Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg.

DECEMBER 2024

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Civilsdaily IAS, 1 LGF, Apsara Arcade, Pusa Road, Rajinder Nagar, New Delhi - 110060 (INDIA)
Tel: +91 73033 16700 Mail: [email protected]
 Contents
Subject No. of Topics
1. Economics 21
2. Governance 08
3. Polity 03
4. International Relations 12
5. Security Issues 07
6. Enviro & Biodiversity 18
7. Science Tech 13
8. History and Art & Culture 07
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 3

Economics
1. Household Consumption Expenditure Survey, 2023-24:
• P er capita household consumption spending in India rose 5% in real terms (August 2023 – July 2024) as per the HCES report.
• HCES collects data on household consumption for economic well-being analysis, CPI updates, and measuring poverty,
inequality, and social exclusion.
• M onthly Per Capita Consumption Expenditure (MPCE): Two estimates, excluding and including imputed values for free
social welfare items.
• C onducted by NSSO under MoSPI.
• F indings (2023-24): Nominal MPCE rose 9% in rural areas and 8% in urban areas over 2022-23.
• U rban-rural MPCE gap reduced to 70% in 2023-24 from 71% in 2022-23 and 84% in 2011-12.
• L argest MPCE increase seen in the bottom 5-10% of the population in both rural and urban areas.
• N on-food items dominate household expenditure.
• M ajor food spending: Beverages, refreshments, and processed food.
• M ajor non-food spending: Conveyance, clothing, bedding, footwear, entertainment, and durable goods.
• C onsumption inequality declined with the Gini coefficient dropping to 237 (rural) from 0.266 and to 0.284 (urban) from
0.314 (2022-23).
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etcDOMR

2. Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER):

•  he rupee hit record lows against the US dollar but reached an all-time high in real effective terms.
T
• In November 2024, the Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER) index touched 14, strengthening by 4.5% during the year (RBI).
• Effective Exchange Rate (EER): Measures a currency’s value relative to a basket of currencies from major trading partners.
• A weighted average reflecting the importance of each partner in foreign trade.
• Types: Nominal Effective Exchange Rate (NEER): Weighted average of exchange rates, unadjusted for inflation; Higher
NEER: Indicates currency appreciation.
• Real Effective Exchange Rate (REER): Adjusts NEER for inflation differentials to measure real purchasing power; Base year
(India): 2015-16, set at 100;
• R  EER > 100: Currency overvalued; exports less competitive.
• R  EER < 100: Currency undervalued; exports more competitive.
RBI Notifications

3. Matsya Seva Kendras:

• M atsya Seva Kendras (MSKs) are one-stop centers under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) to
modernize fisheries and promote sustainability.
• India’s fisheries sector supports 3 crore livelihoods and produced a record 175 lakh tons of fish in 2022-23.
• Role of MSKs: Provide water, soil, and microbial analysis to improve aquaculture productivity.
• Conduct training on sustainable practices and advanced techniques.
• Empower women and weaker sections with 60% financial assistance for MSK setup.
• Mobilize start-ups, cooperatives, and fish farmer producer organizations to share best practices.
• Promote regenerative and conservation practices to address climate change.
• PMMSY: Aims to achieve a Blue Revolution through sustainable fisheries development.
• Launched under Atma Nirbhar Bharat with an allocation of ₹20,050 crore (highest-ever for fisheries).
• I mplemented across all States/UTs (2020-21 to 2024-25).
• P rovides insurance, financial assistance, and Kisan Credit Card (KCC)
• T wo components: Central Sector: Fully funded by the Centre; Centrally Sponsored: Cost shared between Centre and States/
UTs.
• S agar Mitras: Act as intermediaries between the government and coastal fishers; Collect and update data on marine catch,
prices, and market trends.
Animal Husbandry, Dairy & Fisheries Sector – Pashudhan Sanjivani, E- Pashudhan Haat, etc

4. India’s First Bio-Bitumen National Highway in Nagpur:

• I naugurated on NH-44 in Mansar, Nagpur, Maharashtra by Union Minister Nitin Gadkari.
• Bio-bitumen is a bio-based binder made from renewable sources like vegetable oils, crop stubble, algae, lignin, and animal
manure.
• I t is an alternative to traditional bitumen derived from crude oil and supports sustainable road construction.
• R educes carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen.
• H elps address environmental concerns like stubble burning and reduces India’s dependence on bitumen imports.

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 4

• B oosts bio-refineries, generating revenue and economic benefits for farmers and the bio-refining industry.
• India imports 50% of its annual bitumen needs, about 21 million tonnes in FY 2023-24, while producing 5.24 million
tonnes.
• Consumption has averaged 7 million tonnes annually over the last five years.
• In 2023-24, India constructed 12,300 km of national highways, averaging 34 km per day.
Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

5. Fiscal Reforms by States Report released by RBI:

• I ndia’s fiscal deficit increased from 8% of GDP in FY22 to 3.2% in FY24, signaling higher expenditure over fiscal consolida-
tion.
• C apital expenditure rose from 2% of GDP in FY23 to 3.2% in FY24, reflecting investment in long-term growth assets.
• G ross Fiscal Deficit (GFD) of states projected to rise from 7% of GDP in FY23 to 2.9% in FY24, with many states exceeding
the 3% of GSDP threshold.
• R evenue expenditure expected to rise from 5% of GDP in FY24 to 14.6% in FY25, indicating higher current spending.
• C apital expenditure increased to 2% of GDP in FY24, aligned with infrastructure and long-term growth focus.
• S tate revenues projected to grow from 3% of GDP in FY24 to 14.3% in FY25, driven by improved tax collection.
• D ebt-to-GDP ratio rose slightly to 8% in FY24 from 28.5% in FY23; states with higher fiscal deficits have higher debt levels.
• M arket borrowings increased significantly, now financing 79% of fiscal deficits in FY25, up from 17% in 2005-06.
• R ecommendations: Manage subsidies prudently, rationalize centrally sponsored schemes, consolidate debt, and adopt cli-
mate and outcome budgeting.
Economic Indicators and Various Reports On It- GDP, FD, EODB, WIR etcDOMR

6. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay

Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA):
• P
 M-AASHA launched in 2018, procured 39 LMT of commodities worth ₹1,07,433.73 crore from over 99 lakh farmers.
• Ensures fair prices for farmers when market rates fall below MSP, stabilizes prices, and supports sustainable agriculture for
pulses, oilseeds, and copra.
• A Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare with ₹35,000 crore allocated until 2025-
26.
• C entral Nodal Agencies (CNA) like NAFED and NCCF guarantee bank MSP procurement, while DoCA procures pulses
above MSP via eSamridhi and eSamyukti
• U nder Price Support Scheme (PSS), states procure notified commodities at MSP; 24 crops have MSP fixed at 5 times Cost
of Production.
• P rice Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) provides direct payments to farmers if oilseed prices fall below MSP.
• M arket Intervention Scheme (MIS) manages price volatility for perishables (Tomato, Onion, Potato) not covered under
MSP.
Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

7. Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan (CTDP):

• C TDP for North Eastern Region (NER) is funded by the Digital Bharat Nidhi (DBN) to bring mobile coverage to uncovered
villages and National Highways.
• Aims to strengthen telecom infrastructure in the NER, focusing on mobile and broadband access.
• DBN, established under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, replaces the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF).
• USOF was funded by a 5% levy on telecom operators’ Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) to expand networks in remote areas.
• DBN carries forward this mandate, now under the new Telecom Act, 2023.
• Features: Extend mobile coverage to previously uncovered villages and National Highways.
• 2 ,619 mobile towers cover 3,223 villages and 286 highway locations.
• Provide 4G connectivity to remote villages.
• Bridge the digital divide and aid socio-economic development.
• Implementation: Funded primarily by DBN; Ministry of Communication oversees policy and spectrum.
• Telecom Service Providers handle infrastructure deployment.
• State Governments in NER facilitate local setups.
• Project Management Agencies manage tower installation and maintenance.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

8. Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme:

• is considering discontinuing the SGB scheme.
• SGBs are government securities denominated in grams of gold.
• Launched by the Government of India on October 30, 2015.

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 5

• S ubstitutes for holding physical gold; investors pay the issue price and redeem the bonds upon maturity.
• Issued by RBI on behalf of the Government of India.
• Eligibility: Restricted to resident Indian entities, including individuals (individually, on behalf of minor child, or jointly), Hindu
Undivided Family (HUF), Trusts, Universities, and Charitable Institutions.
• Issued in denominations of 1 gram of gold and multiples thereof.
• Minimum investment is 1 gram.
• Maximum limit: 4 kg for individuals, 4 kg for HUFs, and 20 kg for trusts and similar entities per fiscal year.
• Tenure is 8 years, with exit options in the 5th, 6th, and 7th years, exercisable on interest payment dates.
• Sold through: Nationalised Banks, Scheduled Private Banks, Scheduled Foreign Banks, designated Post Offices, Stock Holding
Corporation of India Ltd. (SHCIL), and authorized stock exchanges or their agents.
• Payment for the bonds is through cash payment.
Gold Monetisation Scheme

9. US Bitcoin Strategic Reserve:

• B itcoin surged to a record high of $107,000 after President-elect Donald Trump reaffirmed plans for a US bitcoin reserve,
exciting investors.
• S trategic Reserve: Stockpile of critical resources for crises or supply disruptions.
• U S.may require executive order or Congress approval; could be managed via the US Treasury’s Exchange Stabilization
Fund.
• R eserve may include 200,000 seized bitcoins worth $21 billion and potential market purchases.
• B enefits: Enhances US market dominance over global bitcoin; Reduces fiscal deficit and strengthens the US dollar.
• R isks: Volatility makes bitcoin value uncertain; Vulnerable to cyber-attacks and market fluctuations.
• I ndian Scenario: Legal status is uncertain; RBI warns against cryptocurrencies, stating they are not legal tender.
• I n 2018, the Supreme Court overturned RBI’s ban on financial institutions dealing with cryptocurrencies.
• I n 2022-23 Union Budget, India imposed a 30% tax on cryptocurrency transfers.
• A panel is exploring blockchain technology and a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC).
Blockchain Technology: Prospects and Challenges

10. Telecom Technology Development

Fund (TTDF) Program:
•  TDF enabled collaboration between C-DOT and Trois Infotech to develop “Face Recognition Using Drone”
T
• Launched on 1 October 2022 under the Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), Ministry of Telecommunications.
• Focuses on indigenous telecom technologies for rural
• USOF established in April 2002 via the Indian Telegraph (Amendment) Act 2003.
• Aims to finance telecom services in rural and remote regions where operations are not commercially viable.
• Non-lapsable fund, with continuous levy contributions.
• Functions as an attached office of the Department of Telecom, led by a government-appointed administrator.
• Initially targeted basic telecom access at affordable prices, later expanded to mobile, broadband, and infrastructure in rural
areas.
•  TDF seeks to encourage innovation, bridge the digital divide, and foster IP creation through R&D in rural telecom solu-
T
tions.
•  ffers grants to startups, research institutes, academia, and telecom companies for R&D on rural-focused technologies.
O
•  anaged by the Department of Telecommunications, with USOF as the administering body.
M
•  rovides incentives for startups, a collaborative framework among stakeholders, and supports proof of concept and pilot
P
trials.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

11. Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS):

• P arliamentary Standing Committee on Labour recommends raising the ₹1,000 minimum pension under the Employees’
Pension Scheme (EPS).
• EPS introduced in 1995 by the EPFO (Ministry of Labour and Employment) to provide pension benefits for organized sector
employees.
• Aims to ensure financial security post-retirement or in case of disability/death.
• Contributions: Employee and employer each pay 12% of salary to EPF; 33% of employer’s share goes to the pension fund;
1.16% of basic salary is contributed by the Union Government.
• Pension fund is created from 8.33% of the employer’s EPF
• Supreme Court (Nov 2022) upheld the Employees’ Pension (Amendment) Scheme, 2014, extending the option to join the new
scheme by 4 months.
• Pre-amendment: Last 12 months’ average salary decided pensionable salary.
• Post-amendment (2014): Last 60 months’ average salary decides pensionable salary.

