January Issue;

2025

Chief Editor
B. Singh (Ex. IES)
CMD, NEXT IAS & MADE EASY Group

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Compilation of UPSC relevant news from 1st January to 31st January 2025
 Contents

Feature Articles
PAGE 14-33

Lokpal of India............................................................................................................................. 14

Cover Story Indian Diaspora........................................................................................................................... 16

Linking Forest Ecosystem with Green GDP........................................................................ 18
PAGE 6-13 Depreciation of Indian Rupee................................................................................................ 20

76th Republic Day.............................. 6 ILO Report on International Migrants.................................................................................. 21

India-Indonesia Relations.................. 8 Annual Ground Water Quality Report, 2024...................................................................... 23

10 years of NITI Aayog.................... 10 Pesticide Poisoning and Regulations................................................................................... 25
Neutral Expert for Indus water India Meteorological Department (IMD)............................................................................ 26
Treaty Disputes................................ 12 Deccan Volcanism’s Impact on Tropical Flora.................................................................... 27
Completion of Genome India Project.................................................................................. 28
Nanopore Technology.............................................................................................................. 29
SC Bans Manual Scavenging In 6 Metropolitan Cities.................................................... 30
Rani Velu Nachiyar..................................................................................................................... 31
358th Birth Anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh................................................................. 33

Disclaimer:
MADE EASY Publications Pvt. Ltd. has taken due
care in collecting the data before publishing this
book. Inspite of this, if any inaccuracy or printing
error occurs then MADE EASY Publications owes no
responsibility. MADE EASY Publications will be grateful
if you could point out any such error. Your suggestions
will be appreciated. © All rights reserved by MADE
EASY Publications Pvt. Ltd. No part of this book may
be reproduced or utilized in any form without the
written permission from the publisher.
Contents (Shorts Article) January Issue, 2025

Polity & Governance Programme (FTI-TTP)....................................52 Twigstats........................................................70

Interest Equalisation Scheme........................52 ISRO’s CROPS Experiment............................70
Trial in Absentia under the BNSS...................34
Projects iSNR and INR Konnect.....................52 India AI Mission.............................................70
Section 152 of the BNS..................................34
Securities Transaction Tax.............................54 Small Language Models................................71
Section 479 of BNSS......................................34
Diamond Imprest Authorization Scheme........54 Tidal Tail........................................................71
No one can be Deprived of Property without
Adequate Compensation: SC........................35 Global Economic Prospects Report, 2025.....54 Atomic Energy Commission...........................71
Blood Money..................................................35 Differential Pricing.........................................55 Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025: World
Draft Digital Personal Data Protection 10,000 GI Tags by 2030................................56 Economic Forum............................................72
Rules, 2025....................................................35 National Turmeric Board................................57 Nuclear Fusion: ITER.....................................72
SC Declares Domicile-Based PG Medical Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS).....................72
Admissions Unconstitutional..........................36
Ad Hoc Judges in High Court........................36
Environment India’s First Indigenous Surgical
Tele-robotic System.......................................73
State Public Service Commission (SPSC)......37 India Submits 4th Biennial Update Report
Third Launchpad...........................................73
Whip System..................................................37 to UNFCCC....................................................58
Dark Oxygen..................................................73
SC Criticizes Delay in Appointment of India’s 1st ‘Coastline-Waders Bird Census’...59
Industrial Dye Rhodamine-B..........................74
Information Commissioners...........................38 Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)...........59
T cell-based Dengue vaccine ‘PRAHR’.........74
National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Blue Flag Certification....................................59
Survey of Urban Habitations..........................39 Chinese AI assistant DeepSeek.....................75
Wetland Accredited Cities in World...............60
National Broadband Mission 2.0....................39 Stargate Project.............................................75
Amur Falcon..................................................60
Entity Locker..................................................40 Role of Piezoelectricity in Stove Lighters.......75
Himalayan iBex..............................................60
Crosspathy....................................................40 ISRO’s 100th Launch from Sriharikota...........76
Kashmir Chinars............................................61
10 Years of Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
and Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana.....................41
Prospects for Children in 2025: Building
Utricularia......................................................61
Society
Resilient Systems for Children’s Futures........41 Geography Sex Ratio at Birth Dropped in Haryana..........77
10 Years of UJALA Scheme...........................41 National Tribal Health Conclave....................78
Soapstone Mining..........................................62
BHARATPOL Portal........................................42
Bhashini Project.............................................43
Sada on Konkan Region................................62
Vembanad Lake.............................................63
Culture & History
ASER Report, 2024........................................43
Trinidad and Tobago.....................................63 Savitribai Phule 194th Birth Anniversary........79

International Relations Ecuador.........................................................64 Classical Status to Marathi Language...........80

Winter Char Dham.........................................80
Gulf of Mexico................................................64
Easing of Restrictions on Indian Nuclear Deal...44 Swami Vivekananda’s Birth Anniversary........81
Diego Garcia.................................................65
India, U.S. to Jointly Manufacture Harvest Festivals Across India.......................81
Lake Naivasha...............................................65
Interoperable Sonobuoys for Navy................44
Kurdistan Region...........................................66 Makaravilakku Festival...................................83
Data Embassies.............................................45
Konark Sun Temple.......................................83
India Joins UN Panel on Big Data..................45
India-Singapore Relations.............................45 Security Ratnagiri Buddhist Excavation.......................85
Lezim Dance..................................................86
Interpol Introduces Silver Notice....................46 Navy to Commission 2 Frontline Warships
and 1 Submarine...........................................67 Lala Lajpat Rai...............................................86

Economy INSV Tarini's Passage Through Point Nemo..67

Tobacco Board of India.................................47

Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan Initiative.............67 Miscellaneous
Nag Mk 2 Anti-Tank Missile...........................68 PanchPran.....................................................88
Business Ready (B-READY) 2024 Report......47
Pig-Butchering Scam.....................................48 Bhargavastra Micro Missiles..........................68 Dr Rajagopala Chidambaram........................88
Ramesh Chand Committee............................48 Pralay" Missile Showcased at Republic Day National Sports Awards 2024........................88
Parade 2025..................................................68 Unified District Information System for
Decline in Rural Poverty: SBI Research.........49
Exercise La Perouse......................................68 Education Plus (UDISE+) Report...................89
Jammu Railway Division................................49
Country’s First Organic Fish Cluster..............49 Jasprit Bumrah named as the ICC Men’s
Z-Morh Tunnel...............................................50 Science & Technology Player of the Year, 2024.................................89

Future of Jobs Report, 2025..........................50 Google's Quantum Processor ‘Willow’...........69 Data Recap................................................... 91
ICEGATE........................................................51 Methylcobalamin............................................69
Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Human Metapneumovirus (HMPV).................69 Test Yourself............................................... 92
 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

4
Cover Story
Edition: November Issue; 2024

5
 76TH REPUBLIC DAY
CULTURE & Cover Story
HISTORY
COVER STORY
January Issue; 2025

Recently, India celebrated its 76th Republic Day with the theme ‘Swarnim Bharat:
Virasat aur Vikas,’ with Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto as the chief guest.

About: Key Highlights of the 76th Republic Day

 Background  Padma Awards: A total of 139 Padma Awards were conferred,
Š On 26th January 1950, India’s Constitution came into effect, including Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan, and Padma
marking the country’s official transition to a Sovereign, Shri.
Democratic and Republic state. Š Padma Vibhushan: Awarded for exceptional and
Š This day signifies the culmination of India’s struggle for distinguished service.
independence and the establishment of constitutional Š Padma Bhushan: Recognizes distinguished service of a
governance based on democratic principles. high order.
 Adoption of the Constitution Š Padma Shri: Given for distinguished service in any field.
Š The Constituent Assembly of India adopted the Š Hierarchy: Padma Vibhushan > Padma Bhushan > Padma
Constitution on 26th November 1949, after nearly three Shri.
years of deliberations. Š These awards are announced annually on Republic Day.
 Gallantry Awards and Defence Decorations
Š However, 26th January was chosen as the date of
Š The President conferred Gallantry Awards to 93 personnel
enactment to honor the Purna Swaraj Resolution of 1930,
from the Armed Forces and CAPF.
which first declared India’s intent to seek complete
Š These included Kirti Chakras, Shaurya Chakras, Bar to
independence.
Sena Medal, Sena Medals, Nao Sena Medals, and Vayu
 Purna Swaraj Declaration (1930)
Sena Medals.
Š On 19th December 1929, at the Lahore Session of the
Š Gallantry Awards are announced twice a year, on Republic
Indian National Congress (INC), a resolution for Purna
Day and Independence Day.
Swaraj (Complete Independence) was passed under the
leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru.
Š Following this, on 26th January 1930, the INC made a
public declaration urging Indians to observe the day as
Independence Day.
Š From 1930 to 1947, 26th January was annually celebrated
as “Independence Day”, symbolizing India’s aspiration for
full sovereignty.
Š This historical significance made 26th January the ideal
date to proclaim India as a Republic in 1950.

Flag Unfurling vs. Hoisting:

Republic Day vs. Independence Day
 Republic Day (January 26th):
Š The President of India unfurls the national flag during
the Republic Day celebrations in New Delhi.
Š The flag is tied at the top of the pole and unfurled
downward, signifying India’s status as a free, sovereign
republic.
 Independence Day (August 15th):
Š The Prime Minister hoists the flag at the Red Fort in
Delhi.
Š The flag is raised from the bottom to the top,
symbolizing India’s emergence as an independent
nation after British rule.

6
 Cover Story
January Issue; 2025

Key Highlights of the 2025 Republic Day Tableaux  Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu: Daman Aviary Bird Park
 Tri-Services Tableau (First Ever): Featured for the first time, & Kukri Memorial (Tribute to naval sailors).
highlighting synergy between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Â Delhi: Quality Education.
Š Themed ‘Shashakt aur Surakshit Bharat’ (Strong and  Goa: Cultural Heritage (Diwija Festival & Kaavi Art).
Secure India). Â Gujarat: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas (Kirit Toran & C-295
Transport Aircraft Unit).
 DRDO Tableau: Themed ‘Raksha Kavach – Multi-layer Protection
 Haryana: Bhagavad Gita and Krishna’s Teachings.
against Multi-domain Threats’.
 Karnataka: Lakkundi: Cradle of Stone Craft (Jain heritage,
Chalukya-era temples).
 Madhya Pradesh: Kuno National Park – The Land of Cheetahs.
 Punjab: Land of Knowledge and Wisdom.
 Tripura: Eternal Reverence: Worship of 14 Deities – Kharchi Puja.
 Uttar Pradesh: Mahakumbh 2025: Swarnim Bharat – Virasat aur
Vikas (Maha Kumbh Mela, Triveni Sangam).
 Uttarakhand: Cultural Heritage and Adventure Sports.
 West Bengal: Lakshmir Bhandar & Lok Prasar Prakalpa (Women
empowerment & self-reliance).

Winness State Tableaux

 First Place: Uttar Pradesh (Mahakumbh 2025 – Spiritual and
Cultural Heritage).
 Second Place: Tripura (Kharchi Puja – Worship of 14 Deities).
 Third Place: Andhra Pradesh (Etikoppaka Wooden Toys –
Promoting Handicrafts).
Selection Process for Tableaux
 Application Process Best Marching Contingents
Š Every year, State Governments, Union Territories  Services: Jammu & Kashmir Rifles Contingent.
(UTs), and Central Ministries/Departments submit their  CAPFs & Auxiliary Forces: Delhi Police Marching Contingent.
tableaux proposals to the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Best Tableau from Central Ministries/Departments
Š A committee of experts, consisting of professionals  Winner: Ministry of Tribal Affairs (Theme: Janjatiya Gaurav Varsh).
from art, culture, painting, sculpture, music, architecture, Â Honored the 150th birth anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda.
and choreography, evaluates the proposals. Â Depicted a majestic Sal tree, symbolizing tribal strength and
 Selection Process (Phased Approach) sustainability.
Š Stage 1: Initial Proposal and Design Assessment  Theme: ‘Jal, Jungle, Jameen’ (Water, Forest, Land) – Highlighting
ΠThe Committee reviews the concept note and design tribal environmental conservation.
sketches/blueprints of each proposal.
ΠIt may suggest modifications to improve the design Beating Retreat Ceremony
or alignment with the overarching theme. Â Overview:
Š Stage 2: 3D Model Evaluation Š Held annually on January 29th at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi,
ΠShortlisted entries move to the next phase, where the Beating Retreat Ceremony marks the conclusion of
they submit 3D models of their proposed tableaux. Republic Day celebrations.
Œ The Committee assesses these models for visual appeal, Š The President of India is the Chief Guest, arriving in a
structural feasibility, and thematic representation. cavalry unit escorted by the President’s Bodyguards (PBG).
Š The Committee has the final authority on tableau  Historical Origin:
selection (typically around 15 tableaux are chosen Š The ceremony originated in the early 1950s,
each year). conceptualized by Major Roberts of the Indian Army.
Š It was developed as a unique military display featuring
Tableaux (16 States/UTs) massed bands.
 Andhra Pradesh: Etikoppaka Bommalu (Eco-Friendly Wooden Š The tradition is rooted in a centuries-old military
Toys). practice where:
 Bihar: Swarnim Bharat: Virasat Aur Vikas (Nalanda Œ At sunset, troops ceased fighting, sheathed their
Vishwavidyalaya, Buddhist heritage). weapons, and withdrew from the battlefield.
 Chandigarh: Harmonious Blend of Heritage, Innovation & Œ The sounding of the retreat signaled soldiers to
Sustainability (Focus on film production). return to their camps.

7
RELATIONS
Cover Story

COVER STORY INDIA-INDONESIA RELATIONS

January Issue; 2025
INTL.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to India as the chief guest

for the 76th Republic Day marked a key milestone in India-Indonesia relations.

Key Outcomes of Indonesia-India Bilateral Talks  Counter-Terrorism & Security Cooperation: Both nations
 South China Sea & Maritime Cooperation condemned terrorism in all forms and called for global action
Š Code of Conduct (COC) Agreement: Both nations against UN-proscribed groups. Both nations also agreed to
emphasized the need for a “full and effective” Code of enhance intelligence-sharing and counter-terrorism efforts
Conduct in the South China Sea as per 1982 UNCLOS to for regional security.
ensure peace, stability, and freedom of navigation.
Historical Background of Relationship
Š Peaceful Dispute Resolution: Advocated for the unimpeded
 Early Post-Independence Period (1940s-1950s)
flow of maritime commerce and adherence to international
Š India supported Indonesia’s independence from Dutch
law amid China’s military assertions.
rule, with PM Nehru advocating for its freedom.
Š Maritime Security Strengthening: Agreed to station an Š The Treaty of Friendship (1951) strengthened cooperation
Indonesian liaison officer at India’s IFC-IOR (Gurugram) and in trade, culture, and military affairs.
establish bilateral maritime and cybersecurity dialogues. Š Both nations shared anti-colonial and non-alignment
Š Naval Cooperation: Enhanced collaboration in hydrography principles, participating in the 1955 Bandung Conference
and submarine search & rescue operations. and co-founding NAM (1961).
 Defence & Strategic Partnerships:  Deterioration in Ties (1960s): Relations declined due to
Š Defence Cooperation Agreement (DCA): Ratified to deepen geopolitical shifts.
security ties and joint defense initiatives. Š Sino-Indian Conflict (1962): India’s ties with China soured,
Š BrahMos Missile Export: India to export `3,800 crore worth while Indonesia maintained good relations with China.
of BrahMos missiles to Indonesia, strengthening defense Š India-Pakistan War (1965): Indonesia supported Pakistan,
collaboration. straining ties with India.
Š Naval Infrastructure Development: Discussed cooperation  Cold War Era (1966-1980s)
in shipbuilding and aircraft carrier development. Š Relations improved under Indonesia’s President Suharto,
 Economic & Trade Relations: who distanced from China.
Š AITIGA Review by 2025: Agreed to fast-track the review Š The Maritime Boundary Agreement (1977) strengthened
of the ASEAN-India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to regional security.
boost bilateral trade. Š Indonesian President Suharto’s Visit to India (1980) marked
Š Local Currency Trade MoU: Implementing an MoU to a renewed diplomatic phase.
enhance financial integration by conducting bilateral trade  Look East Policy (1990s): India’s 1991 Look East Policy and
in local currencies. economic liberalization boosted ties. Trade and investment
Š Energy & Mineral Cooperation: Explored partnerships grew, leading to a comprehensive partnership in the economic,
security, and cultural sectors.
in renewable energy, critical minerals, and S&T (e.g.,
 Act East Policy & Recent Developments (Since 2000s)
BPCL’s $121 million investment in Indonesia’s Nunukan
Š India’s Act East Policy (2014) positioned Indonesia as a key
oil & gas block).
regional partner.
Š Global Biofuels Alliance: Indonesia welcomed India’s
Š Trade: Indonesia is India’s 2nd largest ASEAN trade partner,
invitation to join the initiative, fostering sustainable energy
with trade rising from $4.3 billion (2005-06) to $29.4 billion
collaboration.
(2023-24).
 Cultural & Scientific Cooperation
Š Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2018): Strengthened
Š MoUs Signed: Agreements in healthcare, maritime affairs,
Indo-Pacific maritime cooperation.
traditional medicine, digital development, and cultural
exchange. Significance of India-Indonesia Relations
Š Space Collaboration: ISRO will support Indonesia’s Biak  Economic & Trade Relations:
Telemetry, Tracking, and Command (TTC) Station for Š Bilateral Trade: Reached $29.4 billion (2023-24), aiming for
satellite and launch vehicle operations. $50 billion by 2025.
Š Scientific Cooperation: Strengthened partnership between Š Exports & Imports: India imports coal, palm oil, and rubber;
India’s ISRO and Indonesia’s National Research & Innovation and exports refined petroleum, telecom equipment, and
Agency. agricultural products.

8
 Cover Story
January Issue; 2025

Š Investment: Indian FDI in Indonesia is $1.56 billion Challenges in India-Indonesia Relations

(mining, textiles, infrastructure), while Indonesian FDI in  Trade and Economic Barriers:
India is $653.8 million (manufacturing, trade). Š No Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement
 Strategic & Security Cooperation: (CECA): Unlike Malaysia and Singapore, Indonesia lacks
Š Defense & Security: Joint exercises like Coordinated Patrol, a CECA with India, affecting trade competitiveness,
Ex Garuda Shakti (Army), Ex Samudra Shakti (Navy), and especially in palm oil.
Bilateral Maritime & Cyber Security Dialogue. Š Low AITIGA Utilization: Only 25% of the ASEAN-India Trade
Š Defense Industry Collaboration: India-Indonesia Defense in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) is utilized, limiting its benefits.
Industry Exhibition (2024) showcased technology and Š Trade Imbalance: India imports $11 billion worth of palm oil
manufacturing opportunities. (2022) and coal, favoring Indonesia.
 Energy & Health Security: Š Untapped Trade Potential: Bilateral trade could grow 33%
Š Renewable Energy & Minerals: Joint exploration of nickel to $61 billion, highlighting missed opportunities.
and bauxite for clean energy and biofuel. Â Investment & Competition with China:
Š Health Cooperation: MoUs on digital health, traditional Š Chinese Investment Dominance: Under President Joko
medicine, and capacity-building for healthcare professionals. Widodo, China outpaces India in investments, signing $10
 Technological Cooperation: billion in business deals (2024).
Š Digital Initiatives: India’s Aadhaar, UPI, CoWIN serve as Š India’s Protectionist Policies: Indian industries, especially
models for Indonesia’s digital expansion. textiles, fear competition from Indonesian imports like
Š Tech Collaboration: Focus on AI, cybersecurity, quantum Viscose Staple Fibre (VSF).
communication, and space technology. Â Geopolitical & Strategic Constraints:
 Cultural & Educational Cooperation: Š China’s Influence: Indonesia’s participation in China’s
Š Heritage & Arts: India supports the restoration of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), including large-scale
infrastructure projects, raises concerns for India.
Prambanan Temple (UNESCO World Heritage site) and
Š Defense Procurement Issues: Regulatory differences delay
promotes culture through Indian centers in Jakarta & Bali.
joint defense projects, restricting deeper military cooperation.
Š Education: Scholarships through the Indian Technical and
 Connectivity & People-to-People Barriers:
Economic Cooperation (ITEC) and the Indian Council for
Š Limited Direct Flights: Weak air connectivity hampers
Cultural Relations (ICCR) programs for Indonesian students.
tourism, business, and cultural exchanges.
Š Religious Harmony: Indonesia has the world's largest
Š Visa Restrictions: Tough visa policies limit student
Muslim while India has the 2nd largest Muslims population.
exchanges, business travel, and cultural engagement.
ΠThis difference shapes bilateral relations, influencing
 Influence of Radical Groups: There is concern that radicalized
interfaith dialogue, addressing radicalization, and elements in Indonesia, such as Jemaah Islamiyah (JI),
fostering religious harmony. Jamaah Ansharut Daulah (JAD), and Laskar Jihad, could find
 Multilateral Cooperation: ideological links with extremist groups in India.
Š ASEAN & Indo-Pacific: Strong collaboration on ASEAN Š These groups have been involved in violent extremism and
Outlook on Indo-Pacific, India-Indonesia-Australia share similar radical ideologies, potentially exacerbating
Trilateral, and Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). security concerns and impacting the broader South and
Š Global Engagements: Active cooperation in BRICS and the Southeast Asian stability.
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).

WAY FORWARD
 Accelerating CEPA Negotiations: Fast-tracking the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will enhance
trade and reduce imbalances.
 Expanding Renewable Energy & Agriculture Ties: Collaboration in solar energy, biofuels, and agribusiness will unlock new
economic opportunities.
 Encouraging Indonesia’s regional and Global cooperation: Supporting Indonesia’s participation in ISA & Global Biofuels
Alliance will drive sustainability and innovation. Deepening ties through ASEAN, IORA, and the Indian Ocean Naval
Symposium will promote regional stability.
 Joint Defense & Maritime Security: Expanding defense projects, naval coordination, and infrastructure will enhance Indo-
Pacific security and counterbalance China.

9
GOVERNANCE
Cover Story

10 YEARS OF NITI AAYOG

POLITY &

COVER STORY
January Issue; 2025

NITI Aayog, the Government of India’s premier policy think tank,

marks a major milestone as it completes a decade since its inception in 2015.

About Š For instance, the launch of the “Trade Watch Quarterly”

 Established: NITI Aayog (National Institution for Transforming in December 2024 provides insights into India’s trade
India) is a government think tank established in 2015. developments, helping refine economic strategies.
 Aim: It replaced the erstwhile Planning Commission, aiming
to focus on more contemporary challenges like sustainable
development, policy innovation, and governance reforms.

Roles of NITI Aayog:

 Policy Formulation: NITI Aayog plays a key role in developing
long-term strategies for India’s sustainable development.
It ensures policies are adaptable to the country’s evolving
needs.
Š Recently, it launched the “Trade Watch Quarterly” to
analyze India’s trade dynamics and inform better policy
decisions.
 Coordination: It acts as a bridge between central and state
governments, ensuring smooth policy implementation.
Š For example, in November 2024, it organized a symposium
on “Green Transition in States,” encouraging sustainable
practices across different regions. Reasons behind Government Replaced Planning
 Monitoring and Evaluation: NITI Aayog tracks the effectiveness Commission with NITI Aayog
of government programs and aligns them with Sustainable  Need for a Modern Approach: The centralized model of the
Development Goals (SDGs). Planning Commission became outdated in addressing India’s
Š The “SDG India Index 2023-24” was recently released to diverse challenges.
measure states’ performances on these global benchmarks. Œ NITI Aayog was introduced to enable flexible,
 Data Collection and Analysis: Gathering and analyzing data is region-specific solutions with greater state and local
a crucial function, helping in evidence-based policymaking. government participation.

10
 Cover Story
January Issue; 2025

 Cooperative Federalism: Unlike the Planning Commission,  Mismatch Between Aspirations and Ground Realities: High-cost
which had a top-down approach, NITI Aayog ensures states policies like AI and energy transition face budget constraints
play an active role in decision-making. Policies are now and infrastructure challenges, slowing implementation.
formed through consultations, making governance more  Data Gaps and Real-time Monitoring: While NITI Aayog plays
inclusive and effective. a key role in data analysis, many sectors still lack robust
 Focus on Strategic Input: Acting as a think tank rather than and real-time data collection mechanisms. This affects
just a funding body, NITI Aayog provides strategic guidance evidence-based policymaking and tracking of Sustainable
for policymaking. This shift enables dynamic responses to Development Goals (SDGs).
economic and social challenges.
 Enhanced Stakeholder Engagement: It collaborates with states, NITI Aayog’s Goals for 2030 and 2035
experts, and private players for well-informed policies. In  NITI Aayog’s Goals for 2030
January 2025, NITI Aayog partnered with “The New Shop” to Š Energy Transition: NITI Aayog targets 50% renewable
empower women entrepreneurs in the retail sector, promoting energy by 2030, aiming for a 500 GW non-fossil
economic inclusivity. capacity to cut carbon emissions.
 Relevance in a Globalized Economy: The shift from the Planning Š Public Health Enhancement: It prioritizes health
Commission to NITI Aayog aligns India with modern global surveillance and pandemic preparedness, launching a
economic trends. Competitive federalism is encouraged, proactive framework in September 2024.
fostering innovation and efficiency across states. Š Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): Aligns policies
with SDGs, tracking state progress on poverty,
Challenges for NITI Aayog
education, and gender equality via the SDG India Index.
 Lack of Financial Authority: NITI Aayog cannot allocate funds,
 NITI Aayog’s Goals for 2035
limiting its influence on policy execution and making it reliant
Š Long-term Economic Growth: Vision 2035 focuses on
on ministries and states.
sustainable growth through innovation, balancing
 Inter-State Development Imbalance: Economic and
social equity and environmental goals.
social disparities persist among states, affecting policy
Š Energy Security: NITI Aayog promotes green
implementation due to financial and administrative constraints.
technologies and renewables to ensure affordable,
 Limited Legislative Backing: Without constitutional or legal
reliable, and clean energy for the future.
status, NITI Aayog remains a think tank rather than a decision-
Š AI Integration: Three AI Centers of Excellence,
making authority.
announced in October 2024, aim to revolutionize
 Challenges in Private Sector Engagement: Regulatory issues,
healthcare, agriculture, and education with smart
bureaucratic red tape, and risk aversion hinder private sector
solutions.
participation in national initiatives.

WAY FORWARD
 Enhance Financial Authority: While direct fund allocation may not be feasible, NITI Aayog can be stronger in designing
performance-based incentive structures for states, ensuring better policy execution.
 Strengthen Monitoring and Accountability: Improving real-time data collection through AI-driven analytics and digital
dashboards can enhance transparency and accelerate policy implementation, especially for SDG tracking.
 Empower States for Decentralized Planning: Encouraging states to create region-specific policies, with NITI Aayog acting
as a facilitator, can ensure more effective governance. More autonomy for state planning boards could lead to better
execution of national strategies.
 Improve Coordination with Ministries and States: Establishing dedicated task forces for critical sectors like climate
resilience, digital economy, and public health can ensure faster policy adoption and prevent bureaucratic delays.
 Increase Private Sector Participation: Streamlining regulations and creating sector-specific investment roadmaps can
attract more private capital into key development areas such as clean energy, AI, and urban infrastructure.
 Legal and Institutional Strengthening: Providing NITI Aayog with a stronger legislative framework could enhance its
authority in national policy planning and coordination, ensuring a greater role in fiscal federalism.

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RELATIONS
NEUTRAL EXPERT FOR
Cover Story

COVER STORY
January Issue; 2025
INTL.

INDUS WATER TREATY DISPUTES

The World Bank-appointed Neutral Expert affirmed his authority to rule on disputes over the Kishenganga
and Ratle projects, aligning with India’s stance to exclude the Permanent Court of Arbitration.

About Indus River

 The Indus River is one of the longest rivers in the world,
flowing 3,180 km from Tibet through India and Pakistan
before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
 It has historical significance as the cradle of the Indus Valley
Civilization.

Background of the Indus Waters Treaty (1960)

 Partition & Boundary Issue: At the time of India’s independence
(1947), the boundary was drawn across the Indus Basin,
leaving Pakistan as the lower riparian.
 Key Irrigation Headworks:
Key Provisions of the Treaty
Š Important headworks at Madhopur (Ravi) and Ferozepur
 Water Sharing Arrangement:
(Sutlej) were in Indian territory.
Š India has full control over the three eastern rivers (Beas
Š Punjab (Pakistan) depended on these for irrigation, leading River, Ravi River, and Sutlej River), while Pakistan receives
to a dispute over water use. the three western rivers (Chenab River, Indus River, and
 Dispute & Negotiations: Jhelum River).
Š Water-sharing disagreements arose between India & Š India is permitted to use the waters of the western
Pakistan over existing irrigation facilities. rivers for domestic needs, non-consumptive purposes,
Š The World Bank (IBRD) mediated negotiations between agricultural activities, and hydroelectric power generation
both nations. under specific conditions.
 Indus Waters Treaty (1960): Š Pakistan is allocated approximately 80% of the total water
Š Signed on 19th September 1960 in Karachi. from the Indus River system, while India receives around
Š Signed by President Ayub Khan (Pakistan), PM Jawaharlal 20%.
Nehru (India), and W.A.B. Illif (World Bank). Â Permanent Indus Commission: Both India and Pakistan must
Š The treaty became effective from 1 April 1960 st
appoint a high-ranking engineer (expert in hydrology and
Š It is a water-sharing agreement between India and water use) as their Commissioner for Indus Waters.Each
Pakistan, signed in 1960 under the supervision of the Commissioner will represent their respective Government
World Bank. and handle matters related to the Indus Waters Treaty.
Š It divides the waters of the Indus River and its five Š Functions of the Commission: The Commission’s role is to
tributaries—Sutlej River, Beas River, Ravi River, Jhelum ensure cooperation between India and Pakistan for the
River, and Chenab River—between the two nations. proper use and development of the rivers.

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 Cover Story
January Issue; 2025

Š It will study and report on issues related to river

Kishanganga and Ratle Hydroelectric Project
development and resolve problems. It will conduct regular
inspections (once every 5 years) and upon request, visit  Kishanganga Hydroelectric Project: Located on the
specific works or sites for fact-finding. Kishanganga River, a tributary of the Jhelum, in Jammu
 Dispute Resolution: and Kashmir. Pakistan objected, arguing that India’s
Š If there’s a disagreement on the interpretation or application diversion of water for power generation violates the treaty.
of the Treaty, the Commission will try to resolve it. Â Ratle Hydroelectric Project: A run-of-the-river project on the
Š If the Commission fails to reach an agreement, the dispute Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan claimed
can be handled by a Neutral Expert or escalated to that the dam’s design, especially the spillway gates, gives
arbitration. India excessive control over river flow.
Š A report will be submitted to both Governments, outlining
the disagreement. 'Blood & Water can't flow together at the same time
Š If negotiation or mediation fails, a Court of Arbitration may  –Prime Minister Modi
be established.
Challenges Associated with the IWT
Background of the Current Issue: Â Outdated Provisions: The IWT does not address modern
 Dispute Over Resolution Procedure:
challenges like climate change, which has altered hydrological
Š Pakistan initially requested a Neutral Expert in 2015
patterns, impacting water availability in the Indus basin.
to address concerns over the Kishanganga and Ratle
 Climate Change Impacts: Accelerated glacial melt, erratic
hydroelectric projects but later sought adjudication by the
rainfall, and increased evaporation due to climate change
Permanent Court of Arbitration.
are further straining water resources, undermining the IWT’s
Š India opposed this move, stating that the treaty prioritizes
reliance on historical hydrological data.
the Neutral Expert as the first step in dispute resolution.
 Lack of Flexibility: The treaty's rigid water allocation system limits
Š In 2022, the World Bank initiated both Neutral Expert and
the capacity for adaptive management strategies in response
Permanent Court of Arbitration proceedings.
to changing environmental conditions and regional needs.
Š India boycotted the arbitration process but participated
 Geopolitical Tensions: Political instability and hostility between
in the Neutral Expert proceedings, asserting that only the
India and Pakistan, particularly following incidents such as
Neutral Expert has the authority to resolve the dispute
the Uri attack and Pulwama attack, have significantly strained
under the treaty.
bilateral relations, further complicating cooperation on water-
sharing and management under the treaty.
 Hurdles in Hydropower and Economic Growth: Pakistan's
objections to India's hydropower projects and water usage
under the Indus Waters Treaty restrict India's ability to
harness its full hydropower potential. These challenges limit
India's agricultural, energy, and industrial growth, slowing
overall economic development.

WAY FORWARD
 Renegotiation of the Treaty: The IWT should be revisited to address its limitations, with provisions for climate resilience,
sustainable water management, and flexible water allocation strategies.
 Enhanced Dialogue: India and Pakistan need to prioritize open dialogue and confidence-building measures to peacefully
resolve disputes, starting with the revitalization of the Permanent Indus Commission.
 Third-Party Mediation: Neutral third parties like the World Bank can play a crucial role in facilitating constructive negotiations
and ensuring treaty compliance in the face of bilateral tensions.
 Focus on Technical Solutions: Both nations should adopt a science-driven approach to resolving disputes over hydroelectric
projects, with an emphasis on collaborative data sharing and joint studies for better water resource management.

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 GOVERNANCE
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
LOKPAL OF INDIA
POLITY &
January Issue; 2025

On January 16, 2025, the Lokpal of India celebrated its Foundation Day, marking 11 years
since its inception on January 16, 2014, under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.

