture, and Cape Vulture.
¾ Global Vulture Distribution: 23 species are found worldwide, divided into:
Old World vultures (16 species, found in Africa, Europe, Asia)
New World vultures (7 species, found in the Americas and Caribbean).

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