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Tel: +91 73033 16700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 6

• E ligibility: Basic salary exceeding ₹15,000 per month and EPF membership meeting required contributions.
Pension Reforms

12. Bharatmala Pariyojana:

• I t is a large road project to improve connectivity and reduce logistics costs.
• Covers 34,800 km at a cost of ₹5.35 lakh crore.
• First phase began in 2017, covering 34,800 km with a ₹5.35 lakh crore
• Launched to enhance road connectivity, improve freight/passenger movement, and reduce logistics costs.
• Develop 26,000 km of roads (economic corridors), enhance the Golden Quadrilateral and North-South/East-West Cor-
ridors.
• 8,000 km interstate corridors and 7,500 km feeder routes.
• 2 ,000 km of border/international roads for trade and security.
• 2 ,000 km for coastal and port connectivity.
• New green-field expressways to ease congestion.
• Aims to build 50 national corridors, connect 550 districts (up from 300), introduce Logistic Performance Index, and gen-
erate jobs.
• Funded partly by the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRF) via cess on petrol/diesel.
• Monetization of highways uses existing assets as funding sources.
• Private sector investment supports specific projects.
• Additional budgetary support comes from the central government.
• Sagarmala Programme (2015) focuses on port development along 7,516 km coastline with modernization and mechanization.
• Parvatmala (National Ropeways Development Programme, 2022-23) enhances connectivity in hilly areas under MORTH in
PPP mode.
• It offers an eco-friendly alternative to roads in difficult terrains.
• Initial regions: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Jammu & Kashmir, and North Eastern states.
Roads, Highways, Cargo, Air-Cargo and Logistics infrastructure – Bharatmala, LEEP, SetuBharatam, etc.

13. India launched the World’s first

Green Steel Taxonomy:
• I ndia is the first country globally to define a taxonomy for green steel, a step toward decarbonizing its steel sector.
• Green Steel Taxonomy defines green steel based on carbon emission intensity.
• Steel is considered green if its CO2 equivalent emission intensity is less than 2 tonnes per tonne of finished steel.
• Star rating system for green steel: Five-star for <1.6 tCO2e/tfs, four-star for 1.6–2.0 tCO2e/tfs, three-star for 2.0–2.2 tCO2e/tfs.
• Emissions include Scope 1 (direct emissions), Scope 2 (indirect emissions from energy), and limited Scope 3 (supply chain
emissions).
• The National Institute of Secondary Steel Technology (NISST) will oversee measurement, reporting, verification (MRV)
and issue greenness certificates.
• The emission intensity threshold will be reviewed every three years for continuous improvement.
Steel Industry – Current challenges, National Steel Policy 2017, etc

14. Projects under PM-DevINE Scheme:

• T he Ministry of Development of North-East Region (MDoNER) provided updates on progress under the Prime Minister’s
Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE)
• A Central Sector scheme launched in Union Budget 2022-23 to drive infrastructure and social development in the North
Eastern Region (NER).
• N odal Agency: Ministry of Development of North-East Region.
• C abinet Approval: Granted on 12th October 2022.
• C entral Funding: 100% funded by the central government.
• O utlay: ₹6,600 crore for FY 2022-23 to 2025-26.
• Project Sanctions: 35 projects worth ₹4,857.11 crore sanctioned as of November 2024.
• State-wise Project Progress:
• Sikkim: Passenger Ropeway System (completed); Skywalk Project (13% completed).
• Mizoram: Bamboo Link Roads (28% completed).
• Nagaland: Special Development Projects (30% completed).
• Assam: School Transformations (55% completed); IT Park Construction (23% completed).
• Manipur: Infrastructure for Manipur Technical University (25% completed).
• Tripura: Solar Micro Grid (30% completed); Skill Development Centre (work started).
North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

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Tel: +91 73033 16700 Mail: [email protected]
Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 7

15. Yuva Sahakar Scheme:

•  he Ministry of Cooperation updated the Lok Sabha on the progress of the Yuva Sahakar Scheme.
T
• Launched: 2018 under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
• Implemented by: NCDC (National Cooperative Development Corporation), under the Ministry of Cooperation.
• Objective: Promote new cooperatives and encourage innovative ideas by young entrepreneurs.
• Target cooperatives operational for at least 3 months.
• Loan Tenure: Up to 5 years.
• Interest Subvention: 2% subsidy on term loans for project activities.
• Subsidy Integration: Loans can combine with subsidies from other Government of India schemes.
• Eligibility: Cooperatives operational for at least 1 year can apply for funding.
• Promotes innovation in cooperatives.
• Dedicated NCDC fund linked to the ₹1000 crore Cooperative Start-up and Innovation Fund (CSIF).
• Focuses on cooperatives in the North East, Aspirational Districts, and those with women, SC/ST, or PwD members.
Agricultural Sector and Marketing Reforms – eNAM, Model APMC Act, Eco Survey Reco, etc.

16. Polavaram Project :

• T he Telangana government has sought experts from IIT Hyderabad to study the impact of the Polavaram Project on the
Godavari River.
• A multi-purpose irrigation project on the Godavari River in West and East Godavari districts, Andhra Pradesh.
• D
 am span: 2 km, with a pier height of 54 m and 48 radial gates (16m x 20m).
• S
 pillway designed to handle 50 lakh cusecs of water discharge, surpassing China’s Three Gorges Dam.
 ccorded national project status by the central government.
• A
 evelop gross irrigation potential for 4,36,825 ha.
• D
 enerate 960 MW hydropower.
• G
 rovide drinking water for 50 lakh people across 611 villages.
• P
 ivert 80 TMC water to the Krishna River basin.
• D
 anage Godavari floodwaters, reducing risks to nearby communities.
• M
Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

17. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PMKMY):

•  he Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare provided state-wise farmer registrations under PMKMY.
T
• Top Three States: Haryana (5,74,467), Bihar (3,45,038), Chhattisgarh (2,02,734).
• Bottom Three States/UTs: Lakshadweep (72), Ladakh (114), Goa (150).
• P MKMY, launched on 12th September 2019, has completed 5 years.
• A Central Sector Scheme aimed at providing voluntary, contributory pensions for farmers aged 18–40 years.
• E nsures a pension of ₹3,000/month after they turn 60 years.
• Managed by the Ministry of Agriculture and LIC of India as the Pension Fund Manager.
• Farmers contribute ₹55–₹200/month based on entry age, matched by the Government of India.
• Beneficiaries: Farmers aged 18–40 years are eligible.
• Benefits include a ₹3,000 monthly pension post-60 years, with government matching contributions.
• Exclusions: Income taxpayers, members of government pension schemes, and those already enrolled in other pension plans.
Pension Reforms

18. Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR):

•  BI began its three-day monetary policy review amid speculation of a CRR cut to ease liquidity pressures.
R
• CRR is a percentage of a bank’s deposits kept as liquid cash with the RBI.
• Used to manage inflation and control excessive bank lending.
• Acts as a safety net, ensuring banks maintain liquidity for operations.
• C urrently set at 5% of a bank’s Net Demand and Time Liabilities (NDTL).
• No interest is earned on CRR funds held with the RBI.
• CRR Requirements: Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs): Include public Sector Banks (PSBs), Private Sector Banks (PVBs),
RRBs, SFBs, Payments Banks, and Co-operative Banks.
• Non-Scheduled Co-operative Banks and Local Area Banks: Maintain CRR with themselves or with the RBI.
• Restrictions on CRR Funds: Cannot be lent to corporates or individuals; Cannot be used for investments.
• Banks earn NO interest on CRR funds.
• Incremental CRR (I-CRR): Temporarily introduced on August 10, 2023, to absorb surplus liquidity.
• Required banks to maintain 10% I-CRR on NDTL increase between May 19, 2023, and July 28, 2023.
• Applied during periods of excess liquidity, effective August 12, 2023.

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 8

• I mpacts: Frees up funds, improving liquidity, credit availability, and investment (+). Stimulates economic growth by facili-
tating easier loans (+). May result in lower interest rates, boosting investment and spending (+).
• R isk of inflation if increased demand outpaces supply (-); Excess liquidity may lead to asset bubbles in stocks or real estate,
risking instability (-).
RBI Notifications

19. Windfall Tax now abolished:

• T he government has decided to scrap the windfall gains tax due to stabilizing global oil prices and improved domestic fuel
supply.
• A levy on unexpected profits of companies due to external factors like market shifts or crises.
• Introduced in India on July 1, 2022, targeting domestic crude oil production and fuel exports (diesel, petrol, ATF).
• Aimed to capture windfall profits and ensure domestic fuel supply amid rising prices after Russia’s Ukraine invasion.
• Imposed as Special Additional Excise Duty (SAED) on crude oil and Additional Excise Duty (AED)/Road and Infrastruc-
ture Cess (RIC) on fuel exports.
• I nitially set at Rs 23,250/tonne for crude oil, Rs 13/litre for diesel exports, and Rs 6/litre for petrol and ATF exports.
• R egularly reviewed based on global oil price changes.
• A bolition encourages long-term investments in oil production.
• I ncreases profits for companies like ONGC and Reliance Industries as they no longer pay the tax.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.

20. Scheme for Harnessing and Allocating Koyala

Transparently in India (SHAKTI) Scheme
•  HAKTI Yojana enhances the reliability of coal supply for India’s power sector.
S
• Launched by the Ministry of Coal in 2018, with amendments in March 2019 and November 2023.
• Aims to ensure transparent coal allocation to power plants, especially stressed units facing coal shortages.
• Objective: Allocate coal to power plants lacking adequate fuel, ensuring consistent and transparent supply.
• Supplies coal at 75% of the Annual Contracted Quantity (ACQ) for Letter of Assurance (LoA) holders.
• Coal Linkages: Provided to State/Central Generating Companies and IPPs with Long-Term PPAs.
• India target of 100 MT coal gasification by FY 2030, focusing on sustainability and reducing emissions.
• GST compensation cess on coal used for gasification reimbursed for 10 years if the cess is extended beyond FY27.
• Attract Government PSUs and private firms for innovation and investment in coal gasification.
• Transparent bidding for project selection, with government support for eligible entities.
Coal and Mining Sector

21. North Eastern Tea Association (NETA):

• N ETA appealed to the Ministry of Commerce and Industry for permission to allow tea producers to sell through both private
sales and public auctions.
• A gazette notification mandated that 100% of dust teas be sold via public auctions.
• NETA is headquartered in Golaghat, Upper Assam, and established in 1981.
• A key part of the Joint Forum and CCPA (Assam Valley branch).
• Works to promote member interests and enhance Assam’s tea industry.
• Presence: Strong influence in Golaghat, Assam.
• Represents tea producers and contributes to Assam’s tea industry development.
• Advocates for industry improvements, policy suggestions, and sector guidance.
• Provides expert advice to the government and members on tea industry issues.
• Suggests policy changes, including relocating the Tea Board of India headquarters to Guwahati.
• Promotes high-quality tea production to attract global buyers.
• Proposes recognizing growers with up to 6 hectares as small tea growers.
Horticulture, Floriculture, Commercial crops, Bamboo Production – MIDH, NFSM-CC, etc.

Governance
1. SVAMITVA Property Cards:
• O ver 58 lakh property cards will be issued to owners in 50,000 villages across 12 States/UTs under the SVAMITVA Scheme
via a virtual event by PM Modi.
• F ull Form: Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.