Historical Background Key Challenges Ahead of Lokpal

 Delays in Appointments and Staffing: The first Lokpal, Justice
Pinaki Chandra Ghosh, was appointed in March 2019, six
years after the Act was passed.
Š The current Lokpal, Justice (retd) A.M. Khanwilkar, was
appointed in March 2024. The Lokpal has faced issues
related to staffing and the appointment of key positions
such as the Director of Inquiry and Director of Prosecution.
 Investigations and Prosecutions: Nearly 90% of complaints in
the last five years were rejected due to incorrect formats or
other procedural issues.
 Coordination with Agencies: The Lokpal relies on various
investigative agencies for conducting probes. Ensuring
seamless cooperation and avoiding bureaucratic bottlenecks
About Lokpal
remain critical hurdles.
 Statutory Body: The Lokpal is a statutory body established
 Lack of Independence: The government’s influence over
under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013.
Lokpal appointments and operations has been criticized for
 Mandate: It investigates allegations of corruption against
compromising its independence. The process for dealing with
specific public officials and related matters. complaints against the Prime Minister lacks transparency.
 Composition:  Anonymous Complaints: The Act does not allow anonymous
Š Chairperson: A former Chief Justice of India, Supreme complaints, deterring potential whistleblowers.
Court Judge, or an eminent person with integrity and  Time Limitation: The seven-year limit for filing complaints may
expertise. not allow sufficient time for some cases.
Š Members: Up to 8 members, with at least 50% being  Limited Investigation Powers: Lokpal cannot independently
judicial members and 50% from underrepresented groups initiate investigations against public servants.
(SC/ST/OBC, minorities, and women). Â Complaint Form Over Content: The form of the complaint is
emphasized more than the substance of the complaint itself.
 Appointment and Tenure:
Š Appointed by the President of India based on Way Forward:
recommendations from a Selection Committee (PM as  Timely Appointments: Ensure quick appointments to key
chairman, Speaker of LS, Leader of Opposition of LS, CJI or positions like Director of Inquiry and Prosecution to avoid
eminent jurist). delays and improve efficiency.
Š Term: 5 years or until the age of 70 years, whichever is  Simplify Complaints: Make the complaint process easier
earlier. by reducing procedural errors and creating an automated
system to handle submissions.
 Better Coordination: Strengthen cooperation between
the Lokpal and investigative agencies to avoid delays in
investigations.
 Greater Independence: Minimize government influence in
Lokpal appointments and ensure transparency in dealing
with complaints against high officials.
 Allow Anonymous Complaints: Permit anonymous complaints
to protect whistleblowers and encourage more reports on
corruption.
 Extend Filing Time: Increase the time limit for filing complaints
to allow for thorough investigations of older cases.
 Empower Investigations: Grant the Lokpal the power to initiate
investigations independently, making it more proactive.

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 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

ABOUT LOKAYUKTA
 Historical Evolution:
Š The institution of Lokayukta was first established in Maharashtra in 1971.
Š By 2013, 21 states and 1 Union Territory (Delhi) had set up Lokayukta institutions.
 Lokayukta Structure:
Š The structure of Lokayukta varies across states.
Š Some states, like Rajasthan, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra, have both Lokayukta and Upa-Lokayukta.
Š Other states, like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh, have only the Lokayukta.
 Appointment Process: The Governor appoints the Lokayukta and Upa-Lokayukta after consulting the Chief Justice of the High
Court and the Leader of the Opposition.
 Qualifications:
Š States like Uttar Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Orissa, Karnataka, and Assam require judicial
qualifications.
Š States like Bihar, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan do not mandate judicial qualifications.
 Jurisdiction Variations:
Š In states like Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat, the Chief Minister is within the jurisdiction
of Lokayukta.
Š In Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and Orissa, the Chief Minister is excluded from Lokayukta’s purview.
Š Lokayukta has jurisdiction over ministers and higher civil servants in almost all states.
Š Maharashtra includes former ministers and civil servants under Lokayukta.
Š Members of state legislatures are included in states like Andhra Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and
Assam.
Š Lokayukta in most states includes local bodies, corporations, companies, and societies within its jurisdiction.
 Roles and Functions:
Š Lokayukta presents an annual report to the Governor regarding its performance.
Š It works with state investigative agencies to conduct inquiries.
Š Lokayukta can request relevant files and documents from state government departments.
Š Recommendations by Lokayukta are advisory and not binding on the state government.

KEY LEGISLATIONS IN INDIA PERTAINING TO ANTI-CORRUPTION

 Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (Amended in 2018): Criminalizes bribery and corruption by public officials and corporations.
Š Introduced stricter penalties and time-bound trials.
 Whistleblowers Protection Act, 2014: Protects whistleblowers and ensures confidentiality.Penalizes threats or victimization of
whistleblowers.
 Right to Information Act, 2005: Empowers citizens to access government information. Promotes transparency and accountability
in public offices.
 Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002 (PMLA): Prevents money laundering and confiscates proceeds of crime.
Š Strengthens global cooperation in anti-money laundering efforts.
 Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 (Amended in 2016): Criminalizes Benami transactions to conceal property ownership.
Allows confiscation of benami properties.
 Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) Act, 2015: Targets undisclosed foreign income and assets.Imposes heavy
penalties and prosecution for offenders.
 Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018: Addresses economic offenders fleeing the country.Allows confiscation of assets for
offenses over `100 crore.

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 Feature Articles
RELATIONS
FEATURE ARTICLE INDIAN DIASPORA
January Issue; 2025
INTL.

PM Modi inaugurated the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention in Odisha.

Over 3,000 delegates from 70 countries to the 18th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) celebration.

About Š Diaspora organizations like the Indian American Impact

 The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is the flagship Project and the British Indian Diaspora Council advocate for
event of the Government of India that provides an important stronger bilateral ties and Indian causes abroad.
platform to connect and engage with the Indian diaspora and  Technology & Academic Contributions: Indian-origin
enable them to interact with each other. entrepreneurs lead global tech companies like Adobe, Microsoft,
 The theme for the 18th PBD: “Diaspora’s Contribution to a and Google, highlighting India’s role in innovation. Silicon Valley
Viksit Bharat”. has a strong Indian presence in AI, IT, and biotech.
Š Academic collaborations between Indian and foreign
Parvasi Bharatiya Divas: universities drive research and knowledge exchange.
 It is celebrated on January 9 every year to honor the contribution Indian scholars abroad contribute significantly to global
of the Overseas Indian community to India’s development. education.
 The date was chosen because, on January 9, 1915, Mahatma  Crisis Management & Philanthropy: During crises like
Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, marking the COVID-19, diaspora communities raised funds and sent
beginning of his leadership in India’s freedom struggle. medical aid to India. Their quick response showcased their
 Objective: The main goal of PBD is to strengthen the strong connection with their homeland.
engagement of the overseas Indian community with the Š Organizations like the Global Organization of People of
Government of India and reconnect them with their roots. Indian Origin (GOPIO) and the Association of Indians in
 Initiatives: America (AIA) run welfare programs, including healthcare,
Š PBD Conventions: The first PBD Convention was organized education, and disaster relief, to support vulnerable
on January 9, 2003. communities.
Š Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award: During the PBD
Convention, selected overseas Indians are honored with Indian Diaspora
the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award for their
 Diaspora refers to the dispersion or spread of a group
contributions to various fields both in India and abroad.
of people from their original homeland to other parts of
Significance of the Indian Diaspora the world. It often applies to ethnic, cultural, or national
 Economic Contributions: Indians abroad send large amounts groups who maintain connections to their ancestral land
of remittances, supporting families and boosting India’s despite living elsewhere.
foreign exchange reserves. India received $129 billion in  As of May 2024, there were around 35.42 million people of
remittances in 2024, the highest globally. Indian origin living outside of India, making it the world’s
Š Diaspora members invest in real estate, healthcare, and largest diaspora.
education, contributing to India’s economy. Initiatives like  This includes around 15.85 million non-resident Indians
GIFT City in Gujarat showcase how overseas Indians drive (NRIs) and 19.57 million people of Indian origin (PIOs).
economic development.
 Cultural Diplomacy & Soft Power: Indian festivals like Diwali
in New York and the Notting Hill Carnival in London promote
India’s culture. These events enhance India’s global image
and strengthen cultural ties.
Š Indian movies, music, and literature play a key role
in shaping perceptions. Bollywood Films & Music like
Lagaan, Slumdog Millionaire, Naatu Naatu song have
gained international recognition, spreading Indian culture.
 Political Influence & Advocacy: Indian-origin leaders hold top
positions worldwide, such as Rishi Sunak, Tan France, Vivek
Ramaswamy, Krish Patel, Vikram Patel, Nikki Haley, Priti
Patel, and Kamala Harris. They influence global policies and
support India’s interests.

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January Issue; 2025

Challenges Faced by the Indian Diaspora  Limited Access to Healthcare & Welfare: Many Indian expatriates
 Regional Conflicts & Political Instability: Indians in conflict- lack social security, health insurance, and government support
prone areas like West Asia face safety concerns. Wars in in their host countries, impacting their well-being.
Yemen and Israel-Palestine have led to evacuations of Indian
workers.
 Job Insecurity & Labor Exploitation: Policies like Saudization in
Saudi Arabia can cause job losses for Indian workers. Migrant
laborers often face low wages, poor working conditions, and
exploitation.
 Discrimination & Racism: Many Indians abroad experience
ethnic bias, racial attacks, and social exclusion. In Western
nations, workplace discrimination creates barriers to career
growth.
 Security Risks & Extremism: Some terrorist groups attempt to
radicalize Indian youth abroad, creating security concerns.
Separatist movements like Pro-Khalistan protests in Canada,
the UK, and Australia pose challenges for India. International Protection for the Diaspora
 Legal & Immigration Barrier: Indians face visa restrictions,  UN Human Rights Framework: India supports international
residency challenges, and uncertain immigration policies in treaties like the International Covenant on Civil and Political
countries like the US and the UK, affecting their stability and Rights (ICCPR) and the International Convention on the
prospects. Elimination of Racial Discrimination (ICERD), ensuring diaspora
 Social & Economic Integration: Indian professionals struggle rights are protected.
with recognition of qualifications and career progression  UN Declaration on Minority Rights: This declaration helps
abroad. Language barriers and cultural differences slow diaspora communities preserve their cultural, religious, and
down integration in foreign societies. linguistic identities, ensuring equal rights in foreign countries.

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 ECONOMY
LINKING FOREST ECOSYSTEM
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025

WITH GREEN GDP

Recently, Chhattisgarh became the first state in India to launch a groundbreaking initiative that
connects the ecosystem services of forests to the Green Gross Domestic Product (Green GDP).

About  Climate Change Mitigation:

 Traditional GDP Š Green GDP supports reducing fossil fuel dependency
Š Definition: It is the measure of the annual value of goods and encourages the adoption of renewable energy.
and services produced within a country, widely used Š This contributes to SDG 13 (Climate Action), supporting
since 1944. the global effort to combat climate change.
Š Limitation: Simon Kuznets, the economist behind GDP,  Biodiversity Conservation:
acknowledged that GDP doesn’t capture a nation’s true Š Green GDP fosters environmental preservation by
welfare since it ignores factors like environmental health safeguarding ecosystems and species, aligning with SDG
and social well-being. 15 (Life on Land) and SDG 14 (Life Below Water).
 Green GDP Š It helps policymakers develop regulations that ensure
Š Definition: Green GDP is a modified version of traditional economic growth is balanced with ecological sustainability.
GDP that incorporates environmental costs into the  Incentivizing Green Investments:
economic output, accounting for factors like resource Š Green GDP encourages investments in sustainable
depletion, pollution, and environmental degradation. technologies, fostering green jobs and industries.
Š Objective: It provides a more accurate picture of a Š This supports SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth),
country’s economic performance by integrating the driving inclusive and sustainable economic growth while
environmental impact of economic activities. prioritizing environmental health.
 Need for Green GDP
Š Limitation of Traditional GDP: Traditional GDP focuses
Challenges in Green GDP Framework
 Forest Cover Definition:
solely on economic output, overlooking sustainability,
environmental degradation, and social welfare. Š The forest cover is defined as ‘all land, more than one
hectare in area, with a tree canopy density of more than
Œ It doesn’t account for the long-term effects of economic
10 percent irrespective of ownership and legal status.
activities on the environment.
Š Such land may not necessarily be a recorded forest area.
Š Benefits of Green GDP: Green GDP ensures economic
It also includes orchards, bamboo and palm’.
growth aligns with sustainability by reflecting the
environmental and resource costs that are otherwise  Methodological Differences:
ignored in traditional GDP. Š There is no universally accepted method for calculating
 Uttarakhand’s GEP Index Green GDP, making cross-country comparisons
challenging.
Š In 2024, Uttarakhand became the first state to launch
the Gross Environment Product (GEP) Index, a system to Š Valuing environmental costs and services is a complex
evaluate environmental health. process, and the approach may vary depending on local
conditions, priorities, and available data.
Š The GEP Index measures contributions to the environment
beyond traditional ecosystem services. Š This lack of standardization can reduce the reliability of
global Green GDP assessments.
ΠIt includes factors such as tree species value,
survival rates, and conservation efforts, offering a  Local Body Integration:
comprehensive approach to assessing ecosystem Š Lack of Awareness and Literacy: Many grassroots leaders
growth. are not familiar with the concepts of Green GDP and
sustainable development, making it difficult for them to
Green GDP and Sustainable Development engage effectively in related initiatives.
 Sustainable Resource Use: Š Limited Technical Expertise: Accurate ecological and
Š By factoring in environmental damage, Green GDP economic data collection requires specialized skills,
encourages responsible consumption and production, which local bodies often lack.
promoting SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Š Resource Constraints: Panchayats frequently operate
Production). with limited financial and human resources, hindering
Š It shifts the focus from maximizing economic output to their ability to implement comprehensive environmental
preserving natural resources for long-term prosperity. monitoring systems.

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 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

Š Data Collection Challenges: The absence of standardized accounting remain unclear, particularly in terms of how they
methodologies and tools for environmental data collection will reach local communities such as tribes and forest dwellers.
at the local level leads to inconsistencies and gaps in Š These communities have traditionally played a key role in
data, affecting the reliability of Green GDP calculations. forest preservation, and it is important to ensure that they
 Lack of Clarity on Benefits: The financial benefits of Green GDP directly benefit from Green GDP initiatives.

Global Practices of Green GDP

 United Nations: The System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA), developed by the UN, integrates economic and
environmental data to provide a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the economy and the environment.
Š It focuses on environmental assets and their benefits to humanity.
 European Union: The EU’s Beyond GDP initiative incorporates sustainability metrics into economic assessments, prioritizing the
long-term health of the planet and emphasizing environmental concerns alongside economic factors.
 World Bank: The Wealth Accounting and the Valuation of Ecosystem Services (WAVES) program, led by the World Bank, promotes
sustainable development by integrating natural resource accounting into national development planning.
 Bhutan: Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness (GNH) framework emphasizes ecological sustainability as a core principle of its
development policies, integrating environmental health into measures of national well-being.
 Other Countries: Countries such as China, Norway, and the US have explored incorporating environmental costs into national
accounting systems, taking steps to account for ecological impact alongside economic factors.

WAY FORWARD
 Establishing a Standardized Framework and Methodology
Š Develop and adopt a unified framework for measuring and valuing environmental costs and benefits.
Š Base methodologies on scientific and economic best practices to ensure accuracy and credibility.
Š Conduct pilot projects and case studies to test, refine, and improve Green GDP calculations before full-scale implementation.
 Enhancing Data Collection and Quality
Š Improve availability, accuracy, and consistency of environmental indicators such as emissions, resource use, and
ecosystem services.
Š Ensure harmonization and comparability of data across different countries to facilitate global benchmarking.
 Raising Awareness and Advocacy
Š Promote awareness and understanding of Green GDP among policymakers, businesses, and the public.
Š Highlight its advantages over conventional GDP, emphasizing its role in measuring economic performance while
accounting for social well-being and sustainability.
Š Conduct educational campaigns and training programs to equip stakeholders with the knowledge needed to adopt
Green GDP principles.
 Encouraging Stakeholder Collaboration
Š Facilitate the active participation of governments, international organizations, civil society, academia, and the private
sector in Green GDP policy formulation and execution.
Š Strengthen public-private partnerships (PPPs) to fund and support Green GDP initiatives.
 Managing Trade-offs and Policy Conflicts
Š Address potential conflicts between economic growth and environmental sustainability by designing policies that
balance both objectives.
Š Ensure equity and justice by considering the impact of Green GDP policies on different groups, regions, and economic
sectors.
Š Develop compensation mechanisms and incentives to support industries and communities transitioning toward a green
economy.

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 ECONOMY Feature Articles
FEATURE ARTICLE
DEPRECIATION OF INDIAN RUPEE
January Issue; 2025

Recently, the Indian rupee hit an all-time low, crossing the 86 mark against
the US dollar, raising concerns over currency depreciation.

About  Higher Education & Travel Costs – Overseas education,

 Definition: Currency depreciation refers to the decline in the tourism, and medical expenses become more expensive for
value of one country’s currency relative to another. Indian students and travelers.
 Depreciation of the Indian Rupee: The Indian rupee has  Pressure on Forex Reserves – To stabilize the currency, the
periodically depreciated against major currencies, especially RBI may intervene by selling foreign exchange, leading to a
the US dollar. Over the past 10 months, the rupee has depletion of forex reserves.
depreciated by 3.6%.
 Key Factors of INR: Measures to Deal with Depreciation of Currency:
Š Rising Crude Oil Prices: Higher global crude oil prices have  Foreign Exchange Market Interventions
increased India’s import bills, putting downward pressure Š Buying or Selling US Dollars – The RBI intervenes by selling
on the rupee. dollars from its forex reserves when the rupee depreciates
Š Foreign Institutional Investor (FII) & Foreign Portfolio and buying dollars when it appreciates.
Investor (FPI) Outflows: Š Example: If the rupee weakens sharply, RBI sells dollars to
ΠSince October 2024, FIIs have been selling heavily in increase supply, stabilizing the exchange rate.
Indian markets. Â Monetary Policy Tools
Œ Net sales of $11 billion in Q3 FY25 have further Š Repo Rate Adjustments – Raising interest rates makes
weakened the rupee. Indian assets more attractive to foreign investors,
ΠFPIs have also shifted investments away from India
increasing forex inflows and strengthening the rupee.
due to global economic uncertainties, reducing foreign
ΠRepo rate is the rate at which the central bank of
currency inflows.
a country (RBI in case of India) lends money to
Š Widening Trade Deficit:
commercial banks in the event of any shortfall of funds.
ΠThe trade deficit has reached $188 billion in the current
 Open Market Operations (OMO)
fiscal year.
Š Buying/Selling Government Bonds – RBI controls liquidity
ΠIt is expected to increase by 18% over FY24, further
weakening the rupee. by purchasing bonds (injecting liquidity) or selling bonds
Š Increased Demand for US Dollars: Foreign banks have (absorbing liquidity), indirectly influencing the rupee’s value.
increased demand for US dollars, adding pressure on the  Trade Policy Measures
rupee. Š Import Duty Adjustments – Increasing import duties on
Š Weak Domestic Markets: A decline in domestic equity and certain products reduces dollar demand, helping stabilize
bond markets has reduced investor confidence, making the rupee.
the rupee less attractive to foreign investors. Š Example: Hike in gold import duty to control rising gold
imports and rupee depreciation.
Impact of Rupee Depreciation  External Borrowings & Foreign Investment Management
 Inflationary Pressures – A weaker rupee increases the cost
Š Encouraging Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign
of imports, raising prices of essential commodities like fuel,
Portfolio Investment (FPI) – By making Indian markets
electronics, and raw materials.
attractive to global investors, RBI increases dollar inflows.
 Higher Import Bills – India relies on imports for crude oil,
Š Example: Liberalizing FDI in sectors like insurance and
gold, and machinery. A depreciating rupee escalates costs,
defense to attract foreign capital.
worsening the trade deficit.
 Currency Swap Agreements
 Export Competitiveness – A weaker rupee makes Indian
exports cheaper in foreign markets, boosting sectors like Š Bilateral Agreements with Other Central Banks – RBI enters
textiles, IT services, and pharmaceuticals. swap agreements with other countries to ensure foreign
 Rising Foreign Debt Burden – Borrowings in foreign currencies currency liquidity when needed.
become costlier, increasing repayment liabilities for Š Example: India’s currency swap agreement with Japan to
companies and the government. access emergency foreign exchange.
 Stock Market Volatility – A depreciating rupee may trigger  Forward Market Interventions: RBI uses forward contracts to
foreign investor outflows, leading to stock market instability stabilize rupee fluctuations without immediate forex reserve
and reduced investor confidence. depletion.

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 ECONOMY
ILO REPORT ON Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025

INTERNATIONAL MIGRANTS
The International Labour Organization (ILO) recently published the fourth edition
of its Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers.

Definition: Š Political Pull Factors:

 Migration refers to the movement of people from one place Œ Political stability, better governance, and strong law
to another, either within a country or across international enforcement.
borders, for temporary or permanent settlement due to ΠProtection of human rights and social security.
economic, social, political, or environmental factors. Š Environmental Pull Factors:
 According to the United Nations Department of Economic Œ Favorable climate and better living conditions.
and Social Affairs (UN DESA), migration is defined as: "The ΠAvailability of resources like water and arable land
movement of persons away from their place of usual (e.g., migration to greener and urbanized regions).
residence, either across an international border or within a
State." Key Highlights
 The World Bank describes migration as: "The movement of  Contribution to Global Economy:
people from one place to another, driven by economic, social, Š In 2022, international migrants accounted for 4.7% (167.7
or environmental factors, often influencing labor markets and million) of the global labor force, including both employed
economic development." and unemployed individuals.
Š The migrant workforce has grown significantly, increasing
Types of Migration Based on Push and Pull Factors: by over 30 million since 2013, reflecting the rising mobility
 Push Factors (Forcing People to Migrate) of labor across borders.
Š Economic Push Factors:  Regional Distribution:
Œ Lack of job opportunities and low wages (e.g., rural-to- Š High-income countries remain the largest destination for
urban migration in India due to agricultural distress). migrant workers, absorbing 68.4% (114 million) of the total.
Œ High cost of living and inflation. Š These migrants are primarily employed in service-based
Š Social Push Factors: industries, including healthcare, hospitality, and domestic
ΠPoor education and healthcare facilities (e.g., migration work.
from remote villages to metropolitan cities). Â Upper-middle-income countries hosted 17.4% (29.2 million)
ΠDiscrimination or social unrest. of international migrants, with a notable presence in
Š Political Push Factors: manufacturing and trade.
Œ War, political instability, and persecution (e.g.,  Labour force share of migrants in key regions:
Rohingya refugee crisis). Š Northern, Southern, and Western Europe: 23.3% of the total
ΠHuman rights violations and lack of freedom. workforce comprises international migrants.
Š Environmental Push Factors: Š North America: 22.6% of the workforce consists of migrant
ΠNatural disasters (e.g., floods, earthquakes, and workers, contributing significantly to sectors such as
droughts in regions like Sundarbans, leading to retail, healthcare, and technology.
displacement). Â Employment Sectors
Œ Climate change impacts (e.g., desertification forcing Š Services Sector: 68.4% of international migrants are
migration in sub-Saharan Africa). engaged in service-oriented jobs, surpassing the share of
 Pull Factors (Attracting People to a Destination): Pull factors non-migrants in this sector.
are favorable conditions that encourage people to migrate to ΠWomen (80.7%) dominate service-based jobs, especially
a new location. in domestic work and caregiving.
Š Economic Pull Factors: Œ Men (60.8%) also form a substantial part of the service
ΠBetter job opportunities and higher wages (e.g., workforce, including transportation, hospitality, and IT
migration of Indian IT professionals to the USA). services.
Œ Improved business prospects and industrial growth. Š Care Economy Contribution:
Š Social Pull Factors: Œ Migrant Women: 28.8% are engaged in caregiving,
ΠAccess to quality education and healthcare (e.g., student including nursing and childcare.
migration to developed nations for higher studies). ΠMigrant Men: 12.4% contribute to healthcare and
ΠPresence of family, friends, or diaspora networks. support roles.

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 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

Š Industry Sector: 24.3% of migrant workers are employed in  Language and Cultural Barriers:
manufacturing, construction, and mining. Š Difficulty in communication, leading to social isolation and
Š Agriculture Sector: 7.4% of migrants work in agriculture, workplace challenges.
compared to 24.3% of non-migrants, highlighting a Š Struggles in adapting to new cultural norms, affecting
declining presence of migrants in farming due to integration.
industrialization and urban employment opportunities. Š Example: Many South Asian migrants in Europe face
difficulties due to language constraints.
Key Challenges Faced by International Migrants
 Discrimination and Xenophobia:
 Legal and Documentation Issues:
Š Prejudices based on nationality, race, or religion leading
Š Difficulty in obtaining visas, work permits, and residency
to social exclusion.
status.
Š Rising anti-immigrant sentiments in various countries
Š Complex immigration laws and risk of deportation due to
affect safety and well-being.
legal non-compliance.
Š Example: Reports of hate crimes against migrants in the
Š Example: Many undocumented migrants in the U.S. face
U.K. and U.S. have increased.
legal uncertainty and deportation threats.
 Exploitation and Human Trafficking:
 Employment and Economic Challenges:
Š Vulnerability to forced labor, trafficking, and abuse,
Š Exploitation in low-wage jobs, poor working conditions,
especially for low-skilled workers.
and wage theft.
Š Lack of protection mechanisms for domestic and
Š Lack of recognition for qualifications and skills acquired
undocumented workers.
in home countries.
Š Example: Reports of South Asian domestic workers facing
Š Example: Migrant workers in the Gulf often experience
abuse in Middle Eastern countries.
labor rights violations and contract breaches.

22
 ENVIRONMENT
ANNUAL GROUND
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025
WATER QUALITY REPORT, 2024
Recently, the Central Groundwater Board (CGWB) under the Jal Shakti Ministry released the Annual
Ground Water Quality Report 2024, raising major concerns about India’s groundwater quality.

Key Highlights Š High EC levels in Rajasthan, Delhi, Gujarat, Haryana,

 Dependence on Groundwater Punjab, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka.
Š Groundwater is crucial, meeting 85% of rural drinking  Urban Groundwater Challenges
water and 62% of irrigation needs. Š Industrial effluents and untreated sewage degrade
Š Over-extraction depletes water tables and increases groundwater quality.
contamination risks. Š Microbial contamination is a rising concern, impacting
 Contamination and Regional Variations drinking water safety.
Š Major pollutants:  Impact on Agriculture
Œ Nitrate (20%) – Mainly from fertilizer runoff in Rajasthan, Š Coastal groundwater salinity reduces soil fertility and crop
Tamil Nadu, and Maharashtra. yields.
Œ Fluoride (9.04%): High in Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka, Š High salt content affects irrigation, leading to declining
Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana, causing health risks. agricultural productivity.
ΠArsenic (3.55%): Severe in Ganga-Brahmaputra floodplains
(West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, etc). Degradation of Ground Water Quality
Œ Uranium: High in Rajasthan (42% of unsafe samples)  Industrialization and Pollution
and Punjab (30%). Š Rapid industrial expansion has led to untreated waste
Š States with safe groundwater: Arunachal Pradesh, discharge, introducing heavy metals, toxic chemicals, and
Mizoram, Meghalaya. solvents into groundwater.
Š Highly contaminated states: Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana, Š Industrial clusters near water sources in states like Punjab,
Andhra Pradesh. Gujarat, and Maharashtra show higher levels of heavy
metal contamination.
 Agricultural Practices and Nitrate Contamination
Š Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides leads to nitrate
leaching into aquifers, causing severe contamination.
Š Unregulated borewell drilling for irrigation depletes water
tables and increases fluoride and salinity levels in regions
like Rajasthan, Haryana, and Andhra Pradesh.
Š Pesticide residue accumulation is a growing concern, with
harmful chemicals entering groundwater sources.
 Urbanization and Waste Mismanagement
Š Unplanned urban expansion has led to sewage leakage,
landfill contamination, and unregulated waste disposal,
 Seasonal Influence on Water Quality
impacting shallow aquifers.
Š Monsoon improves water quality temporarily by diluting
Š Leaching from municipal solid waste dumps introduces
contaminants.
pathogens, organic pollutants, and heavy metals,
Š Post-monsoon salinity increase in areas like Barmer and
Jodhpur signals long-term groundwater issues. increasing health risks.
 Electrical Conductivity (EC) and Salinity Issues Š Microbial contamination due to poorly managed sanitation
Š Electrical Conductivity (EC) measures the presence of systems is a significant issue in urban groundwater sources.
dissolved ions and charged particles in water. Â Climate Change and Aquifer Depletion
Š Higher Electrical Conductivity indicates contamination Š Irregular monsoons and prolonged droughts reduce
from industrial wastewater, agricultural runoff, or sewage natural groundwater recharge, lowering water levels.
discharge. Š Rising temperatures and increased evaporation intensify
Š Electrical Conductivity helps identify water quality issues groundwater salinization, especially in coastal states like
even without pinpointing specific pollutants. Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha.
Š Increased Electrical Conductivity generally indicates Š Over-extraction in semi-arid regions leads to an alarming
higher pollution levels in a water body. rise in arsenic and uranium contamination in groundwater.
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 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

 Over-Exploitation of Groundwater  Atal Bhujal Yojana (2020)

Š Extraction beyond recharge levels leads to groundwater Š Focus: Targets groundwater management in water-
stress, as seen in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar stressed Gram Panchayats across 80 districts in 7 states.
Pradesh. Š Implementation: Uses a community-led approach to
Š Deep drilling for water access increases exposure to promote sustainable water use.
naturally occurring toxic elements like arsenic, uranium, Â Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)
and fluoride. Š Focus: Expands irrigation coverage and improves water-
 Salinity Intrusion in Coastal Areas use efficiency.
Š Excessive groundwater extraction near coastal regions Š Key Components:
leads to seawater intrusion, increasing salinity. ΠHar Khet Ko Pani РEnsures every farm receives irrigation.
Š States like Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal are Œ Repair & Renovation of Water Bodies – Revitalizes
experiencing reduced freshwater availability due to existing water sources.
saltwater mixing in groundwater reserves. ΠSurface Minor Irrigation Schemes РEnhances local
 Lack of Effective Regulation and Monitoring irrigation networks.
Š Weak enforcement of environmental laws leads to  Bureau of Water Use Efficiency (BWUE) – National Water Mission
unchecked groundwater pollution from industries and (2022)
urban areas. Š Established: By the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Š Focus: Enhances water-use efficiency across irrigation,
Š Limited real-time monitoring results in delayed responses
drinking water, power generation, and industrial sectors.
to contamination hotspots.
Š Impact: Encourages water conservation practices in
Š Unregulated sand mining along river beds impacts natural
diverse economic sectors.
groundwater recharge, further aggravating water quality
 Mission Amrit Sarovar (2022)
issues.
Š Focus: Aims to create or rejuvenate 75 Amrit Sarovars
Key Initiatives by Government (ponds/lakes) in every district.
 Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Š Impact: Enhances rainwater harvesting and groundwater
Scheme (MGNREGS) recharge.
Š Focus: Integrates water conservation activities such as  National Aquifer Mapping (NAQUIM)
ponds, check dams, and water harvesting structures into Š Implemented by: Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
rural employment programs. Š Focus: Maps over 25 lakh sq. km of aquifers to support
Š Impact: Enhances rural water security and groundwater groundwater conservation plans.
Š Impact: Provides scientific data for groundwater recharge
recharge by improving local water storage capacity.
and sustainable water use.
 Jal Shakti Abhiyan (JSA)
 National Water Policy (2012)
Š Launched: 2019; currently in its 5th phase (“Catch the
Š Formulated by: Department of Water Resources, River
Rain” 2024).
Development & Ganga Rejuvenation.
Š Focus: Encourages rainwater harvesting and groundwater
Š Focus: Advocates for rainwater harvesting, water
recharge across rural and urban districts.
conservation, and direct use of rainfall.
Š Implementation: Promotes inter-departmental
Š Impact: Guides policy-level decision-making for
convergence of various water conservation schemes.
sustainable water management.
 Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
 Watershed Development Component of PMKSY (WDC-PMKSY)
(AMRUT) 2.0
Š Focus: Targets rainfed and degraded lands to implement:
Š Focus: Supports urban rainwater harvesting through
ΠSoil conservation measures.
stormwater drains and promotes groundwater recharge
ΠRainwater harvesting projects.
via Aquifer Management Plans. ΠLivelihood development for rural communities.
Š Implementation: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has Š Impact: Restores degraded landscapes and promotes
developed guidelines like: climate-resilient agriculture.
Š Unified Building Bye-Laws (UBBL), Delhi (2016)  National Water Awards (2018)
Œ Model Building Bye-Laws (MBBL), 2016 Š Launched by: Department of Water Resources.
Œ Urban and Regional Development Plan Formulation Š Focus: Recognizes and encourages best practices in
and Implementation (URDPFI), 2014 water conservation and management.
Š Impact: Integrates rainwater harvesting mandates into Š Impact: Raises public awareness and promotes
urban planning regulations. community-driven water conservation initiatives.

24
ENVIRONMENT
PESTICIDE Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025

POISONING AND REGULATIONS

Recently, a new study revealed that more than 70% of wild bee species, essential for
pollinating food crops, are at significant risk due to pesticide residues in soil.

About  Health Risks to Humans:

 Pesticides are substances or mixtures of substances that are Š Long-term exposure to pesticides can pose health risks to
used to prevent, destroy, repel, or mitigate pests. farm workers and consumers.
 Pests can include insects, rodents, fungi, weeds, and other Š These risks include respiratory problems, neurological
organisms that can negatively impact agriculture. disorders, and even cancer.
 Pesticides are commonly used in agriculture to protect crops Š Children are particularly vulnerable to pesticide exposure
from pests and increase yields. due to their developing immune systems.
 Impact on Biodiversity:
Š Pesticides can harm non-target species, including
beneficial insects, birds, and other wildlife.
Š This can lead to a loss of biodiversity, disrupting food
chains and reducing ecosystem resilience.
 Resistance in Weeds:
Š Just as pests develop resistance, certain weeds have
become resistant to herbicides, resulting in the increased
use of stronger chemicals.
Š This creates an environmental burden, as more potent
chemicals are needed to manage weed growth.