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Atomic Notes By Civilsdaily IAS- DECEMBER 2024 Pg. 9

• L aunched on 24th April 2020 (National Panchayati Raj Day) by the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
• Objective: Provide property validation in rural areas and issue Record of Rights for village abadi lands.
• Central Sector Scheme: Fully funded by the Central Government, with implementation by States/UTs and Survey of India.
• Goals: Demarcate inhabited areas using drone technology; Create property cards as legal ownership proof.
• 92% drone mapping completed in 17 lakh villages; full targets likely by 2026.
• Ministry of Panchayati Raj leads implementation nationally; State Revenue Departments handle state-level execution.
• Covered 62 lakh villages initially in UP, Haryana, Maharashtra, MP, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, and border villages of Punjab
and Rajasthan.
• N  OT joined: West Bengal, Bihar, Nagaland, and Meghalaya.
• V  arious names of property cards: ‘Gharauni’ (UP), ‘Adhikar Abhilekh’ (MP), ‘Sannad’ (Maharashtra).
Land Reforms

2. SAFE (Site Adjacent Factory Employee) Initiative:

• N
 ITI Aayog released a report on SAFE Accommodation, highlighting its role in secure, affordable, flexible, and efficient hous-
ing for industrial workers.
• Aims to offer housing near workplaces like industrial or factory sites.
• Provides dormitory-style housing with essential amenities like water, electricity, sanitation, food, laundry, and dispensary
facilities.
• Excludes family housing.
• Aims to improve labor mobility and productivity, boost manufacturing competitiveness, and attract private developers for
affordable housing.
• Manufacturing growth: India needs 85 million jobs annually until 2030 (Economic Survey 2023-24).
NITI Aayog’s Assessment

3. National Mental Health Programme (NMHP):

• I nitiated in 1982 and restructured in 2003 to modernize mental health facilities and upgrade psychiatric wings.
• Focuses on treatment of mentally ill, rehabilitation, and prevention/promotion of positive mental health.
• Aims to prevent and treat mental and neurological disorders, improve health services with mental health technology, and
enhance quality of life using mental health principles.
• The District Mental Health Programme (DMHP), based on the Bellary Model, provides community mental health services
in 716 districts.
• DMHP services include outpatient care, counseling, psycho-social interventions, and support for severe mental disorders.
• Offers primary mental health services at village, sub-center, PHC, and district hospital levels, with facilities at mental hos-
pitals and teaching psychiatric units.
• Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 replaced the 1987 Act, ensuring the Right to Healthcare and dignity of individuals with mental
illness.
 ecriminalized suicide, presuming attempts are due to severe stress and not punishable.
• D
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

4. Ayushman Arogya Mandirs:

• I n February 2018, the Centre launched an initiative to establish 1,50,000 Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) by December
2022.
• By 31st July 2024, 1,73,881 AAMs were operational, exceeding the target.
• AAMs provide preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative, and palliative care.
• The first AAM was launched in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, on April 18, 2018.
• By FY 2018-19, over 17,000 AAMs were operational, surpassing the 15,000 target.
• AAMs are the cornerstone of India’s health system under the National Health Policy 2017.
• Renamed Ayushman Arogya Mandirs in 2023 with the tagline ‘Arogyam Parmam Dhanam’.
• Aim: Provide universal, free, and accessible primary healthcare for rural and urban populations.
• Offer 12 healthcare service packages covering all aspects of care.
• Sub-Health Centres (SHC) and Primary Health Centres (PHC) upgraded to provide expanded services.
• Structural mandate: Establish 1,50,000 AAMs nationwide for comprehensive primary care.
• Under PM-JAY, provide ₹5 lakh insurance coverage annually to 10 crore vulnerable families for secondary and tertiary
care.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

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5. Centre wants States to make

Snakebites a Notifiable Disease:
• T he Union Health Ministry has urged states to make snakebites a Notifiable Disease, requiring all hospitals (public and
private) to report cases to the government.
• WHO recognized snakebites as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) in 2009.
• 3–4 million cases annually, causing approximately 58,000 deaths per year (2020 Indian Million Death Study).
• High incidence in Bihar, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Rajasthan,
and Gujarat.
• N APSE (2024): The National Action Plan for Prevention and Control of Snakebite Envenoming aims to halve snakebite
deaths by 2030 and proposes making snakebites notifiable.
• N otifiable Diseases: These must be reported to the government for public health monitoring.
• I ncludes: Infectious diseases that may cause outbreaks; Diseases leading to deaths or requiring urgent intervention.
• L egal Basis:
• W HO’s International Health Regulations (1969) govern global surveillance.
• I n India, the Epidemic Diseases Act (1897) mandates reporting.
• S tates define their own lists under state public health acts.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

6. Jan Aushadhi Kendra’s by PACS:

 he government has empowered Primary Agricultural Credit Societies (PACS) to operate Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan
• T
Aushadhi Kendras (PMBJK), providing affordable generic medicines in underserved rural areas.
• Established in November 2008 as government outlets for affordable, quality generic medicines.
• Operated by PACS under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) to enhance medicine accessibil-
ity in remote areas.
• Provide affordable medicines, promote healthcare equity, and lower medical expenses for farmers.
• Generate local employment and ensure financial sustainability for PACS through medicine sales.
• Administered by the Department of Pharmaceuticals under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Implemented by the Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI).
• PACS Implementation:
• Use existing infrastructure like land, buildings, and storage to run Kendras.
• Receive 20% monthly purchase incentives, capped at ₹20,000.
• E arn 20% margin on MRP (excluding taxes) and sell allied medical products.
Health Sector – UHC, National Health Policy, Family Planning, Health Insurance, etc.

7. Draft UGC Regulations, 2024:

• U GC released the Draft UGC (Minimum Standards of Instructions in the Award of UG and PG Degrees) 2024 to reform
India’s higher education
• Applies to all Central, State, Private, and Deemed Universities.
• Aims: Reform higher education, promote flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and inclusivity, removing rigid discipline bound-
aries.
• Key Provisions: Biannual Admissions: July/August and January/February intakes.
• Multiple Entry and Exit: Students can enter/exit programs, pursue two programs, and benefit from prior learning recognition.
• Flexibility: Any discipline for UG/PG allowed, subject to entrance exams.
• Attendance: Institutions decide minimum attendance aligned with NEP 2020.
• UG Degree Structure: Credits: 50% in major discipline, 50% in skill courses, apprenticeships, or multidisciplinary subjects.
• Duration: UG (3–4 years), PG (1–2 years) with flexible options.
• Students with a 4-year UG degree (Hons./Research, BTech, BE) qualify for two-year PG programs.
• About UGC: Statutory body under the UGC Act, 1956; inaugurated in 1953 by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.
• 1944 Sargeant Report recommended a UGC.
• 1948 University Education Commission under Dr. S. Radhakrishnan proposed its reorganization based on the UK model.
• Functions: Provides funds, coordinates standards, and maintains academic quality.
• Future: HECI (Higher Education Commission of India) proposed as a replacement.
Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

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8. National Food Security Act, 2013:

• T he Supreme Court emphasized that employment generation is a long-term solution to food security issues, while advo-
cate Prashant Bhushan noted the reliance on 2011 census data for the National Food Security Act (NFSA).
• E nacted on 12th September 2013, retroactive to 5th July 2013.
• A ims to provide subsidized food grains to 2/3rd of India’s population.
• C overs 75% of rural and 50% of urban areas.
• C onverts food security programs into legal entitlements.
• R ecognizes maternity entitlements for pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children.
• S tates implement the Act under central government directives (Section 38).
• S ubsidized prices are fixed for 3 years (no revisions yet).
• G uarantees legal rights to food grains at subsidized rates via Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS).
• P DS: 5 kg/person/month at ₹3/kg (rice), ₹2/kg (wheat), ₹1/kg (coarse grains).
• Eldest woman (18+ years) is the household head for ration cards.
• Provides free meals under ICDS and midday meal schemes for:
• Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children (6 months to 14 years).
• Pregnant/lactating women receive ₹6,000 cash benefit in installments.
• Universal programs like Midday Meal and ICDS complement PDS, reaching 75% of rural and 50% of urban areas.
• Priority Households: 5 kg food grains/person/month.
• Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY): 35 kg food grains/household/month.
Food Procurement and Distribution – PDS & NFSA, Shanta Kumar Committee, FCI restructuring, Buffer stock, etc.

Polity
1. Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC):
• L aw Minister suggests referring “One Nation, One Election” Bills to a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC).
• JPC will have 21 Lok Sabha members and 10 Rajya Sabha
• Formed by both Houses to examine specific subjects or Bills.
• Includes ruling and opposition MPs, with membership varying by task.
• JPC dissolves after completing its task or when its term ends.
• Created through a motion passed in one House and agreed by the other.
• C an examine documents, summon individuals, and submit recommendations.
• Proceedings are confidential unless deemed in public interest; disputes over evidence are resolved by the Speaker.
• Recommendations are advisory, not binding, but the government must submit an Action Taken Report to Parliament.
• Notable JPCs include those on Telecom Licenses (2011), Stock Market Scam (1992), Bofors Contract (1987), and Waqf
(Amendment) Bill (2024).
Parliament – Sessions, Procedures, Motions, Committees etc

2. What Ambedkar, KM Munshi said

on Uniform Civil Code (UCC)?
• P M reiterated the need for a Uniform Civil Code (UCC), invoking B.R. Ambedkar and KM Munshi from Constituent Assembly
discussions.
• KM Munshi (23 November 1948) backed the UCC, dismissing claims it would harm minorities.
• He noted that advanced Muslim countries had civil codes, proving personal law need not be untouchable.
• He stressed women’s equality in personal matters (inheritance, succession), highlighting discrimination in Hindu law.
• He linked the UCC to national unity, arguing religion is spiritual, while civil affairs should be uniform for progress.
• B.R. Ambedkar supported Article 35 (later Article 44), calling for a UCC.
• He challenged the notion that Muslim personal law was fixed, citing regions like the North-West Frontier Province that
followed Hindu law for succession.
• He believed religion should not govern personal laws and that the State can legislate to end social inequities.
• Article 35 was ultimately passed by the Constituent Assembly, directing the State to secure a UCC.
• It was renumbered as Article 44, remaining a DPSP, guiding uniformity in civil matters across communities.
Uniform Civil Code: Triple Talaq debate, Polygamy issue, etc.

3. Impeachment of Judges:
 pposition planned to move an impeachment motion against an Allahabad High Court Judge for controversial remarks
• O
inciting communal hatred.

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•  arliament passes an address to the President for removal.

P
• Requires approval by two-thirds of MPs present and voting in both Houses and a majority of 50% of the total membership.
• Article 124(4): Removal via Presidential order after a majority vote in both Houses.
• Article 218: Applies the same rules to High Court judges.
• Impeachment process ensures judicial independence by setting a high threshold for removal.
• Judges can be impeached for “proved misbehaviour” or “incapacity” as per Constitution.
• Defined under the Judges (Inquiry) Act, 1968, including: Misuse of office; Grave offences undermining integrity; Violation of
constitutional provisions.
• Initial Step: Motion signed by 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs.
• Committee Formation: Speaker/Chairperson forms a three-member inquiry committee.
• Headed by CJI or a Supreme Court judge; Includes a High Court Chief Justice; A distinguished jurist appointed by the
Speaker/Chairperson.
• Inquiry: Committee investigates charges, cross-examines witnesses, and regulates procedures.
• Outcome: If not guilty, motion is dismissed; if guilty, reported to the House for further action.
• Latest case in 2017: Justice C V Nagarjuna (AP & Telangana HC) faced impeachment for financial misconduct and victimizing
a Dalit judge, but the motion was not pursued.
Judicial Reforms

International Relations
1. H-1B Visa Program:
•  S President-elect Donald Trump supported H-1B Visas while emphasizing protecting American jobs.
U
• Allows hiring foreign workers in specialty occupations requiring high expertise or a bachelor’s degree.
• Administered by the S. Department of Labor to address workforce skill shortages.
• Employment is temporary but renewable.
• Provides access to specialized talent unavailable domestically.
• Annual cap: 65,000 visas + 20,000 for U.S. advanced degree holders.
• Exemptions: Higher education, non-profits, or government research workers not subject to the cap.
• Indians are the largest beneficiaries (3% in FY 2023, ~2.79 lakh approvals).
• 65% work in computer-related fields, 5% in engineering, 6% in education.
•  edian salary: $118,000 annually in 2023.
M
US policy wise : Visa, Free Trade and WTO

2. China approves dam over Brahmaputra:

•  hina announced plans to build the world’s largest dam on the Brahmaputra River (Yarlung Zangbo in Tibet).
C
• Part of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025) and its development strategy through 2035.
• Located in the lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River near the Indian border.
• Situated in a Himalayan gorge, where the river takes a U-turn into Arunachal Pradesh and flows to Bangladesh.
• Investment exceeds $137 billion, surpassing other infrastructure projects, including the Three Gorges Dam.
• Note : Three Gorges Dam is a hydroelectric gravity dam on the Yangtze River, central China.