Concerns with Use of Pesticides Regulation of Pesticides in India

 Harm to Pollinators:  Insecticide Act, 1968
Š Pesticides, especially neonicotinoids (It is a class of Š The Ministry of Agriculture regulates pesticides through
neuro-active insecticides chemically similar to nicotine) pose the Central Insecticide Board and Registration Committee
significant risks to pollinators like bees, butterflies, and (CIB & RC), established under this Act.
other insects that are crucial for crop pollination. Š The CIB & RC oversees the manufacturing, import,
Š Studies have shown that pesticide exposure can lead transport, and storage of pesticides.
to colony collapse, reducing pollination and negatively Š Based on its regulations, pesticides can be registered,
affecting food production. banned, or restricted in India.
 Soil Health Degradation:  Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) Standards
Š Pesticide residues can accumulate in the soil over time,
Š The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
harming soil microorganisms that play a key role in
aligns pesticide residue standards with international
nutrient cycling, soil fertility, and overall ecosystem health.
benchmarks.
Š This disrupts the balance of soil life, potentially reducing
Š It follows guidelines set by:
agricultural productivity in the long term.
ΠCodex Alimentarius Commission (a global food safety
 Water Contamination:
and quality standards body under WHO & FAO).
Š Pesticides can run off from fields into nearby water bodies,
ΠEuropean Union (EU) regulations.
contaminating rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
ΠMRL for pesticides in herbs ranges from 0.01 mg/kg to
Š This can lead to the poisoning of aquatic life, making
0.1 mg/kg.
water unsafe for consumption, and affecting the broader
ecosystem. Â Anupam Verma Committee
 Pesticide Resistant Pests: Š Formed by the Department of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
Š The continuous use of pesticides can lead to the evolution to review 66 pesticides that were banned or restricted in
of pesticide-resistant pests, making it more difficult to other countries but were still registered in India.
control them. Example, Diamondback moth Š The committee assessed the safety, environmental
Š This creates a vicious cycle where farmers must use even impact, and necessity of these pesticides for agricultural
more toxic chemicals, worsening the environmental impact. use.

25
 INDIA METEOROLOGICAL
GEOGRAPHY
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025
DEPARTMENT (IMD)
Recently, the India IMD marked its 150th anniversary of service on January 15, 2025.

About  Communication and Outreach

 Established: 1875 Š Crowdsource Web Interface: Launched in January 2021,
 Role: National Meteorological Service of India and principal the Crowdsource web interface enables users to report
government agency for meteorology and allied subjects. weather conditions anytime, anywhere.
 Parent Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences, Government of Š Public Observation Mobile App: Introduced in January
2022, the Public Observation App allows public
India.
participation in weather reporting.
 Headquarters: New Delhi.
Š Crowdsourced Weather Data: IMD started collecting
 Global Role: One of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological
crowdsourced data on weather events like Rain, Hail,
Centres of the World Meteorological Organization.
Dust Storms, Wind Speed, Thunderstorms, and Fog.
 Objectives:
 Advances in Numerical Weather Prediction
Š Weather Monitoring & Forecasting: Collects meteorological Š Improved Forecast Accuracy: Achieved a 40% improvement
data and provides forecasts to support weather-sensitive in overall forecast accuracy in 2023 compared to 2014.
sectors such as agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, Š Doppler Weather Radar Expansion: Expanded the Doppler
and offshore oil exploration. Weather Radar (DWR) network from 15 in 2014 to 39 in
Š Severe Weather Warnings: Issues alerts for extreme 2023, increasing coverage by 35%.
weather events like tropical cyclones, norwesters, dust Š Cyclone Prediction Success: Successfully predicted major
storms, heavy rains, snow, cold waves, and heat waves to cyclones such as Phailin (2013), Hudhud (2014), Fani
minimize damage to life and property. (2019), Amphan (2020), Tauktae (2021), Biparjoy (2023),
Š Meteorological Data for Development: Supplies weather- and Dana (2024), showcasing the department’s life-
related statistics essential for agriculture, water resource saving capabilities.
management, industries, oil exploration, and other nation- Š Reduction in Cyclone Deaths: The number of cyclone-
building activities. related deaths decreased from 10,000 in 1999 to Zero in
2020-2024 due to more accurate cyclone warnings.
Š Research & Innovation: Conducts and promotes research
in meteorology and allied disciplines to enhance weather
Did You Know?
prediction and climate studies.
India was the first developing country in the world to have
Did You Know? its own geostationary satellite, INSAT, for continuous weather
monitoring of this part of the globe and particularly for cyclone
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) became the first
warning.
organization in India to have a message switching computer
for supporting its global data exchange. Â Technological Advancements
Š HRRR and EWRF Models: Introduced the High-Resolution
IMD: Achievements and Advancements Rapid Refresh (HRRR) model for rainfall and reflectivity
 Pioneering Weather Observations forecasts, and the Electric Weather Research and
Forecasting (EWRF) model for lightning and rainfall
Š Mercury Barometer Replacement: By 2023, IMD replaced
predictions.
all Mercury Barometers with Digital Barometers at Class I
Š Mausamgram Meteogram: Released in January 2024,
observatories as part of the UNEP Minamata Convention,
Mausamgram is an interactive, dynamic meteogram that
promoting environmental safety.
provides location-specific weather forecasts.
Š Agro-Meteorological Services Enhancement: Deployment
Š Increased Automatic Rain Gauges: The number of Automatic
of 200 AGRO AWS stations to improve services for the Rain Gauges (ARG) increased from 1,350 in 2014 to 1,382
agriculture sector. in 2023.
Š GPS-based Pilot Balloon (PB) Stations: Maintains 25 GPS- Š Expansion of DRMS Stations: The number of District-wise
based PB Stations, with 5 IMD-manufactured and 20 Rainfall Monitoring Scheme (DRMS) stations grew from
outsourced from Indian manufacturers. 3,955 in 2014 to 5,896 in 2023.

26
 DECCAN VOLCANISM’S
GEOGRAPHY
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025
IMPACT ON TROPICAL FLORA
Recently, a new study found that tropical flora demonstrated remarkable resilience during
the Deccan Volcanism on the Indian Plate, even as it led to mass extinctions of fauna.

Key Findings island off the coast of Australia, and it began its northward
 Impact on Fauna and Flora journey towards its current position.
Š Mass Extinctions: Deccan Volcanism led to the extinction Š Underneath the Indian Plate, the Réunion hotspot (a mantle
of dinosaurs, other fauna, and gymnosperms due to plume of molten rock) caused fissure volcanic eruptions
extreme environmental changes. as the plate moved over it, leading to the formation of the
Š Support for Tropical Flora: Despite causing faunal Deccan Traps.
extinctions, it favored angiosperms (flowering plants) by Š The Réunion hotspot is located in the Indian Ocean, near
creating fertile, undisturbed habitats, preventing large- the island of Réunion (a French overseas region).
scale floral extinction. Â Economic Significance of Deccan Volcanism
Š Climatic Influence: A warm, humid climate during volcanic Š Major Rocks
inactivity and the movement of the Indian Plate through ΠBasalt is abundant in the Deccan Traps, while granite
the equator promoted floral diversity. and gneiss are common in southern India, particularly
 Global and Regional Implications in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
Š Role in Mass Extinction: Deccan Volcanism was a Œ Mineral Resources
contributing factor to the Cretaceous-Paleogene (K- ΠIron ore is abundant in Karnataka, and bauxite is found
Pg) mass extinction (66 million years ago), leading to in the Eastern Ghats, contributing significantly to the
the decline of ammonoids (marine cephalopods) and region’s mineral wealth.
dinosaurs globally. Š Agriculture
Š Resilience of Tropical Rainforests: Unlike many other Š The region supports the cultivation of crops like cotton
regions, tropical rainforests in the Indian Plate adapted and tobacco due to the fertile Black soil formed from
and thrived, demonstrating a higher resilience of tropical volcanic rock weathering, particularly basalt.
flora to climatic stresses. Š Black soil is rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium,
calcium, and potassium, making it ideal for agriculture.
Deccan Volcanism  Geographical Extent: The Deccan Traps cover significant areas
 About of South India, including parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka,
Š The Deccan Volcanism Theory posits that volcanic Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu,
eruptions, leading to the formation of the Deccan Traps, with smaller extensions into Telangana and Kerala.
played a significant role in the mass extinction event
approximately 66 million years ago.
Š The Deccan Traps are a vast volcanic plateau in peninsular
India, formed by fissure volcanic eruptions.
Š These eruptions occur when magma escapes through
long cracks or fissures in the Earth’s crust, rather than
through a central volcanic vent.
 Formation of the Deccan Traps
Š The Deccan Traps are believed to have formed as a result
of intense volcanic activity caused by the Deccan mantle
plume, which continued for several hundred thousand
years.
Š A mantle plume is an upwelling of hot, molten rock
from the Earth’s mantle that leads to volcanic hotspots
independent of plate boundaries.
Š The Deccan Traps now consist of vast layers of basaltic lava
flows, formed during large-scale volcanic eruptions.
 Connection with Indian Plate Movement
Š Approximately 200 million years ago, India was a large

27
 TECHNOLOGY
SCIENCE & COMPLETION OF
Feature Articles

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025

GENOME INDIA PROJECT

Recently, the Prime Minister of India hailed the completion of the Genome India Project, calling it a ‘historic
step in the world of research’ at the Genome India Data Conclave, held at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi.

About the Genome India Project Š Strengthens India’s position in genomics, supporting
 It was launched in 2020 by the Department of Biotechnology the development of genomic chips suited to the Indian
(DBT) and coordinated by the Indian Institute of Science population.
(IISc), Bengaluru. Š Advances in research in mRNA-based vaccines, protein
 It involved sequencing the genomes of individuals from 99 production, and treatments for genetic disorders.
distinct populations across the country. It accounts for about  Improving Public Healthcare: Helps in disease prevention and
2% of India’s 4600 population groups. treatment by providing a genetic basis for medical research.
Š Enhances healthcare systems by tailoring treatments to
Key Achievements of the Genome India Project genetic variations.
 Collected over 19,000 blood samples, approaching the
 Encouraging Innovation: Sequencing 10,000 genomes has
20,000-sample target, with samples stored in the Genome
created a comprehensive genetic database, enabling the
India Biobank for future research.
development of customized genomic chips tailored to India's
 Completed whole-genome sequencing of 10,074 samples,
diverse population.
representing 99 ethnic groups across India.
 Supporting Policy Making: The project's rich genetic data
 In Phase 1, scientists analyzed 5,750 samples, revealing
offers policymakers critical insights into the health profiles of
unique insights into India’s genomic structure.
various Indian communities. This information is instrumental in
 The genome data is now accessible at the Indian Biological
designing targeted health strategies that effectively address
Data Center (IBDC) in Faridabad, Haryana.
region-specific health challenges.
Impact on Biotechnology and Healthcare  Boosting the Bioeconomy: India's bioeconomy has
 Empowering Global Research: The launch of IBDC Portals and experienced remarkable growth, expanding from $10 billion
the Framework for Exchange of Data Protocols (FeED) enables in 2014 to over $130 billion in 2024, with a target of $300
easy access to genetic data. billion by 2030.

Understanding Genomes
 A genome is the complete set of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in an
organism, containing all the genetic information necessary for the
development, functioning, and reproduction of that organism. In living
organisms, genetic information is stored in long molecules of DNA called
chromosomes.
 In humans, the genome is composed of approximately 3.05 billion base
pairs of DNA, which are organized into 23 pairs of chromosomes.
Key Components of a Genome:
 DNA: The genome is made up of DNA, a double-stranded molecule
consisting of four types of bases: Adenine (A), Cytosine (C), Guanine
(G), and Thymine (T). These bases pair (A with T and C with G) to form
the rungs of the DNA ladder.
 Genes: Segments of DNA that code for proteins or functional RNA
molecules. Genes are the functional units of heredity and play a crucial
role in determining an organism’s traits.
 Non-coding Regions: Parts of the genome that do not code for proteins
but have regulatory functions, such as controlling gene expression.
Genome Sequencing: It is the process of determining the precise order of
the base pairs in a DNA molecule. It allows scientists to decode the genetic
information contained within an organism’s genome.

28
TECHNOLOGY
Feature Articles

NANOPORE TECHNOLOGY
SCIENCE &

FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025

Nanopore technology is becoming a game-changer in molecular analysis, especially for DNA and RNA.
It’s being widely used in fields like genomics and diagnostics, offering faster and more efficient solutions.

About environmental studies.

 Nanopore technology involves embedding nano-sized  Minimal Sample Preparation: Nanopore sequencing requires
holes in a thin membrane to detect changes when charged less sample preparation, reducing costs and time. It’s being
biological molecules, such as DNA, RNA, or amino acids, used in research to quickly analyze viral genomes, such as
pass through these pores. tracking new variants of the coronavirus.
 This technology can analyze and sense individual molecules.
Applications:
 DNA Sequencing: Nanopore technology allows rapid genome
sequencing.
Š It has been used to sequence the full genome of the Ebola
virus, providing quick data during outbreaks, and is now
used for sequencing human genomes for personalized
medicine.
 Protein Analysis: Nanopore technology helps in studying
proteins and their structure.
Š For example, it is used in studying amyloid proteins linked
to Alzheimer’s disease to better understand their role in
neurodegeneration.
 Biomarker Detection: This technology can detect biomarkers
in blood or urine.
Advantages of Nanopore Technology: Š It is applied in identifying cancer biomarkers in non-
 High Resolution: Nanopore technology offers high-resolution invasive tests, allowing for earlier detection of diseases.
analysis, revealing fine details about molecular properties. Â Environmental and Food Safety Testing: Nanopore technology
Š For example, it can accurately sequence long DNA is used in water testing to identify harmful bacteria or
strands without breaking them into smaller pieces, unlike pathogens, ensuring public health safety, as demonstrated
traditional sequencing methods. in studies that detect pathogens in drinking water using
 Real-time Analysis: The technology allows molecules to be nanopores.
analyzed as they pass through the nanopores, providing real- Â Real-time Pathogen Detection: During the COVID-19
time insights. pandemic, nanopore sequencing helped with immediate viral
Š For instance, it’s being used in the MinION device by genome sequencing, allowing for faster tracking of mutations
Oxford Nanopore for continuous genomic data collection and new variants.
during research expeditions. Â Pharmaceutical Research: Nanopore technology plays a role in
 No Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) or Amplification Needed: drug discovery by analyzing drug interactions with biological
Traditional DNA sequencing often requires PCR amplification. molecules, helping researchers design better treatments.
Nanopore technology, however, can sequence DNA directly Š For example, it’s used in screening potential drug candidates
without this step, speeding up processes, as seen in the by analyzing their interactions at the molecular level.
direct sequencing of COVID-19 genomes using nanopore  Agrigenomics: In agriculture, nanopore technology is
technology. employed to study plant genomes, enhancing crop breeding
Š Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is a technique used to programs and improving food security.
amplify small segments of DNA, making them easier to  Forensic Science: The portability and speed of nanopore
analyze. sequencing make it valuable in forensic investigations,
Š It requires multiple cycles of heating and cooling to allowing for rapid DNA analysis at crime scenes.
replicate DNA, which can be time-consuming and costly. Â Educational Applications: Due to its user-friendly interface
 Portability: Devices like the MinION are portable, allowing and scalability, nanopore technology serves as an effective
researchers to conduct DNA sequencing in remote locations, educational tool, facilitating hands-on learning in genomics
such as in the field during disease outbreaks or in remote and molecular biology.

29
 SC BANS MANUAL SCAVENGING
Feature Articles
SOCIETY
FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025
IN 6 METROPOLITAN CITIES
Recently, The Supreme Court passed directions banning manual scavenging and manual sewer cleaning
in six metropolitan cities in a writ petition seeking the eradication of manual scavenging in India.

About ΠArticle 21 РGuarantees the right to life and dignity,

 Definition ensuring that no individual should be subjected to
Š Manual scavenging refers to the manual cleaning, inhumane and degrading treatment.
carrying, handling, or disposal of human excreta from dry Š Present Status: According to official data, 456 out of 775
latrines, open drains, sewers, and septic tanks without districts have declared themselves free from manual
protective gear or mechanized equipment. scavenging.
Š The practice is hazardous, exposing workers to toxic Bandicoot Robot
gases, bacterial infections, and long-term health risks.
Š Despite an official ban, it continues due to inadequate  Purpose: A robotic device designed for sewer and
sewage management, lack of mechanized alternatives, manhole inspection to ensure worker safety and
and economic dependence of marginalized communities efficient maintenance.
on this occupation. Â Equipped with robotic arms, cameras, and sensors for
 Supreme Court Directive (2023) real-time monitoring. Uses AI and machine learning for
Š In the case of Dr. Balram Singh Vs Union of India (2023), the intelligent navigation and detection.
Supreme Court of India directed the Union Government  Functionality: Enters confined spaces like sewers and
to take immediate and appropriate measures to eradicate drains. Removes blockages and collects waste for
manual scavenging in a phased manner. proper disposal.
Š The court emphasized the need for strict enforcement of
laws, rehabilitation of affected workers, and adoption of
mechanized cleaning solutions to ensure the dignity and Key Issues and Challenges related to Manual
safety of sanitation workers. Scavenging
 Legal and Regulatory Framework  Humanitarian Crisis:
Š Employment of Manual Scavengers and its Prohibition Act, Š Manual scavengers work in extremely hazardous
1993: conditions, with exposure to harmful gases such as
ΠFirst legal framework prohibiting manual scavenging. methane, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia.
Œ Focused on banning dry latrines, which require manual Š Prolonged exposure causes respiratory diseases, skin
cleaning. infections, and even fatalities due to asphyxiation.
Š Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their  Caste-Based Discrimination:
Rehabilitation Act, 2013:
Š The profession is historically linked to caste-based
ΠExpanded the ban to include cleaning of sewers, septic
hierarchies, with most manual scavengers belonging to
tanks, and railway tracks.
the Dalit community.
ΠMandated the identification and rehabilitation of
Š This leads to social exclusion, economic marginalization,
manual scavengers through alternative employment
and intergenerational exploitation.
and financial aid.
 Lack of Alternative Livelihoods:
Š National Action for Mechanized Sanitation Ecosystem
Š Many manual scavengers have limited educational and
(NAMASTE) Scheme:
ΠLaunched to replace manual cleaning with mechanized skill-based opportunities, making it difficult for them to
alternatives. transition to alternative employment.
Œ Provides training and alternative employment to former Š Government schemes for rehabilitation often face
manual scavengers. implementation delays and inadequate outreach.
Œ Ensures use of protective gear for sanitation workers.  Weak Law Enforcement:
Š Constitutional Provisions: Š Although the 2013 Act prohibits manual scavenging,
ΠArticle 14 РEnsures equality before the law and prohibits violations continue due to weak monitoring and lack of
discriminatory practices. accountability.
Œ Article 17 – Abolishes untouchability, which is closely Š In many cases, contractors and local authorities bypass
linked to manual scavenging. the law by employing informal or contractual labor.

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 Feature Articles
CULTURE &
HISTORY
FEATURE ARTICLE
RANI VELU NACHIYAR January Issue; 2025

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated the birth anniversary of Rani
Velu Nachiyar, recognizing her bravery and contribution to India's history.

About Š Linguistic Prowess: She mastered several languages,

 Early Life including Tamil, English, French, and Urdu, which later
Š Rani Velu Nachiyar was born on January 3, 1730, to helped her form diplomatic alliances against the British.
Raja Chellamuthu Vijayaragunatha Sethupathy and Rani  Marriage and Personal Life
Sakandhimuthal of the Ramnad Kingdom (modern-day Š At the age of 16, she was married to Prince
Ramanathapuram in Tamil Nadu). Muthuvadugananthur Udaiyathevar, the ruler of
Sivaganga, a princely state in Tamil Nadu.
Ramnad Kingdom Š The couple had one daughter, Vellachi Nachiyar.
 Establishment: Š Their peaceful rule was disrupted in 1772, when the British
Š The kingdom was located in the southern part of Tamil East India Company and the Nawab of Arcot attacked
Nadu, with Ramanathapuram as its capital. Sivaganga.
Š It included regions like Rameswaram, Sivaganga, and Š In the battle, Muthuvadugananthur Udaiyathevar was
parts of modern-day Madurai and Tirunelveli. killed, and the British forces took control of Sivaganga,
 Rulers & Dynasties: forcing Velu Nachiyar to flee for safety with her daughter.
Š The kingdom was ruled by the Sethupathi dynasty,  Exile and Preparations for Revolt
a powerful line of feudal chieftains who governed on Š After escaping the British attack, Rani Velu Nachiyar
behalf of the Nayakas of Madurai. sought refuge with the Palayakaarar (local chieftain)
Š The Sethupathis were known as the protectors of the Gopala Nayakar in Virupachi, near Dindigul.
Rameswaram Temple and the Sethu Samudram region. Š She spent the next eight years in exile, planning her
 Relations with Colonial Powers: counterattack and gathering support.
Š The British East India Company and the French sought Š She allied with Hyder Ali, the ruler of Mysore, who provided
alliances with the Ramnad rulers due to the kingdom’s her with weapons, financial support, and trained soldiers.
strategic coastal location. Š She also formed an army of women warriors, one of the
Š In the 18th century, conflicts arose between different first known women-led military units in India.
factions within the kingdom, leading to British intervention. Â War Against the British (1780)
 Decline & Integration into British India: Š In 1780, Rani Velu Nachiyar launched a fierce rebellion
Š Internal disputes and British interference weakened against the British and the Nawab of Arcot.
the kingdom. Š Strategic Warfare:
Š By 1795, the British took full control, reducing Ramnad Œ She led the attack herself, using guerrilla warfare tactics
to a zamindari under the Madras Presidency. and intelligence strategies to weaken the enemy.
Š She was the only child of her parents and the princess Œ She formed a suicide squad led by Kuyili, her trusted
of Ramanathapuram. As a royal, she was brought up with commander, who carried out the first recorded suicide
extensive training in governance, warfare, and scholarship. bombing in history by setting herself on fire and
Š Among Tamils, she is popularly known as "Veeramangai", destroying British ammunition stores.
meaning Brave Woman, due to her fearless fight against Š After an intense battle, Rani Velu Nachiyar successfully
the British. reclaimed Sivaganga from British control.
 Education and Military Training  Governance and Administration
Š Unlike most women of her time, Rani Velu Nachiyar Š Restored stability in the region and ensured the British
received formal education in multiple fields, including could not regain control.
governance, languages, and war strategy. Š Appointed the Marudu Brothers to assist in administration:
Š She was well-trained in combat techniques, including: Œ Vellai Marudu as the Commander-in-Chief.
ΠValari Рa traditional throwing weapon used in battle. ΠChinna Marudu as her Minister.
Œ Silambam – an ancient Tamil martial art using bamboo  Legacy and Death: She became the first queen in India to wage
sticks. a war against the British for independence, nearly 75 years
ΠHorse riding and archery Рessential skills for leading before the 1857 Revolt. Rani Velu Nachiyar ruled Sivaganga
armies into battle. until her death on December 25, 1796.
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 Feature Articles
January Issue; 2025

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CULTURE & 358TH BIRTH ANNIVERSARY Feature Articles

HISTORY
FEATURE ARTICLE
January Issue; 2025
OF GURU GOBIND SINGH
Recently, the 358th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh was commemorated across India on January 6.

About  Creation of Panj Piare: On Baisakhi 1699, Guru Gobind Singh

 Early Life established the institution of Panj Piare (the Five Beloved
Š Birth: Guru Gobind Singh was born on 22nd December 1666 Ones) during the foundation of the Khalsa.
in Patna Sahib, Bihar, as the son of Guru Tegh Bahadur, the Š He called for five volunteers to sacrifice their lives for
9th Sikh Guru, and Mata Gujri. the faith, and five men from different regions and castes
Š Succession: responded to the call:
ΠAt the young age of 9, Guru Gobind Singh was ΠBhai Daya Ram from Lahore.
declared the 10th and final Guru of the Sikhs following ΠBhai Dharam Rai from Hastinapur (Uttar Pradesh).
the martyrdom of his father, Guru Tegh Bahadur. ΠBhai Himmat Rai from Jagannath (Odisha).
ΠGuru Tegh Bahadur was martyred by the Mughal ΠBhai Mohkam Rai from Gujarat.
Emperor Aurangzeb for refusing to convert to Islam, ΠBhai Sahib Chand from Bidar (Karnataka).
making Guru Gobind Singh the rightful successor and Š Role in Sikh Society: Any baptized Sikh could become a
leader of the Sikh community. Panj Piare, and the decisions made by the Panj Piare were
 Philosophy and Contributions considered supreme in the Sikh community, including
Š Poet and Philosopher: Guru Gobind Singh was not only a decisions made by the Akal Takht Jathedars (leaders of
spiritual leader but also an accomplished poet, philosopher, the temporal seats).
and a significant figure in the development of Sikhism. Â Veer Bal Diwas and the Sacrifice of Guru Gobind Singh’s Sons
Š Formation of Khalsa: Š Veer Bal Diwas: Veer Bal Diwas is observed annually
on 26th December to honor the bravery of Guru Gobind
ΠGuru Gobind Singh is credited with founding the Khalsa,
Singh’s youngest sons, Zorawar Singh and Fateh Singh, who
the Sikh warrior community, in 1699 during the Baisakhi
sacrificed their lives at the hands of the Mughal forces.
festival.
Š Capture and Martyrdom: During the siege of Anandpur
ΠThe formation of the Khalsa was aimed at combating
Sahib Fort by the Mughal army in 1705, Guru Gobind
oppression and promoting justice in society.
Singh’s sons were captured.
Š Five Ks (Kakaars): Guru Gobind Singh introduced the Five
ΠThey were offered conversion to Islam, but they refused
Articles of Faith known as the Five Ks, which every Sikh
to abandon their faith.
who is baptized into the Khalsa is required to uphold:
ΠAs a result, Wazir Khan, the Mughal commander,
Œ Kesh: Uncut hair, symbolizing respect for God’s creation.
ordered them to be bricked alive.
ΠKangha: A wooden comb, representing cleanliness and
ΠDespite their young age, Zorawar Singh and Fateh
discipline.
Singh exhibited extraordinary courage and loyalty to
ΠKara: An iron or steel bracelet, symbolizing eternity.
their religion, choosing death over conversion.
ΠKirpan: A ceremonial sword, symbolizing the defense
ΠTheir martyrdom is remembered as a symbol of sacrifice,
of truth and justice.
bravery, and unwavering faith.
ΠKachera: Short breeches, representing modesty and
 Legacy and Contributions
self-control.
Š Guru Gobind Singh’s Enduring Influence: Guru Gobind
 Guru Granth Sahib and Hymns
Singh’s life and teachings continue to inspire Sikhs and
Š Sacred Hymns: Guru Gobind Singh contributed numerous people of all backgrounds. His commitment to justice,
hymns, known as Shabad, which are recited and sung equality, and spirituality forms the foundation of the
during Sangat (spiritual gatherings). Khalsa and the Sikh way of life.
Œ His hymns are included in the Guru Granth Sahib, the Š Guru Granth Sahib as Eternal Guru: Guru Gobind Singh’s
central religious scripture of Sikhism. declaration of the Guru Granth Sahib as the eternal Guru
Š Final Declaration: Guru Gobind Singh declared that after marked a turning point in Sikh history, ensuring the
his death, the Guru Granth Sahib would be the eternal continuity of the faith through the written word.
Guru for the Sikhs. Š Inspiration for Social Justice: Guru Gobind Singh’s
ΠHe thus ended the line of human Gurus, ensuring that advocacy for equality, courage, and self-defense continues
the teachings of the Gurus would be passed on through to influence the Sikh community’s role in promoting justice
the Holy Scriptures. and fairness in society.
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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025
POLITY &
GOVERNANCE
TRIAL IN ABSENTIA UNDER THE BHARATIYA Š Encourage separatist sentiments or threaten India’s
sovereignty, unity, or integrity.
NAGARIK SURAKSHA SANHITA, 2023 (BNSS)
 Punishment:
Context
Š Life imprisonment, or
Š Up to seven years in prison, along with a fine.
The Union Home Minister suggested initiating ‘trial in
absentia’ against fugitives who have been evading justice
Key Concerns:
for a long time, especially in national security cases.
 Vague and Open to Misuse:Terms like "endangering
sovereignty, unity, and integrity" are not clearly defined,
About leaving room for misinterpretation and misuse.
 BNSS introduces ‘trial in absentia’, allowing trials and judgments Š Authorities could use it to target critics of political or
even if the accused is not present. historical figures.
 This was not permitted under the previous Cr.P.C.  Low Threshold for Offense:The use of "knowingly" makes it
easier to accuse individuals, especially on social media.
Key Provisions: Š Even sharing a post without bad intentions could lead to
 Section 355:Judges or Magistrates can proceed without the legal action if deemed provocative.
accused if:
Š Their presence is not necessary for justice, or Recommendations:
Š They disrupt court proceedings.  Judicial Oversight:Courts have emphasized evaluating the
 Section 356: Courts must conduct trials in absentia for actual impact of speech rather than just its content.
proclaimed offenders who have absconded to evade trial. Š Landmark cases like Balwant Singh v. Punjab and Kedar
Š A 90-day waiting period after framing charges is required Nath Singh v. Bihar stress the need for a direct link between
before starting the trial. speech and actual harm.
Š Judgment can be pronounced in absentia, and the trial will  Safeguarding Free Speech:
continue even if the accused is later arrested or appears Š Encouraging a "marketplace of ideas" where people can
at the end of the proceedings. express opinions without fear of prosecution.
Š Protecting freedom of expression, especially in the social
SECTION 152 OF THE BHARATIYA NYAYA media era, is crucial for democracy.
SANHITA (BNS): A POSSIBLE SEDITION LAW
IN DISGUISE SECTION 479 OF BNSS
Context
Context

Experts warn that Section 152 could be misused and

The MHA has urged all states and Union Territories
may function as a modern version of sedition law.
to implement Section 479 of the Bharatiya Nagarik
Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 (BNSS) to provide relief to
undertrial prisoners.
About
 Applies to individuals who, intentionally or knowingly, through:
Š Words (spoken or written) Key Provisions of Section 479 of BNSS
Š Signs, visible images  One-half Detention: Undertrial prisoners (UTPs) who
Š Electronic communication have completed half of the maximum sentence for their
Š Financial means offence (excluding offences punishable with death or life
Š Other methods imprisonment) must be released on bail by the court.
 Punishes those who:  One-third Detention (First-Time Offenders): First-time offenders
Š Incite or attempt to incite secession, armed rebellion, or who have served one-third of the maximum sentence should
subversive activities. be released on bond by the court.
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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

 Responsibilities of Prison Authorities: Section 479(3) mandates About

prison superintendents to file applications in the concerned  Blood money (diya) is a concept in Islamic Sharia law, requiring
courts for eligible prisoners to secure their release on bail or the offender to compensate the victim's family financially in
bond. case of death.
 India’s legal system does not recognize blood money, but
NO ONE CAN BE DEPRIVED OF PROPERTY allows plea bargaining, enabling the accused to negotiate
with the prosecution.
WITHOUT ADEQUATE COMPENSATION: SC
Context Plea Bargaining
In the verdict against the Karnataka HC order, SC Â A process where a defendant pleads guilty in exchange
held that landowners cannot be deprived of property for concessions like reduced sentences or lesser charges.
without fair compensation under Article 300-A. The case  Objective: Expedites case resolution, saving time,
involved the Bengaluru-Mysuru Corridor Project (2003), resources, and expenses.
where compensation was delayed. Â India’s legal framework: Governed by the Bharatiya
Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), applicable to offenses
punishable by up to seven years of imprisonment.
Key Highlights of the Judgment
 Right to Property as a Constitutional and Human Right: The
Supreme Court reaffirmed that while the Right to Property is DRAFT DIGITAL PERSONAL DATA
no longer a Fundamental Right (post the 44th Constitutional PROTECTION RULES, 2025
Amendment, 1978), it remains a constitutional right under
Context
Article 300-A and a human right in a welfare state.
Š No person can be deprived of their property without legal The government released the draft of Digital Personal
authority and without adequate compensation. Data Protection Rules, 2025 for public consultations.
Once notified, the Rules will enable the effective
implementation of the Digital Personal Data Protection
Act, 2023 (DPDP Act).

Key Highlights of the Draft Rules

 Data Fiduciaries: All major tech companies including Meta,
 High Court’s Approach: SC upheld HC’s ruling that SLAO cannot Google, Apple, Microsoft, and Amazon are expected to be
shift valuation date, only SC (Articles 32/142) or HC (Article 226) classified as significant data fiduciaries.
can. Criticized HC for not using its powers to ensure justice. Š Data Fiduciaries refer to entities (such as companies,
 Fair Market Value: Compensation based on 2003 rates is unjust organizations, or governments) that collect, store,
(violates Article 300-A). In cases of long delays, the valuation process, or manage personal data and are legally
date can be updated. or ethically obligated to act in the best interests of the
 Using Article 142, to ensure complete justice, SC shifted individuals whose data they handle.
valuation date to April 22, 2019, directed SLAO to reassess  Data Protection Officer: It is the person authorised by the Data
compensation based on 2019 market value. Landowners are Fiduciary to respond to any communication from the Data
entitled to all benefits under the 1894 Land Acquisition Act. Principal for the purpose of exercise. “Data Principal” means
the individual to whom the personal data relates.
Š The officer should be based in India;
BLOOD MONEY Š be an individual responsible to the Board of Directors or
Context similar governing body of the Significant Data Fiduciary.
 Transparency: Data Fiduciaries must provide clear and
In 2019, Arjunan Athimuthu from Thanjavur, sentenced accessible information about how personal data is processed,
to death in Kuwait, had his sentence commuted to life enabling informed consent.
imprisonment after his family paid ₹30 lakh as blood  Restriction on flow of Data: The Union Government will
money. specify the kind of personal data which can be processed by
“significant data fiduciaries”.