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3. Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs):

• U NGA adopted a 10-Year Action Plan (2024–2034) for Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) to address unique
challenges.
• Aims to tackle issues across 5 priority areas:
• LLDCs are nations without access to coastlines, relying on neighbors for transit.
• 32 LLDCs exist, mainly in Africa, Asia, Europe, and South America.
• African LLDCs: Botswana, Chad, Ethiopia, Zambia, etc.
• Asian LLDCs: Afghanistan, Mongolia, Nepal, Uzbekistan, etc.
• European LLDCs: Armenia, Moldova, Serbia, etc.
• South American LLDCs: Bolivia, Paraguay.
• Challenges include: LLDCs face 4x higher costs due to transit dependence and lengthy customs.
Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

4. Greenland:
• T rump expressed interest in buying Greenland, which has reiterated it is not for sale.
• Greenland’s strategic location in the North Atlantic between Europe, North America, and across Baffin Bay makes it critical.
• US maintains the Pituffik Space Base (formerly Thule Air Base) in Greenland to monitor and counter missile threats from
Russia, China, and North Korea.
• Greenland is rich in rare earth minerals essential for electronics, electric vehicles, and weapons
• Melting ice caps due to global warming are opening new Arctic shipping routes, increasing Greenland’s strategic impor-
tance.
• T he US seeks to limit Russian and Chinese influence in Arctic waterways.
• G reenland is the world’s largest island, located between Europe and North America, part of the Kingdom of Denmark.
• I t is an autonomous territory within Denmark, handling domestic affairs while Denmark oversees defense, foreign policy,
and economic matters.
• P opulation: ~57,000, mainly Inuit communities, living along the coast.
• T ransitioned from a Danish colony to self-rule in 1979 and gained further autonomy in 2009.
• C overs 16 million square kilometers, with ~80% under the Greenland Ice Sheet, vital for studying climate change.
• P redominantly Arctic climate, with freezing temperatures year-round and milder summers in southern coastal areas.
• R ich in rare earth minerals, iron ore, zinc, lead, and uranium, though uranium mining was banned in 2021 for environmental
concerns.
• H as its own parliament (Inatsisartut) and prime minister for domestic policies, while Denmark controls foreign relations
and defense.
• R elies on Danish subsidies for ~60% of its budget; political groups advocate for full independence, though economic depen-
dence remains a barrier.

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5. United Nations Disengagement

Observer Force (UNDOF):
• U N Secretary-General paid tribute to Brigadier General Amitabh Jha of India, who died while serving with the UNDOF in
the Golan Heights.
• UNDOF was established after the 1973 Yom Kippur War between Israel and Syria under UNSC Resolution 350.
• Became operational on June 6, 1974, with an initial force of 1,200 personnel.
• Its role is to maintain the ceasefire, supervise disengagement of forces, and monitor separation zones.
• Mandate is renewed every 6 months to ensure stability in the Golan Heights, a strategically significant region.
• Area of Separation (AOS): A demilitarized zone (~80 km long, 200 m–8 km wide) controlled by UNDOF, where no military
activity is permitted.
• Areas of Limitation: Troop and weapon restrictions apply near the AOS to prevent escalations.
• Functions: Observe and report troop movements and violations to the UN; Assist Syrian civilians.
• Build confidence as a neutral party to reduce tensions; Liaise between Israeli and Syrian forces to prevent conflicts.
The Crisis In The Middle East

6. UN Internal Justice Council (UN-IJC):

• J ustice Madan B Lokur, retired Supreme Court judge of India, appointed Chairperson of the UN Internal Justice Council
(IJC).
• S erved on the Supreme Court of India (June 2012–December 2018), delivering significant judgments.
• J oined the Supreme Court of Fiji’s panel in 2019, reappointed for another term in 2022.
• N otable judgments: Electoral Disqualification (2017): Disqualified candidates seeking votes on identity-based grounds.
• C onsent in Marriages (2017): Raised the age of marital consent to 18 years, strengthening child protection laws.
• I JC established in 2009 to reform and strengthen the UN’s internal justice system.
• E nsures justice operates impartially, effectively, and transparently, handling workplace disputes.
• O versees Office of Staff Legal Assistance (OSLA), UN Dispute Tribunal (UNDT), and UN Appeals Tribunal (UNAT).
• C omposed of 5 members: 2 tribunal judges, 2 staff representatives, and 1 external legal expert; Chairperson appointed by
consensus.
• M embers serve a 4-year term, renewable once.
• F unctions: Recommends candidates for UNDT and UNAT judge positions; Monitors tribunals for fairness, transparency, and
efficiency; Safeguards judicial independence and integrity.
• A dvises on justice system reforms and evaluates tribunal processes.
• Jurisdiction covers grievances on administrative decisions, employment conditions, and workplace disputes for UN staff
globally.
Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

7. Panama Canal:

• U S President-elect Donald Trump criticized Panama for high fees on US ships using the Panama Canal and hinted at a poten-
tial US takeover.
• The Panama Canal connects the Atlantic Ocean (via the Caribbean Sea) to the Pacific Ocean and spans 80 km across the
Isthmus of Panama.
• Uses locks to raise and lower ships across an elevation of 85 feet (26 meters).
• Construction began in 1881 by the French under Ferdinand de Lesseps but failed.
• Completed by the US in 1914, led by George Goethals and John Stevens.

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•  ontrol transferred to Panama in 1999 under the Torrijos-Carter Treaties (1977).

C
• Essential for global trade, reducing transit time between oceans.
• Holds strategic military value, especially during the World Wars.
• Major contributor to Panama’s economy via tolls and trade activities.
• Trump expressed concern over China’s influence, particularly Panama’s participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
• Chinese companies are active in infrastructure, logistics, and energy projects around the canal.
• Panama’s 2018 BRI agreement strengthened its ties with China, challenging US regional influence.

8. Kailash Mansarovar:

• I ndia and China agreed to resume the Kailash-Mansarovar Yatra, suspended since 2020 due to COVID-19 and non-renewal
of arrangements by China.
• Sacred site in the Tibetan Autonomous Region, near India, Nepal, and Tibet.
• Includes Mount Kailash (6,638 meters) and Mansarovar Lake (4,556 meters), located on the Tibetan Plateau.
• Hinduism: Mount Kailash is the abode of Lord Shiva; Mansarovar Lake was created by Lord Brahma. Pilgrims believe it grants
Moksha and cleanses sins.
• Buddhism: Home of Buddha Demchok, representing bliss; linked to Jambhala, the god of wealth.
• Jainism: Mount Kailash is where Lord Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara, attained Nirvana.
• Bon Religion: Kailash is the sacred center of the universe for practitioners of Tibet’s Bon tradition.
• Access via the Lipulekh Pass, connecting Uttarakhand (India) to Tibet.
• Pilgrimage often undertaken via Nepal or through India’s Kailash Mansarovar Yatra (KMY) organized by the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA).
• Permits are required from China, with travel restricted and facilitated by authorized agencies.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-China

9. What is OPEC+?
• D onald Trump’s possible return concerns OPEC+ about increased US oil output from deregulation, reducing OPEC+ mar-
ket share.
• O PEC+ formed in 2016 to manage production and stabilize global oil prices.
• I t arose due to US shale oil flooding the market and pushing prices down.
• O PEC was founded in 1960 with 12 members: Algeria, Angola, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria,
Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Venezuela.
• N on-OPEC producers in OPEC+ include 10 nations: Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia,
South Sudan, and Sudan.
• O PEC+ accounts for ~40% of global crude oil output and ~80% of proven reserves.
• D ecisions on production cuts are driven by rising US output, global price stability, and weak demand.
• O PEC+ share fell from 55% in 2016 to 48% in 2024.
• P roduction cuts aim to stabilize prices, but higher US output can undermine these efforts.
• E conomic stability for oil nations depends on coordinated cuts to maintain favorable prices.
Oil and Gas Sector – HELP, Open Acreage Policy, etc.Prelims Only

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10. Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) in Nicaragua:

• I ndia and Nicaragua signed an umbrella agreement on Quick Impact Projects (QIPs).
• QIPs deliver rapid, visible benefits to local communities, focusing on critical infrastructure and social development.
• Agreement focuses on socio-economic development and directly benefits local communities.
• Nicaragua: Located in Central America, bordered by Honduras (north), Costa Rica (south), Pacific Ocean (west), and
Caribbean Sea (east).
• C apital: Managua. Official language: Spanish. Currency: Nicaraguan córdoba (NIO).
• O perates as a unitary presidential republic.
• E conomy relies on agriculture (coffee, bananas, sugar), manufacturing, and mining.
• T opography includes mountains in the interior and lowland plains along the coasts.
• H ome to over 20 volcanoes, including active ones like Masaya and San Cristóbal.
• Lake Cocibolca (Lake Nicaragua), among the largest in Latin America.
• Significant rivers include San Juan River (flows into the Caribbean) and Río Coco (longest river in Central America).
• India-Nicaragua diplomatic relations established in March 1983.
• Indian Embassy in Panama is accredited to Nicaragua.
• Nicaragua’s embassy in India closed in 1990, now represented via its Tokyo Embassy.
Foreign Policy Watch: United Nationsworld map

11. India-Australia CCEA Stocktake:

• A stocktake visit for the India-Australia Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) recently concluded
in New Delhi.
• Discussions included trade in goods and services, mobility, and agri-tech cooperation.
• Focused on market access aligning with India’s food security objectives.
• Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring CECA delivers balanced and meaningful benefits.
• Opened pathways for collaboration in agricultural innovation, market access, and supply chain resilience.

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• A comprehensive trade agreement, more expansive than the India-Australia ECTA (limited trade pact effective since De-
cember 2022).
• C ECA negotiations started in May 2011, paused in 2016, and resumed in 2021 after concluding ECTA.
• 1 0 rounds of negotiations completed so far.
• C overs goods, services, digital trade, government procurement, and Rules of Origin/Product-Specific Rules Schedule.
• I ncludes new areas: competition policy, MSMEs, innovation, agri-tech, critical minerals, and sports.
• India-Australia Trade Statistics (2023-24):
• Imports: India’s imports from Australia fell by 15% to USD 16.15 billion.
• Exports: India’s exports to Australia rose by 23% to USD 7.94 billion.
• Australia ranks as India’s 13th largest export destination and 14th largest import source.
Foreign Policy Watch: India-Australia

12. UNGA declares December 21 as World Meditation Day:

• I ndia played a key role in co-sponsoring and guiding the UN General Assembly resolution to declare December 21 as World
Meditation Day.
• Officially recognized by the UN General Assembly on December 6, 2024.
• Observed annually on December 21, coinciding with the Winter Solstice, symbolizing new beginnings, reflection, and
spiritual growth in Indian tradition.
• F alls exactly six months after International Day of Yoga (June 21), which marks the Summer Solstice.
• P romote Well-Being: Encourage global meditation for better mental health and wellness.
• I nner Reflection: Designated as a time for self-reflection and meditation, aligned with Uttarayana in Indian tradition.
• I ndia’s Global Leadership: Strengthens India’s role in global wellness initiatives, building on its success with the International
Day of Yoga.
Foreign Policy Watch: United Nations

Security Issues
1. Exercise SURYA KIRAN:
• I ndian Army departed for Nepal to join the 18th Battalion-Level Joint Military Exercise SURYA KIRAN.
• Conducted annually between India and Nepal since 2011.
• 18th edition held in Saljhandi, Nepal, from 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025.
• Hosted alternately by India and Nepal.
• Indian Army contingent of 334 personnel led by a battalion from the 11th Gorkha Rifles.
• Nepal Army represented by the Srijung Battalion.
• Focus on jungle warfare, counter-terrorism in mountains, and humanitarian aid under UN Charter.
Indian Army Updates

2. UNGA adopts milestone Cybercrime Treaty:

• U N General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the first legally binding treaty on cybercrime after a five-year negotiation effort.
• T he UN Convention against Cybercrime, finalized in December 2024, was unanimously adopted by all 193 UN Member
States.
• A ims to combat cybercrime, enhance international cooperation, and protect human rights in cyberspace.
• S igning ceremony scheduled for 2025 in Hanoi, Vietnam.
• K ey provisions include:
• A ddressing cybercrime: Targets crimes like terrorism, human trafficking, financial fraud, drug smuggling, and data theft
through ICT platforms.
• V ictim-centric approach: Prioritizes justice for victims, especially vulnerable groups.
• I nternational cooperation: Promotes evidence-sharing, joint investigations, and capacity-building among nations.
• H uman rights safeguards: Balances cybersecurity needs with freedom of expression, privacy, and access to information.
• Adaptability: Allows protocols to address emerging cyber threats, ensuring relevance.
• C apacity-building: Assists Member States in creating cybercrime laws, infrastructure, and improving law enforcement.
• Public awareness: Encourages global education campaigns to prevent cyber offenses.
Cyber Security – CERTs, Policy, etc

3. New Interception Rules and Safeguards

 he Centre introduced the Telecommunications (Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024, replacing Rule 419A of
• T
the Indian Telegraph Rules, 1951.