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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

Š It is subject to the restriction that such personal data is not SC DECLARES DOMICILE-BASED PG MEDICAL
transferred outside the territory of India.
ADMISSIONS UNCONSTITUTIONAL
 Rights to Citizens: Citizens are empowered with rights to
demand data erasure, appoint digital nominees, and access Context
user-friendly mechanisms to manage their data.
In the case “Tanvi Behl v. Shrey Goel & Others, 2025,” the
 For Children: It allows tech companies to implement a
Supreme Court ruled that domicile-based reservations
mechanism for collecting “verifiable” parental consent before
for PG medical admissions are unconstitutional.
processing personal data of children.
 Data Protection Board: The Board will function as a digital
office, with a digital platform and app to enable citizens to About
approach it digitally and to have their complaints adjudicated. Â The Supreme Court's decision was based on appeals
 Data Breach: In the event of a data breach, data fiduciaries will challenging a Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling,
have to intimate impacted individuals without delay, including which had already struck down domicile-based PG admission
the measures implemented to mitigate risk. reservations.
Š The penalty for not being able to take enough safeguards for  Domicile Quota: A system where states reserve PG medical
preventing a data breach could go as high as Rs 250 crore. seats for local residents.
Š PG medical admissions:
Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
Π50% of seats filled through centralized counseling by the
 Background: In 2017, the Ministry of Electronics and Centre.
Information Technology (MeitY) established the Justice ΠThe remaining 50% seats is managed by states, which
B.N. Srikrishna Committee to develop a data protection
often set aside a quota for domicile candidates.
framework for India.
Š The first draft of the Data Protection Bill came out in 2018. SC’s Ruling on Domicile-Based Reservation:
Š After various rounds of amendment in 2019 and 2021,  Violates Article 14 (Right to Equality): Creates unfair
the bill was replaced with the Digital Personal Data discrimination based on state residency.
Protection Bill, 2022.
 Merit-Based Admission: PG admissions must be based on
 Scope: It applies to the processing of digital personal
NEET scores, even for state quota seats.
data within India where such data is collected online, or
 No Impact on Past Admissions: The ruling won’t affect
collected offline and is digitised.
previously admitted students under domicile quotas.
Š It also applies to such processing outside India, if it is
 Domicile vs. Residence:
for offering goods or services in India.
Š "Domicile" refers to legal permanent residence, not just
 Consent: Personal data may be processed only for a lawful
purpose upon consent of an individual. where someone currently lives.
Š Consent may not be required for specified legitimate Š India has a single domicile system—‘Domicile of India’—
uses such as voluntary sharing of data by the individual and state-specific domiciles are not legally valid.
or processing by the State for permits, licenses,
benefits, and services. AD HOC JUDGES IN HIGH COURT
 Obligations for Data fiduciaries: To maintain the accuracy
Context
of data, keep data secure, and delete data once its
purpose has been met.
High Courts can bring back retired judges if faced with
 Rights to Individuals: The right to obtain information, seek
20% staff shortage, rules Supreme Court.
correction and erasure, and grievance redressal.
 Exemptions: Government agencies can be exempted in
the interest of specified grounds such as security of the
About:
state, public order, and prevention of offences.
 Article 224A of the Constitution allows the Chief Justice of a
 Data Protection Board: To adjudicate on non-compliance with
High Court to request retired HC judges to perform the duties
the provisions of the Act. The Data Protection Board (DPB)
has civil court powers for personal data breach complaints. of a judge again, with the permission of the President of India.
Š Board members will be appointed for two years and Š Such appointees are entitled to allowances as determined
will be eligible for re-appointment. by the President’s order and have the jurisdiction, powers,
Š The central government will prescribe details such as and privileges of a Judge of that High Court.
the number of members of the Board and the selection  Both the retired judge and the President of India are required
process. to consent to the appointment.

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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

 The Detailed Procedure Can be found In the 1998 cannot exceed 10% of the sanctioned strength.
Memorandum of Procedure (MOP) for the appointment of High  Ad hoc judges must sit with a regular sitting judge of the
Court judges. HC.
 Their primary role is to decide pending criminal appeals.
SC’s Latest Judgement: Â The Memorandum of Procedure (MoP) for appointments under
 SC relaxed the 20% vacancy condition, allowing ad hoc judges Article 224A will be followed.
even if vacancies are lower. Â The SC put on hold its previous directions (April 2021)
 Each HC can appoint 2 to 5 ad hoc judges, but their number regarding the 20% vacancy requirement.

DIFFRENT TYPES OF JUDGES

Category Conditions for Appointment Authority Responsible Privileges & Powers
Acting Chief  When the office of Chief Justice of India (CJI)  President of India  Same powers and jurisdiction as
Justice is vacant the Chief Justice of India
 When the CJI is temporarily absent
 When the CJI is unable to perform duties
Ad Hoc Judge  When there is a lack of quorum of permanent  Chief Justice of India  Enjoys all jurisdictions, powers,
(Supreme judges to hold or continue a session of the (CJI) after consultation and privileges of an SC judge
Court) Supreme Court with the Chief Justice of
 Must be a High Court judge qualified for the concerned High Court
appointment as an SC judge and with the President’s
 Appointment is temporary consent
Retired  A retired SC or HC judge (qualified for SC  Chief Justice of India  Enjoys all jurisdictions, powers,
Judges appointment) can be requested to act as an (CJI) with the President’s and privileges of an SC judge
(Supreme SC judge temporarily consent  Entitled to allowances determined
Court) Â Requires consent of the President and the by the President
judge to be appointed  Not considered a permanent SC
judge
Additional  Appointed when there is a temporary increase  President of India after  Enjoys the same powers,
Judges (High in the workload of a High Court or when there consultation with the Chief jurisdiction, and privileges as
Court) is a backlog of cases Justice of India a permanent High Court judge
 Appointment is for a maximum period of two during tenure but is not a
years permanent judge

STATE PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION (SPSC) Â Appointment of Chairperson and Members: Appointing
Authority is the Governor of the State (Article 316)
Context
Š The Chairperson serves a term of 6 years or until they
Recently, the Vice President addressed the 25th National reach the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.
Conference of Chairpersons of State Public Service  Removal from Office: The Chairperson can be removed by the
Commissions (SPSC). President of India on the following grounds:
Š Adjudged Insolvent, engages in employment outside their
official duties, Mentally unsound and in case of proved
About SPSC: misbehaviour.
 Role and Function: Conducts examinations for appointments
to state services.
Š Advises on recruitment, promotions, transfers, and WHIP SYSTEM
disciplinary actions in state public services. Context
 Constitutional Provisions: SPSCs are governed by Articles
315-323 under Part XIV of the Indian Constitution. Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s recent statement
Š These provisions outline the structure, powers, and that party whips curtail an MP’s freedom of expression
functions of Public Service Commissions for the Union by enforcing a party line has sparked a debate.
and States.

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About: Š It is a channel of communication between the political

 A whip refers to an order to members of a party in the House to party and the members of the party in the legislature.
abide by a certain direction of the party. Š They also serve the function of gauging the opinion of the
 Political parties issue whips to their MPs to either vote for or members, and communicating it to party leaders.
against the bill, depending on their party line. Once the whip
is issued, the MPs from each party will necessarily have to
obey the whip or else risk losing their seat in Parliament. SC CRITICIZES DELAY IN APPOINTMENT OF
 The term is derived from the old British practice of “whipping INFORMATION COMMISSIONERS
in” lawmakers to follow the party line. Context
 It is not mentioned in the constitution but is considered a
parliamentary convention. The Supreme Court criticized the Centre and States for
 Parties appoint a senior member from among their House the delay in appointing Information Commissioners,
contingents to issue whips — this member is called a chief highlighting the importance of upholding citizens'
whip, and he/ she is assisted by additional whips. rights under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

SC’s Observations:
 The Supreme Court noted that the Central Information
Commission (CIC) currently has eight vacant positions for
Information Commissioners.
 Several State Information Commissions (SICs) have remained
non-functional since 2020.
 The Court questioned the purpose of these institutions,
 Importance of a whip: stating: "An institution has been established, but what is
Š The whip maintains discipline, secure attendance of, and its purpose if there are no individuals to fulfil the duties
gives necessary information to, members of the party. mandated by law?"

COMPARISON: CENTRAL INFORMATION COMMISSION (CIC) VS. STATE INFORMATION COMMISSIONS (SICS)
Aspect Central Information Commission (CIC) State Information Commissions (SIC)

Legal Basis Established under the RTI Act, 2005 Established under the RTI Act, 2005

Composition Chief Information Commissioner + up to 10 Information Chief Information Commissioner + up to 10 State

Commissioners Information Commissioners

Appointment Appointed by the President on the recommendation of Appointed by the Governor on the recommendation
a selection committee (PM, Leader of Opposition in Lok of a selection committee (CM, Leader of Opposition in
Sabha, Union Minister nominated by PM) State Legislature, State Minister nominated by CM)

Qualifications Eminent persons with expertise in law, governance, Same as CIC—Eminent persons with expertise, without
science, etc., with no political affiliations political ties

Tenure 3 years or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier; no 3 years or until 65 years of age, whichever is earlier; no
reappointment allowed reappointment allowed

Removal By the President for insolvency, moral turpitude, By the Governor for similar reasons, following a
incapacity, or misconduct, following a Supreme Court Supreme Court inquiry if necessary
inquiry.

Functions Handles RTI appeals and complaints for Central Handles RTI appeals and complaints for State
Government entities, ensuring transparency Government entities, ensuring transparency

Powers Has civil court powers, can issue orders, impose Has similar powers as CIC, including issuing orders,
penalties, and ensure RTI Act compliance penalties, and enforcing compliance

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NATIONAL GEOSPATIAL KNOWLEDGE-BASED Achievements under DILRMP

LAND SURVEY OF URBAN HABITATIONS Â It was restructured as a Central Sector Scheme in 2016
to establish a modern and transparent land records
Context
management system.
 Achievements:
Recently, the Government launched a pilot project, the
Š Around 95% of land records have been computerized.
National Geospatial Knowledge-based Land Survey of
Urban Habitations (NAKSHA). Š Digitization of cadastral maps has reached 68.02% at
national level.
Š 87% of Sub-Registrar Offices (SROs) have been integrated
with land records.
Background:
 As per the 2023-24 Economic Survey, nearly 40% of India’s
population is expected to be living in urban areas by 2030. NATIONAL BROADBAND MISSION 2.0
 Streamlining land and property record systems is essential
Context
for the planned development of cities.
 Only a few states such as Karnataka, Maharashtra and
The Department of Telecommunications launched the
Gujarat have a system of urban land record management in
vision document for the National Broadband Mission
place. (NBM) 2.0.It aims to build upon the foundation laid by
NBM 1.0 (2019-2024).
About NAKSHA:
 It was announced in the 2024-25 Budget.
 Aim: To standardise record-keeping, simplify processes and Broadband Connectivity in India
bring transparency in land transactions. Â In 2023, India had 83.22 crore broadband connections, with
 Features: 79.98 crore being wireless and 3.23 crore being wireline.
Š Creating updated digitised land records in 150 cities  India witnessed a 200% increase in internet subscriptions in
across the country in the next year. rural areas and a 158% increase in urban areas between 2015
Š To link each land parcel with details about the owner of and 2021.
the land and the type of development on it. Â The NBM 1.0 accelerated growth in digital infrastructure,
Š Cover the entire urban area in the country within a period especially in rural areas, bridging the digital divide.
of 5 years.
 Other Initiatives: There has been the successful Broadband Connection Types
implementation of two crucial Central government schemes  Wired broadband: Broadband delivered through optical fiber
— the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme cables.
(DILRMP) and the Survey of Villages and Mapping with  Wireless broadband: Broadband delivered through radio links.
Improvised Technology in Village Areas (SVAMITVA) Â Digital Subscriber Line (DSL): Broadband delivered through
scheme. copper lines.
Š These schemes aimed to modernise land records in rural
areas for agricultural land parcels and residential areas.
NBM 2.0: Vision and Objectives
 The new phase of the National Broadband Mission builds
Need for Digitization of Land Records on NBM 1.0 and sets ambitious goals for 2030 to ensure
 It will transform land management by addressing traditional affordable and reliable broadband access across India.
challenges like disputes, fraud, and inefficient manual  Key Objectives:
processes. Š Expand Optical Fiber Connectivity: Extend Optical Fiber
 Ownership information will be easily accessible online, Cable (OFC) to 2.70 lakh villages by 2030, from around
enhancing transparency and reducing illegal encroachments. 50,000 villages currently.
 It simplifies dispute resolution, easing court burdens, and Œ Maintain 95% uptime for OFC networks.
empowering marginalized communities by improving access Š Anchor Institution Connectivity: Provide broadband to 90%
to land rights. of anchor institutions such as schools, PHCs, Anganwadi
 Integration with geospatial mapping enhances land Centers, and Panchayat offices.
management, enabling accurate surveys and planning. Š Enhanced Broadband Speeds: Increase the national
 During land acquisitions or disasters, digital records ensure average fixed broadband download speed to a minimum
fair and timely compensation. of 100 Mbps by 2030.

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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

Š 5G Rollout and 6G Preparedness: Facilitate the nationwide CROSSPATHY

rollout of 5G networks while laying the groundwork for
Context
future 6G technologies.
Š Leverage Power Sector Infrastructure: Utilize Optical
The Maharashtra Food & Drugs Administration recently
Ground Wire (OPGW) from the power sector to boost
authorized homeopathic practitioners who have
connectivity, particularly for critical situations like
completed a certificate course in modern pharmacology
disasters, wars, and emergencies.
to prescribe allopathic medications.

ENTITY LOCKER
Context
About
 Crosspathy refers to the practice of healthcare professionals
The National eGovernance Division (NeGD), under the prescribing treatments or practicing medicine outside their
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology designated field of expertise.
(MeitY) has developed Entity Locker. Â This is most commonly seen when practitioners of alternative
medicine systems, such as Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy,
Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy (AYUSH), provide treatments
About typically administered by allopathic (modern medicine) doctors.
 Entity Locker is a secure, cloud-based digital platform
designed to streamline the storage, sharing, and verification of Reasons for Promoting Crosspathy
business documents for a wide range of organizations in India. Â Shortage of Specialists: Rural areas face an 80% shortage of
medical specialists, prompting the government to encourage
Key Features AYUSH practitioners to help bridge the gap.
 Target Entities: Large corporations, MSMEs, startups, trusts,  Expanding Healthcare Access: India has over 13 lakh allopathic
societies, and other organizations. doctors and 5.5 lakh AYUSH practitioners. Crosspathy is seen
Š Aligns with India’s Digital Public Infrastructure initiative as a way to improve affordable healthcare access, especially
and the Union Budget 2024-25 vision for enhanced digital in remote areas.
governance. Â Rural Healthcare Challenges: Poor working conditions and low
 Secure Digital Infrastructure: 10 GB encrypted cloud storage salaries deter MBBS doctors from serving in rural regions,
for safe document storage. increasing reliance on AYUSH professionals.
Š Legally valid digital signatures for authentication.
Š Aadhaar-authenticated, role-based access management Concerns and Issues with Crosspathy
for secure and accountable access. Â Legal Constraints: The National Medical Commission Act of
 Integration Capabilities: Real-time access and verification via 2019 prohibits AYUSH practitioners from practicing allopathy.
integration with government databases. Maharashtra’s recent decision contradicts national policies.
 Seamless connectivity with systems like:  Patient Safety Risks: The Indian Medical Association (IMA)
Š Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) warns that allowing unqualified practitioners to prescribe
Š Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) modern medicine could lead to negligence and malpractice,
Š Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) endangering patient safety.
 Consent-based Sharing: Ensures secure sharing of sensitive  Undermining Medical Integrity: Crosspathy is seen as
business information. devaluing specialized medical qualifications and training.
 Quality of Care: Since AYUSH practitioners are not adequately
Benefits trained in modern medicine, there are concerns that patient
 Operational Efficiency: Reduces administrative overhead and care may be compromised.
document processing times.
Š Streamlines document sharing and compliance processes. Supreme Court’s Stand
Š Tracks all document-related activities for enhanced  In the 1996 case of Poonam Verma vs. Ashwin Patel, the
accountability. Supreme Court of India held a homeopath guilty of negligence
 Enhanced Integration: Direct integration with government for prescribing allopathic medicines, which resulted in a
platforms enables efficient compliance and reporting. patient’s death.
 Strategic impact: Entity Locker is part of India’s Digital Public  The Court ruled that practicing outside one’s medical
Infrastructure and aligns with the Digital India Programme, expertise constitutes medical negligence. However, later
reflecting MeitY’s commitment to leveraging technology for rulings clarified that crosspathy is permissible only if explicitly
improving governance and fostering economic growth. allowed by the respective State Government.
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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

10 YEARS OF BETI BACHAO, BETI PADHAO Š Under PM Mudra Yojana, 70% of loans are availed by women.
Š Initiatives like Jan Dhan Yojana (banking access for 30
(BBBP) AND SUKANYA SAMRIDDHI YOJANA
crore women) and Lakhpati Didi (helping 1 crore women
Context earn `1 lakh+ annually) empowered women economically.
 Empowering Women Through Awareness: Campaigns like
India celebrates 10 years of BBBP and SSY, highlighting Selfie with Daughter and National Girl Child Day inspired
efforts to empower girls, promote gender equality, and participation from all sections of society.
improve the Child Sex Ratio. Š Panchayati Raj institutions and grassroots organizations
celebrated the birth of girl children and trained workers to
combat gender stereotypes.
About
 Genesis: Launched on 22nd January 2015 in Haryana, in
PROSPECTS FOR CHILDREN IN 2025:
response to the dismal CSR of 918 girls per 1,000 boys (2011
Census) caused by societal norms favoring male children.
BUILDING RESILIENT SYSTEMS FOR
 Objectives: Improve the Child Sex Ratio (CSR). CHILDREN’S FUTURES
Š Promote gender equality and women empowerment. Context
Š Prevent gender-biased, sex-selective elimination.
Š Ensure survival and protection of the girl child. The latest report, Prospects for Children 2025: Building
Š Encourage the education and participation of girls. Resilient Systems for Children’s Futures, by the UN
 Implementation: Executed by states with 100% Central Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has warned that the world is
Assistance. entering a new era of crisis for children.
Š No provision for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
 Ministries Involved: Women and Child Development
Key Highlights of the Report
Š Health and Family Welfare.
 Doubling of Children Living in Conflict Zones: Over 473 million
Š Education (formerly Human Resource Development). children—more than one in six globally—are currently
residing in areas affected by conflict.
Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY)
Š The proportion of children living in conflict zones has
 Launched as Part of BBBP: Aimed at securing the financial
surged from 10% in the 1990s to nearly 19% today, with
future of girl children by encouraging families to invest in their
the world witnessing the highest number of conflicts since
education and welfare through tax-saving, high-return savings
World War II.
accounts.
 Debt Crisis Hurting Children’s Futures: Nearly 400 million
 Eligibility: Families with a girl child below 10 years.
children live in countries burdened by debt, a figure projected
Š A Sukanya Samriddhi Account (SSA) must be opened in the to rise without urgent fiscal reforms.
girl's name. Â Climate Crisis and Its Consequences: Only 2.4% of multilateral
Š Only resident Indians are eligible; Non-Resident Indians climate finance is allocated to child-responsive initiatives.
(NRIs) are excluded. Š Children are disproportionately affected by climate-
related events, from food insecurity to displacement
Achievements Over the Decade caused by natural disasters.
 Improved Child Sex Ratio (CSR): Awareness campaigns and the
 Unequal Access to Technology: While internet access is nearly
enforcement of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic
universal in high-income countries, only 53% of youth aged
Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994 helped increase CSR. 15-24 are online in Africa.
Š CSR at birth rose from 918 (2014-15) to 933 (2022-23). Š Adolescent girls and children with disabilities face the
 Increased Female Enrollment in Schools: Free and subsidized greatest exclusion, with 90% of young women in low-
education, improved infrastructure (e.g., toilets under the income countries remaining offline.
Swachh Bharat Mission), and scholarships like SSY reduced
dropout rates. 10 YEARS OF UJALA SCHEME
Š Programs like Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas significantly
Context
boosted enrollment in primary and secondary schools.
 Women Entrepreneurs and Policy Synergy: The Women’s The Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) scheme
Welfare Budget grew over 200%, from `0.97 lakh crore (FY launched on 5th January 2015 marked its 10th anniversary
2014) to `3.10 lakh crore (FY 2025). as a groundbreaking initiative in energy efficiency.
Š 2.3 crore MSMEs are now led by women.

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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

About: About:
 Launched: It was launched as the Domestic Efficient Lighting  BHARATPOL, or Broadcast Hub for Assistance and Real-
Programme (DELP) and later rebranded as UJALA to Time Action against Transnational Crimes, is a technological
revolutionize household lighting by providing affordable platform created to facilitate real-time coordination between
energy-efficient LED bulbs, tube lights, and fans to millions central and state agencies and the International Criminal
of Indian homes. Police Organization (INTERPOL).
 Implementing Agencies: It is a joint effort by Energy Efficiency  It is designed to speed up investigations and improve crime
Services Limited (EESL) and DISCOMs under the Ministry of control measures by providing a structured and secure
Power. interface for data sharing.
 Implementation Model: EESL handled initial costs, with
repayments made through monthly or quarterly annuities by About Interpol
municipalities. Â Interpol is an intergovernmental organization, which
 Impact on Public Services: Ensured over 95% uptime for LED stands for International Criminal Police Organization.
streetlights, enhancing public safety and reliable municipal  Background: It was founded in 1923 at the International
services. Police Congress in Vienna as the International Criminal
Police Commission (ICPC).
Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)
Š In 1956, the ICPC adopted the name Interpol.
 Launched in 2015 to promote energy efficiency in India.  Members: It has 196 member countries, including India.
 Implemented by EESL, which replaces conventional  Headquarters: Lyon, France
streetlights with LEDs. Â Mandate: It connects police around the world – both
 Funding Model
technically and in person. It is the world's largest and only
 EESL bears the upfront cost, with no initial investment
organization with the mandate and technical infrastructure
required from municipalities.
to share police information globally.
 Expected Impact:
 National Central Bureau (NCB): In each country, an Interpol
Š Peak demand reduction of 500 MW.
NCB provides the central point of contact for the General
Š Annual energy savings of 190 crore kWh.
Secretariat and other NCBs.
Š Reduction of 15 lakh tons of CO2 emissions.
India’s Record:
Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) Â India joined the Interpol in 1949.
 Establishment and Ownership: Promoted by the Ministry  The CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) is the National
of Power, Government of India. A Joint Venture of NTPC Central Bureau for Interpol in India and coordinates all
Limited, Power Finance Corporation Limited, REC Limited, international police cooperation requirements of Indian
and POWERGRID Corporation of India Limited. law enforcement agencies via Interpol channels.
Š Registered under the Companies Act, 1956 on 10th
December 2009. Key Modules
 Objectives and Role: Created to develop and sustain  Connect: This module allows all Indian law enforcement
market access for energy-efficient technologies.
agencies to function as an extension of INTERPOL's National
Š Focuses on public facilities like municipalities,
Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi).
buildings, agriculture, and industry.
Š It ensures quick and secure transmission of investigation
Š Implements schemes of Bureau of Energy Efficiency
requests and data.
(BEE), Ministry of Power, and Ministry of New &
 INTERPOL Notices: The portal enables faster issuance and
Renewable Energy.
 Key Initiatives: Leads market-related activities under the management of INTERPOL notices, such as Red Corner
National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE). Notices, for locating criminals both domestically and globally.
 References: It provides access to data and references from
INTERPOL's 195 member countries, simplifying the process
BHARATPOL PORTAL of seeking and offering international assistance.
Context  Broadcast: This module facilitates immediate sharing of crime-
related information and alerts with international agencies.
The Union Home Minister inaugurated the BHARATPOL
 Resources: Designed for capacity-building, this module
portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation
supports document exchange and management for effective
(CBI) in New Delhi.
crime control operations.

42
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 In-Shorts | Polity & Governance
January Issue; 2025

BHASHINI PROJECT Â The first ASER survey was conducted in 2005 and repeated
annually for 10 years (2005-2014).
Context

The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology’s

Bhashini project has been leveraged to upgrade the
eShram portal with 22 languages.

About:
 It was launched in 2022. It is part of the broader National
Language Translation Mission (NLTM).
 It aims to enable easy access to the internet and digital
services in Indian languages, including voice-based access,
and help create content in Indian languages.

Key Findings: Recent Survey

 Improvement in Learning: The proportion of Class 3 students
in government schools able to read a Class 2 text rose to
23.4% in 2024, up from 16.3% in 2022.
Š Basic arithmetic skills also improved across both
Significance government and private schools.
 It empowers Indian citizens by connecting them to digital Š For Class 3, two-thirds could not solve subtraction
initiatives in their own language, promoting digital inclusion. problems, and only 30.7% of Class 5 students could
 It increases the content in Indian languages on the internet, solve division problems. Class 8 students saw slight
especially in governance, policy, and science. improvement, with 45.8% mastering basic arithmetic.
 It promotes self-reliance (Atmanirbhar) by enabling citizens  Regional Variations: States like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana,
to easily contribute through the crowd-sourcing platform, and Odisha saw notable gains in reading levels. Uttar
Bhasha Daan. Pradesh had the largest increase, with a 15-percentage-point
rise in reading skills.
 Government vs Private Schools: Learning recovery has been
ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT stronger in government schools, while private schools still
(ASER) 2024 lag behind their pre-pandemic levels. Despite improvements,
Context 30% of children still struggle with reading a Class 2 text.
 Enrolment Trends: School enrolment for children aged 6-14 is
The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 at 98.1%, close to pre-pandemic levels. However, government
revealed that enrolment in both government and private school enrolment, which rose during the pandemic, has
schools has returned to pre-pandemic levels. dropped to 66.8% in 2024 from 72.9% in 2022.
Š The proportion of underage children in Class 1 also
declined to 16.7%, the lowest ever recorded.
About  Digital Literacy: Smartphone access has increased
 The word ASER means ‘impact’ in Hindustani. significantly in rural areas, with 84% of households owning
 It is a nationwide citizen-led household survey that provides smartphones in 2024.
a snapshot of children's schooling and learning in rural India. Š Among teenagers, 57% use smartphones for educational
Š It captures data from all children, including those who are purposes, but 76% use them for social media. There is a
not in school or are absent. gender gap in smartphone use, with more boys reporting
 It tracks children aged 3 to 16 for schooling status, and children smartphone use and ownership than girls.
aged 5 to 16 are tested for basic reading and arithmetic  Factors Driving Learning Trends: The report credits the National
Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Nipun Bharat Mission
abilities.
for improvements in foundational literacy. Digital tools,
 The survey is coordinated by ASER Centre and facilitated by
especially smartphones, have played a key role in continuing
the Pratham network.
education during and after the pandemic.

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 In-Shorts | International Relations
January Issue; 2025
INTERNATIONAL
RELATIONS
EASING OF RESTRICTIONS ON INDIAN Â Technological Advancements: Grants India access to advanced
nuclear technologies, improving efficiency and safety in
NUCLEAR DEAL
nuclear power plants.
Context
 Research & Innovation: Encourages nuclear science research,
Recently, the United States has announced the easing of benefiting both nations.
restrictions on Indian nuclear entities, such as Bhabha
Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic
Research Centre (IGCAR), and Indian Rare Earths Limited INDIA, U.S. TO JOINTLY MANUFACTURE
(IREL) from the US Entity list. INTEROPERABLE SONOBUOYS FOR NAVY
Context

About India and the U.S. announced cooperation on co-

 US Entity List is a tool used by the United States Department production of U.S. sonobuoys for Undersea Domain
of Commerce to restrict certain foreign entities from accessing Awareness (UDA) for the Indian Navy.
US-origin goods, services, and technology.

Historical Background About

 The bilateral ‘Agreement for Co-operation between India & US
 The sonobuoys are small and expendable devices used in
concerning Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy’ has been done
underwater acoustics and sonar systems to detect submarines
under Section 123 of US Atomic Energy Act 1954.
and other hostile objects and to carry out precision attacks to
Š Hence, it is also popularly known as the 123 Agreement.
eliminate threats.
 The Agreement aims to end technology denial regimes against
 Sonobuoys are deployed from aircraft or ships and activate
India that have been in place for three decades and end
India’s nuclear isolation. upon water impact.
 It opened the doors for India to have civil nuclear cooperation  They have an inflatable float with a radio transmitter, which
as an equal partner with the USA and the rest of the world. stays at the surface to maintain communication.
 It is expected to become operational by 2027.
Indo-US Nuclear Deal (2008) Â The production is split across the U.S. and India, in
 The Indo-US nuclear deal, signed in 2008, was a landmark accordance with ‘Make in India’ principles.
agreement that allowed India access to nuclear technology
 The sonobuoys co-produced in India are interchangeable
and fuel from the international market despite not being a
and interoperable between U.S. Navy and Indian Navy.
signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).
 It aimed to facilitate nuclear cooperation between the two
countries, allowing India access to nuclear technology and
fuel from the US and other Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)
countries.
 The Agreement entails no obligations for India to sign the
Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) / Fissile Material
Cut-off Treaty (FMCT).

Implications of Easing of Restrictions by the US

 Strategic Importance: Boosts the India-U.S. nuclear deal,
enabling greater scientific and technological collaboration.
 Energy Security: Helps diversify India's energy sources,
ensuring a stable and reliable supply. Significance
 Clean Energy Goals: Supports low-carbon nuclear energy,  Underwater Domain Awareness (UDA) has become a key focus
aiding India’s efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions. for India and the QUAD after Maritime Domain Awareness.

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 In-Shorts | International Relations
January Issue; 2025

 India is procuring U.S. sonobuoys with technology transfer to About:

strengthen underwater threat detection. Â It was created in 2014 with Australia as the first Chair.
 The move addresses rising Chinese presence in the region,  It consists of 31 member states and 16 international
ensuring maritime security. organizations.
 Enhanced UDA is vital for safe and secure trade, commerce,  A plenary meeting is held annually, usually alongside the
and regional stability. Conference on Big Data for Official Statistics, to review and
discuss activities and initiatives.
DATA EMBASSIES
Mandate
Context
 It provides direction for a global big data program, supporting
the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
India is in discussions with multiple nations to
 It addresses challenges related to data quality, access,
establish data embassies, creating a new dimension in
international relations and data sovereignty. privacy, security, and analytics.
 It fosters training, experience-sharing, and collaboration.
 It promotes the use of big data for policy applications and
About monitoring sustainable development goals.
 Data embassies are secure facilities where countries can store
sovereign data in another nation's territory while maintaining Importance for India
complete control over it. They provide: Â India’s involvement strengthens its influence in global
Š Backup and Contingency Storage: Ensuring data availability statistical practices, reinforcing its commitment to data-
during natural disasters or geopolitical crises. driven progress.
Š Independence in Operations: Each data embassy  Membership allows India to align domestic advancements in
independently handles data management, and access big data with international goals, showcasing leadership in
controls, while the host country ensures data security. data science. Big data and advanced techniques like IoT,
Š Regulatory Flexibility: Nations can store data abroad satellite imagery, and private sector data will modernize
without being subject to local data regulations. statistical processes and improve data accuracy.
 India plans to set up special strategic zones to house these  This marks a key achievement, as India recently regained
embassies, hosting data centers dedicated to storing membership in the UN Statistical Council.
sovereign data for multiple nations.
Š Andhra Pradesh, with its advanced data center United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC)
infrastructure, is expected to host the first data embassy. Â Established in 1946, it is the highest body of the global
 Note: Data Sovereignty refers to the concept that data is statistical system, comprising Chief Statisticians from
subject to the laws and governance structures of the country member states worldwide.
where it is collected or stored. It ensures that a nation has  Serves as the top decision-making body for international
control over data generated within its borders, preventing statistical activities.
unauthorized access by foreign entities. This principle is  Responsible for setting statistical standards and developing
crucial for data protection, national security, and regulatory concepts and methodologies for national and international
compliance. implementation.
 Oversees the United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) and
Additional Information functions as a commission under the UN Economic and
Estonia was the first country to establish a data embassy in Social Council (ECOSOC).
Luxembourg after a 2007 cyberattack.

INDIA-SINGAPORE RELATIONS: A 60-YEAR

INDIA JOINS UN PANEL ON BIG DATA JOURNEY
Context Context

India has been included in the UN Committee of Experts Recently, India and Singapore celebrated 60 years of
on Big Data and Data Science for Official Statistics (UN- diplomatic relations, marked by Singapore’s President
CEBD). Tharman Shanmugaratnam's first visit to India.

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 In-Shorts | International Relations
January Issue; 2025

Significance: Working Mechanism

 Historical Ties: Diplomatic ties established in 1965, with  Requesting Information: Member countries can request
historical links dating to 1819 when Singapore became a British information about assets suspected of being linked to
trading post. Singapore played a role in India's independence criminal activities.
movement, hosting the Provisional Government of Azad Hind  Identification and Action: The notice aids in locating
(1943). Leaders from both nations frequently engage in high-
assets, enabling further legal measures such as seizure or
level visits to strengthen bilateral relations.
confiscation, in accordance with national laws.
 Trade & Economy: Bilateral trade rose from $6.7B (2004-05) to
 General Secretariat Review: Before issuance, the Interpol
$35.6B (2023-24), with Singapore as India’s 6th largest trade
General Secretariat reviews each notice to ensure compliance
partner.
 FDI: Singapore’s $11.774B FDI in 2023-24 focused on with organisational rules and to prevent misuse for political
Services, Telecom, and Pharma. It remains the largest source purposes.
of FDI into India, accounting for nearly 23% of total inflows in
India’s Role and Benefits
recent years.
 India, as a participant, stands to gain significantly. India has
 Fintech & Digital Economy: First country to adopt RuPay card
and UPI-PayNow linkage. This collaboration has enhanced a long-standing issue with fugitive economic offenders and
cross-border digital payments, benefiting businesses and unaccounted black money transferred to tax havens.
individuals. Â It provides a platform to enhance India's efforts in combating
 Defense & Security: Joint military exercises (Agni Warrior, Bold financial crimes and bringing offenders to justice.
Kurukshetra, SIMBEX) and maritime security collaboration.
Both nations also cooperate in counterterrorism efforts and About INTERPOL Notices
intelligence sharing. Â International Information Sharing: INTERPOL Notices are
 Science & Technology: ISRO launched Singaporean satellites, international alerts or requests for cooperation that enable
with cooperation in digital health and women in science. police in its 195 member countries to share vital crime-related
Research collaborations in AI, space tech, and smart cities information.
are expanding.
 Global Alliances: Singapore joined the International Solar
Alliance & Global Bio-Fuel Alliance (2023). It actively
participates in climate change initiatives and sustainable
energy projects with India.
 Indian Diaspora & Cultural Ties: Indian diaspora forms 9% of
Singapore’s population, with strong cultural exchanges like
Kalaa Utsavam & Little India.

INTERPOL INTRODUCES SILVER NOTICE

Context

The International Criminal Police Organisation

(Interpol) has launched its first Silver Notice, an
initiative aimed at tracing and recovering assets
laundered across borders.This pilot project involves 52
countries, including India.

About  Types: There are eight different types of notices, each serving
 About: The Silver Notice is the latest addition to Interpol’s colour- a specific purpose.
coded alert system, designed to assist member countries in  Issued By: The Interpol General Secretariat.
identifying, locating, and recovering criminally obtained assets. Â Requested By: Member countries' National Central Bureaus.
 These assets can include Properties, Vehicles, Financial Š International Criminal Tribunals and the International
accounts, and Businesses. Criminal Court.
 The notice is a crucial tool for addressing criminal activities such Š The United Nations (for implementing Security Council
as Fraud, Corruption, Drug trafficking, Environmental crimes. sanctions).

46
 In-Shorts | Economy
January Issue; 2025

ECONOMY
TOBACCO BOARD OF INDIA BUSINESS READY (B-READY) 2024 REPORT
Context
Context

Recently, the Tobacco Board launched various strategic

Recently, the World Bank introduced the Business Ready
efforts to enhance the sustainability and development
(B-READY) report 2024 as a replacement for the Ease of
of the tobacco sector.
Doing Business report.

About About
 Climatic Conditions for Tobacco Production:
 Objective: The index aims to assess the business and
Š Temperature Range: 21°C to 29°C is ideal for healthy
investment climate worldwide and is accompanied by an
growth.
annual corporate report.
Š Frost-Free Period: Requires 90-120 days without frost.
 Goals:
Š Humidity: Prefers moderate humidity (60-70%) for optimal
Š Promote private investment and enhance job creation.
leaf development.
Š Improve productivity to support inclusive and sustainable
Š Rainfall: Needs well-distributed rainfall to support steady
economic development.
growth.
Š Sunlight: Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily Š Ensure that data is comparable across economies and
for proper leaf curing and quality. representative within each economy.
Š Note: This crop was introduced by the Portuguese to India.  Key Focus Areas of the B-Ready Index
Š Reform Advocacy: Encourages policy reforms by providing
Tobacco Board of India benchmarks and fostering dialogue among governments,
 Establishment: The Tobacco Board of India is a statutory businesses, and the World Bank.
body formed under the Tobacco Board Act, 1975 (Act 4 Š Policy Guidance: Offers tailored recommendations for
of 1975). policy changes based on global best practices.
 Leadership: The Board is headed by a Chairman and Š Analysis and Research: Supplies detailed data to
functions under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, support research on factors influencing private sector
Government of India. development.

 Launch and Implementation: The B-Ready initiative is a three-

year project (2024–2026) by the World Bank Group, designed
to assess the global business and investment climate.
 Global Coverage: Initially covering 50 economies (excluding
India), the index aims to expand to 180 economies by 2026 for
a more comprehensive evaluation.
 Replacement of EoDB Rankings: The B-Ready framework
replaces the World Bank’s Ease of Doing Business (EoDB)
 Headquarters: Guntur, Andhra Pradesh. rankings, which previously measured the ease of starting and
 Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Commerce and Industry. operating a business but was discontinued in 2021 due to
data irregularities and ethical concerns.

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 Integration with Indian Reforms: The 2024 Business Reform About

Action Plan rankings by the Department for Promotion of  Purpose: The panel has been established to revise the base
Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) will incorporate select year of the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) from 2011-12 to
indicators from the B-Ready Index, aligning India’s reforms 2022-23.
with global standards. Â Key Mandates:
Š Propose a revised commodity basket for WPI and the
PIG-BUTCHERING SCAM Producer Price Index (PPI) based on the base year 2022-
Context 23, considering structural changes in the economy.
Š Review and suggest improvements in the current system
Recently, the Union Home Ministry’s latest annual
of price collection.
report highlighted that victims are being deceived into
Š Decide on the computational methodology for WPI and
losing substantial amounts of money through the “pig
PPI.
butchering scam” or “investment scam.”
 Composition: The panel includes economists from the
government, rating agencies, asset management companies,
About banks, as well as representatives from the Reserve Bank of
 Definition: This online investment fraud involves scammers India.
creating fake personas to lure victims into fraudulent investment  Timeline: The final report is to be submitted to the Office of
schemes, often using cryptocurrency trading platforms. the Economic Adviser at the Department for Promotion of
 Origin of the Term: The name “pig butchering” comes from Industry and Internal Trade (DPIT) within 18 months.
the scammers’ strategy of building trust (“fattening the pig”)
before ultimately stealing the victim’s money (“slaughtering WPI vs. PPI: Key Differences
the pig”). Â Wholesale Price Index (WPI):
 Methodology Š Definition: WPI measures the price of goods at the wholesale
Š Initial Contact: The scammer (known as the “host”) reaches stage, i.e., bulk goods traded between organizations.
out to potential victims through social media, dating apps, Š Coverage: Does not account for inflation at the consumer
or deceptive messages. level and excludes services, which constitute 55% of GDP.
Š Building Trust: They establish a false sense of friendship
Š Limitations: Includes double counting of the same product
and persuade the target (the “pig”) to explore
and does not include imports or exports.
cryptocurrency investments.
 Producer Price Index (PPI):
Š Fake Profits: Using a fraudulent trading app, they fabricate
Š Definition: PPI tracks prices from the perspective of
successful trades to make the victim believe they are
producers, measuring price changes at different stages
earning profits.
Š Encouraging Larger Investments: As trust grows, the of production.
scammer convinces the victim to invest larger amounts, a Š Key Differences: Excludes indirect taxes and reflects
process referred to as “fattening the pig.” inflation from the perspective of industries and businesses.
Š Final Deception: When the victim tries to withdraw funds, Š Coverage: Includes both goods and services, making it a
the platform imposes fees, delays, or blocks access, broader measure than WPI.
ultimately revealing the scam.
Š Irretrievable Funds: Due to the irreversible nature of
WPI vs. PPI: KEY DIFFERENCES
blockchain transactions, recovering lost money is Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Producer Price Index (PPI)
extremely difficult.
Definition: WPI measures the Definition: PPI tracks prices
price of goods at the wholesale from the perspective of
RAMESH CHAND COMMITTEE stage, i.e., bulk goods traded producers, measuring price
Context between organizations. changes at different stages of
production.
Recently, the Indian government announced the
Coverage: Does not account Key Differences: Excludes
establishment of the Ramesh Chand Committee to
for inflation at the consumer indirect taxes and reflects
update the country's WPI setting a new base year of
2022-23, replacing the current base year of 2011-12. level and excludes services, inflation from the perspective
which constitute 55% of GDP. of industries and businesses.

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 In-Shorts | Economy
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 Improved rural mobility due to enhanced physical infrastructure.

Limitations: Includes double Coverage: Includes both
 Government schemes like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
counting of the same product goods and services, making it
contribute to reduced rural-urban income disparity.
and does not include imports a broader measure than WPI.
Š About 30% of rural monthly per capita expenditure
or exports.
(MPCE) is explained by factors like DBT transfers, rural
 Weighting System: WPI weights items based on net traded infrastructure development, and support for farmers'
value, while PPI uses weights derived from Supply Use income.
Tables.
 International Usage: PPI has largely replaced WPI in many
countries as it is conceptually aligned with the internationally JAMMU RAILWAY DIVISION
accepted System of National Accounts (SNA). Context

Recently, the Prime Minister inaugurated the Jammu

DECLINE IN RURAL POVERTY: SBI RESEARCH railway division (under the Northern Railway Zone),
Context marking a significant advancement in improving train
service management in India’s northernmost region.
Recently, SBI’s economic research department (ERD)
released a report on Rural Poverty.
About
 Definition: An administrative unit within Indian Railways
Key Findings responsible for managing train operations, maintenance, and
 India’s poverty rate has dropped significantly from 22% in infrastructure development in its jurisdiction.
2011-12 to below 5% in 2023-24, with minimal extreme poverty. Â Indian Railways Structure
Š Rural poverty fell from 25.7% in 2011-12 to 4.86% in 2023- Š 19 zones (including Metro Railway, Kolkata) and 70
24, and urban poverty decreased from 4.6% in 2022-23 to divisions under these zones.
4.09% in 2023-24. Š Zones are headed by the General Manager (GM).
 Threshold: The report sets the new poverty line for FY24 at Rs  Significance of the Jammu Division: Overseeing iconic rail
1,632 for rural areas and Rs 1,944 for urban areas, adjusted infrastructure projects that will transform regional connectivity:
for inflation and the imputation factor.
Š Anji Khad Bridge: India’s first cable-stayed rail bridge.
Š Suresh Tendulkar’s poverty line (estimated in 2011-12) was
Š Chenab Rail Bridge: The world’s highest railway arch
Rs 816 for rural areas and Rs 1,000 for urban areas.
bridge.
 Urban-Rural Consumption Disparity: The gap in monthly per
Š USBRL Project: Crucial for connecting Kashmir to the rest
capita expenditure (MPCE) between rural and urban areas
of India through the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Railway
decreased to 70% in 2023-24 from 84% in 2011-12, reflecting
Link (USBRL).
sustained rural consumption growth.
 Strategic Importance: Plays a key role in driving regional
 Impact of Inflation and Consumption: Rising inflation led to
development, enhancing accessibility, and boosting tourism
lower overall consumption, with a more pronounced effect in
in Jammu and Kashmir.
rural, low-income states.
 Modern Infrastructure: Equipped with advanced IT systems
Š Middle-income states helped sustain consumption
demand. for streamlined and efficient rail operations.

Factors Behind Poverty Decline COUNTRY’S FIRST ORGANIC FISH CLUSTER

 Consumption Growth: Higher consumption growth in the
Context
0-5% income group.
Š Rural consumption saw a 22% increase, with MPCE
Recently, the Union Animal Husbandry and Fisheries
reaching Rs 1,677 in 2023-24, and urban areas saw an Minister inaugurated India’s first organic fisheries
18.7% increase to Rs 2,376. cluster in Sikkim.
Š Consumption inequality decreased, with the Gini
coefficient dropping to 0.24 in rural areas and 0.28 in
urban areas. About
 Shift in the poverty line from the 5-10% to the 0-5% income  Aim: To sell antibiotic, chemical, and pesticide free organic
group. fish in eco-conscious markets across the globe.

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 The organic fisheries cluster focuses on an ecologically Š Facilitates quick military access to Ladakh, reducing
healthy fish farming system avoiding chemicals, antibiotics, dependence on air maintenance for forward bases.
and pesticides. This also ensures minimal environmental Š Enhances connectivity between Srinagar, Dras, Kargil, and
pollution and prevents damage to aquatic ecosystems, Leh.
contributing to sustainable fish production practices. Š Supports Indian defence forces deployed in:
 The minister has also laid the foundations for 50 key projects Œ Siachen Glacier and Turtuk sub-sector (against Pakistan).
under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), ΠEastern Ladakh (against Chinese forces, especially
covering all northeastern states except Arunachal Pradesh post-2020 standoff).
and Mizoram. Š Reduces logistical costs and increases the lifespan of
transport aircraft by enabling ground transportation of
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
troops and supplies.
 It is the flagship scheme of the Department of Fisheries,
Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, and
was launched in 2020.
 Aim: To give momentum to the ‘sunrise’ fisheries sector
through consolidated efforts from various schemes and
initiatives.
 The PMMSY is an umbrella scheme with two separate
components namely Central Sector Scheme (CS) and
Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS).
 The Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) Component
is further segregated into Non-beneficiary oriented and
beneficiary orientated subcomponents/activities:
Š Enhancement of Production and Productivity FUTURE OF JOBS REPORT, 2025
Š Infrastructure and Post-harvest Management
Context
Š Fisheries Management and Regulatory Framework.
Recently, the World Economic Forum (WEF) published
Z-MORH TUNNEL the Future of Jobs Report 2025, highlighting emerging
job trends and workforce transformations globally.
Context

Recently, the Prime Minister inaugurated the 6.5 km-

long Z-Morh tunnel at Sonamarg, a vital infrastructure Key Highlights
project enhancing connectivity in the region. Â Fastest-Growing Roles
Š Increasing demand for frontline jobs (farmworkers,
delivery personnel) and care economy roles.
About Š Expansion of technology-driven and green transition jobs
 Location: due to sustainability and digitalization efforts.
Š Constructed near Gagangir village, ahead of Sonamarg,  Declining Roles
on the Srinagar-Leh highway. Š Clerical jobs (cashiers, data entry clerks, bank tellers) are
Š Ensures all-weather connectivity to Sonamarg, a major declining due to automation and AI.
tourist destination. Š Adoption of self-service kiosks, AI-driven data processing,
Š Named after the Z-shaped road stretch at the site of and digital banking is replacing traditional roles.
construction. Â Job Displacement and Creation
 Need for the Tunnel: Š Automation, renewable energy investments, and
Š The stretch is at an altitude of 8,500 feet, making it prone demographic shifts are reshaping the job market.
to snow avalanches in winter. Š 1.6 million jobs are expected to be displaced globally due
Š The road to Sonamarg remains closed for most of the to slower economic growth.
winter, necessitating an alternative route. Š New opportunities are emerging in AI, machine
 Strategic Importance: management, and renewable energy.
Š Part of the larger Zojila tunnel project, ensuring year-round  Technological Advancements: 60% of businesses see digital
connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh. transformation as the biggest driver of change by 2030.

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 In-Shorts | Economy
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Š 34% of organizations are rethinking business models due

World Economic Forum (WEF) to global uncertainties.
 About: Š Offshoring, reshoring, and cybersecurity roles are gaining
Š An international organization for public-private prominence.
cooperation. Â India-Specific Insights
Š Engages global leaders to shape agendas across Š AI Skills Leadership: India is a global leader in AI skill
industries, regions, and the world. development, with corporate-backed GenAI training
 Foundation: programs.
Š Established in 1971 by Klaus Schwab as the European Š Tech Adoption Acceleration
Management Forum. Π35% of Indian businesses expect semiconductors &
Š Introduced the concept of “stakeholder capitalism”, computing technologies to transform industries.
focusing on long-term value for all stakeholders rather Π21% anticipate quantum computing & encryption to
than short-term shareholder profits. impact business security.
 Evolution: Š Workforce Growth
Š Expanded focus to economic and social issues in Œ India & Sub-Saharan Africa will supply nearly two-thirds
1973. of new workforce entrants in the coming years.
Š Introduced membership for the world’s top 1,000 Œ Emphasis on bridging skill gaps and creating sustainable
companies in 1975. employment opportunities.
Š Rebranded as the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 1987,
strengthening its role as a global dialogue platform.
INDIAN CUSTOMS ELECTRONIC GATEWAY
Š Recognized as an international organization in 2015.
 Headquarter: Geneva, Switzerland. (ICEGATE)
 Major Reports: Context
Š Global Competitiveness Index
Š Global Gender Gap Index Recently, the Ministry of Commerce stated that the
Š Energy Transition Index discrepancy in gold counting errors was mainly due to
Š Global Risk Report the transition of data transmission from SEZ to ICEGATE.
Š Global Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index

 Key technologies in demand: About

Š Artificial Intelligence (AI) & information processing (86%) –  Establishment & Purpose:
driving automation and data analytics. Š Established in 2007 as the national portal of Indian
Š Robotics & automation (58%) – enhancing efficiency in Customs under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and
manufacturing, logistics, and healthcare. Customs (CBIC).
Š Energy technologies (41%) – advancing sustainability and Š Provides e-filing services for trade, cargo carriers, and
emissions reduction. trading partners.
 Green Transition: Climate policies are increasing demand for:  Functionality & Role:
Š Renewable energy engineers – developing clean energy Š Acts as a centralized hub for all electronic interactions
solutions. between Indian Customs and the trading community.
Š Environmental engineers – managing pollution control and Š Serves as the main infrastructure connecting trade users
sustainability projects. with the Indian government’s customs department.
Š Electric & autonomous vehicle specialists – driving Š Facilitates information exchange between external trading
transportation innovation. partners involved in international trade.
 Demographic Shifts  Integration with Partner Agencies: Internally linked with
Š Aging populations in high-income economies are multiple agencies, including:
increasing demand for healthcare professionals. Š RBI, Banks, DGFT, DGCIS, Ministry of Steel, Directorate of
Š Growing workforces in low-income economies are creating Valuation, and various Partner Government Agencies
demand for educators and workforce managers. (PGAs) involved in EXIM trade.
 Geoeconomic Fragmentation  Key Contributions:
Š Trade restrictions and geopolitical tensions are impacting Š Streamlines customs procedures, reducing delays and
business strategies. inefficiencies.

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Š Enhances trade facilitation by offering digital services for INTEREST EQUALISATION SCHEME
smoother transactions.
Context
Š Promotes transparency and efficiency in cross-border trade
through its multiple user-friendly features. Recently, the Department of Commerce extended the
Interest Equalisation Scheme for pre- and post-shipment
rupee export credit to MSME exporters until August 31.
FAST TRACK IMMIGRATION – TRUSTED
TRAVELLER PROGRAMME (FTI-TTP)
Context About
 Introduction:
The Union Home Minister will inaugurate the Fast Track Š Launched on April 1, 2015, to provide pre- and post-
Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP). shipment export credit in rupees.
Š Initially valid for five years until March 31, 2020 but later
extended, including a one-year extension during COVID-19
and further renewals with additional funding.
About
 Implementing Agency & Oversight:
 Overview:
Š Administered by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through
Š FTI-TTP (Fast-Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller
Public and Non-Public Sector banks, which offer export
Programme) simplifies and secures international travel for
credit.
Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
Š Jointly monitored by the Directorate General of Foreign
Š It offers expedited immigration clearance via automated Trade (DGFT) and RBI under a consultative mechanism.
e-gates, ensuring a seamless and secure process. Â Objective:
Š Inspired by systems like U.S. Global Entry and the Š Enhances the competitiveness of identified export sectors.
UK’s Registered Traveller Service, it uses biometric Š Aims to boost export performance by reducing interest
authentication for faster clearance of pre-verified costs for exporters.
passengers. Â Key Features:
 Launch & Objectives: Š Eligibility & Certification:
Š Introduced in June 2024 at IGI Airport, Terminal 3. Œ Exporters must submit a certification from an external
Š Designed to enhance international mobility by making auditor to their bank to claim benefits.
immigration faster, smoother, and more secure. ΠBanks verify eligibility and reimburse interest
Š Initially available for Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, equalisation benefits from the RBI based on certification.
with plans to extend it to foreign travellers. Š Interest Equalisation Benefits:
Π2% interest subsidy on pre- and post-shipment export
 Key Features:
credit for merchant and manufacturer exporters in 410
Š Gratis Basis: Initially offered free of cost for Indian nationals
tariff lines (at the 4-digit HS code level).
and OCI cardholders.
Π3% interest subsidy for all MSME manufacturer exporters.
Š Automation & Security: Uses advanced biometric
Š Fund Limit & Caps: The scheme is now fund-limited, with
verification to streamline the immigration process. a maximum benefit cap of ₹10 crore per year per Import
Š Expedited Clearance: Pre-verified passengers can Export Code (IEC).
complete immigration checks automatically at e-gates. Š Banking Regulations: Banks lending at an average rate
 Implementation & Management: The Bureau of Immigration exceeding Repo + 4% are debarred from participating in
under the Ministry of Home Affairs is the nodal agency the scheme.
responsible for execution.
 Implementation Phases: PROJECTS ISNR AND INR KONNECT
Š Phase 1:
Context
ΠCovers Indian citizens and OCI cardholders.
ΠImplemented at 7 major airports: Mumbai, Chennai, Recently, the Rubber Board of India launched two key
Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad. initiatives, iSNR (Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber)
Š Phase 2: and INR Konnect, to strengthen the country’s rubber
ΠExpands coverage to foreign travellers. industry globally and enhance domestic production.
ΠFull implementation at 21 major airports across India.

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About 4th largest consumer of natural rubber, with high domestic

 iSNR: Indian Sustainable Natural Rubber demand from the automobile and manufacturing sectors.
Š Objective:  Major Producing States: Kerala contributes over 90% of India’s
ΠThe initiative aims to align Indian rubber production with total rubber production, making it the dominant hub for the
the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) industry.
standards by ensuring responsible and traceable Š Other rubber-producing states include Tamil Nadu,
rubber cultivation. Karnataka, Tripura, Assam, and Meghalaya.
Œ It introduces traceability certification, which helps  Key Challenges:
verify that rubber is sourced sustainably, preventing Š Climate Change: Rising temperatures and unpredictable
deforestation and environmental harm. rainfall affect rubber yields and tapping cycles.
Š Benefit: Š Global Competition: Countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and
ΠBy meeting EUDR standards, Indian rubber producers Vietnam offer cheaper rubber, making it difficult for Indian
gain easier access to European Union markets, increasing exporters to compete.
export potential and market credibility. Š Labor Shortages: A shrinking workforce in rubber
 INR Konnect: Web-Based Productivity Platform plantations has increased production costs and slowed
Š Objective: Designed to bridge the gap between owners of down tapping activities.
untapped rubber plantations and adopters willing to invest  Government Initiatives:
in improving productivity. Š National Rubber Policy 2019: Aims to boost rubber
Š Features: production, increase productivity per hectare, and
ΠCertified Network: The Rubber Board certifies growers, strengthen domestic processing industries.
adopters, and tappers, ensuring all participants meet Š Sustainable & Inclusive Development of Natural Rubber
quality and sustainability criteria. Sector Scheme: Focuses on eco-friendly cultivation,
ΠTraining Programmes: Offers technical guidance on improving farmer incomes, and enhancing sustainability
production management, tapping techniques, and in the rubber supply chain.
sustainable practices. Š INROAD Project: Launched to utilize untapped plantations,
Œ Database of Certified Tappers: Maintains a comprehensive increasing India’s rubber production capacity and
record of skilled tappers, allowing plantation owners to reducing dependence on imports.
access trained professionals easily.
Rubber Board of India
 Significance:
Š Addresses the issue of underutilized rubber plantations,  Nature:
which make up 20-25% of India’s rubber holdings. Š It is a statutory body functioning under the Ministry of
Š Many plantations remain untapped due to low rubber Commerce and Industry, Government of India.
prices, absentee ownership, and lack of skilled workforce. Š It was established under the Rubber Act, 1947, with the
mandate to regulate, develop, and promote the rubber
About Rubber Crop industry in India.
 Commercial crops introduced by the British to India  Objectives
 Requires a Warm and Humid Climate Š Development of the Rubber Sector: Implements
 Soil Requirement: Well-drained, deep, and loamy soils with research, training, and extension programs to enhance
high organic content are ideal. rubber cultivation, processing, and sustainability.
 Climate Requirements: Š Facilitate Price Stabilization & Market Access: Works
Š Requires high humidity and plenty of rainfall (200-300 on price monitoring, policy interventions, and market
cm annually). intelligence to ensure stable income for rubber growers
Š Optimum temperature range: 25 to 35°C. and prevent market fluctuations.
Š Grows best in tropical regions with no prolonged dry Š Promote Domestic & Export Markets: Supports value
spells. addition, branding, and international trade to expand
the domestic rubber industry and improve export
India’s Rubber Industry competitiveness.
 Global Position: India ranks as the 3rd largest producer of natural  Headquarters: Located in Kottayam, Kerala
rubber globally, behind Thailand and Indonesia. It is also the

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SECURITIES TRANSACTION TAX Â Key Features

Š Duty-Free Imports
Context
ΠThe scheme allows duty-free import of natural cut and
polished diamonds that are less than ¼ carat (25 cents).
Recently, the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) collection
recorded a surge of over 75%, reaching Rs. 44,538 crore ΠThis facilitates cost-effective procurement of raw
by January 2025, compared to Rs. 25,415 crore during materials for Indian diamond exporters.
the same period in 2024. Š Export Obligation
ΠExporters availing of the scheme must fulfill a mandatory
export obligation, with a minimum value addition of 10%.
About ΠThis ensures that India continues to contribute to global
 Nature: A direct tax imposed on the purchase and sale of value addition in the diamond trade.
securities listed on recognized stock exchanges in India. Š Eligibility
 Governing Authority: Levied and collected by the Central Œ Only diamond exporters that hold a Two Star Export
Government of India under the Securities Transaction Tax (STT) House status and above are eligible.
Act. ΠAdditionally, exporters must have a minimum annual
 Taxable Transactions: export turnover of USD 15 million to qualify.
Š Equity Instruments: Shares, scrips, and stocks. Œ This ensures that the scheme benefits established
Š Debt Instruments: Bonds and debentures. exporters while promoting high-value trade.
Š Derivatives: Futures and options traded on recognized  Need for the Scheme
stock exchanges. Š Global Best Practices
ΠThe scheme is introduced in response to the
Š Mutual Funds: Units of mutual funds and other collective
beneficiation policies adopted by diamond-mining
investment schemes.
countries like Botswana, Namibia, and Angola.
Š Government Securities: Only those with an equity nature.
ΠThese countries require diamond manufacturers to process
Š Equity-Oriented Units: Units of mutual funds classified as
a certain percentage of diamonds locally before exporting.
equity-oriented.
Š Retaining India’s Leadership
Š Rights & Interests in Securities: Any tradable rights or
ΠIndia has been a global leader in diamond cutting
interests associated with securities.
and polishing, and this scheme helps in retaining its
Š Securitized Debt Instruments: Financial instruments
competitive edge in the industry.
backed by a pool of underlying assets.
ΠEnsuring access to duty-free raw materials strengthens
 Tax Rates: Vary based on the type of security and transaction.
India’s diamond processing and export ecosystem.
 Exemptions: Not applicable to off-market transactions,
 Significance
commodity trading, or currency transactions.
Š Empowering MSME Exporters: The scheme is designed to
 Collection Mechanism: support MSME exporters by creating a level playing field,
Š The broker is responsible for collecting STT when a client allowing them to compete with large-scale exporters.
executes stock market transactions. Š Job Creation and Skill Development: By boosting the
Š The collected tax is then remitted to the government. cutting and polishing industry, the scheme is expected to
generate employment opportunities for skilled artisans and
DIAMOND IMPREST AUTHORIZATION (DIA) craftsmen.
Š Enhancing India’s Diamond Exports: The initiative will
SCHEME
contribute to the growth of India’s diamond exports, further
Context strengthening the country’s position as a global hub for
diamond processing.
Recently, the Department of Commerce launched
the Diamond Imprest Authorization (DIA) Scheme to
streamline and facilitate diamond trade operations. GLOBAL ECONOMIC PROSPECTS (GEP)
REPORT, 2025
Context
About
 Aim: The scheme is introduced to enhance India’s global
Recently, The World Bank has released the Global
competitiveness in the diamond sector, ensuring the country
Economic Prospects (GEP) report, 2025.
maintains its leadership position in the diamond processing
and export industry.

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Key Highlights Š Stronger global trade governance is necessary to ensure

 Global Growth Projections: The global economy is expected sustainable growth, with multilateral institutions playing a
to expand by 2.7% in both 2025 and 2026, maintaining the key role in policy coordination.
same pace as 2024, indicating a stable yet slow recovery. Â India-Specific Highlights
 Emerging Market and Developing Economies (EMDEs): Š Growth Outlook:
Š These economies have undergone significant Œ India is projected to remain the fastest-growing large
transformation since 2000, increasing their contribution economy in FY26 and FY27, with an estimated 6.7%
to 45% of global GDP from 25% at the start of the century. growth rate.
Š India, China, and Brazil, the three largest EMDEs, Œ The services sector is expected to sustain its momentum,
have collectively driven 60% of annual global growth, while manufacturing activity will gain strength, further
highlighting their critical role in the global economy. driving economic expansion.
 Trade Restrictions: Š Investment Growth:
Š The number of new global trade restrictions in 2024 was Œ Private investments are anticipated to increase,
five times higher than the average between 2010-19, backed by favorable financing conditions and improved
significantly impacting global trade. corporate balance sheets.
Š These restrictions have contributed to a decline in Œ Steady infrastructure spending and policy support will
economic growth rates, which dropped from 5.9% in the contribute to long-term economic resilience and growth.
2000s to 3.5% in the 2020s.

World Bank DIFFERENTIAL PRICING

Context
 Establishment: Founded in 1944 as the International Bank
for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) along with
Recently, the Central Consumer Protection Authority
the IMF.
(CCPA) raised concerns over ride-hailing companies
Š Over time, the IBRD evolved into the World Bank.
allegedly using differential pricing based on consumers’
Š It is one of the United Nations’ specialized agencies.
smartphone types.
 Purpose: A global partnership of five institutions working to
reduce poverty and promote sustainable development in
developing countries. About
 Membership: 189 countries, including India.  Differential pricing is a pricing strategy where businesses
 Major Reports charge different prices for the same product or service based
Š Business Ready (B-READY) Report. on various factors.
Š Human Capital Index.  The pricing variations are influenced by:
Š World Development Report. Š Location – Adjusting prices based on regional economic
conditions.
Š Demand Fluctuations – Prices may rise or fall based on
market demand.
Š Consumer Demographics – Different pricing for different
age groups, income levels, etc.
Š Purchasing Behavior – Discounts or higher prices based
on customer loyalty and buying patterns.
 Types of Differential Pricing
Š Price Localization: Prices are adjusted based on local
purchasing power, competition, and economic conditions.
 Challenges & Recommendations: Š Real-Time Pricing
Š Rising trade tensions between major economies could Œ Prices change dynamically based on demand,
further slow global economic expansion. competitor pricing, and product availability.
Š Persistent inflation remains a concern, as it may delay Œ Common in industries like ride-hailing services (surge
expected interest rate cuts by central banks. pricing) and airline tickets.
Š Policy interventions can help address these challenges, Š Subscription-Based Pricing
with EMDEs needing to capitalize on opportunities through ΠCustomers receive discounts or benefits for committing
economic reforms. to long-term usage of a service.

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ΠExamples include streaming services, software licenses, 10,000 GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATION (GI)
and gym memberships.
TAGS BY 2030
Š Seasonal Discounts
Context
ΠPrices are reduced during specific seasons or holidays
to attract more customers.
Recently, the Union Minister of Commerce & Industry set
ΠCommon in retail and travel industries (e.g., holiday a target to achieve 10,000 Geographical Indication (GI)
sales, off-season travel discounts). tags by 2030.
Š Volume Discounts
ΠEncourages bulk purchases by offering a lower per-
unit price for larger quantities. About
Œ Used in wholesale, B2B sales, and membership-based  Definition
Š A Geographical Indication (GI) is a label identifying
retail stores.
products originating from a specific geographical region,
possessing unique qualities, reputation, or characteristics
linked to that location.
Š It applies to agricultural, natural, and manufactured goods,
including handicrafts, textiles, and food products.
 Duration: GI registration is valid for 10 years since the date of
registration.
 Significance:
Š Legal Protection: Prevents unauthorized use of the product
name.
Š Economic Boost: Enhances marketability and promotes
exports by distinguishing local products globally.
Š Consumer Trust: Assures quality, authenticity, and
distinctiveness, benefiting both producers and buyers.
Š Cultural & Traditional Value: Helps preserve traditional
skills, practices, and heritage linked to the product.
Legal Provisions Governing Differential Pricing in India  Global Recognition
 Consumer Protection Act, 2019: Differential pricing that Š Recognized under the Paris Convention for the Protection
discriminates between consumers or exploits them can be of Industrial Property as an Intellectual Property Right (IPR).
challenged under the Consumer Protection Act. Š Covered under the TRIPS Agreement (Trade-Related
Š Section 2(47) prohibits practices that harm consumer Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights) of the WTO.
interests. Â Indian Regulation
 Section 4 of Competition Act, 2002: Prohibits dominant Š Governed by the Geographical Indications of Goods
players from indulging in discriminatory pricing that exploits (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999.
customers or restricts market access. Š Registrar of Geographical Indications (RGI) grants GI status.
Š The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has Š Nodal Authority: Department for Promotion of Industry and
scrutinized pricing practices in sectors like aviation and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
ride-hailing. Â GI Tags in India
 Essential Commodities Act, 1955: Differential pricing for Š First GI product: Darjeeling Tea (West Bengal), known for
essential goods like food, fuel, or medicine is restricted to its unique flavor and aroma.
prevent exploitation during shortages or emergencies. Š State with Most GI Tags: Uttar Pradesh, followed by Tamil
 Pallavi Refractories v. Singareni Collieries Co. Ltd. (2005): The Nadu, covering a range of textiles, handicrafts, and food
Supreme Court upheld differential pricing when it is rational products.
and based on clear criteria, such as market segmentation or  Recent Significant GI Tags:
cost differences. Š Bodo Narzi (Assam) – A traditional semi-fermented dish
 Bottled Water Pricing: In 2017, the government clarified that made from jute leaves.
identical bottled water sold in multiplexes, airports, and retail Š Tirangi Barfi (Uttar Pradesh) – A famous tri-colored sweet.
stores must have the same MRP under the Legal Metrology  Total GI Tags Issued: 605 (as of now), covering diverse product
Rules. categories across states.