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• I ndian Telegraph Rules, 1951 governed telecom services under the Indian Telegraph Act, 1885, covering licensing, service
provider obligations, and lawful interception.
• New Rules (2024): Authorization: Interception orders issued by the Union Home Secretary, State Home Secretary, or
Joint Secretary-level officers in unavoidable cases.
• I n remote areas or for operational reasons, head or second senior-most officer of authorized agencies can issue orders,
which must be confirmed within 7 days or become invalid.
• R
 ecord Destruction: Interception records must be destroyed every 6 months unless required for courts or functional pur-
poses.
• C hanges from Rule 419A: Broadens interception to include non-emergent cases in remote areas or due to operational
reasons.
• L imits authorization at the state level to only the head and second senior-most officer of authorized agencies.
• U nconfirmed orders within 7 days make intercepted data unusable, even in courts.
• R eplaces Rule 419A with stricter procedures and safeguards for lawful interception.
Telecom and Postal Sector – Spectrum Allocation, Call Drops, Predatory Pricing, etc

4. Protected Area Regime (PAR):

•  entre reimposed the PAR in Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, all bordering Myanmar.
C
• After 13 years of relaxation to address security concerns and alleged illegal immigration from Myanmar.
• E stablished under the Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, part of the Foreigners Act, 1946.
• R egulates foreigner movement in sensitive areas near international borders, especially between the Inner Line and Inter-
national Border.
• O bjective: Ensure national security by restricting foreign access to sensitive regions.
• F oreigners need special permits (PAP) for entry, which may discourage tourism and slow development.
• E nhances border control, addressing unauthorized cross-border activities and illegal migration.
• Pre-2010, PAR applied to all of Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, and parts of Jammu & Kashmir,
Rajasthan, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand.
• Relaxed in 2010 for Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland, allowing foreign visitors without special permits.
• Reimposed in 2024 due to increased security concerns and the need for better border management.
• Foreign nationals must apply for PAPs through the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) or state authorities, specifying stay
duration and movement routes.
• Unauthorized extensions or route deviations are prohibited, with the system managed under the 1958 Order.
• Exemptions exist for certain countries, and Indian citizens typically do not need PAPs for travel in these areas.
North-East India – Security and Developmental Issues

5. Crime and Criminal Tracking

Network and Systems (CCTNS):
• A ll 17,130 police stations in India are now connected through CCTNS.
• Centralized platform for FIRs, chargesheets, and investigation reports.
• Launched in 2009 with a ₹2,000 crore budget under the Ministry of Home Affairs to improve efficiency and access to crime
data.
• Provides nationwide connectivity across 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
• Stores data on criminals, habitual offenders, missing persons, and stolen vehicles.
• Generates analytical crime reports and detailed case statistics.
• Integrated with ICJS to coordinate with courts, forensics, and other justice systems.
• Updated for 2024 criminal laws: Incorporates Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam, and Bharatiya
Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita.
• Adds mandatory videography for serious crime scenes, forensic investigations, and arrest transparency with officer approval
and relative notification.
• Updates include timely progress reports and digital daily diary reporting.
• Enhances investigations with crime data access, police coordination, and citizen services like online complaint tracking.
• Supported by NCRB and integrated with public safety platforms for better resource management.
Police Reforms – SC directives, NPC, other committees reports

6. Commissioning of INS TUSHIL:

• I NS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, will be commissioned by the Indian Navy in Kaliningrad, Russia.
• Part of the Krivak III class (Project 1135.6).
• Seventh frigate in the series, following Talwar-class and Teg-class
• Built at Yantar Shipyard, Kaliningrad, under a 2016 contract between the Indian Navy, JSC Rosoboronexport, and the Gov-
ernment of India.
 onstruction monitored by the Warship Overseeing Team with extensive trials conducted in 2024.
• C

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• S peed: 30+ knots; Stealth design with radar-absorbing features.

• Equipped with guided missiles, advanced weapon systems, and radars.
• Enhanced anti-surface and anti-air warfare capabilities; Helicopter deck for operations.
• Strengthens India’s naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Indian Navy Updates

7. Exercise CINBAX:
• T he 1st Joint Table Top Exercise CINBAX between the Indian Army and Cambodian Army began at the Foreign Training
Node, Pune.
• A Joint Table Top Exercise focusing on Counter Terrorism (CT) operations under UN Chapter VII.
• Aims to enhance trust, camaraderie, and operational efficiency in peacekeeping missions.
• Includes war-gaming CT operations and strategies in cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, and other military tactics.
• Conducted in 3 phases: Preparation and Orientation, Table Top Exercises, and Finalization of Plans.
• Focuses on Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and force multipliers in sub-conventional operations.
• Showcases indigenous weapons and equipment to promote ‘Atmanirbharta’ (self-reliance) in defence production.
• Note: Aspirants should not confuse CINBAX with SIMBEX, a bilateral naval exercise between India and Singapore.
Indian Army Updates

Enviro & Biodiversity

1. Pangong (Tso) Lake:

• I ndian Army installed a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj near Pangong Lake at 14,300 feet close to the LAC in eastern
Ladakh.
• N ame means “high grassland lake” in Tibetan; it is a landlocked endorheic lake with no outflow.
• S pans 134 km, with 1/3 in India and 2/3 in Tibet, situated at 4,350 meters, covering 604 sq. km, and 5 km wide at its
broadest.
• W ater & Climate: Brackish water, completely freezes in winter; changes color with sunlight and weather.
• B reeding ground for Bar-Headed Geese, Brahmini Ducks, and Radix freshwater snails.
• K ey to the Chushul approach, critical for defense against potential Chinese offensives, and a major site during the 1962 war.
• N orthern bank is a conflict hotspot due to differing boundary perceptions; China-built roads highlight its strategic value.
• 1 999 Incident: During Operation Vijay, China built a 5-km road inside Indian territory.
• 2 020 Standoff: Began on May 5, 2020, with clashes near the lake. Disengagement from the north and south banks com-
pleted in 2021.
• O ctober 21, 2024: India and China resolved final friction points (Demchok, Depsang) ending a 5-year standoff.
Tourism SectorPlaces in newsPrelims Only

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2. Ken-Betwa Link Project (KBLP) launched:

• P M Modi laid the foundation for the Ken-Betwa River Linking Project, the first project under the National Perspective Plan
(1980) for interlinking rivers.
• The project will submerge 10% of the core area of Panna Tiger Reserve.
• Objective: Transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa River, both tributaries of the Yamuna.
• Includes a 221 km canal (with a 2-km tunnel) for water diversion, impacting districts in UP (Jhansi, Banda, Lalitpur, Mahoba)
and MP (Tikamgarh, Panna, Chhatarpur).
• Targeted completion within 8 years by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Irrigation: Benefits 62 lakh ha (8.11 lakh ha in MP, 2.51 lakh ha in UP).
• Drinking Water: Supplies to 62 lakh people in MP and UP.
• Energy Generation: 103 MW hydropower and 27 MW solar power.
• Phase-I: Construction of Daudhan Dam, canals, tunnels, and powerhouses.
• Phase-II: Lower Orr Dam, Bina Complex Project, and Kotha Barrage.
• Daudhan Dam: Foundation stone laid in Dec 2024 by PM Modi.
• Dimensions: 2,031 m long, 77 m high, submerging ~9,000 ha across 10 villages.
• Construction awarded to NCC Ltd.
• Ken River: Originates near Ahirgawan, MP, flows through Bundelkhand, and joins the Yamuna at Chilla, UP.
• Betwa River: Starts in Vindhya Range near Hoshangabad, MP, flows through Bundelkhand, and meets the Yamuna at Hamir-
pur, UP.
 oth rivers are seasonal and heavily dependent on monsoon rainfall.
• B
River Interlinking

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3. Lion-Tailed Macaque:
• A study reveals food provisioning and habituation to humans threaten the lion-tailed macaque, endemic to India’s Western
Ghats.
• Roads crossing macaque habitats in eight key locations (e.g., Anamalai Hills, Agumbe, Sabarimala) increase human-animal
interaction.
• Scientific Name: Macaca silenus; also called Wanderoo or Bearded Monkey.
• Features black fur with a gray/silver mane, giving it the nickname “beard ape.”
• Faces threats like habitat loss, hunting, and wood harvesting.
• Acts as an indicator species for rainforest health and helps conserve other wildlife.
• Found in the Western Ghats (Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu), mainly in evergreen rainforests and monsoon forests.
• Behavior: Shy, avoids humans, arboreal, diurnal; Communicates with 17 vocalizations, with males marking territories vocally.
• Diet: Primarily fruits, also leaves, flowers, fungi, and small animals.
• Conservation Status: IUCN: Endangered; CITES: Appendix I; Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I.
• Population estimated at 4,200 individuals.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

4. India State of Forest Report, 2023:

• T he 18th India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2023 was released by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate
Change.
• Published biennially by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) since 1987.
• F orest and Tree Cover: Total: 8,27,356.95 km² (25.17% of India’s geographical area); Forest Cover: 7,15,342.61 km² (21.76%);
Tree Cover: 1,12,014.34 km² (3.41%).
• I ncrease in Forest and Tree Cover: Net increase: 1,445.81 km² compared to 2021.
• Forest cover rose by 41 km²; maximum increase in Chhattisgarh (684 km²), Uttar Pradesh (559 km²), and Odisha (559
km²).
• Largest decrease: Madhya Pradesh (612.41 km²), followed by Karnataka (459.36 km²).
• Largest forest cover: Madhya Pradesh (77,073 km²), Arunachal Pradesh (65,882 km²), and Chhattisgarh (55,812 km²).
• Percentage of forest cover: Lakshadweep (91.33%), Mizoram (85.34%), and Andaman & Nicobar Islands (81.62%).
• 19 states/UTs have above 33% forest cover; 8 states/UTs (e.g., Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh) exceed 75% forest cover.
• C arbon Stock: Estimated at 7,285.5 million tonnes, with an increase of 5 million tonnes since 2021.
• Top contributors: Arunachal Pradesh (1,021 Mt), Madhya Pradesh (608 Mt), Chhattisgarh (505 Mt).
• India’s CO2 equivalent carbon stock is 43 billion tonnes, nearing the 2030 target of 2.5–3.0 billion tonnes.
• Mangrove Cover: Total: 4,991.68 km² (0.15% of India’s geographical area).
• Net decrease in Mangrove: 43 km²; Gujarat saw the largest drop (36.39 km²), while Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra
increased by 13.01 km² and 12.39 km², respectively.
• F orest Fire: Most incidents occurred in Uttarakhand, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh during the 2023-24 season.
Forest Conservation Efforts – NFP, Western Ghats, etc.

5. First-ever Ganges River Dolphin Tagging:

• F irst-ever Ganges River Dolphin (Platanista gangetica) tagged in Assam, a major milestone in wildlife conservation.
• C alled the “Tiger of the Ganges,” discovered in 1801, declared National Aquatic Animal (2009) and State Aquatic Animal
of Assam.
• Announcement made at the first meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA).
• ~90% of the species live in India, mainly in the Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli river systems.
• Dolphin is blind, survives in freshwater, uses ultrasonic sounds to hunt, travels in small groups, surfaces every 30-120
seconds to breathe.
• Serves as an indicator of river ecosystem health (apex predator).
• Main threats: accidental killing by fishing gear, poaching for oil, habitat destruction, and pollution (industrial, pesticide,
noise).
• C onservation status: IUCN: Endangered; Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972: Schedule I; CITES: Appendix I; CMS: Appendix I.
• G overnment initiatives: Project Dolphin, Vikramshila Ganges Dolphin Sanctuary (Bihar), National Ganga River Dolphin
Day (5 October).
• Project Dolphin launched by PM in 2020 (10-year plan) under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change,
targeting protection for riverine and oceanic dolphins, mitigating threats, and involving stakeholders in conservation.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

6. National Wildlife Health Policy (NWHP):

• C entral Zoo Authority (CZA) initiated the NWHP through a workshop in New Delhi.
• Aims to enhance wildlife health and control zoonotic diseases under the National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-31).