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 In-Shorts | Economy
January Issue; 2025

NATIONAL TURMERIC BOARD ΠHighlight the medicinal, nutritional, and therapeutic

properties of turmeric to increase domestic and global
Context
demand.
Recently, The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry  Headquarters: Nizamabad, Telangana
inaugurated the National Turmeric Board in New Delhi.
Turmeric
 Botanical & Chemical Properties:
About Š Turmeric is the underground stem (rhizome) of the
 Composition of the Board: Curcuma longa plant, belonging to the ginger family
Š Chairperson: Appointed by the Central Government to (Zingiberaceae).
oversee and guide the board’s functions. Š Its active compound, curcumin, gives turmeric its
Š Secretary: Appointed by the Department of Commerce to yellow color and is known for its anti-inflammatory,
facilitate operations and policy implementation. antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Š Government Representatives:  Cultivation in India:
Œ Members from the Ministry of AYUSH to support Š India cultivates over 30 varieties of turmeric across 20+
turmeric’s medicinal applications. states.
Œ Representatives from Departments of Pharmaceuticals, Š Major producing states include Maharashtra, Telangana,
Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, and Commerce & Industry Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
to integrate turmeric-related policies across sectors. Â Global Standing:
Š State Representation: Š India is the largest producer, consumer, and exporter of
ΠMaharashtra & Telangana, the two largest turmeric- turmeric worldwide.
growing states, will have representatives. Š In 2022-23, India accounted for over 75% of global
ΠMeghalaya will also have representation. turmeric production and held 62% of the global export
ΠOther states will be included on a rotational basis to market.
ensure broader participation. Â Export Performance:
Š In 2022-23, India exported 1,53,400 tonnes of turmeric
 Mandate & Key Focus Areas:
and turmeric-based products.
Š Research & Development:
Š The total export value stood at USD 207.45 million.
ΠPromote scientific research for better turmeric varieties,
Š Key export destinations include Bangladesh, UAE, the
yield improvement, and disease resistance.
US, and Malaysia.
ΠEncourage innovation in turmeric-based products,
 Geographical Indication (GI) Tags: Several turmeric varieties
including pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals. from India have received GI tag recognition, including:
Š Market Expansion & Trade Promotion: Š Lakadong Turmeric (Meghalaya) – known for its high
Œ Develop new international markets to increase India’s curcumin content.
turmeric exports. Š Kandhamal Turmeric (Odisha) – valued for its organic
ΠSupport branding, marketing, and positioning turmeric cultivation.
as a high-value agricultural product. Š Erode Turmeric (Tamil Nadu) – famous for its bright color
Š Logistics & Supply Chain Enhancement: and aroma.
Œ Strengthen transportation, storage, and processing Š Armoor Turmeric (Nizamabad, Telangana) – recognized
infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses. for its unique medicinal properties.
Œ Improve connectivity between farmers, processors,  Climatic Conditions for Turmeric Cultivation:
and exporters for a smoother supply chain. Š Altitude: Can be grown from sea level up to 1500 m
Š Quality & Safety Standards: above sea level.
Œ Implement global standards for turmeric production, Š Temperature: Thrives in a 20-30°C temperature range.
processing, and export. Š Rainfall: Requires 1500 mm or more of annual rainfall
ΠEnsure compliance with food safety norms to boost and can be grown under rainfed or irrigated conditions.
consumer confidence and trade prospects. Š Shade Tolerance: Grows well in partial shade, but larger
Š Awareness & Promotion: and better rhizomes develop in open sunlight.
Œ Educate farmers and stakeholders about best Š Soil Type: Best suited for well-drained sandy or clay
agricultural practices for turmeric cultivation. loam soils.

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 In-Shorts | Environment
January Issue; 2025

ENVIRONMENT

INDIA SUBMITS 4TH BIENNIAL UPDATE Š Renewable Energy Expansion

ΠAs of October 2024, the share of non-fossil fuel sources
REPORT TO UNFCCC
in installed electricity capacity has reached 46.52%.
Context
ΠTotal installed renewable energy capacity, including
large hydropower, stands at 203.22 GW.
Recently, India submitted its Fourth Biennial Update
ΠExcluding large hydro projects, renewable energy
Report to the UNFCCC, outlining its Greenhouse Gas
capacity has increased 4.5 times—from 35 GW in
(GHG) inventory and emission reduction efforts.
March 2014 to 156.25 GW in 2024.
Š Forest and Tree Cover Growth
Œ India’s forest and tree cover has steadily expanded and
Key Highlights of the Report
now covers 25.17% of the country’s total geographical
 Greenhouse Gas Emissions in 2020
area.
Š Overall Reduction: In 2020, India’s total GHG emissions
ΠBetween 2005 and 2021, an additional carbon sink
decreased by 7.93% compared to 2019.
of 2.29 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent has been
Š Total Emissions (Excluding Land Use, Land-Use Change, and created.
Forestry - LULUCF): The emissions stood at 2,959 million
tonnes of CO2 equivalent (CO2e).
Š Net Emissions (Including LULUCF): After accounting for
land use and forestry, net emissions were 2,437 million
tonnes of CO2e.
 Sectoral Contribution to GHG Emissions
Š Energy Sector: Contributed the most to total emissions,
accounting for 75.66%.
Š Agriculture: Responsible for 13.72% of emissions,
primarily due to enteric fermentation, rice cultivation, and
fertilizer use.
Š Industrial Processes and Product Use (IPPU): Made up
8.06% of emissions, including those from cement, steel,
and chemical industries.
Š Waste Sector: Contributed 2.56% of emissions, mainly
from solid waste disposal and wastewater treatment.
 Role of Forests in Carbon Sequestration
Š India’s forest and tree cover, along with other land use,
sequestered approximately 522 million tonnes of CO2 in
2020.
Š This offset 22% of the country’s total carbon dioxide
emissions, playing a crucial role in reducing net emissions.
 Progress towards Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC)
Targets
Š Emission Intensity Reduction
ΠIndia has been successfully reducing its emission
intensity while maintaining economic growth.
ΠBetween 2005 and 2020, the emission intensity of GDP
reduced by 36%.

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 In-Shorts | Environment
January Issue; 2025

INDIA’S 1ST ‘COASTLINE-WADERS BIRD Š Established under the leadership of Rukmini Devi
Arundale, a renowned humanitarian and animal rights
CENSUS’
advocate.
Context
 Composition: The board consists of 28 members, including:
Š 6 Members of Parliament (2 from Rajya Sabha and 4 from
Gujarat is set to conduct the country’s first-ever census
Lok Sabha).
of coastal and wader birds at the Marine National Park
and Sanctuary in Jamnagar. Â Term of Office: The tenure of board members is 3 years.
 Key Functions:
Š Enforces animal welfare laws across India.
About Š Provides financial grants to Animal Welfare Organizations
 The census will be jointly organised by the state forest (AWOs).
department and the Bird Conservation Society of Gujarat. Š Advises the Government of India on policies related to
 Waders Bird: animal welfare and protection.
Š They are also known as shorebirds or sandpipers, are a group
of birds typically found in coastal habitats or wetlands.
BLUE FLAG CERTIFICATION
Š They are characterized by long legs, slender bodies, and
Context
often long bills, which they use to forage for food like
insects and worms.
Recently, Kerala’s Kappad and Chal beaches, located in
 Marine National Park:
Kozhikode and Kannur districts, have been awarded the
Š The Marine National Park and Marine Sanctuary in Gujarat
prestigious Blue Flag certification.
is India’s first designated marine national park.
Š Spanning the districts of Devbhoomi Dwarka, Jamnagar,
and Morbi, it covers approximately 170 km of coastline About
and 42 islands. Â Given By: Foundation for Environment Education in Denmark
Š This protected area in the Gulf of Kutch was established to (FEE) accords the globally recognized eco-label - Blue Flag
conserve marine biodiversity and mangrove ecosystems. certification.
Š The park is positioned along the Central Asian Flyway (CAF).
 Stringent Criteria: FEE gives the award to beaches, marinas,
ΠIt is a key migratory route for birds traveling, covering
and boating operators that meet 33 criteria.
a large continental area of Eurasia between the Arctic
Š Broadly, they are divided into four categories, covering
and Indian Oceans and the associated island chains.
water quality, environmental management, safety, and
 Bird Species:
environmental information and education.
Š Jamnagar district hosts over 300 species of local and
migratory birds, including more than 50 species of wader Š The standards were established by the Copenhagen-based
birds. Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in 1985.
Š Among these are rare species like the ‘Shankhlo’ (Crab  The certification is updated annually, and locations must
Plover) and ‘Moto Kichadiyo’ (Great Knot), which are continue to meet the criteria to retain their Blue Flag status.
seldom found elsewhere in the country. Â Blue Flag Beaches:
Š There are over 4000 Blue Flag certified beaches across
the world, with Spain leading with a total of 729 blue flag
ANIMAL WELFARE BOARD OF INDIA (AWBI) sites, followed by Greece.
Context Š India has 13 such beaches, the Chandrabhaga beach on
the Konark coast of Odisha is the first in Asia to get the Blue
Recently, the AWBI and NALSAR University of Law,
Flag certification.
Hyderabad, signed an MoU to train animal welfare
volunteers in animal care laws and procedures. Â Significance:
Š promote sustainable tourism,
Š protect ecosystems,
About Š and encourage environmental stewardship at recreational
 Establishment sites.
Š Founded in 1962 under the Prevention of Cruelty to Š It helps tourists identify destinations that prioritize
Animals Act, 1960. environmental and safety standards.

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 In-Shorts | Environment
January Issue; 2025

 Validity: Accreditation is valid for six years, after which it must

be renewed based on the city’s continued compliance with
the six criteria.
 Global Recognition: Currently, 74 cities have received
accreditation, with the highest number from China (22) and
France (9).

AMUR FALCON
Context

Recently, Manipur’s Tamenglong district imposed an

immediate ban on the hunting, capture, killing, and sale
of the Amur falcon.

About
 Migration:
Š The world’s longest-distance migrating raptor.
Š Named after the Amur River, which flows through its
breeding grounds.
 Breeding Grounds:
Š Found in Siberia, Mongolia, and Northern China.
Š Migrates to Southern and East Africa during winter.
 Physical Appearance:
Š Small falcons with females being larger.
WETLAND ACCREDITED CITIES IN WORLD Š Characterized by distinct eye masks and yellow ceres.
 Diet: Primarily feeds on insects, particularly locusts and
Context
termites, providing natural pest control.
Recently, Indore and Udaipur have become the first two  Habitat: Prefers open woods and marshes.
Indian cities to join the global list of accredited wetland  Threats: Faces threats from illegal trapping and killing during
cities. migration, as well as habitat loss.
 Conservation Status:
Š IUCN Status: Least Concern
About Š CMS: Appendix II
 Sirpur Lake: Š WPA, 1972: Schedule I Part B
Š Location: Indore, recognized as a Ramsar Site.
Š Significance: Known for water bird congregation and is HIMALAYAN iBex
being developed as a bird sanctuary.
Context
 Udaipur Wetlands:
Š Location: Rajasthan, surrounded by five major wetlands: Recently, wildlife authorities in Himachal Pradesh
Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and began conducting surveys to assess the population of
Doodh Talai. the Himalayan iBex.

Wetland City Accreditation Program

 Part of Ramsar Convention: Approved during COP12 in 2015. About
 Criteria for Accreditation: Cities must meet all six international  Overview:
criteria, including the adoption of measures for conservation Š A wild goat and subspecies of the Siberian ibex native to
of wetlands and ecosystem services. the Himalayan region of India, Pakistan, Tibet, and Nepal.
 Aim: To promote the conservation and wise use of urban and Š Found in India in Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh,
peri-urban wetlands. and Uttarakhand.

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 In-Shorts | Environment
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 Habitat: Š Management: The project, led by J&K Forest Research

Š Inhabits high-altitude regions of the Himalayas, including Institute, enables the monitoring and management of
the Trans-Himalayan region, at elevations ranging from Chinar trees.
3,000 to 5,800 meters.
Š Prefers steep, rocky terrain with ample vegetation and
UTRICULARIA
water access.
Š Migrates to lower elevations during winter to avoid deep Context
snow and harsh weather conditions.
Recently, a rare carnivorous plant, Utricularia, has been
 Physical Description:
discovered in abundance this season at Rajasthan’s
Š Thick, shaggy coat adapted to survive the harsh mountain
Keoladeo National Park.
environment.
Š Long, curved horns that can grow up to a meter in length.
Š Males have longer, more heavily ridged, and larger horns About Utricularia (Bladderworts)
than females. Â Genus & Family: Utricularia, commonly known as bladderwort,
Š Males tend to be larger and more muscular compared to belongs to the Lentibulariaceae family and is the most diverse
females. carnivorous plant genus.
 Diet: Herbivores that primarily feed on grasses, leaves, and  Species & Distribution: It includes 220 species found in
shrubs. temperate and tropical regions worldwide.
 Conservation Status:  Rootless Structure: Lacks roots and typically has a floating
Š IUCN Status: Least Concern horizontal stem with simple or divided leaves.
Š WPA, 1972: Schedule I  Carnivorous Adaptation: Features small bladder-like traps
along the stem, which use a rapid suction mechanism to
KASHMIR CHINARS capture insect larvae, aquatic worms, and water fleas.
 Trap Mechanism: Sensitive trigger hairs on the trap door
Context
detect prey, causing it to open in less than a millisecond and
Recently, the Jammu and Kashmir government launched close within 2.5 milliseconds.
the “Digital Tree Aadhaar” program to help conserve the  Habitat & Spread: Found in lakes, streams, and waterlogged soils,
iconic Chinar trees. with some species becoming invasive in new environments.
 Flowers: Produces bisexual, bilaterally symmetrical flowers,
aiding in reproduction.
About Kashmir Chinars (Platanus orientalis) Â Ecological Role: Plays a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems by
 Scientific Name: Platanus orientalis controlling microorganism populations and contributing to
 Other Names: Oriental plane tree, maple tree, locally called nutrient cycling.
Boueen.
 Features: Keoladeo National Park
Š Size: Large deciduous tree, growing up to 30 meters tall  Location: Situated in eastern Rajasthan, it was formerly
with a girth of 10 to 15 meters at ground level. known as Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary and was renamed in
Š Age: The oldest Chinar tree in Kashmir, around 700 1981 to honor the ancient Shiva temple within the park.
years old, was planted by Sufi Saint Syed Qasim Shah in  Strategic Importance: Located along the Central Asian
Chattergam, Budgam district. migratory flyway, the park serves as a crucial stopover for
Š Growth Rate: Takes 30 to 50 years to reach mature height migratory birds.
and around 150 years to reach full size. Â Vegetation: The vegetation is primarily dry deciduous,
 Habitat: Native to the Eastern Himalayas, thriving in cool with medium-sized trees and shrubs, providing diverse
climates with sufficient water. habitats for wildlife.
 Uses:  Flora: Common trees include kadam, jamun, babul, kandi,
Š Medicinal: Leaves and bark are used for medicinal purposes. ber, kair, and piloo.
Š Wood: Lacewood is used for delicate interior furniture.  Fauna: Home to over 360 species of permanent and migratory
Š Other Uses: Twigs and roots are used to make dyes. birds, including species such as gadwalls, shovellers, tufted
 Geo-tagging Initiative: ducks, and the Siberian crane (which may be extinct).
Š Purpose: QR codes are attached to surveyed trees,  Conservation Status: It is both a Ramsar site (wetland of
recording details like geographical location, health, age, international importance) and a UNESCO World Heritage
and growth patterns. Site.

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 In-Shorts | Geography
January Issue; 2025

GEOGRAPHY

SOAPSTONE MINING Environmental Concerns Associated with Soapstone

Context Mining.
 Land Subsidence
Recently, the Uttarakhand High Court directed an Š Mining activities disturb the natural stability of land,
immediate halt to mining operations in Bageshwar leading to subsidence (gradual sinking of the ground).
district following reports of illegal activities causing Š This issue is critical in Uttarakhand, especially in Kanda-
cracks in houses and hills. Kanyal (Bageshwar), where mining has made the land
vulnerable.
Š The removal of minerals weakens the ground, making it
About prone to collapse, especially in earthquake-prone zones.
 Soapstone is a soft metamorphic rock composed primarily  Slope Instability
of talc, with varying amounts of chlorite, dolomite, and Š Mining operations on lower slopes weaken the structural
magnesite. integrity of higher elevations, endangering villages
 It is known for its smooth texture, durability, and heat situated above.
resistance, making it a valuable material across various Š The region’s loamy and loose soil composition makes
industries. it highly prone to erosion, particularly during heavy
monsoons.
Š Frequent landslides and rockfalls pose a threat to both
human settlements and local ecosystems.
 Deficient Safety Measures
Š Soapstone mining in many regions lacks proper safety
infrastructure, leading to increased environmental
degradation.
Š The absence of green belts, retaining walls, buffer zones,
and slope monitoring systems accelerates soil erosion.
Š Without protective structures, excessive excavation
makes the land vulnerable to collapse.
 Water and Air Pollution
Š Water Scarcity: Mining disrupts underground water
channels, depleting natural water sources.
Š Water Contamination: Mining residues seep into local
Availability of Soapstone in India rivers and groundwater, affecting drinking water quality.
 According to the Indian Bureau of Mines, India has substantial Š Air Pollution: Dust from mining operations leads to
reserves of soapstone, with the majority concentrated in the respiratory issues among local communities.
following states:
 Rajasthan (57%) – Largest Producer
Š Rajasthan accounts for the highest soapstone production
SADA ON KONKAN REGION
in India. Context
Š Major deposits are found in Udaipur, Dungarpur, and
Bhilwara districts.
The Konkan region, nestled between the Arabian Sea
and the Western Ghats, is renowned for its unique
 Uttarakhand (25%) – Uttarakhand has notable soapstone
geographical features Sada.
reserves, particularly in Bageshwar, Pithoragarh, and Almora
districts.
 Tamil Nadu and Karnataka – Smaller Reserves About
Š These states have minor soapstone deposits, primarily  A sada is a flat-topped landscape formed through centuries of
extracted for local industrial and handicraft purposes. erosion, often referred to locally as a “large flat area.”

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 In-Shorts | Geography
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 Located in the Konkan region of Maharashtra, the sada Š Houses the Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary on its eastern
landscapes share similarities with plateaux, known locally coast.
as pathar in the Satara district, with the Kaas Plateau being a Š Recognized as a Ramsar site of international significance
notable example. in 2002.
 Characteristics of Sada  Tourism & Events:
Š Barren Landscape: The sada remains largely barren Š A major backwater tourism destination in Kerala.
throughout the year but transforms dramatically during Š Hosts the famous Vallam Kali (Nehru Trophy Boat Race), a
the monsoon season. Snake Boat Race held every August.
Š Rocky Terrain: The terrain is rocky and features endemic
flora that thrives during the monsoons.
Š Soil Composition: The region has a highly weathered
lateritic soil layer on top, which acts as a catchment for
rainwater, contributing to groundwater recharge.
 Biodiversity of Sada
Š Flora: The landscape is home to 459 plant species, with
105 species endemic to the Konkan region, adding to its
ecological importance.
Š Fauna:
Π31 species of reptiles.
Π13 species of amphibians.
Π169 species of birds.
Π41 species of mammals.
 Cultural Significance: The region also houses ancient
geoglyphs, believed to be 10,000 years old, showcasing the
cultural and historical importance of the area.
 Threats: Development projects, laterite mining, and land-
use changes for orchards and residential areas threaten the
Sada. Its classification as ‘wasteland’ in the Wasteland Atlas
further endangers this fragile ecosystem.

VEMBANAD LAKE
Context

Recently, the Alappuzha district administration in Kerala

launched a large-scale plastic cleanup drive under the
Vembanad Lake Rejuvenation Project. TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO
Context

About Recently, Trinidad and Tobago has imposed a state of

 Location & Size: India's longest lake and Kerala’s largest, emergency in response to escalating violence, including
covering 2,033 sq. km across Alappuzha, Kottayam, and a surge in gang-related shootings.
Ernakulam districts.
 Alternate Names: Also known as Vembanad Kayal, Vembanad
Kol, Punnamada Lake (in Kuttanad), and Kochi Lake (in Kochi). About
 Formation & Connection to the Sea: Fed by four rivers—  Capital – Port of Spain.
Meenachil, Achankovil, Pampa, and Manimala—the lake has  Location – Southernmost Caribbean nation, situated northeast
an outlet to the Arabian Sea in the west. of Venezuela, south of Grenada, in the Atlantic Ocean.
 Ecological & Geographical Importance:  Geographic Features –
Š Surrounds the islands of Pathiramanal, Perumbalam, and Š Rivers: Ortoire River, Caroni River, Nariva River.
Pallippuram. Š Mountains: Northern Range (Trinidad).

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Š Highest Peak: El Cerro del Aripo (940 meters).  Illegal Drug Trade: Ecuador has also been associated with
 History – Colonized by Spain, France, and Britain; gained illegal drug trade activities.
independence in 1962 and became a republic in 1976.
 Government – Parliamentary democracy with a Prime Minister GULF OF MEXICO
(executive head) and a President (ceremonial role).
Context
 Economy – Driven by oil, natural gas, petrochemicals,
manufacturing, and tourism. A leading energy producer in Recently, a proposal to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the
the Caribbean. “Gulf of America” has ignited debate over its historical,
 Population & Culture – 1.5 million people, ethnically diverse political, and cultural significance.
(Indo-Trinidadians, Afro-Trinidadians, mixed-race); English is
the official language.
ABout
 Introduction
Š The Gulf of Mexico is the largest gulf in the world and a
marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean.
Š It is often called the “Mediterranean of the Americas” due
to its enclosed nature and climatic influence.
Š The Gulf was formed due to seafloor subsidence caused
by the movement of tectonic plates.

ECUADOR
Context

Recently, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared a

60-day state of emergency in seven provinces and three
municipalities in response to growing internal unrest
and armed conflict. Â Location and Connectivity
Š Borders the southeastern coast of North America.
Š Connected to the Atlantic Ocean via the Straits of Florida,
About which separates Florida (U.S.) and Cuba.
 Location: Situated in western South Š Linked to the Caribbean Sea through the Yucatán Channel,
America, bordering the Pacific lying between Cuba and the Yucatán Peninsula (Mexico).
Ocean at the Equator, between Š The Gulf is relatively shallow along the continental shelf
Colombia and Peru. areas, but its average depth is 1,615 meters.
 Capital: Quito  Climate and Weather Patterns
 Highest Point: Mount Chimborazo Š The Gulf has a tropical to subtropical climate.
 Major Rivers: The Babahoyo, Chira, Coca, Curaray, Daule, Š It is prone to severe weather conditions, including:
Esmeraldas, Guayas, Napo, Paztaza, and Putumayo. Š Major hurricanes, primarily between June and November.
 Landscapes: Known for its diverse and stunning landscapes, Š Tornadoes and thunderstorms, especially in coastal areas.
including the vast Amazon jungle, the towering Andean  River Systems:
highlands, and the Galápagos Islands, a UNESCO World Š Mississippi River (United States) – The largest river draining
Heritage site famous for its unique wildlife. into the Gulf, carrying massive sediment loads.

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Š Rio Grande (United States-Mexico) – Another major river

contributing to the Gulf’s water system.
 Economic Significance: The shallow continental shelf regions
of the Gulf contain vast petroleum and natural gas reserves,
making it a critical region for offshore drilling.

DIEGO GARCIA
Context

Recently, fishermen were arrested near Diego Garcia

island for violating the maritime boundary and
engaging in poaching.

About
 Geographic Overview
Š Diego Garcia is a coral atoll, the largest and southernmost
member of the Chagos Archipelago, located in the central
Indian Ocean.
Š It is part of the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT) and
makes up more than half of the territory’s total land area.
Š The atoll spans an area of 44 sq.km and consists of
a V-shaped, sand-fringed cay, about 24 km long with
a maximum width of 11 km. The lagoon is open at its
northern end.
 Historical Background
LAKE NAIVASHA
Š Early Discovery: Diego Garcia was first discovered by the
Portuguese in the early 16th century.
Context
Š Dependency of Mauritius: For most of its history, the island
Recently, Kenya’s renowned Lake Naivasha has been
was a dependency of Mauritius.
increasingly affected as water hyacinth spreads across
Š Separation from Mauritius: In 1965, Diego Garcia was
vast areas, disrupting its ecosystem.
separated from Mauritius as part of the newly formed
British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).
 U.S. Military Base and Strategic Importance
About
Š In 1966, the United Kingdom leased Diego Garcia to the
 Location & Geography:
United States to establish a major air and naval base.
Š A shallow freshwater lake situated in the southern Rift
Š The base is critical as the United States’ primary
Valley, Kenya.
geostrategic and logistical support base in the Indian
Ocean. Š Formed in recent geological times, surrounded by
Š Forced Removal of Inhabitants: To construct the defense extinct or dormant volcanoes, indicating past volcanic
installations, the native inhabitants were forcibly removed activity.
from the island. Â Hydrology:
 Legal and Political Issues Š Fed by perennial rivers, primarily the Malewa and Gilgil
Š International Court of Justice (2019): The ICJ issued an Rivers, which originate from the Aberdare Mountains in
advisory opinion ruling that the decolonization of Mauritius central Kenya.
was unlawful, citing the continued claims of the Chagossian Š The lake lacks a visible outlet, making it ecologically
people. sensitive to fluctuations in water levels.
Š UN General Assembly Vote (2019): A non-binding resolution  Flora (Plant Life):
passed in the UN General Assembly called on the UK to Š Dominated by papyrus reeds (Cyperus papyrus) along
end its “colonial administration” of the Chagos Archipelago much of its shoreline, playing a vital role in maintaining
and return it to Mauritius. the lake’s ecological balance.

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Š Contains submerged aquatic plants, including Potamogeton KURDISTAN REGION

species, which provide habitat for fish and invertebrates.
Context
Š Floating vegetation includes water hyacinth (Eichhornia
crassipes), an invasive species that can impact water Recently, India dispatched a shipment of medical
quality and aquatic life. supplies, including bronchodilators, inhalers, and
 Fauna (Animal Life): ventilators, to aid the residents of Iraq’s Kurdistan
Š Supports a rich biodiversity, particularly waterbirds, fish, region.
and large mammals.
Š Home to hippos, various species of tilapia fish, and a
diverse community of resident and migratory birds, making About
it an important site for birdwatching and conservation. Â Country: Iraq (semi-autonomous region).
 Conservation Status: Recognized as a Ramsar site, signifying
 Capital: Erbil.
its global ecological importance as a wetland habitat.
 Governorates: Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dohuk, Halabja.
 Neighbouring Nations:
Water Hyacinth
Š Shares borders with Turkey, Iran, Syria, and Iraq-
 Origin: Native to South America but was introduced to controlled territories.
Kenya in the 1980s, possibly through human activities  Political Structure:
such as trade and ornamental plant use. Š The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) operates
 Growth & Invasiveness: autonomously.
Š Considered the most invasive aquatic plant species in Š Tensions exist with Iraq’s central government over
the world due to its rapid growth and ability to spread resource control and autonomy.
uncontrollably. Â Mountains:
Š Thrives in nutrient-rich waters, particularly in areas Š Zagros Mountains dominate the landscape, forming
with high levels of pollution and contaminants such as natural borders with Iran and Turkey.
agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial waste.
 Rivers:
 Ecological Impact:
Š The Tigris and Greater Zab Rivers support agriculture and
Š Blocks sunlight penetration, disrupting photosynthesis
settlements.
for submerged aquatic plants, leading to a decline in
oxygen levels.
Š Reduces water circulation and airflow, impacting water
quality and affecting aquatic life such as fish and
invertebrates.
Š Can create dense floating mats, which clog waterways,
hinder boat navigation, and increase the risk of
mosquito-borne diseases.
 Economic & Environmental Concerns:
Š Negatively impacts fisheries, as the plant depletes
oxygen, leading to fish kills and disrupting local
livelihoods.
Š Hampers hydroelectric power generation, as dense
growth clogs turbines and water intake systems.
 Control Measures:
Š Manual removal and mechanical harvesting, though
labor-intensive and costly.
Š Biological control using natural predators like the weevil
(Neochetina spp.), which feeds on water hyacinth and
slows its spread.

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 In-Shorts | Internal Security
January Issue; 2025

INTERNAL SECURITY
NAVY TO COMMISSION 2 FRONTLINE Â A total of seven ships are under construction: four by MDL
and three by GRSE.
WARSHIPS AND 1 SUBMARINE
 7 Ships under this project: INS Nilgiri, INS Udaygiri,INS
Context
Taragiri,INS Himgiri,INS Dunagiri,INS Vindhyagiri,and INS
The Indian Navy commissioned Vagsheer (The sixth and Mahendragiri.
final Scorpene-class submarine), Surat (The fourth and
last stealth destroyer under Project-15B), and Nilgiri INSV TARINI'S PASSAGE THROUGH POINT
(The lead ship of the Project-17A stealth frigates) on
NEMO
January 15 at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai.
Context

Project-75 (I): Kalvari-Class Submarines INSV Tarini successfully sailed past Point Nemo entirely
 It involves the indigenous construction of six Kalvari-class under sail, marking a major milestone in the Navika
diesel-electric attack submarines. Sagar Parikrama II mission.
 These submarines will feature modern equipment, weapons,
sensors, missiles, and advanced countermeasure systems.
Point Nemo
 A key upgrade from Project-75 is the inclusion of a fuel-cell-
 Located in the South Pacific Ocean, it is the most remote
based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, enhancing
location on Earth, 2,688 km from the nearest landmass.
stealth and operational capabilities.
 The closest point to the International Space Station and a
 The number "75" in Project-75 refers to the unique identifier
decommissioning site for spacecraft.
for the Scorpene-class submarines.
 Built by: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) under About INSV Tarini
licence from Naval Group of France. Â Commissioned into the Indian Navy in February 2017.
 6 Submarines under this Project: INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi,  Features advanced satellite communication, navigation
INS Karanj, INS VelaINS Vagir, and INS Vagsheer. systems, and emergency steering, ensuring capability in
Visakhapatnam-Class Destroyers (P-15B) harsh maritime conditions.
 Also known as the P-15 Bravo class, these guided-missile
destroyers.
Navika Sagar Parikrama II
 A global circumnavigation mission by two Indian Navy officers
 They are second only to aircraft carriers (like INS Vikramaditya)
under India's naval exploration initiative.
in terms of reach and endurance.
 Started on October 2, 2024, from Goa, set to last 8 months,
 An upgraded version of the Kolkata-class destroyers,
concluding in May 2025.
they feature improved stealth, automation, and advanced
 Route: Goa  Lyttelton Port (New Zealand)  Point Nemo
ordnance.
(South Pacific Ocean).
 Built By: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL)
 Four ships under this project: INS Visakhapatnam, INS
Mormugao, INS Imphal, and INS Surat. BHARAT RANBHOOMI DARSHAN INITIATIVE
Context
Project-17A Frigates:
 Project-17A is the successor to the Project-17 (Shivalik-
On the 77th Army Day (15th January 2025), the Defence
class) frigates, incorporating enhanced stealth, advanced
Minister launched the “Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan”
weapons, sensors, and platform management systems.
Initiative.
 It aims to build a series of stealth-guided missile frigates for
the Indian Navy.
 Ships are being built by: Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) About
and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Â It is a joint initiative by the Ministries of Defence & Tourism
 Designed in-house by: the Indian Navy’s Warship Design and the Indian Army. It aims to promote battlefield tourism
Bureau (WDB). in India.
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Key Features: About

 Civilians can visit key battlefield locations along India’s borders.  Advanced Targeting: The Bhargavastra system successfully
 Covers historic battle sites from the 1962, 1971, and 1999 hit designated virtual targets over 2.5 kilometres away,
(Kargil) wars, including: demonstrating high precision and effectiveness.
Š Ladakh: Rezang-La, Pangong Tso, Galwan clash site.  Enhanced Radar Capabilities: It can detect medium to large
Š Arunachal Pradesh: Kibithoo, Bum-La. UAVs up to 10 kilometres and small drones up to 6 kilometres
Š Doklam (2017 standoff site). away, making it effective against a wide range of aerial threats.
Š Kargil conflict sites: Kargil, Batalik, Drass (trekking access  Versatile Deployment: Bhargavastra can be mounted on
available). mobile platforms, enabling rapid deployment and adaptability
Š Siachen Base Camp (highest battlefield; limited access due to diverse operational terrains, including high-altitude regions.
to acclimatization needs).
 A dedicated website serves as a one-stop portal for battlefield PRALAY" MISSILE SHOWCASED AT REPUBLIC
tourism information. DAY PARADE 2025
 Operational military areas remain restricted, but forward Context
locations are now open for public visits.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation
Objectives:
(DRDO) showcased "Pralay," an indigenous short-range
 Transform border areas and battlefields into tourist destinations.
quasi-ballistic missile, during the Republic Day parade
 Allow civilians to experience India's military history and valour in New Delhi.
firsthand.
 Promote holistic development in border areas by improving:
Infrastructure, Communication, Tourism and Education. KEY FEATURES OF PRALAY MISSILE
Type Short-range, quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile

NAG MK 2 ANTI-TANK MISSILE Developer DRDO

Context Purpose Deployment along LAC and LoC

Range 150-500 km
India has successfully carried out field evaluation trials
Propulsion Solid-propellant rocket motor
of indigenously-developed third-generation Anti-Tank
Guided Missile Nag Mk-2, at Pokhran Field Range. Payload 500-1,000 kg, can carry conventional warheads
Launch Mobile launcher
Platform
About
Speed Reaches terminal speed of Mach 6.1
 Third-Generation Fire-and-Forget Technology: Enables
precision targeting with minimal operator intervention post- Special It can change its path midair after covering a certain
launch. Feature distance

 Versatile Performance: Capable of neutralising modern

armoured vehicles equipped with explosive reactive armour
EXERCISE LA PEROUSE
(ERA).
 Platform Compatibility: Successfully integrated with Nag Context
Missile Carrier (NAMICA), enhancing battlefield mobility and
The indigenously designed guided missile destroyer
deployment flexibility.
INS Mumbai is participating in the fourth edition of the
 Range 7 to 10 kilometres, an improvement over Nag Mark 1,
Multinational Exercise LA PEROUSE.
which had a 4-kilometre range.