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•  ZA, formed in 1992 under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, functions under MoEF&CC.
C
• Focuses on the One Health approach, linking human, animal, and environmental health.
• Goals include controlling zoonotic diseases, improving disease surveillance, and increasing community awareness.
• Proposes a Wildlife Health Management Unit (WHMU) to implement programs and early disease detection
• Promotes biosecurity protocols, epidemic preparedness, and inter-agency coordination.
• Involves state wildlife authorities, IVRI, and wildlife institutes for surveillance and monitoring.
• Includes capacity building through training programs for wildlife health professionals.
• Allocates resources for research, surveillance, and program implementation.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

7. IPBES Report, 2024:

• 1 1th IPBES plenary in Namibia addressed the global biodiversity crisis with scientific evidence.
• I ntergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES)
enhances the science-policy interface on biodiversity and ecosystems, with 130+ member governments.
• E stablished in 2012, it conducts biodiversity assessments, supports policies, and promotes capacity building.
• A chievements include the 2019 Global Assessment Report and the 2021 IPCC collaboration on biodiversity and climate.
• 1 million species face extinction due to habitat loss, climate change, and pollution.
• C alls for global action on deforestation, water scarcity, and declining ecosystem services like clean air and food.
• A sia hosts 50% of global biodiversity but faces threats from urbanization, deforestation, and overfishing.
• P romotes sustainable agriculture and conservation efforts despite challenges in protected area management.
• S tresses One Health approach linking human, animal, and environmental health.
• U rges cooperation to combat biodiversity loss and climate change globally.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

8. Arctic Tundra is emitting more

Carbon than it absorbs:
•  he Arctic Tundra, a frozen, treeless biome, has long acted as a carbon sink, storing carbon for thousands of years.
T
• Recent changes, as per NOAA, are turning it into a GHG source, releasing CO2 and CH4.
• Arctic Tundra is a cold, treeless biome in the Arctic Circle.
• Climate: Harsh winters, cool summers, temperatures from -28°C to 3°C, with permafrost restricting plant root growth.
• Experiences 24-hour daylight in summer and polar nights in winter.
• Vegetation: Limited to mosses, lichens, grasses, and shrubs.
• Animals: Arctic foxes, polar bears, caribou, and migratory birds; biodiversity is low.
• Adaptations: Thick fur in animals; shallow roots in plants for nutrient absorption.
• C arbon Storage: Plants absorb CO2 via photosynthesis; carbon gets trapped in soil and organic matter.
• Permafrost slows decomposition, locking organic materials (carbon) in frozen ground.
• The tundra stores 6 trillion tonnes of carbon, twice the amount in Earth’s atmosphere.
• Rising Arctic temperatures are thawing permafrost, releasing CO2 and CH4 as microbes decompose organic matter.
• The Arctic warms 4x faster than the global average.
• 2024 was the second-warmest year on record, accelerating permafrost thaw.
• Increased wildfires worsen thawing and release more greenhouse gases.
• From 2001 to 2020, rising temperatures and wildfires caused the Arctic tundra to emit more carbon than it absorbed.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

9. Import of Hazardous Waste:

• N otified under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, these rules ensure safe storage, treatment, and disposal of hazard-
ous wastes.
• Objective: Minimize harm to the environment and human health through strict handling and disposal regulations.
• Import Regulations: Hazardous wastes from Part A of Schedule III can be imported for recycling, recovery, reuse, or co-pro-
cessing; import for disposal is banned.
• P ermission Requirement: Only actual users (industries) with approval from MoEF&CC and a license from DGFT can import.
• I llegal Imports: Any import without MoEF&CC permission is illegal; Ports and Customs can act under relevant laws.
• I mport/Export Provisions: Hazardous waste cannot be imported for final disposal; certain exemptions exist for exports (e.g.,
silk waste).
• P rohibited Wastes: Includes waste fats/oils, household waste, critical care medical equipment, plastic waste, and spe-
cific chemical wastes.
• T reatment, Storage, Disposal Facilities: Facilities must follow prescribed guidelines and secure SPCB approval.
• S PCB Role: Monitors compliance, allocates space for recycling/pre-processing, and conducts skill development for safe han-
dling.

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• S PCBs compile inventories of hazardous waste management, and state governments submit reports to MoEF&CC.
Waste Management – SWM Rules, EWM Rules, etc

10. First Ice-Free day in the Arctic could come by 2030:

•  recent study predicts the Arctic Ocean may have its first ice-free day (sea ice below 1 million sq km) by 2030 or sooner.
A
• First Ice-Free Day: Could occur by 2030 or earlier, based on climate conditions.
• Simulations: Used 11 climate models with 366 simulations from 2023 to 2100.
• Most models predict ice-free day within 7 to 20 years, some as early as September 2027.
• Conditions: Unusually warm seasons and stormy weather accelerate sea ice melting.
• Impact: Following the first ice-free day, there could be an ice-free period lasting 11 to 53 days, potentially leading to the first
ice-free month.
• Arctic tundra holds about 6 trillion metric tonnes of carbon, double the atmospheric carbon.
• Arctic warming is four times the global average; 2024 was the second-warmest year in the region.
• From 2001 to 2020, Arctic tundra released more carbon than it absorbed.
• Implications: Loss of sea ice reduces the Albedo effect, increasing sunlight absorption and global warming.
• Melting Arctic ice contributes to sea level rise; complete Greenland ice sheet melt could raise sea levels by 6 meters.
• Albedo Effect: Measures how much sunlight a surface reflects; High albedo surfaces (ice, snow) reflect more sunlight; Low
albedo surfaces (oceans, forests) absorb more heat.
Climate Change Impact on India and World – International Reports, Key Observations, etc.

11. Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024:

• T he Central Water Commission (CWC) released the study ‘Assessment of Water Resources of India, 2024’.
• India’s average annual water availability (1985–2023) is estimated at 2,115.95 BCM.
• Top 3 Basins (annual water availability): Brahmaputra Basin: 592.32 BCM; Ganga Basin: 581.75 BCM; Godavari Basin: 129.17
BCM.
• Bottom 3 Basins: Sabarmati Basin: 9.87 BCM; Pennar Basin: 10.42 BCM; Mahi Basin: 13.03 BCM.
• Comparison to 2019 Report: Current figure (2,115.95 BCM) is higher than 1,999.2 BCM in 2019; increase due to Bhutan’s
contribution to the Brahmaputra basin and Nepal’s contribution to the Ganga basin.
• P er Capita Water Availability: 2021: 1,486 cubic meters (2019 study); 2024: 1,513 cubic meters, still under water stress (<1,700
cubic meters per capita).
• U tilizable Water Resources: Utilizable surface water is 690 BCM out of 1,999.2 BCM; smaller basins have higher utilization
potential than larger ones like the Brahmaputra sub-basin.
• C WC was established in 1945 as the Central Waterways, Irrigation and Navigation Commission (CWINC) on Dr. B. R.
Ambedkar’s advice.
• F unctions under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Department of Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation.
• A statutory advisory body for water resource development and management.
• H eadquarters: New Delhi.
• T he Chairman acts as Ex-Officio Secretary to the Government of India.
• R esponsibilities include control, conservation, and utilization of water resources; maintaining the National Register of Large
Dams (NRLD); conducting hydrological surveys; manages surface water (while CGWB handles groundwater).
• Wings are Designs and Research (D&R); River Management (RM); Water Planning and Projects (WP&P).
Water Management – Institutional Reforms, Conservation Efforts, etc.

12. Egyptian Cotton Leafworm (A Moth Species):

• A study confirmed that the Egyptian cotton leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis) can detect sounds emitted by stressed plants.
• A polyphagous pest affecting crops like cotton, tomatoes, maize, tobacco, and peppers.
• F ound in tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.

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• S preading to new areas due to climate change.

• Larvae feed on leaves, stems, and flowers, reducing crop yield and quality.
• Female moths use plant acoustic emissions (inaudible to humans) to choose egg-laying sites.
• These sound clicks help moths identify hydrated, healthy plants for egg-laying.
• Moths avoid stressed, dehydrated plants producing stress-related sounds.
• Significant threat to cotton-growing regions.
• Larvae damage crops, especially cotton, tomatoes, and tobacco, reducing both quality and quantity of produce.
New of Plants and Animals Discovered

13. Emissions Gap Report, 2024:

•  he UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2024 was released ahead of COP 29 UNFCCC in Baku, Azerbaijan.
T
• If current policies continue, global temperatures may rise by 1°C above pre-industrial levels.
• Full implementation of NDCs would still lead to 6°C warming.
• The Paris Agreement aims to limit temperature rise to well below 2°C and strive for 5°C.
• To stay within 5°C, emissions must peak before 2025 and drop by 43% by 2030.
• Global emissions reached 1 gigatons of CO₂e in 2023.
• India’s emissions grew by 1%, while global emissions rose by 1.3% compared to 2022.
• G 20 countries (excluding the African Union) contributed 77% of global emissions in 2023.
• S ix largest emitters accounted for 63% of global emissions.
• P er Capita Emissions: India: 9 tCO₂e in 2022, lower than China (11 tCO₂e) and US (18 tCO₂e).
• D eveloped countries emit three times the global average (6.6 tCO₂e), while India, African Union, and least-developed
countries remain below it.
• A 5% annual reduction is needed until 2035 to keep the 1.5°C target achievable.
• Achieving net-zero by 2050 requires USD 900 billion–2.1 trillion annually, ~1% of global GDP.
• Solar and wind energy can deliver 27% of emissions reductions by 2030.
• Forest conservation and restoration can provide 20% of required reductions.
Climate Change Negotiations – UNFCCC, COP, Other Conventions and Protocols

14. Madhav National Park to be

India’s 58th Tiger Reserve:
• T he Union Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change approved two new tiger reserves in Madhya Pradesh:
• Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary: Becomes India’s 57th tiger reserve.
• Madhav National Park: Will be India’s 58th tiger reserve after official notification.

About Madhav Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Shivpuri district, Madhya Pradesh, near Madhav National Park.
• Area: 354.85 sq km (137.3 sq mi).
• H istory:
• I nitially a National Park.
• D eclared Shivpuri National Park in 1956 and renamed Madhav National Park in 1959 after Maharaja Madho Raj Scindia of
Gwalior.
• F lora and Fauna:
• B iome: Dry deciduous forests with scrub and grasslands.
• F auna: Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sloth bears, wild boars, sambar, jackals, wild dogs.
• Water Bodies: Sindh River, Pitakhal Lake, seasonal streams.

About Ratapani Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, in the Vindhya Range, ~50 km from Bhopal.
• Area: 824 sq km (318 sq mi).
• H istory:
• D eclared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1976.
• D esignated as a Tiger Reserve on 2 Dec 2024.
• F lora and Fauna:
• B iome: Dry and moist deciduous forests with 55% teak cover.
• F auna: Tigers, leopards, spotted deer, sloth bears, wild boars, sambar, jackals, wild dogs.
• Water Bodies: Barna Reservoir, Ratapani Dam, seasonal streams.
Tiger Conservation Efforts – Project Tiger, etc.

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15. Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog:

• A study highlights that endemic frogs, including the Nilphamari narrow-mouthed frog (Microhyla nilphamariensis), face
threats from habitat loss and land use changes in agroforestry areas like orchards and paddy fields.
• A small frog with a narrow triangular mouth and reduced webbing between toes.
• Has a light brown dorsal color with a dark brown diamond-shaped marking.
• Not listed by IUCN or CITES.
• Found in Bangladesh, India, Nepal, and northern Pakistan.
• Prefers moist environments like grassy fields near ephemeral pools.
• Faces threats from habitat loss and land use changes, especially in agroforestry habitats.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

16. World Wildlife Conservation Day (December 4):

• W orld Wildlife Conservation Day is observed annually on December 4 to promote the protection of endangered species
and their habitats.
• The 2023 theme: “Connecting People and Planet: Exploring Digital Innovation in Wildlife Conservation.”
• E stablished in 2012 by the UN, aligning with the anniversary of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species) signed in 1948.
• Supports global wildlife conservation efforts and aligns with SDG 15 (life on land) and SDG 14 (life below water).
• As of 2022, 73 species in India are critically endangered, up from 47 in 2011 due to better monitoring and data availability.
• These species are vital for tourism but represent only a fraction of India’s critically endangered wildlife.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

17. International Centre for Integrated

Mountain Development (ICIMOD):
• I CIMOD launched the Air Quality Dashboard for the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
• Provides real-time and forecasted air quality data for the region.
• Uses ground sensor data and satellite imagery to track air pollution at local, sub-regional, and regional scales.
• Powered by the WRF-Chem model, offering a dynamic timelapse of 5 pollution spread.
• Highlights pollution hotspots like Lahore, New Delhi, and Kolkata.
• Offers two-day forecasts, helping communities, policymakers, and researchers take proactive measures.
• A regional intergovernmental centre established in 1981, headquartered in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
• R epresents 8 HKH countries: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan.
• H KH region covers the Hindu Kush, Himalayas, and Tibetan Plateau.
• H as a Knowledge Park in Godavari, Lalitpur, and offices in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• C ollaborates with scientific institutions, government agencies, donors, and the private sector
• P romotes regional partnerships to improve the future of people and the environment in the HKH region.
• E ngages in knowledge sharing, research, and field applications to address regional challenges.
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

18. Gandhamardan Hills:

• O disha government clarified no bauxite mining will be allowed in Gandhamardan Hills after concerns arose from Adani
Group’s subsidiary acquiring 112 acres near the hills.
• Located in western Odisha, spanning the Bargarh and Bolangir districts.
• Covers 190 square kilometres, with dense forests and hill slopes.
• Supports the livelihoods of local communities.
• Rich in bauxite, graphite, and manganese, vital for aluminium, industrial, and steel applications.

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•  ome to Nrusinghanath Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu) and Harishankar Temple (dedicated to Shiva and Vishnu).
H
• Mentioned by Hiuen Tsang as the Buddhist heritage site Parimalagiri.
• Rich in medicinal plants and wildlife.
• Endemic species include Dasycarpa and spider peucetia harishankarensis.
•  eclared a Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) by Odisha in March 2023, the 37th BHS in India.
D
Wildlife Conservation Efforts

Science Tech
1. ISRO SpaDEx PSLV-C60 Launch:
• I SRO’s PSLV-C60 will launch SDX01 and SDX02 into a 476-km orbit in early January for the Space Docking Experiment
(SpaDEx).
• India becomes the 4th nation to achieve space docking after the US, Russia, and China.
• O bjective: Demonstrate docking, undocking, and rendezvous in low-Earth orbit (LEO) and enable power transfer between
docked spacecraft.
• S DX01 (Chaser) has a High-Resolution Camera (HRC).
• S DX02 (Target) carries a Miniature Multispectral Payload (MMX) and Radiation Monitor (RadMon).
• L aunched via PSLV-C60 in core-alone (CA) mode without boosters.
• O rbit: 476-km circular, 55° inclination.
• Post-docking, satellites will conduct standalone missions for two years, focusing on imaging, resource monitoring, and
radiation studies.
• P repares for Gaganyaan human spaceflight, Chandrayaan-4 lunar missions, and the Bharatiya Antariksh Station (BAS)
• S pace Docking: Two spacecraft rendezvous and connect in orbit.
• S teps: Rendezvous (align orbits), Docking (connect mechanically), and Resource Sharing (transfer power, fuel, or crew).
ISRO Missions and Discoveries

2. Parker Solar Probe:

•  eached 1 million km from the Sun, the closest any human-made object has been.
R
• At this distance, if Earth and Sun were 1 meter apart, the probe would be 4 cm from the Sun.
• A NASA mission launched on August 12, 2018, under the “Living With a Star” program.
• Studies the Sun’s corona and solar winds.
• Named after Eugene Parker, the first NASA mission named after a living researcher.
• Size of a small car with four instruments to study electric and magnetic fields, plasma, and high-energy particles.
• Completed 21 orbits using Venus flybys to get closer to the Sun.
• Heat Shield: A 5-inch carbon-composite shield withstands 1,377°C, keeping instruments stable at 29.4°C.
• V
 enus Flybys: Gravitational assists reduced orbit gradually.
• S
 peed: Travels at 6,92,000 km/h, the fastest human-made object.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

3. Mitochondrial Genome (mtDNA):

 ecent research suggests age-related mtDNA deletion mutations reduce mitochondrial energy production (ATP), driving
• R
cell and tissue dysfunction, a major factor in aging.

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•  itochondria are cellular powerhouses, producing ATP for energy.

M
• They originated from bacteria absorbed by ancient cells and retained their own circular DNA (mtDNA).
• Humans inherit mitochondria exclusively from the mother.
• Mitochondria have a double membrane: outer membrane and folded inner membrane (cristae) for energy production.
• The mitochondrial matrix contains mtDNA, ribosomes, and enzymes for the Krebs cycle and fatty acid oxidation.
• Mitochondria regulate calcium levels and trigger apoptosis under stress by releasing cytochrome c.
• DNA stores genetic instructions (bases A, T, G, C), organized in 23 chromosome pairs.
• A gene is a DNA section coding for proteins or RNA, activated by transcription into mRNA.
• mRNA carries DNA instructions to ribosomes for protein synthesis.
• mtDNA Functions:
• Encodes 13 proteins for mitochondrial ATP synthesis and 24 non-coding genes (rRNA, tRNA).
• Supports the electron transport chain, the main ATP producer.
• Inherited only from the mother, with multiple mtDNA copies in each cell.
• Mutations in mtDNA lead to reduced ATP, affecting tissues like muscles and brain, accelerating aging and disease.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

4. Mumps Vaccine:
• T amil Nadu requested the Centre to include the MMR vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) due to
rising mumps cases.
• Tamil Nadu’s UIP includes 11 vaccines covering 12 diseases like tuberculosis, measles, rubella, polio, and Japanese encephalitis
in 14 endemic districts.
• The Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine was added in April 2017, but mumps is not covered.
• Mumps is a viral infection causing ear swelling (parotitis), fever, headache, and muscle pain.
• Spread through respiratory droplets or saliva, it may cause complications like orchitis, oophoritis, encephalitis, or hearing
loss.
• M MR vaccine offers 78–88% protection and is the best preventive measure.
• U IP, launched in 1985, provides free vaccines for children and pregnant women under the National Health Mission (2005).
• Covers 12 diseases, including tuberculosis, polio, measles, rubella, pneumonia, and rotavirus gastroenteritis.
• Key vaccines added: Hepatitis B (2007), Pneumococcal Vaccine (2017), and Measles-Rubella Vaccine.
• Entirely government-funded, with a budget of ₹7,234 crore (2022), covering all residents, including foreign nationals.
• M ission Indradhanush (2014) targets 90% full immunization by 2022, focusing on 8 diseases like diphtheria, tetanus, mea-
sles, and hepatitis B.
• Includes diseases like rotavirus diarrhoea and Japanese encephalitis in select areas, covering 201 districts with the highest
unvaccinated populations.
Mother and Child Health – Immunization Program, BPBB, PMJSY, PMMSY, etc.

5. Google’s GenCast AI:

• G oogle DeepMind unveiled GenCast, an AI model for accurate, long-term weather predictions.
• GenCast uses machine learning for forecasts, outperforming traditional numerical weather prediction (NWP) models.
• Trained on 40 years of reanalysis data (1979–2019) to predict extreme weather, tropical cyclones, and wind power produc-
tion.
• U ses a neural network with 41,162 nodes and 240,000 edges, refining noisy data in 30 steps for accuracy.
• G enerates 50 probabilistic forecasts simultaneously in 8 minutes using a single TPU v5 unit, faster than traditional models.
• P redicts up to 15 days ahead with a 25° x 0.25° spatial resolution at 12-hour intervals.
• O utperforms ECMWF ensemble forecasts on 2% of targets, especially in extreme weather scenarios.
• P robabilistic predictions allow better preparedness for weather events.
• S calable and sustainable, with potential expansion to other areas of weather forecasting.
• G oogle collaborates with weather agencies to integrate AI methods while valuing traditional models.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) Breakthrough

6. What are Hydrothermal Vents?

• I ndian oceanographers captured the first image of an active hydrothermal vent at 4,500 meters depth in the Indian
Ocean.
• P art of India’s Deep Ocean Mission (DOM) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences with a ₹4,000 crore
• Hydrothermal vents form near tectonic plates where cold water mixes with magma, releasing superheated, mineral-rich
plumes.
• Vents release valuable minerals like copper, zinc, gold, silver, nickel, and others, making them crucial for mineral exploration.
• Vent deposits can remain active for hundreds to 30,000 years, supporting long-term mineral exploration efforts.
• Discovery confirmed by NCPOR showed an active vent chimney with black smokers and thriving chemosynthetic organ-
isms.

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• N CPOR Programme focuses on the Central and Southwest Indian Ridges, aiming to locate vents, study biodiversity, and
explore minerals.
• Since 2012, geophysical surveys detect anomalies and turbidity; advanced tools like AUVs and high-resolution imaging are
used.
• C ollaboration with NIOT supports exploration in the Southern Indian Ocean.
• D OM, approved in 2021, is a key initiative to develop deep-sea exploration technologies, part of PMSTIAC’s 9 missions.
• S amudrayaan Mission, launched in 2021, will send a crew to 6,000 m depth using Matsya6000, a titanium-alloy submers-
ible.
• I ndia’s ocean exploration milestones:
• 1 981: PMN program began with sample collection from the Arabian Sea.
• 1 987: India achieved Pioneer Investor status from ISA and was allocated 5 lakh km² in CIOB for exploration.
• 2 002: India retained 75,000 km² for exploration, narrowing to 18,000 km² for mining.
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies &

7. IRIS² Program:
• E U signed a contract for IRIS², a 290-satellite network to enhance resilience, connectivity, and security.
• IRIS² stands for Infrastructure for Resilience, Interconnectivity, and Security by Satellite.
• Includes 264 satellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and 18 satellites in Medium Earth Orbit (MEO).
• A collaboration between the European Union and SpaceRISE.
• First launch planned for 2029.
• Provides secure high-speed broadband, focusing on underserved regions and Europe.
• Funded by the EU, ESA, and private firms like SES, Eutelsat, and Airbus; Total cost: €10.6 billion (~$11 billion).
• Governmental uses: Border surveillance, crisis management, infrastructure security, and defense.
• Civilian uses: Broadband, smart energy, transportation, and remote healthcare.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

8. Firefly Sparkle Galaxy:

• J ames Webb Space Telescope (JWST) discovered Firefly Sparkle, dating to 600 million years after the Big Bang.
• It is among the earliest low-mass galaxies, giving insights into early galaxy formation.
• Named for its bright star clusters, shining like fireflies in JWST images.
• Part of an early universe group, suggesting how galaxies like the Milky Way formed.
• Has a mass of ~10 million Suns and spans 1,000 light-years (compared to the Milky Way’s 100,000 light-years).
• Contains 10 star clusters at different formation stages and is accompanied by 2 smaller galaxies (Firefly-Best Friend, Fire-
fly-New Best Friend).
• I ts elongated raindrop shape indicates it is still forming.
• G ravitational lensing magnified its light by 16-26 times, revealing star formation phases (younger blue stars, older red stars).
• Each star cluster marks a distinct phase of formation, refining theories on early galaxy growth and star cluster dynamics.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

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9. DAE-Homi Bhabha Chair Scheme:

• D AE—Homi Bhabha Chair launched in 2021 by the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) to recognize and support distin-
guished scientists, including retirees, in atomic energy.
• Recognize outstanding contributions in atomic energy and related technologies.
• Enable retired professionals to continue research in sensitive atomic technologies.
• Benefit strategic sectors through advanced research.
• Honorarium: ₹2,00,000/month (capped at last drawn salary).
• C ontingency Grant: ₹76,000/year for secretarial assistance, telephone bills, etc.
• Equipment Allowance: ₹1,25,000 and ₹10,000 for books.
• Transport Allowance: Fixed monthly allowance for those without official vehicles.
• Eligibility: Open to distinguished scientists, including retirees in atomic technologies.
• Tenure: 1–5 years, decided by a Selection Committee.
• Implementation: Administered by DAE with research support and infrastructure.
• Homi Jehangir Bhabha (1909–1966): Pioneer of India’s nuclear programme.
• Founded TIFR (1945) and Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay (1954), later renamed BARC.
• Formulated India’s three-stage nuclear power programme in the 1950s.
• First Indian to win the Adams Prize (1942); presided over the UN Conference on Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy (1955).
• Activated Apsara (Asia’s first research reactor) in 1956; awarded the Padma Bhushan (1954).
Promoting Science and Technology – Missions,Policies &

10. National Tuberculosis Elimination

Programme (NTEP):
• U nion Ministry of Health re-strategized the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) under the 100-Day TB
Elimination Campaign to reduce TB cases and mortality with targeted interventions.
• NTEP: Formerly Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP).
• Goal: Eliminate TB as a public health issue in India by 2025.
• Focus: Early detection, complete treatment, prevention, and strengthened TB care services.
• Key Components:
• Universal Drug Susceptibility Testing (UDST): Early detection of drug-resistant TB.
• Free Diagnosis and Treatment: Available for all TB patients.
• Nikshay System: Web-enabled case-based TB monitoring and management.
• Private Sector Engagement: Standardized care through private healthcare providers.