BHARGAVASTRA MICRO MISSILES About

 The exercise is scheduled from January 16 to 24,2025 taking
Context
place in the strategic straits of Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok,
which connect the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
India has successfully tested the Bhargavastra, its first
micro-missile system designed to counter swarm drones. Â Participating Countries: Australia, Canada, France, India,
Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the U.K., and the U.S. are
involved in the exercise.

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SCIENCE & January Issue; 2025

TECHNOLOGY
GOOGLE'S QUANTUM PROCESSOR ‘WILLOW’ Â Uses: Treats diabetic neuropathy (nerve pain).
Š Manages anemia caused by Vitamin B12 deficiency.
Context
Š Helps in neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
Google introduced "Willow," its latest quantum  Its Importance:
processor, marking significant progress in solving Š Many Indians are deficient in B12 due to vegetarian diets.
practical problems with quantum computing. Š Methylcobalamin is more bioavailable and effective than
other forms of B12.

Key Features: HUMAN METAPNEUMOVIRUS (HMPV)

 Contains 105 physical qubits for computation. Context
 Operates at near absolute zero temperatures (-273.15°C) to
maintain stability. China is witnessing a sharp increase in cases of Human
 Improved error correction protocols result in enhanced Metapneumovirus (HMPV), particularly affecting
reliability. children under 14 years of age.
 Data qubits have a coherence time of about 100 microseconds.
 Supports lower error rates even with a higher number of
qubits. About
 Significance: Offers faster and more reliable quantum  Discovery: First discovered in 2001, the HMPV belongs to the
performance, paving the way for practical applications in Pneumoviridae family along with respiratory syncytial virus
quantum computing. (RSV).
 Transmission: Like Covid-19, HMPV is spread through
Additional Information respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or
 Classical computers process information using bits, either sneezes.
0 or 1. Â Symptoms: Cough, fever, and shortness of breath, with
 Quantum computers use qubits, which leverage quantum potential complications like bronchitis and pneumonia.
superposition to represent both 0 and 1 simultaneously, Â Treatment: Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral
making them significantly more powerful. to treat HMPV and most people rely on over-the-counter
medications to relieve fever and pain.

METHYLCOBALAMIN
Context

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)

has provided guidelines for the use of methylcobalamin
in food supplements and other products.

About
 About: A naturally occurring form of Vitamin B12 found in
foods like fish, meat, eggs, and milk.
Š Essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production,
and nerve function.
 Functions: Helps in cell multiplication, blood formation, and
protein synthesis.
Š Supports the nervous system and neurological health.

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January Issue; 2025

TWIGSTATS Â Genealogical Tree Inference Methods

Š These techniques are applicable to both modern and
Context
ancient genomes, effectively capturing historical genetic
In a recent study published in Nature, researchers used changes.
Twigstats to analyze ancient genomes from Europe and Š They help reconstruct population structures and
reconstruct the region's high-resolution genomic history. evolutionary patterns over time.

About ISRO’S CROPS EXPERIMENT

 Prehistoric human ceremonial burials, mass grave mounds, Context
and war graves contain ancient genetic material (aDNA) that is
crucial for understanding population dynamics and ancestry. A batch of cowpea seeds which were taken into orbit by
 aDNA analysis reveals insights into population expansion, an Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission
replacement, admixture events, cultural transitions, and has unveiled their first leaves.
migrations.
 Twigstats is a time-stratified ancestry analysis tool designed to
enhance the understanding of genetic history. About
 CROPS payload: The space agency sent eight cowpea seeds
as part of the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant
Studies (CROPS) experiment.
 Aim: It is conducted by the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
(VSSC) to study plant growth in microgravity conditions.
Š CROPS is part of a larger initiative to evolve ISRO’s
capabilities in sustaining flora in extraterrestrial
environments, with future phases expected to focus on
longer-term plant growth in space.
Š The current experiment is designed to last between five
and seven days, demonstrating seed germination and
plant development up to the two-leaf stage.
 Significance: The results could play a pivotal role in ensuring
food security for astronauts on extended missions.

 It utilizes statistical languages R and C++ to assist researchers

in analyzing genetic data with greater precision. INDIA AI MISSION
 By focusing on recent mutations, Twigstats enables Context
researchers to target specific historical periods, as these
mutations offer clearer insights into events from those India has announced plans to develop its own Large
times. Language Model (LLM) as part of the IndiaAI Mission.

Traditional Techniques for Genetic Analysis

 Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) About:
Š SNPs are naturally occurring genetic variations widely  Implemented by: ‘IndiaAI’ Independent Business Division
used for tracing genetic histories. (IBD) under Digital India Corporation (DIC), Ministry of
Š They require high-quality DNA samples and may have limited Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY).
accuracy in distinguishing closely related populations. Â Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model: The mission will be
 Haplotype and Rare Variant Analysis executed through collaboration between government and
Š This method examines shared DNA segments (haplotypes) private entities.
and rare genetic variants, offering higher resolution than
Core Components:
SNPs alone.
 IndiaAI Compute Capacity: Establishing a high-performance
Š It provides greater precision in identifying genetic
AI computing infrastructure with 10,000+ GPUs through
relationships and population structures.
public-private partnerships.

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 IndiaAI Innovation Centre (IAIC): A dedicated research institute TIDAL TAIL

focusing on indigenous Large Multimodal Models (LMMs) and
Context
domain-specific AI models.
 IndiaAI Datasets Platform: Strengthening public sector A new ultra-diffuse galaxy has been discovered at the
datasets to enhance data-driven governance and promote AI end of the tidal tail of galaxy NGC 3785, located 430
innovation. million light years from Earth in the Leo constellation.
 IndiaAI Application Development Initiative: Encouraging AI-
driven solutions across sectors.
About
 IndiaAI FutureSkills Program: Expanding AI education through
 The tidal tail contains star-forming clumps along its length,
graduate/postgraduate courses and establishing Data & AI providing valuable information about galaxy evolution and the
Labs across major and smaller cities. creation of low surface brightness structures.
 IndiaAI Startup Financing: Facilitating access to funding for  NGC 3785 is known to have the longest tidal tail discovered so
AI startups. far, extending for 1.27 million light years.
 Safe & Trusted AI: Ensuring AI development aligns with ethical, Š The tail is formed due to gravitational forces when two
responsible, and secure standards. galaxies interact closely.

SMALL LANGUAGE MODELS

Context

Experts suggest that AI progress is slowing due to limited

data availability. As scaling LLMs brings diminishing
returns, the focus is shifting towards smaller, more
specialized models for improved efficiency.

About SLMs:
 Small Language Models have fewer parameters compared
to Large Language Models (LLMs) like GPT-4 or Gemini
Advanced.
 They are simpler, cost-effective, and require less computational ATOMIC ENERGY COMMISSION
power, making them ideal for specialized tasks and custom Context
applications.
Union Govt Reconstitutes Atomic Energy Commission
COMPARISON: LLMS VS. SLMS (AEC).
LLMs SLMs
Feature
(Large Models) (Small Models)
About
Specialization Trained on general Fine-tuned for
 Genesis: Established in 1948 under the leadership of Dr. Homi
data specific tasks
J. Bhabha.
Computational Requires high power Needs less power & Â Governing Body: The AEC is the governing body of the
Power & energy energy Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). The DAE was created in
Speed & Slower processing Faster & better for 1954 to implement the AEC's policies.
Latency real-time use  Key Functions: Formulate policies for nuclear energy
development.
Cost Expensive to More affordable for
Š Promote research and development in nuclear science.
develop & deploy smaller budgets
Š Regulate nuclear activities.
Examples GPT-4, Llama 3, GPT-4o Mini, Llama Š Ensure safety and security of nuclear installations.
Gemini Ultra, Claude 8B, Gemini Nano, Š Collaborate internationally on nuclear energy.
3, Phi-3 Haiku, Phi-3 Mini  Leadership: The Prime Minister of India is the ex-officio
Chairman of the AEC.

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GLOBAL CYBERSECURITY OUTLOOK 2025: Š Fusion has the potential for clean and nearly limitless
energy on Earth if harnessed effectively.
WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM
Context

The World Economic Forum (WEF) recently released

Global Cybersecurity Outlook 2025.

About
 It is produced in collaboration with Accenture and it examines
the cybersecurity trends that will affect economies and
societies in the year to come.
 It explores major findings and puts a spotlight on the
complexity of the cybersecurity landscape, which is intensified
by geopolitical tensions, emerging technologies, supply
About Tokamak:
chain interdependencies and cybercrime sophistication.
 A tokamak is an experimental device designed to harness
Key Issues Highlighted fusion energy. Inside, fusion-generated energy is absorbed
 Geopolitical Conflicts: Wars like the Ukraine conflict have as heat by the vessel walls.
heightened cyber risks in energy, telecom, and nuclear  Like conventional power plants, a future fusion power plant
sectors. will convert this heat into steam to generate electricity using
 Cybersecurity Readiness: While 66% of organizations expect turbines and generators.
AI to impact cybersecurity, only 33% have tools to manage
ITER
AI-related risks, with smaller firms struggling the most.
 Cyber Skills Gap: There is a global shortage of 4.8 million  The world's largest tokamak, built to demonstrate the
cybersecurity professionals, and only 14% of organizations feasibility of large-scale fusion energy.
have a skilled workforce, with public-sector entities facing the  Member Countries: China, European Union (Euratom),
biggest challenges. India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.
 Supply Chain Risks: Over 50% of large firms struggle with  Collaborative Research: Members share experimental
cybersecurity due to complex supply chains, third-party results and intellectual property from fabrication,
software vulnerabilities, and enforcement challenges. construction, and operations.
 Advanced Cybercrime: Cybercriminals are using AI for  Location: France.
sophisticated attacks like phishing and deepfakes, affecting
42% of organizations in 2024. GUILLAIN-BARRÉ SYNDROME (GBS)
 Regulatory Hurdles: 70% of organizations find cybersecurity
Context
regulations too complex, leading to compliance difficulties.

A multi-disciplinary team is assisting Maharashtra health

NUCLEAR FUSION: ITER (INTERNATIONAL authorities after 101 suspected GBS cases were reported.
THERMONUCLEAR EXPERIMENTAL REACTOR)
Context
About
 It is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system
A Chinese experimental nuclear fusion reactor set a
mistakenly attacks nerves outside the brain and spinal cord.
new record by maintaining its operational state for over
 Affected Areas:Impairs muscle movement, reflexes, and
1,000 seconds, sparking global excitement.
sensations like pain, touch, and temperature. It can occur at
any age, but most common in 30–50-year-olds.
Meaning of Nuclear Fusion: Â Causes: Often triggered by prior infections (respiratory or
 It is the process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form stomach infections), certain vaccines, or surgeries, leading to
a heavier nucleus, releasing a massive amount of energy. an immune response against healthy nerves.
 It powers the sun and stars by fusing hydrogen into helium  Symptoms: Starts with fever and weakness, followed by
under extreme pressure and temperature. numbness, tingling, and muscle paralysis in severe cases.

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 Progression: Symptoms can worsen over hours, days, or Third Launch Pad (TLP):
weeks, sometimes causing breathing difficulties or complete  TLP will be designed to support Next Generation Launch
paralysis. Vehicles (NGLV), Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM3) vehicles with
 Treatment: No cure, but intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) Semi-cryogenic stages, and scaled-up NGLV configurations.
and plasma exchange can help reduce nerve damage. Â It will involve significant industry participation and utilize
ISRO's experience from earlier launch pad establishments.
The facilities at the existing launch complex will be shared to
INDIA’S FIRST INDIGENOUS SURGICAL TELE- maximize efficiency.
ROBOTIC SYSTEM
Context
Benefits
 The project will benefit the Indian Space ecosystem by
India’s first indigenous surgical tele-robotic system, enabling higher launch frequencies and supporting human
SSI Mantra, was used to perform two complex heart spaceflight and space exploration missions.
surgeries remotely, with the surgeon in Gurugram and  It will act as a standby launch pad for the Second Launch Pad
the patient in Jaipur. (SLP) at Sriharikota. It will enhance launch capacity for future
human spaceflight missions.

About Satish Dhawan Space Center

 SSI Mantra is a robotic system that performs complex surgical  It is located in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, on a spindle-
procedures in Genito-Uro-Oncology cases. shaped island between the Pulicat Lake and the Bay of
 It is developed by SSI Ltd and it is the only robotic system Bengal.
worldwide to receive regulatory approval for telesurgery and  It is the Spaceport of India, a leading centre of ISRO, and
tele-proctoring. provides world-class launch infrastructure for satellite
 Its recent approval by the Central Drugs Standard Control and launch vehicle missions for national and international
Organization (CDSCO) paves the way for remote surgeries customers.
and medical education, allowing healthcare professionals to Š Renaming: The centre, originally known as SHAR
collaborate across distances. (Sriharikota Range), was renamed in 2002 to honor
Prof. Satish Dhawan, former ISRO Chairman.
 Benefits:
 Operational Launch: SDSC SHAR became operational on
Š Reduced operation time, better precision, minimal trauma,
October 9, 1971, with the launch of ‘Rohini-125’, a small
lower blood loss, faster recovery, and reduced infection
sounding rocket.
risk.
 Selection of Sriharikota as the Launch Site: The search for a
Š The technology aims to bridge geographical gaps in
launch site began in the 1960s under Vikram Sarabhai, the
surgical care, making tele-surgery accessible globally.
founder of India’s space program.
 Reasons for Choosing Sriharikota: East Coast Location
THIRD LAUNCHPAD AT SATISH DHAWAN facilitates rocket launches eastward, taking advantage of
Earth’s rotation to increase payload capacity.
SPACE CENTER
Š Proximity to the Equator enhances launch efficiency for
Context satellites, especially geostationary ones.
Š Safety: Largely uninhabited, the area is close to the
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra
sea, allowing rockets to be launched over the ocean,
Modi, approved the establishment of the Third Launch
minimizing risk from rocket debris.
Pad (TLP) at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

DARK OXYGEN
About
Context
 It refers to a platform or area used to launch rockets or other
vehicles into space. The recent discovery of "dark oxygen" production in
 India primarily uses two launch pads for space operations: the the Clarion-Clipperton Zone challenges conventional
First Launch Pad (FLP) and the Second Launch Pad (SLP), both understanding of oxygen generation.
located at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

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About Rhodamine-B
 Definition: Oxygen produced deep in the ocean, thousands  Type: Water-soluble industrial dye.
of feet below the surface, without sunlight or photosynthesis. Â Appearance: Green powder that turns fluorescent pink in
 Previously, oxygen was believed to be produced only through water.
photosynthesis, requiring sunlight. Â Uses: Common in textile, paper, leather, and paint industries
 Oceanic plankton, algae, and bacteria contribute to oxygen for red/pink shades.
production via photosynthesis. Â Legal Status: Globally banned in food; illegal in India under
 Oxygen generation at such depths was considered the Food Safety Standards Act, 2006.
impossible due to the absence of sunlight.
Health Hazards
 In this case, oxygen is not produced by plants but through an
 Toxic Effects: Can cause brain tissue damage (cerebellum,
alternative process.
brainstem).
 Polymetallic nodules, resembling lumps of coal, release  DNA Damage: May lead to mutations and cancerous growths.
oxygen through electrochemical activity. Â Impact: Can affect motor functions and cause other functional
 These nodules, composed of manganese, iron, cobalt, nickel, abnormalities.
copper, and lithium, split H₂O molecules into hydrogen and
oxygen, generating oxygen even in complete darkness.
T CELL-BASED DENGUE VACCINE ‘PRAHR’
Potential Applications Context
 This phenomenon could provide insights into life in extreme
environments on Earth and other planets. A research team from Gujarat Biotechnology University
 Understanding "dark oxygen" production could assist in the (GBU), Gandhinagar, has developed an innovative T cell-
search for extraterrestrial life by expanding the criteria for based vaccine for dengue ‘PRAHR’, which has won the
habitability. ‘Best Societal Impact ‘Award’ at the first Biothon 2025.

Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ)

About:
 CCZ is a vast, mineral-rich area in the Pacific Ocean,
 PRAHR’ (‘Pathogen ReActive Cells Harnessing’) Dengue vaccine
spanning approximately 6 million square kilometers
won the ‘Best Societal Impact ‘Award’ at the first Biothon 2025.
between Hawaii and Mexico.
Š The first Biothon 2025 took place on January 20, 2025, at
 It contains abundant polymetallic nodules rich in
Gujarat Biotechnology University (GBU).
manganese, nickel, copper, and cobalt, making it a key Š It was a competition where participants worked on new
target for deep-sea mining. ideas to solve important social problems.

INDUSTRIAL DYE RHODAMINE-B

Context

Experts highlight Rhodamine B as a hidden danger in

everyday products, urging governments, industries, and
individuals to prioritize health over aesthetics.

About
 The U.S. FDA has banned Rhodamine B in food due to its
carcinogenic effects.
 Concerns rose over children’s exposure through candies,
baked goods, and processed foods.
 Tamil Nadu banned cotton candy in February 2024 after
detecting Rhodamine B in it.
 The ban aims to increase awareness and ensure safer, dye-
free cotton candy.

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T- Cells (Thymus-Derived Cells or T lymphocytes): Key Players Involved

 T cells are a type of white blood cell that helps the body fight  SoftBank: Manages the financial aspects of the project.
infections. Â OpenAI: Oversees operations and development.
 They find and destroy infected or harmful cells, like virus-  Oracle: Collaborates on computing systems.
infected cells or cancer cells. Â Technology Partners: Includes NVIDIA, Microsoft, and Arm.
 T cells can also remember past infections, helping the body  Masayoshi Son: CEO of SoftBank, serving as the project
fight them faster in the future. chairman.

T-cell-based Vaccine: Objectives of Stargate

 A T cell-based vaccine is designed to stimulate T cells to fight  Secure U.S. Leadership in AI Technology: Establish the United
infections more effectively. States as a dominant force in AI development.
 Unlike traditional vaccines that mainly activate antibodies, T  Boost National Security and Industrial Growth: Enhance
cell-based vaccines focus on training T cells to recognize and national security measures and stimulate industrial
attack infected cells advancement through AI integration.
 Drive Advancements in Artificial General Intelligence (AGI):
Promote the development of AGI to achieve more generalized
CHINESE AI ASSISTANT DEEPSEEK
and human-like AI capabilities.
Context
 Promote Innovation in Healthcare: Facilitate faster disease
diagnosis and treatment through AI-driven solutions.
The Indian establishments are assessing the implications
of the AI race between US and China, shaken up by the
recent release of Chinese AI assistant DeepSeek R1. ROLE OF PIEZOELECTRICITY IN STOVE
LIGHTERS
About: Context
 Genesis: DeepSeek R1 is developed by DeepSeek, a Chinese
AI company. Recently, the author at IIT Kanpur, explained the role
 Founder: The company was founded by Dr. Yu Hong. of piezoelectric materials in the functioning of stove
 Features: lighters and their ability to create sparks.
Š Uses AI to analyze data, generate content, and answer
queries.
Š Can summarize large amounts of information quickly. About:
Š Capable of creating reports and assisting with research  The stove-lighter creates a small spark when clicked. This
tasks. spark, though seemingly harmless, is a result of electrical
Š Offers real-time problem-solving and support for various charges.
domains. Š An electric spark occurs when there is a difference in
 Technology: electron quantity between two points.
Š DeepSeek R1 utilizes machine learning and natural Š One point has a surplus of electrons (negative), and the
language processing (NLP) technologies, allowing it to other a deficiency (positive), causing electrons to move
understand and generate human-like responses. and create a spark.
Š It also relies on large-scale data processing and neural  Lightning is essentially a large-scale electric spark caused
networks to improve its accuracy and efficiency in tasks. by extreme electron imbalances between charged clouds
in the sky, creating a spark through the air after breaking
molecules.
STARGATE PROJECT
TYPES OF STOVE LIGHTERS
Context
Type How It Works
A $500 billion venture announced by Donald Trump Manual  Uses a piezoelectric mechanism where
to position the U.S. as a global leader in artificial Lighters pressure creates a spark.
intelligence (AI) through the development of extensive  In this , Pressure causes ions to move, creating
data centers and AI campuses. a spark that ignites the gas.

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Electronic  Powered by batteries to create sparks through Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit

Lighters an electric circuit.
 The GTO allows satellites to be positioned into
 In this, a battery powers a circuit that creates
geostationary orbits, where they can maintain a fixed
high-voltage sparks to ignite the gas.
position relative to the Earth's surface.
Flame-  Releases gas from a fuel reservoir, which is  This is crucial for communication and weather satellites
Based ignited by a spark to create a flame. that need to monitor specific areas continuously.
Lighters

Piezoelectricity: NVS Series

 Piezoelectricity is the generation of electrical charge in a solid  These are five second-generation NavIC satellites — NVS-
material by an applied mechanical stress and vice versa. 01 to NVS-05 and are planned to enhance the existing
 The piezoelectric effect is exhibited in materials that develop constellation.
a net electric dipole moment. Š These satellites incorporate L1 band communication,
Š In such materials, the dipole density or polarization which broadens NavIC's compatibility and usability for
changes in response to mechanical strain resulting in a diverse applications.
net accumulation of charge. Â NVS-01, the first of the second-generation satellites, was
 How Piezoelectric Materials Work: In their natural state, launched in 2023.
piezoelectric materials have alternating positive and negative Š For the first time, an indigenous atomic clock was flown in
ions. When pressure is applied, the ions shift, creating a NVS-01.
charge imbalance and generating a high voltage, which  NVS-02 will help improve NavIC's services, which are used
causes a spark. for navigation, precision agriculture, emergency services,
 Applications: Piezoelectronics are crucial for energy fleet management, and even mobile device location
conversion, sensing, and applications in energy harvesting, services.
health monitoring, and more. Š It also has a precise atomic clock called the Rubidium
Š Lighters use piezoelectric materials that generate a Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS) for accurate timekeeping.
surplus and deficiency of electrons when pressure is
applied. These materials have a specific atomic structure NavIC
that allows them to generate electric charge under  It is a regional navigation satellite system established by
pressure. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
 NavIC was erstwhile known as Indian Regional Navigation
Satellite System (IRNSS).
ISRO’S 100TH LAUNCH FROM SRIHARIKOTA Â NavIC is designed with a constellation of 7 satellites and a
Context network of ground stations operating 24x7.
Š Three satellites of the constellation are placed in
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched geostationary orbit and four satellites are placed in
its historic 100th launch from the Satish Dhawan Space
inclined geosynchronous orbit.
Centre in Sriharikota.
 The ground network consists of a control centre, precise
timing facility, range and integrity monitoring stations, two-
About way ranging stations, etc.
 GSLV F15 carried the NVS-02 navigation satellite placing it into  NavIC offers two services: Standard Position Service (SPS) for
a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit. civilian users and Restricted Service (RS) for strategic users.
Š The NVS-02 is the second satellite in the NVS series, and Š It provides location accuracy better than 20 meters and
part of India’s Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC). timing accuracy better than 40 nanoseconds across the
Š It is designed to provide accurate positioning services core service area.
across India. Â The NavIC coverage area includes India and a region up to
 GSLV-F15 is the 17th flight of India’s Geosynchronous Satellite 1,500 km beyond the Indian boundary.
Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and 11th flight with Indigenous Cryo Š NavIC SPS signals are interoperable with the other global
stage. navigation satellite system (GNSS) signals namely GPS,
 Over these 100 launches ISRO has lifted 548 satellites to orbit. Glonass, Galileo and BeiDou.

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SOCIETY
SEX RATIO AT BIRTH DROPPED IN HARYANA ΠThese schemes encouraged families to reconsider
traditional gender preferences and invest in the future
Context
of their daughters.
Recently, data from the Civil Registration System (CRS) Â Reasons for Recent Decline (2020-2024)
revealed Haryana’s sex ratio at birth fell to 910 in 2024, Š Weakened Enforcement of Laws:
the lowest since 2016. ΠThe monitoring of illegal sex determination tests has
loosened, leading to a rise in female foeticide.
ΠMany ultrasound clinics continue to perform illegal sex-
About selective abortions, often in rural and semi-urban areas
 Declining Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB) where enforcement is weaker.
Š The sex ratio at birth (SRB) in Haryana has declined to 910 Š Persistent Gender Bias and Son Preference:
females per 1,000 males in 2024, marking an eight-year low. ΠMany families still prefer sons over daughters due to
Š This is a significant drop from the 2019 peak of 923 females cultural and economic reasons.
per 1,000 males, reversing previous gains. ΠSons are often seen as breadwinners and caretakers
Š In 2024, a total of 516,402 children were born, of which of aging parents, while daughters are perceived as
52.35% were boys and 47.64% were girls, indicating a
financial burdens due to dowry traditions.
gender imbalance at birth.
Š Economic and Social Factors:
 Understanding the Sex Ratio and Its Importance
ΠDeclining landholdings have influenced family
Š Sex Ratio at Birth (SRB): The number of female births per
preferences. With land inheritance shrinking, families
1,000 male births, a key indicator of gender equity at birth.
are opting for an ‘only boy’ approach to retain property
Š Overall Sex Ratio: The number of females per 1,000 males
within the family.
in the entire population, reflecting long-term demographic
ΠThis mindset is particularly visible among agricultural and
trends.
rural communities, where land remains a primary asset.
Š A declining SRB suggests gender discrimination at the
Š Limited Awareness and Social Resistance:
prenatal stage, often caused by sex-selective abortions,
which can have severe social consequences, such as: ΠDespite awareness campaigns, deep-rooted patriarchal
ΠIncrease in bride shortages, leading to trafficking and norms continue to influence gender preferences.
forced marriages. ΠThe rural population in particular remains resistant to
ΠDistorted demographic balance, affecting marriage change, requiring stronger grassroots interventions.
patterns and social stability.
Reasons behind Imbalance in the Sex Ratio in India
 Reasons for Past Improvement (2014-2019)
 Son Meta Preference: Sons were preferred for carrying on
Š Strict Implementation of the PNDT Act (1994):
the family name, performing religious rites, and providing
ΠThe Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PNDT) Act,
financial support in old age.
1994 was strictly enforced, preventing the misuse of
Š This led to a neglect of daughters, who were seen as a
ultrasound technology for sex determination.
financial burden due to dowry practices.
ΠStringent monitoring of clinics and legal action against
offenders helped reduce the practice of female foeticide. Â Gender Discrimination: Girls have historically faced neglect
Š Government Awareness Programs: in terms of nutrition, education, and healthcare, which
Œ Campaigns like ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ were launched contributed to higher mortality rates among females.
to change societal attitudes toward the girl child. Â Female Infanticide: In some regions, female infants were
ΠEfforts were made to promote gender equality through either abandoned or killed due to their perceived lower value.
education, financial incentives, and community  Sex-Selective Abortion: Advances in medical technology,
engagement. such as ultrasound, enabled the practice of sex-selective
Š Financial and Social Support for Girls: abortion, leading to a disproportionate number of male births.
Œ State initiatives such as Ladli Scheme and Sukanya  Economic Factors: In agrarian societies, the labor of sons was
Samriddhi Yojana provided financial benefits to families seen as more valuable for agricultural work, further reinforcing
for educating and empowering girl children. the preference for male children.

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Government Initiatives to Improve Sex Ratio ΠThe lack of road connectivity and transport infrastructure
 Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP): Launched in 2015, this results in delayed medical interventions and limited
campaign aims to address gender-based discrimination, access to essential healthcare services.
promote the value of the girl child, and improve access to Š Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure: Limited availability of
education for girls. hospitals, doctors, and paramedics in tribal areas leads to:
Š It also focuses on raising awareness about the importance Œ Delayed diagnosis of diseases such as tuberculosis and
of girls' welfare and preventing female foeticide. malnutrition.
 Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Œ Inappropriate treatment or self-medication, increasing
Act, 1994: This law prohibits sex determination and sex- health risks.
selective abortion. ΠHigher maternal and infant mortality rates due to lack of
Š It aims to curb the misuse of prenatal diagnostic prenatal and postnatal care.
technologies for gender-based sex selection. Š Language Barriers
ΠMany tribal populations speak regional dialects or
 Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana: This is a savings scheme for the
indigenous languages, making it difficult for them to
girl child, which encourages families to save for the future
understand health-related information.
education and marriage of their daughters. It promotes a
ΠThe absence of medical guidance in native languages
positive perception of girls.
results in poor health awareness and miscommunication
 Maternity Benefits: The government has introduced maternity
with healthcare providers.
benefits through schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Matru
Š Cultural Sensitivity and Traditional Practices
Vandana Yojana (PMMVY), which provides financial
ΠTribals have deep-rooted indigenous healing systems
assistance to pregnant women and lactating mothers, aiming
based on herbal medicine, spiritual beliefs, and
to reduce the economic burden on families and support
traditional healers.
maternal and child health.
ΠThe failure of mainstream healthcare services to
 The National Health Mission (NHM): This program focuses on
recognize and integrate these practices often leads
improving healthcare services for women, including maternal
to distrust and reluctance among tribal populations to
health, to reduce the mortality rate among women and girls.
seek modern medical treatments.
 Awareness Campaigns and Legal Reforms: The government
ΠThis gap results in low immunization rates, dependence
conducts awareness campaigns to sensitize people about on traditional medicine, and reluctance to access
the importance of gender equality. government health schemes.

NATIONAL TRIBAL HEALTH CONCLAVE Status of Tribes in India

Context  Historical Recognition

Š Tribes in India are among the oldest ethnological groups,
Recently, the National Tribal Health Conclave 2025 often referred to as "Adivasis" (original inhabitants).
was held at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi, focusing on Š The term “Adivasi” is internationally recognized, and the
healthcare challenges in tribal communities. ILO classifies them as "indigenous people".
 India’s Tribal Population
Š India has the second-largest tribal population in the
About world, with nearly 100 million tribal people (Adivasis).
 Overview of the Conclave Š As per Census 2011, the tribal population constitutes
Š The conclave was organized under the Dharti Aaba Janjati 8.9% of India’s total population.
Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan, an initiative aimed at improving Š Tribes in India belong to various ethnic, linguistic, and
tribal welfare and development. cultural backgrounds, making them one of the most
Š It was jointly conducted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs diverse communities in the country.
(MoTA) and the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare  Geographical Distribution of Tribes
(MoH&FW) to address healthcare challenges faced by Š Northeastern States (e.g., Nagaland, Mizoram,
tribal communities. Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya) have tribes with
 Key Healthcare Challenges for Tribal Communities distinct ethnic identities and are more isolated from
Š Geographical Remoteness mainstream society.
Œ Tribes often reside in mountainous terrains, dense Š More than 80% of India's tribes live in the Central and
forests, and remote rural areas, making it difficult to Southern Regions (e.g., Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh,
establish and maintain healthcare facilities. Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra).

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CULTURE & HISTORY

SAVITRIBAI PHULE 194TH BIRTH Â Contributions to Social Reforms
Š Infanticide Prevention:
ANNIVERSARY
Œ Savitribai and Jyotirao set up the ‘Balhatya Pratibandhak
Context Griha’, a shelter for pregnant widows who were facing
discrimination and the issue of infanticide.
Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi commemorated
ΠThis initiative was prompted by a case where a
the birth anniversary of Savitribai Phule, a champion of
Brahmin widow killed her newborn child due to societal
education and social reform.
pressures and neglect.
Š Advocacy for Widow Remarriage: Savitribai and Jyotirao
About strongly advocated for the remarriage of widows and
 Early Life supported inter-caste marriages.
Š Birth: Savitribai Phule was born on January 3, 1831, in Š Opposition to Child Marriage, Sati, and Dowry: They worked
Naigaon village, Maharashtra, to a Dalit family from the relentlessly to eradicate child marriage, the dowry system,
Mali community. and sati, which were rampant practices at the time.
Š Marriage: At the age of 10, Savitribai was married to Š Child Protection: In addition to the Balhatya Pratibandhak
Jyotirao Phule, a prominent social reformer. Griha, they also opened the ‘Balyata Pratibandak Gruha’,
Š Jyotirao is credited with playing a significant role in her a childcare center to protect pregnant widows and rape
education, and he taught her at home, enabling her to victims.
overcome societal barriers against women’s education. Â Satyashodhak Samaj
Š Empowerment through Education: After her marriage, Š In 1873, the couple established the ‘Satyashodhak Samaj’
Jyotirao admitted her to a teachers’ training institution in (Truth-Seeker Society), which aimed to bring social
Pune, marking the beginning of her journey as an educator. equity, equality, and education to all sections of society,
 Educational Reforms irrespective of caste, religion, or class.
Š First Girls’ School: Š Satyashodhak Marriages: As part of their efforts, they also
Œ In 1848, Savitribai, alongside her husband Jyotirao, started ‘Satyashodhak Marriage’, where couples pledged
opened the first-ever school for girls in Bhidewada, to promote education and social equality rather than
Pune. following Brahmanical marriage rituals.
Œ This was a pioneering move at a time when education  Savitribai’s Defiance of Tradition
for girls was considered a taboo, and women were not Š Rituals and Cultural Norms: In 1890, during her husband
allowed to receive formal schooling. Jyotirao’s funeral procession, Savitribai defied cultural
Š Educational Institutions for Marginalized Communities: norms by carrying the titve (earthen pot) and walking
The couple went on to open more schools for Dalit (Ati- ahead of the procession.
Shudras) and Shudra (lower castes) children, in a bid to Š She performed the funeral rites, a role traditionally carried
provide access to education for all, irrespective of caste out by men.
or gender. Š Relief Work: During the 1896 famine and the 1897 Bubonic
 Opposition and Struggles plague in Maharashtra, Savitribai became actively involved
Š Social Backlash: Their efforts were met with fierce in relief efforts, often risking her life to help the victims.
resistance from the upper-caste and nationalist leaders ΠUnfortunately, she contracted the plague while taking
such as Bal Gangadhar Tilak, who opposed the opening of a sick child to the hospital, and she died on March 10,
schools for girls and non-Brahmins. 1897.
Œ They argued that such reforms would lead to a loss of  Literary Contributions
nationality. Š Savitribai was not just an educator and reformer but also
Š Savitribai was subject to extreme hostility from the upper an accomplished poet and writer.
castes, including physical violence. Š Her first collection of poems, titled ‘Kavya Phule’ (Poetry’s
Š As the headmistress of the first school, stones, mud, and Blossoms), was published in 1854 when she was just 23
cow dung were often thrown at her by upper-caste men. years old.

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Š She also published ‘Bavan Kashi Subodh Ratnakar’ in About

1892, a work that is still regarded as an important piece of  Background: The Char Dham refers to four revered shrines
literature in the context of social reform. located in the Garhwal Himalayas in Uttarakhand, India.
Š Other writings include ‘Matushri Savitribai Phlenchi Š These are:
Bhashane va Gaani’, which includes her speeches and Œ Yamunotri
songs, and letters to her husband. ΠGangotri
ΠKedarnath
CLASSICAL STATUS TO MARATHI LANGUAGE ΠBadrinath
Š These shrines are considered highly sacred in Hinduism
Context
and form an essential pilgrimage circuit.
Recently, the Union government issued an official Š Traditionally, they are visited between May and November
notification confirming the grant of classical language when the weather conditions are suitable for travel.
status to Marathi, months after the announcement. Â Winter Relocation of Deities: To ensure that devotees can
continue worshiping the deities during the harsh winter months,
the idols are moved to alternate locations at lower altitudes:
About Š Kedarnath: The idol is moved to the Omkareshwar Temple
 India had six classical languages — Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, in Ukhimath (Rudraprayag).
Kannada, Malayalam, and Odia. Š Badrinath: The idol is moved to Pandukeshwar in Chamoli.
Š Tamil was declared a classical language in 2004, Sanskrit Š Gangotri: The idol is moved to Mukhba in Uttarkashi.
in 2005, Kannada in 2008, Telugu in 2008, Malayalam in Š Yamunotri: The idol is moved to Kharsali in Uttarkashi.
2013, and Odia in 2014. Â Char Dham Project: The Char Dham Project aims to improve
Š All the Classical Languages are listed in the Eighth accessibility and the overall pilgrimage experience by
Schedule of the Constitution. enhancing the road infrastructure leading to the four holy
Š Recently, the Union Cabinet has granted classical shrines. This includes:
language status to Marathi, Pali, Prakrit, Assamese, and Š Upgrading highways
Bengali, increasing the classical languages to eleven. Š Expanding and maintaining roads
Š Building additional infrastructure to facilitate smooth travel
for devotees and tourists.

 Benefits: The Education Ministry provides certain benefits to

promote it such as:
Š two major annual international awards for scholars of
eminence in the said languages,
Š a Centre of Excellence for Studies in the classical
language is set up,
Š and the University Grants Commission is requested to
start with a certain number of Chairs for the classical  Advaita Vedanta and its Philosophical Influence
language at least in the Central Universities. Š Advaita Vedanta, a non-dualistic school of philosophy,
was popularized by Adi Shankaracharya. The central tenet
of Advaita Vedanta is the oneness of the individual soul
WINTER CHAR DHAM
(Atman) and the ultimate reality (Brahman).
Context Š According to this philosophy:
ΠBrahman is singular, formless, and eternal.
Recently, the Uttarakhand government launched the
ΠAtman, the individual soul, is identical to Brahman, and
winter Char Dham circuit to promote pilgrimage tourism
any perceived difference between them is illusory (Maya).
during the winter season.
ΠMoksha, the ultimate liberation, is attained by realizing
this oneness between Atman and Brahman.

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Š Advaita Vedanta emphasizes self-realization and the Š Revivalism: Vivekananda focused on education as
dissolution of ignorance, leading to the realization of the a means of regenerating the nation, advocating for
self as the supreme consciousness. character-building education aimed at creating self-reliant
individuals.
SWAMI VIVEKANANDA’S BIRTH
ANNIVERSARY
Context

Recently, on National Youth Day (the 162nd birth

anniversary of Swami Vivekananda), Prime Minister took
part in the Viksit Bharat Young Leaders Dialogue 2025.

About
 Early Life
Š Born as Narendra Nath Datta on 12th January 1863 in
Kolkata, Swami Vivekananda was a monk and the chief
 Associated Organizations
disciple of Ramakrishna Paramhansa.
Š Ramakrishna Mission (1897): Swami Vivekananda
Š In 1893, at the request of Maharaja Ajit Singh of the Khetri
founded this organization to promote spiritual upliftment,
State, he changed his name to Vivekananda from his
education, and service to humanity.
earlier name, Sachidananda.
Š Belur Math (1899): He established Belur Math as his
 Enlightenment and Spiritual Journey
permanent abode, which became the headquarters of the
Š In 1892, Vivekananda swam to a rock in the Indian Ocean
Ramakrishna Mission.
near Kanyakumari, which later came to be known as
 International Influence
Vivekananda Rock Memorial.
Š In 1893, Swami Vivekananda delivered his famous speech
Š He spent three days and nights meditating, which led to
at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago, representing
his enlightenment and deep spiritual realization.
Hinduism on a global stage.
 Contributions
Š He also addressed the London Hindu Association in 1896,
Š Philosophical Contributions
further spreading his message internationally.
ΠVivekananda introduced the world to Indian philosophies
like Vedanta and Yoga.
ΠHe developed neo-Vedanta, a modern interpretation HARVEST FESTIVALS ACROSS INDIA
of Hinduism that emphasized spiritual growth and
Context
material progress.
Š Spiritual Contributions Recently, various regions of India have witnessed
ΠHis teachings emphasized the importance of self- harvest festivals which reflect the deep and harmonious
realization, compassion, and selfless service. relationship between humans and nature.
ΠHe advocated that serving humanity (jiva) was
equivalent to worshipping Shiva.
About
 Overview
Š Across India, the end of the harvesting season is celebrated
through various festivals, marking the transition of seasons
and the harvest.
Š These festivals are known by different names in different
regions, such as Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Magh Bihu,
Lohri, and more.
 Astronomical Significance
Š Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the Sun into the
Capricorn (Makara) zodiac sign, which signals the beginning
of the Sun’s northward journey, also called Uttarayan.

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Š This shift symbolizes the end of winter and the beginning MAKARAVILAKKU FESTIVAL
of warmer months, representing a time for renewal and
Context
activity, signaling the end of inactivity.
Š Unlike festivals based on the lunar cycle, Makar Sankranti Recently, the Travancore Devaswom Board anticipated
follows the solar cycle, meaning it is celebrated on a fixed around 1.5 lakh pilgrims at Sannidhanam for the
date, January 14th each year, unlike other festivals that Makaravilakku festival.
vary according to the moon’s phases.
 Cultural Significance: The rituals and traditions followed during
these festivals vary regionally but commonly include: About
Š Bathing in sacred rivers like the Ganga, Yamuna, Godavari,  Overview:
Krishna, and Cauvery, believed to purify the body and soul. Š Makaravilakku is a significant annual festival celebrated
Š Offering Naivedhya (food offerings) to Lord Surya, the Sun at the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala. It takes place on the
God, as an act of gratitude. auspicious day of Makara Sankranti.
Š Charitable acts, Shraddha rituals (ancestral rites), and Š The festival marks the culmination of the annual pilgrimage
breaking of fasts are performed. season to the temple.
 Key Rituals and Traditions
Regional Celebrations Š Thiruvabharanam Procession: On Makaravilakku day, the
 Assam (Magh Bihu) sacred Thiruvabharanam (royal ornaments of Lord Ayyappa)
Š In Assam, Magh Bihu marks the harvest festival and is also is brought to the temple from the Pandalam Palace.
the start of the Assamese New Year. Š The Divine Light – Makarajyothi
Š The festival involves traditional feasts, bonfires, and Œ The highlight of the festival is the sighting of a celestial
community gatherings to celebrate prosperity and the light called “Makarajyothi” or “Makaravilakku”.
harvest. ΠThis light is believed to be a divine manifestation of
 Tamil Nadu (Pongal) Lord Ayyappa. It is said to appear on the horizon of
Š The four-day festival marks the rice harvest and is Ponnambalamedu Hill, near Sabarimala Temple.
celebrated with great fervor. Š The Ritualistic Origin of Makaravilakku
Š People decorate their homes with traditional kolams (rangoli Œ The Makaravilakku light is not supernatural; it was
made of rice powder) and prepare Pongal, a dish made historically a ritual performed by the Malayaraya tribe at
from newly harvested rice, as a symbol of abundance. Ponnambalamedu Temple.
 Karnataka Œ Today, the Travancore Devaswom Board oversees the
Š Known for sharing a sesame and jaggery mixture (til and festival, ensuring the continuation of age-old religious
gur), symbolizing harmony and goodwill. rituals.
Š Farmers also participate in traditional rituals like decorating Œ At the Ponnambalamedu Temple, a ritualistic Aarti is
cattle and making them jump over a fire pit in a ceremony performed, where camphor is lit.
called Kicchu Haisodu. ΠThe Makara Vilakku light, seen thrice from Sabarimala,
 Punjab (Lohri): Lohri is celebrated with bonfires, folk songs, is the result of this Aarti.
and offerings such as groundnuts and popcorn to the fire, Â Duration and Conclusion
signifying the burning away of the old and the welcoming of Š The Makaravilakku festival extends beyond Makara
the new harvest. Sankranti, lasting for seven days.
 Bihar (Khichdi) Š It concludes with the ‘Guruthi’ ritual, an offering to the
Š Known as the Khichdi festival, it is marked by the deities of the wilderness.
preparation of khichdi (a dish of rice and lentils) and the Š After Guruthi, no one remains in the temple premises,
distribution of sesame and jaggery ladoos or chikkis. marking the end of the festival period.
Š It celebrates the winter harvest and the start of a new
season.
 Rajasthan and Gujarat
KONARK SUN TEMPLE
Š Celebrated with kite-flying competitions and vibrant Context
festivals. The International Kite Festival in Ahmedabad
is especially renowned, where the skies are filled with Recently, Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam
colorful kites.
visited the Sun Temple in Konark, located in Odisha’s Puri
district.
Š In the evening, sky lanterns light up the night sky, adding
a festive glow.

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About Š The temple was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in

 Location 1984, recognizing its architectural brilliance and historical
Š The Konark Sun Temple is located on the eastern coastline importance.
of Odisha in the Puri district, near the Bay of Bengal. Š It was also known as the Black Pagoda by European sailors
Š Also referred to as Surya Devalaya, the temple is dedicated due to its dark-colored Khondalite stone construction,
to Surya, the Hindu Sun God, and is an exceptional which made it a prominent landmark for navigation.
representation of sun worship in Hindu traditions. Â Architectural Features
Š Built in 1250 CE by King Narasimha Deva I of the Eastern Š Temple Structure and Design
Ganga Dynasty (reigned 1238–1264 CE), it is believed Œ Designed as a giant stone chariot dedicated to the Sun
to symbolize the Sun God’s chariot, showcasing celestial God, the temple complex follows the Odisha (Kalinga)
grandeur. school of architecture.

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Œ The temple originally stood over 200 feet (61 meters) Š Ratnagiri is part of Odisha’s Diamond Triangle, along with
high, but the main sanctum (deul) collapsed over time Udaygiri and Lalitgiri, forming a trio of significant Buddhist
due to natural and human factors. monastic complexes.
Œ The existing temple complex, including the Jagamohana Œ The name Ratnagiri, meaning ‘Hill of Jewels’, signifies
(audience hall) and Natya Mandapa (dance hall), still its past as a flourishing Buddhist center of learning and
showcases exquisite craftsmanship. spirituality.
Š Celestial Chariot Representation  Buddhist Influence
Œ 24 massive stone wheels, each 12 feet in diameter, Š Time Period: Experts date Ratnagiri’s origin between the
intricately carved with symbolic motifs representing 5th and 13th centuries CE, with its peak development
time and cycles of life. occurring between the 7th and 10th centuries CE.
Œ Each wheel functions as a sundial, enabling time Š The site was a major center of Mahayana and Tantrayana
calculations with remarkable accuracy. (Vajrayana) Buddhism, contributing to the evolution of
ΠSix pairs of intricately sculpted stone horses pull the Buddhist philosophy and practices.
chariot, symbolizing Surya’s divine journey across the Š It is believed that the renowned Chinese Buddhist traveler,
heavens. Hiuen Tsang, who visited Odisha between 638–639 CE,
Š Astronomical Alignment: The temple’s entrance faces may have referenced Ratnagiri in his accounts.
east, ensuring that the first rays of the rising sun strike Š The site was first documented as a historical location in
the temple’s sanctum, signifying the divine power of the 1905, bringing it into the spotlight for archaeological and
Sun God. historical research.
 Themes depicted in the sculptures:  Archaeological Discoveries
Š Gods and Goddesses: Carvings of Surya, Vishnu, Shiva, Š The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has conducted
and various celestial deities. extensive excavations at Ratnagiri, unveiling:
ΠA colossal Buddha head, believed to represent an
Š Erotic sculptures: Similar to those at Khajuraho, they
ancient Mahayana Buddhist deity.
symbolize the Tantric tradition, fertility, and spiritual
ΠA massive palm sculpture, likely a remnant of a large
enlightenment.
Buddha statue.
Š Animals and mythical creatures: Depictions of lions,
ΠAncient monastic walls and intricately inscribed Buddhist
elephants, and mythical figures like Makara (crocodile-
relics dating back to the 8th and 9th centuries CE.
elephant hybrid).
Š Monasteries and Stupas
Š Dancers and musicians: The Natya Mandapa features
ΠThe site features two large monasteries (Mahaviharas)
beautiful sculptures of apsaras (celestial dancers),
with open courtyards, prayer halls, and living quarters for
portraying the importance of dance and music in religious
monks.
rituals.
ΠA massive stupa (relic dome), adorned with intricate
carvings of Bodhisattvas and Buddhist deities, is a major
RATNAGIRI BUDDHIST EXCAVATION highlight.
Context ΠNumerous small stupas and votive stupas, built with
beautiful terracotta and stone carvings, are scattered
Recently, the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) across the site.
restarted excavations at the 5th–13th century Buddhist Š Art and Iconography
complex in Ratnagiri, Odisha, after six decades. ΠThe sculptures and artwork at Ratnagiri depict Buddhist
themes, tantric deities, and celestial beings, reflecting
the site’s importance in Tantrayana Buddhism.
About ΠElaborate carvings of Avalokiteshvara, Tara, and
 Location and Geographical Significance Manjushri, prominent deities in Mahayana Buddhism,
Š Ratnagiri is located 100 km northeast of Bhubaneswar in have been discovered.
the Jajpur district of Odisha. Â Buddhism in Odisha and Its Maritime Links
Š The site is situated on a hill between the Birupa and Š Buddhism flourished in Odisha during the rule of the
Brahmani rivers, offering a serene and strategic location Bhaumakara dynasty (8th–10th century CE), which
for ancient monastic settlements. patronized Buddhist institutions.
Š It is one of Odisha’s most famous and extensively Š Emperor Ashoka’s invasion of Kalinga in 261 BCE and his
excavated Buddhist sites, drawing researchers, historians, subsequent conversion to Buddhism played a crucial role
and tourists alike. in spreading Buddhist teachings in the region.

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Š Odisha’s strong maritime connections with Southeast Asia  Role of Dholki

facilitated the spread of Buddhism to countries like Bali, Š The dholki, a small drum, serves as the main percussion
Java, Sumatra, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. instrument during the performance.
Š Historians suggest that Odisha (ancient Kalinga) was a Š The beat of the dholki aligns with the rhythm of the
major trade hub, exporting spices (pepper, cinnamon, dancers, guiding their movements and providing an
cardamom), silk, camphor, gold, and jewelry to Southeast energetic tempo that enhances the dance’s dynamic.
Asia. Â Cultural Significance
Š To honor this ancient maritime history, Odisha celebrates Š Lezim dance is often performed during festive occasions
Baliyatra, a seven-day festival commemorating Kalinga’s and celebrations in Maharashtra, particularly during
2,000-year-old trade and cultural ties with Southeast Ganesha festivals and other cultural events.
Asian regions. Š The dance has roots in rural Maharashtra and was
traditionally used to celebrate victories, mark festive
occasions, and offer reverence to deities.
LEZIM DANCE
Context Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj
 Early Life and Education
Recently, a Lezim dance sequence in a film has sparked
Š Born on 14 May 1657 at Purandar Fort, Maharashtra.
controversy in Maharashtra.
Š Son of Shivaji Maharaj and Saibai.
Š Master in multiple languages, including Sanskrit,
Persian, and Portuguese.
About
Š Was trained in warfare, administration, and diplomacy
 Introduction
from a young age.
Š Lezim is a folk dance originating from the state of
 Ascension to the Throne: After Shivaji’s death in 1680, a
Maharashtra, India.
struggle for succession arose between Sambhaji and his
Š The dance gets its name from the Lezim, a unique musical
stepmother, Soyrabai. In 1681, he overthrew the faction
instrument featuring a wooden stick with jingling cymbals
opposing him and formally became the Chhatrapati of the
attached to it.
Maratha Empire.
ΠDancers carry this instrument while performing the
 Conflict with the Portuguese and Siddis: Opposed the
dance, and its rhythmic jingling adds a distinctive
Portuguese rule in Goa and their forceful religious
sound to the performance. conversions. Fought against the Siddis of Janjira, who
 Dance Form and Structure were loyal to the Mughals.
Š The Lezim dance is both a physical exercise and a folk  Capture and Execution: Betrayed by his own commander-
dance, combining rigorous drills with dance steps. in-chief, Ganoji Shirke, and captured by Aurangzeb in
Š The dancers typically form groups of twos and fours, 1689. Publicly executed on 11 March 1689, becoming a
and sometimes they create circular formations while symbol of unwavering resistance against tyranny.
performing the steps. Â Recognition: Remembered as “Dharmaveer” (Protector of
Š The dance involves a lot of energetic movement, with Dharma) for resisting religious oppression.
dancers maintaining synchronization to the rhythmic
beats of the accompanying music.
 Accompaniment and Music LALA LAJPAT RAI
Š Traditionally, Lezim dance is performed with minimal Context
musical accompaniment, focusing mainly on percussion
instruments. India commemorates the 160th birth anniversary of
Š The dhol or dhalgi, a small drum, is the primary percussive Lala Lajpat Rai.
instrument, creating the rhythm for the dancers to follow.
Š While earlier performances often lacked any vocal songs,
in modern renditions, there may be occasional song About
accompaniment, though it is not a constant feature. Â Early Life:
Š Unlike some folk dances, there are no wind or string Š Lala Lajpat Rai (28th January 1865 – 17th November
instruments involved in the performance, making it unique 1928) was an Indian revolutionary politician and author,
in its sound. widely recognized as Punjab Kesari.

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 Contribution to the Freedom Movement Š In 1928, he led protests against the Simon Commission,
Š He was a prominent leader of the Indian National Congress which was set up by the British to recommend constitutional
(INC) and a key member of the famous Lal-Bal-Pal trio, reforms but had no Indian members.
which included Bal Gangadhar Tilak and Bipin Chandra Pal. Š During a protest in Lahore, he was brutally lathi-charged
Š He strongly opposed the Partition of Bengal (1905), viewing by British police, suffering severe injuries.
it as a British strategy to divide India on religious lines. Š Shortly after the incident, he famously declared: “Every blow
Š In 1920, he actively supported the Non-Cooperation on my body will prove to be a nail in the coffin of British rule.”
Movement led by Mahatma Gandhi, encouraging Indians Š He succumbed to his injuries on 17th November 1928,
to boycott British institutions and goods. and his death became a rallying cry for revolutionaries
 Role in the Home Rule Movement like Bhagat Singh, Chandrashekhar Azad, and Rajguru, who
Š He founded the Home Rule League of America in 1917, later avenged his death by assassinating British police
promoting India’s demand for self-governance on an officer J.P. Saunders.
international stage. Â Legacy and Contributions
Š This movement was an extension of the Home Rule Š Educational Reforms: He was a key figure in promoting
Movement in India (1916), initiated by Bal Gangadhar Tilak education for Indians, founding institutions like:
and Annie Besant. ΠDayanand Anglo-Vedic (DAV) College in Lahore (1886).
 Protest Against British Repression Œ National College in Lahore, where Bhagat Singh studied.
Š He strongly opposed the Rowlatt Act (1919), which allowed Š Social Reforms: He worked to uplift women, lower castes,
the British to arrest Indians without trial, considering it a and the economically weaker sections, advocating for
gross violation of civil liberties. equal rights and social justice.
Š He protested against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre (1919), Š Journalism and Writing:
condemning the brutal killing of hundreds of unarmed ΠHe wrote extensively to awaken nationalist consciousness
civilians by General Dyer. among Indians. Some of his notable works include Young
 Opposition to the Simon Commission and Martyrdom: India, The Story of My Deportation, and Unhappy India.

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January Issue; 2025

MISCELLANEOUS

PanchPran Š This made India the sixth country to test a nuclear device.
 Operation Shakti: In 1998, as the Chairman of the Atomic
Context
Energy Commission, he led operation shakti, which solidified
Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar, at the NCC Republic India's status as a nuclear power on the global stage.
Day Camp - 2025 inauguration in Delhi, outlined India's  He backed several mega science projects, including the
national transformation plan through the PanchPran National Supercomputing Mission, or the mission on quantum
(Five Resolutions). technologies.
 He was also the longest serving Principal Scientific Advisor
(PSA) to the Indian government from 2002-2018.
PanchPran (Five Pillars of National Transformation)
 Awards: He was a recipient of the Padma Shri (1975) and
 PanchPran refers to the five pledges announced by Prime
Padma Vibushan (1999).
Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day
speech in 2022. These pledges aim to guide India towards a
developed nation by 2047. NATIONAL SPORTS AWARDS 2024
Context

The President of India recently presented the National

Sports Awards 2024, honoring exceptional contributions
to sports and adventure in India.

About Award Categories

 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award:
Š India's highest sporting honor, established in 1991-92.
Š Recognizes outstanding performance over a period of
four years.
Š Named After: Major Dhyan Chand (1905–79), an iconic
hockey legend who led India to three consecutive Olympic
gold medals (1928, 1932, and 1936).
Š 2024 Awardees:
ΠGukesh D (Chess)
DR RAJAGOPALA CHIDAMBARAM ΠHarmanpreet Singh (Hockey)
ΠPraveen Kumar (Para-Athletics)
Context
ΠManu Bhaker (Shooting)
 Arjuna Award:
Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, a prominent figure in
Š Established in 1961 for consistent performance over the
India's nuclear program, passed away recently.
past four years.
Š Named After: Arjuna, the legendary warrior from the Indian
epic Mahabharata.
His Key Contributions
Š First Recipient: P.K. Banerjee (Football).
 He was the former Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission.
 Dronacharya Award:
 He also served as chairman of the Board of Governors of the
Š Instituted in 1985, this is India’s highest honor for coaches.
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) (1994–1995).
Š Awarded for producing medal winners at prestigious
 Operation Smiling Buddha: In 1974, he was part of an international events.
operation, codenamed ‘Smiling Buddha’, which carried out Š Named After: Dronacharya, the guru of Arjuna in
amidst great secrecy a “peaceful nuclear test” at Pokhran, Mahabharata.
Rajasthan. Š First Female Recipient: Renu Kohli (Athletics).

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 In-Shorts | Miscellaneous
January Issue; 2025

 Major Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement:  The drop in 2023-24 has been seen in the primary (Classes 1
Š Instituted in 2002 for lifetime contributions to sports. to 5), upper primary (Classes 6 to 8), and secondary (Classes
Š First Recipients: 9 and 10) levels. In contrast, the pre-primary and higher
ΠShahuraj Birajdar (Boxing) secondary (Classes 11 and 12) levels have seen an increase
ΠAshok Diwan (Hockey). in enrolment in 2023-24.
 Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy:  Gender Wise Drop in Enrolment: In 2023-24, there was a
Š The oldest National Sports Award, instituted in 1956–57. decrease of 4.87% in enrolment of boys as compared to
Š Named in honor of Shri Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first 2018-19. There was a decrease of 4.48% for the enrolment of
Education Minister and a freedom fighter. girls in the same period.
Š First Recipient: Bombay University.  Statewise Drop: States like Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and
 Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar: Instituted in 2009, awarded Maharashtra saw among the highest drop in enrolments.
to organizations, corporates, and individuals for significant
 Infrastructure Gaps: Only 57.2% of schools have functional
contributions to sports promotion and development over the
computers, 53.9% have internet, and 52.3% are equipped
past three years.
with ramps, underscoring significant gaps in accessibility
 Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award:
and tech readiness.
Š Introduced in 2004 to honor achievements in adventure
sports.
Š Recognizes contributions across land, water, air, and JASPRIT BUMRAH NAMED AS THE ICC MEN’S
lifetime adventure categories.
PLAYER OF THE YEAR, 2024
Context
UNIFIED DISTRICT INFORMATION SYSTEM
FOR EDUCATION PLUS (UDISE+) REPORT Jasprit Bumrah and Amelia Kerr were recognized as the
Context 2024 International Cricket Council (ICC) Players of the
Year in the men's and women's categories, respectively.
As per the Ministry of Education (MoE) Unified District
Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) report,
LIST OF OTHER ICC AWARDS WON BY PLAYERS
the total enrolment of students has dropped by over a
crore in 2023-24 as compared to the previous years. Category Winner Country
Men's ICC Test Cricketer Jasprit India
of the Year Bumrah
About
Men's ICC ODI Cricketer Azmatullah Afghanistan
 The Department of School Education & Literacy (DOSEL)
of the Year Omarzai
has developed the “Unified District Information System for
Education Plus (UDISE+)” from the reference year 2018-19. Men's ICC T20I Cricketer Arshdeep India
of the Year Singh
Major Highlights Men's ICC Emerging Kamindu Sri Lanka
 Decrease in No. in Enrolment: A total of 24.8 crore students Cricketer of the Year Mendis
enrolled in the academic year 2023-24.In 2022-23, there was
Men's ICC Associate Gerhard Namibia
a drop of 6% as compared to 2018-19.
Cricketer of the Year Erasmus
TOTAL SCHOOL ENROLMENT Women's ICC ODI Smriti India
Academic Year Enrolment (in crore) Cricketer of the Year Mandhana
2023-24 24.80 Women's ICC T20I Amelia Kerr New Zealand
Cricketer of the Year
2022-23 25.18
Women's ICC Emerging Annerie Netherlands
2021-22 26.52
Cricketer of the Year Dercksen
2020-21 26.44
Women's ICC Associate Esha Oza United Arab
2019-20 26.45
Player of the Year Emirates
2018-19 26.03
ICC Umpire of the Year Richard England
Average total enrolment for 2018-19 to 2021-22: 26.36 crore Illingworth

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January Issue; 2025

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 Test Yourself
January Issue; 2025

DATA RECAP
Lokpal: Â Contamination & Regional Variations:
 Lokpal is a statutory body established under the Lokpal and Š Nitrate (20%): From fertilizer runoff; high in Rajasthan,
Lokayuktas Act, 2013. Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra.
 Composition: Š Fluoride (9.04%): Found in Rajasthan, Haryana, Karnataka,
Š Chairperson: A former Chief Justice of India, Supreme Andhra Pradesh, Telangana; causes health issues.
Court Judge, or a person with integrity and expertise. Š Arsenic (3.55%): Severe in Ganga-Brahmaputra floodplains
Š Members: Up to 8 members, with: (West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Uttar Pradesh, etc.).
Š At least 50% judicial members. Š Uranium: High in Rajasthan (42%) and Punjab (30%) of
Π50% from underrepresented groups (SC/ST/OBC, unsafe samples.
minorities, and women).
 Appointment & Tenure:
State Public Service Commission:
 PSCs are governed by Articles 315-323 under Part XIV of
Š Appointing Authority: President of India, based on
the Indian Constitution. These articles define the structure,
recommendations from a Selection Committee consisting
powers, and functions of Public Service Commissions at both
of: the Prime Minister (Chairman), Speaker of Lok Sabha,
the Union and State levels.
Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Chief Justice of
 Appointing Authority: Governor of the State (Article 316).
India or an eminent jurist
 Tenure: 6 years or until the age of 62 years, whichever is earlier.
Š Tenure: 5 years or until the age of 70 years, whichever is
earlier.
ASER Report:
 Improvement in Learning Outcomes:
Indian Diaspora:
Š Class 3 students in government schools reading Class
 As of May 2024, there were around 35.42 million people of
2-level texts increased to 23.4% (from 16.3% in 2022).
Indian origin living outside of India, making it the world’s
Š Challenges remain:
largest diaspora.
ΠClass 3: Two-thirds cannot solve subtraction problems.
 This includes around 15.85 million non-resident Indians
(NRIs) and 19.57 million people of Indian origin (PIOs). ΠClass 5: Only 30.7% can solve division problems.
ΠClass 8: 45.8% can perform basic arithmetic.
Global Estimates on International Migrant Workers  Enrolment Trends:
(ILO Report) Š Overall school enrolment (ages 6-14): 98.1%, nearly back to
 Global Labor Force Contribution (2022): International migrants pre-pandemic levels.
made up 4.7% (167.7 million) of the global labor force. Š Government school enrolment: Declined from 72.9%
The migrant workforce increased by 30 million since 2013, (2022) to 66.8% (2024) after a pandemic-driven rise.
indicating rising labor mobility. Š Underage children in Class 1: Dropped to 16.7%, the lowest
 Employment Sectors: ever recorded.
Š Services Sector: 68.4% of international migrants work in  Digital Literacy:
services, higher than non-migrants. Š Smartphone ownership in rural households increased to
ΠWomen: 80.7% engaged in domestic work and caregiving. 84% in 2024.
Œ Men: 60.8% in transportation, hospitality, and IT services. Š Among teenagers: 57% use smartphones for education,
Š Gender Representation in Employment: but 76% use them for social media.
ΠMen: 4.7% of total global male employment, mainly in
construction, transport, and finance. Decline in India's Poverty Rate (2011-12 to 2023-24):
ΠWomen: 4.4% of total global female employment, mainly SBI Report
in healthcare, education, and domestic work. Â Significant Poverty Reduction: Overall poverty dropped from
22% (2011-12) to below 5% (2023-24).
Annual Groundwater Quality Report, 2024 Â Urban vs Rural Poverty Decline:
 Essential Resource: Groundwater Supplies 85% of rural Š Rural poverty: 25.7% (2011-12) ` 4.86% (2023-24).
drinking water needs. Meets 62% of irrigation requirements. Š Urban poverty: 4.6% (2022-23) ` 4.09% (2023-24).

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 Test Yourself
January Issue; 2025

Test Yourself
Objective Questions
Visit: www.nextias.com for monthly compilation of Current based MCQs

Mains Questions
GS PAPER-I 11. Assess the strategic significance of India-Indonesia relations
in the Indo-Pacific region amid emerging geopolitical and
1. Analyze the architectural innovations of the Konark Sun
economic challenges. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
Temple, focusing on its structural design and artistic
intricacies. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
GS PAPER-III
2. Analyze Swami Vivekananda’s philosophical contributions,
his role in cultural resurgence, and their impact on modern 12. Analyze the key causes and economic implications of the

Indian nationalism. (15 Marks, 250 Words) depreciation of the Indian Rupee in the global financial
landscape. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
3. Discuss the contributions of Rani Velu Nachiyar to India's
resistance against colonial rule and her legacy in the 13. Analyze the differences between the Wholesale Price Index
freedom struggle. (10 Marks, 150 Words) (WPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI) and their implications
for inflation measurement in India. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
4. Analyze the impact of Deccan Volcanism on India's
geological evolution, mass extinctions, and its role in past 14. Critically examine the structural challenges in India's
climate changes. (15 Marks, 250 Words) rubber industry, assessing its sustainability, global

5. Critically analyze the persistence of manual scavenging competitiveness, and policy interventions for self-reliance.
in India despite legal prohibitions and evaluate the  (10 Marks, 150 Words)
effectiveness of rehabilitation measures. 15. Critically evaluate the concept of Green GDP and its
 (10 Marks, 150 Words) relevance in measuring sustainable economic growth in
6. Critically examine the economic, social, and political India. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
implications of rising international migration trends on both
16. Assess the factors affecting groundwater quality in India
origin and destination countries. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
and its implications for public health, agriculture, and
environmental sustainability. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
GS PAPER-II
17. Critically analyze the issue of pesticide poisoning in India
7. Critically discuss the role of NITI Aayog in fostering
and evaluate the effectiveness of existing regulations in
cooperative federalism and driving policy innovation in
ensuring public safety. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
India. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
18. Evaluate the role of the India Meteorological Department
8. Analyze the effectiveness of the Lokpal in tackling corruption
(IMD) in disaster preparedness, climate forecasting, and its
and ensuring accountability in India's governance
framework. (10 Marks, 150 Words) impact on various sectors. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

9. Examine the key disputes under the Indus Water Treaty and 19. Critically examine the objectives, potential benefits, and
their implications for India-Pakistan relations. ethical concerns associated with the Genome India Project.
 (15 Marks, 250 Words)  (10 Marks, 150 Words)

10. Critically analyze the evolving role of the Indian diaspora in 20. Critically examine the global AI race, its implications
influencing India’s strategic interests amid shifting global for technological sovereignty and ethical challenges in
geopolitical dynamics. (10 Marks, 150 Words) governance. (10 Marks, 150 Words)

92