Menace of TB in India:
• WHO (2023): India accounts for 26% of global TB cases and deaths.
• I CMR Survey: 312 TB cases per lakh population across 20 states.
• T B Incidence Rate: Declined by 17.7%, from 237/100,000 (2015) to 195/100,000 (2023).
• T B Death Rate: Dropped by 21.4%, from 28 per lakh (2015) to 22 per lakh (2023).
Tuberculosis Elimination Strategy

11. Marburg Virus:

•  n outbreak of Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) has caused deaths and infections in Rwanda.
A
• C auses Marburg Hemorrhagic Fever, part of the filovirus family (like Ebola).
• Discovered in 1967 during outbreaks in Marburg and Frankfurt, Germany.
• C ase Fatality Rate: 24%–88%, depending on the strain and treatment.
• A nimal to Human Transmission: From Rousettus bats, especially Egyptian fruit bats in caves or mines.
• H uman to Human: Direct contact with blood and bodily fluids (saliva, vomit, feces, semen, breast milk) or indirectly via
contaminated surfaces.
• E arly Symptoms: Fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, nausea, vomiting, severe diarrhoea.
• P rogression: Bleeding from multiple body parts; death in 8–9 days due to organ failure and blood loss.
• N o approved vaccine or treatment; supportive care includes hydration, symptom management, and blood transfusions.
• E xperimental vaccines are under study.

12. ecDNA Challenges Law of Genetics:

• A study in ‘Nature’ found that extrachromosomal DNA (ecDNA) is present in ~50% of cancer types and plays a key role in
tumor evolution and genetic heterogeneity.
• Small, circular DNA in the nucleus, separate from regular chromosomes.
• Forms when DNA breaks off from chromosomes due to damage or cell division errors.
• C arries extra copies of oncogenes, promoting cancer growth.

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•  nce considered insignificant, now shown to be critical in cancer development.

O
• Extra oncogenes on ecDNA speed up cancer cell growth and aggressiveness.
• Produces more harmful proteins, making treatment with standard drugs less effective.
• Enables faster tumor adaptation, resisting chemotherapy and continuing growth under drug pressure.
• Mendel’s Law: States genes on different chromosomes are inherited independently.
• ecDNA breaks this rule by passing genes together as a cluster during cell division.
• Ensures cancer cells inherit advantageous gene combinations, aiding tumor growth and drug resistance.
• Unlike regular chromosomes, ecDNA is passed as a package, giving cancer cells a survival advantage.
Innovations in Biotechnology and Medical Sciences

13. Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite

Users’ Conference (AOMSUC-14):
• T he 14th AOMSUC will be held in New Delhi from December 4-6, 2024.
• Focuses on using meteorological satellite data for weather forecasting, climate monitoring, and disaster risk manage-
ment.
• F irst held in Beijing, China, in 2010; now an annual event across Asia-Oceania.
• P articipants include WMO, NASA, ESA, JAXA, and other space organizations.
• A im: Facilitate regional cooperation in satellite data usage.
• E nhances regional collaboration to address meteorological challenges.
• I mproves forecasting accuracy and disaster risk reduction through better satellite data utilization.
International Space Agencies – Missions and Discoveries

History and Art & Culture

1. Communist Party of India (CPI):
• 1 00 years since the founding of the Communist Party of India (CPI).
• CPI has contributed to India’s freedom struggle, social reforms, and political evolution.
• Founded on December 26, 1925, at the Kanpur Conference, inspired by the 1917 Russian Revolution.
• Earlier efforts included the Tashkent group (1920) led by N. Roy and Abani Mukherji, supported by the Comintern.
• Faced repression through cases like the Kanpur Bolshevik Conspiracy Case (1924) and Meerut Conspiracy Case (1929–
1933).
• Formed due to dissatisfaction with Gandhian methods and inspired by global socialist movements.
• Split in 1964 due to ideological differences during the Cold War, leading to the creation of the Communist Party of India
(Marxist) or CPI(M).
• Prominent leaders include N. Roy, Abani Mukherji, S.A. Dange, Muzaffar Ahmed, Shaukat Usmani, and M. Singaravelu.
• Advocated for Poorna Swaraj (1927), influencing the INC’s demand for complete independence.
• Mobilized workers through AITUC (1920) and peasants through All India Kisan Sabha (1936).
• Led movements like the Telangana Rebellion (1946–1951) and organized protests during the Quit India Movement (1942).
• In the First Lok Sabha (1952–57), CPI was the largest opposition party.
• In 1957, CPI formed India’s first democratically elected communist government in Kerala.
• AITUC (1920), founded by Lala Lajpat Rai in Bombay, represents India at the ILO and mobilized workers during the freedom
struggle.
Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

2. Durgadi Fort:

• K alyan civil court ruled that Durgadi Fort is owned by the Maharashtra government, dismissing a religious trust’s
• The Trust first filed its claim in 1976, arguing the fort houses a mosque, an idgah, and a Durga temple.
• B uilt in the 16th century during the Adil Shahi Sultanate of Bijapur.

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• Mentioned in British documents since 1570, with a tomb, prayer space, and other structures.
• I n 1760, the Marathas renamed it Durgadi Killa and built a wooden temple for Goddess Durga.
• After the British takeover in 1818, the temple ceased to function, and by 1876, the image of the goddess was stolen.
• S ituated in Kalyan (Thane district), about 50 km northeast of Mumbai.
• P ositioned on elevated ground, offering views of the Ulhas River.
• A site of religious significance for both Hindus and Muslims.
• I nitially housed a mosque; later, the Marathas added a Durga temple.
• The fort has been a focal point of communal tensions, showcasing the complex blend of religious identity and historical
heritage in Maharashtra.
Historical and Archaeological Findings in News

3. Vaikom Satyagraha:
•  aikom Satyagraha began in 1924 in Vaikom.
V
• Aimed to challenge temple entry ban at Vaikom Mahadevar Temple.
• Introduced nonviolent public protest in Kerala.
• Travancore had feudal and caste-based governance.
• Late 19th-century reforms increased awareness among lower castes.
• Educated elite advocated for equality in opportunities.
• Ezhava leader Madhavan initiated a challenge against temple entry restrictions.
• Influenced by Gandhi’s principles, sought INC support; Led by leaders like T.K. Madhavan, K.P. Kesava Menon, and George
Joseph.
• Received support from Mahatma Gandhi and Chattampi Swamikal.
• Women’s involvement and support from regions like Punjab highlighted the movement’s impact.
• Initially suspended in April 1924, resumed later; Arrests of leaders posed challenges.
• Received support from Ramaswamy Naicker (Periyar) from Tamil Nadu.
• Faced resistance in the Assembly due to traditionalist support.
• On October 1, 1924, Savarnas submitted a petition urging for open temple entry.
• Gandhi’s meeting with the Regent Maharani emphasized growing support.
• Eventually, on November 23, 1925, all temple gates opened to Hindus.
Modern Indian History-Events and Personalities

4. Nagaland’s Hornbill Festival:

• T his year’s Hornbill Festival in Nagaland sparked public debate over relaxing the Nagaland Liquor Total Prohibition (NLTP)
Act, 1989, a contentious issue for over three decades.
• Held annually from 1–10 December in Kohima, Nagaland.
• First celebrated in 2000, named after the Indian hornbill (Buceros bicornis), a bird prominent in Naga tribal folklore.
• Highlights include Naga Morungs exhibitions, arts and crafts sales, food and herbal stalls, flower shows, cultural performanc-
es, fashion shows, and more.
• S howcases cultural festivals of 14 recognised Naga tribes, each with unique traditions.
• G reat Indian Hornbill: Known as the great pied hornbill, among the largest species, living up to 50 years in captivity.
• I UCN Status: Vulnerable (upgraded from Near Threatened in 2018); CITES: Appendix I.
• P rimarily fruit-eating, also preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds.
• R evered in tribal cultures for its size and color, found mainly in India’s Western Ghats and Nilgiris.
• C alled ‘forest engineers’, aiding seed dispersal and maintaining tropical forest ecosystems.
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

5. National Library Mission:

• T he Union Minister for Culture and Tourism provided details about the National Mission on Libraries (NML) Scheme in
the Rajya Sabha.
• Launched in 2012 by the Ministry of Culture to implement recommendations of the National Knowledge Commission
(NKC, 2005) for developing library and information sciences.
• Objectives: Modernize public libraries; Create a digital database and conduct a library census; Enhance competence of
library staff.
• Nodal Agency: Raja Rammohun Roy Library Foundation (RRRLF), Kolkata, an autonomous body under the Ministry of
Culture, oversees implementation.
• Key Components:
• National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): Offers digital resources, library census data, and studies on reading habits.
• Model Libraries: Includes 6 Ministry libraries, 35 state central libraries, 35 district libraries, and 629 district libraries
with network connectivity.
• L ibrary Survey: Covers 5,000 libraries to assess infrastructure, resources, and usage.

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• C
 apacity Building: Provides training programs to improve library staff skills and knowledge.
Higher Education – RUSA, NIRF, HEFA, etc.

6. National Mission on Cultural Mapping:

• T he Union Minister for Culture and Tourism shared details about the National Mission on Cultural Mapping (NMCM) in
the Rajya Sabha.
• Launched by: Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
• Implemented by: Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
• Documents India’s cultural heritage, including art forms, artists, crafts, and performing arts.
• Map 5 lakh villages; initial focus on Bihar.
• Develop an IT-enabled platform for managing cultural data via a web portal and mobile app (Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar).
• Mera Gaon Meri Dharohar (MGMD): A part of NMCM, developed by the Ministry of Culture and IGNCA.
• Purpose: Document village-level culture, history, and traditions.
• Covers 7 categories: Arts & Crafts, Ecology, Scholastic Traditions, Epics, History, Architecture, and Unique Features.
• Promote awareness of cultural heritage’s role in economic development and national unity.
• Establish a National Register of Artists and Art Practices.

7. Maha Kumbh Mela, 2025:

• T he 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.
• A major Hindu pilgrimage and festival held four times in twelve years at different locations, attracting millions for spiritual
purification.
• Types of Kumbh Mela: (1) Kumbh Mela: Every 12 years at one of four locations; (2) Maha Kumbh Mela: Largest, every 12
years at Prayagraj.
• ( 3) Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years in Prayagraj; (4) Purna Kumbh Mela: Held after a complete 12-year cycle.
• Locations: Haridwar: On the Ganges; Prayagraj: At the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati; Ujjain: On the
Shipra River; Nashik: On the Godavari River.
• K
 ey Rituals: (1) Shahi Snan (Royal Bath): Procession of Akharas for holy river bathing; (2) Worship and Prayers: Along river-
banks with spiritual discourses and fire rituals (3) Religious Processions: Involving saints, gurus, and devotees. (4) Communi-
ty Prayers: Led by religious leaders for spiritual guidance.
• A
 ims at salvation and liberation from rebirth (Moksha).
• D
 emonstrates India’s diversity, attracting millions globally.
 olds the Guinness World Record for the largest peaceful gathering; 120 million attended in 2019.
• H
• P
 ilgrimage Tourism: Boosts local and national economies with significant tourism influx.
 eclared an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in 2017.
• D
Festivals, Dances, Theatre, Literature, Art in News

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