In News:

Recently, the Supreme Court directed states with remission policies to consider the premature release of prisoners even if they don’t apply for remission beforehand.

What is Remission?

• Remission refers to the reduction of a convict's sentence by the government before the term is completed. It does not nullify the conviction, but shortens imprisonment.
• It is governed by:
  • Section 473 of BNSS, 2023 (earlier Section 432 of CrPC, 1973) – empowers state governments to grant remission.
  • Articles 72 and 161 of the Constitution – empower the President and Governors respectively to remit sentences.
  • Section 475 of BNSS (earlier Section 433A CrPC) – restricts remission for life convicts found guilty of offences punishable by death until 14 years of imprisonment are completed.

Background: SC’s Suo Motu Intervention

• The Supreme Court in 2025, in the suomotu case In Re: Policy Strategy for Grant of Bail, altered the interpretation of remission rules to address prison overcrowding.
• The Court held that states must consider remission for eligible convicts even without a formal application, if a remission policy exists.

Shift in Judicial Interpretation

• Earlier rulings (Sangeet v. Haryana and Mohinder Singh v. Punjab, 2013) required a convict's application for remission.
• The 2025 judgment acknowledges that many state prison manuals already mandate prison authorities to initiate remission review.
• It recognized that failing to consider remission proactively could lead to arbitrary discrimination, violating Article 14 (Right to Equality).

Key Guidelines Issued by the Supreme Court

• Suo motu Remission:States must automatically assess eligibility under remission policies—no application needed.
• Mandatory Remission Policy:States without existing remission policies must formulate a comprehensive one within two months.
• Conditions for Remission Must Be:
  • Reasonable, non-oppressive, and clearly defined.
  • Based on factors like motive, criminal background, and public safety.
  • Aimed at rehabilitation and prevention of recurrence.
• Safeguards Against Arbitrary Cancellation:
  • Minor breaches shouldn’t lead to automatic cancellation.
  • Notice and hearing must be given before cancellation.
• Transparency:
  • Legal aid bodies must monitor remission cases.
  • States to maintain real-time digital data on remission.

Significance and Implications

• The ruling helps streamline remission processes and could contribute to decongesting Indian prisons, which are heavily overcrowded.
• It ensures uniformity and fairness in the exercise of executive powers related to sentencing.
• Reinforces constitutional values of equality and procedural fairness for prisoners.

Note:

• Remission ≠ Pardon: Remission reduces sentence, doesn’t erase conviction.
• Articles 72 & 161: Concern constitutional remission powers (President & Governor).
• BNSS Sections 473 & 475: Replace CrPC Sections 432 & 433A, relevant for state remission powers.
• Suo motu action by SC: Taken to address systemic prison overcrowding.
• Article 14 invoked: To ensure equitable treatment of eligible prisoners.

In News:

Aero India 2025, the 15th edition of Asia's largest biennial airshow, is scheduled to take place from February 10 to 14, 2025, at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka, in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

Organized by the Defence Exhibition Organisation under the Ministry of Defence, with support from HAL, DRDO, and the Indian Air Force, the event showcases India's growing prowess in aerospace, aviation, and defense technologies.

Key Highlights:

Edition: 15th (First held in 1996; originally Avia India in 1993)

Theme: “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities”

Conclave Theme: “BRIDGE – Building Resilience through International Defence and Global Engagement”

Objectives and Significance

• Promote Indigenous Manufacturing: In alignment with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, the show promotes domestic aerospace and defense production.
• Showcase Technological Advancements: Cutting-edge systems including fighter jets, helicopters, UAVs, and AI-integrated defense solutions will be exhibited.
• Encourage Global Partnerships: Facilitates joint ventures, MoUs, and technology transfers between Indian and foreign defense firms.
• Boost Strategic Diplomacy: A platform for global defense ministers, CEOs, and military leaders to foster bilateral and multilateral defense ties.
• Stimulate Investment: Attracts FDI and international contracts in India’s defense sector.

Key Events

• Live Aerial Displays: Aerobatic performances by combat aircraft, helicopters, and elite teams like Surya Kiran.
• Defense Ministers’ Conclave: Deliberations on enhancing international defense cooperation.
• CEO Roundtable: Industry leaders discuss emerging trends and investment prospects.
• Manthan/iDEX Pavilion: Showcasing start-up innovations in defense and aerospace.
• India Pavilion: A dedicated zone for indigenous defense production and capabilities.
• International Seminar (Feb 8–9): Focused on Futuristic Aerospace Technologies and related R&D challenges.

Strategic Role of Aero India

Aero India plays a pivotal role in:

• Supporting Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) procurements.
• Demonstrating India's readiness as a global defense manufacturing hub.
• Enhancing India’s geopolitical standing by fostering defense diplomacy through multilateral engagement.

In News:

India is home to over 10.45 crore Scheduled Tribe (ST) individuals, comprising 8.6% of the population. Concentrated largely in remote and underdeveloped regions, ST communities face persistent challenges such as land alienation, limited access to quality education, healthcare deficits, and socio-economic exclusion. The Union Budget 2025–26 signals a paradigm shift in tribal welfare, in line with the vision of Viksit Bharat.

Budgetary Commitment

The total allocation for tribal welfare has risen to ?14,925.81 crore in 2025–26—a 45.79% jump from the previous year and a staggering 231.83% increase from 2014–15 levels. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has witnessed a consistent rise in budget: from ?7,511.64 crore (2023–24) to ?10,237.33 crore (2024–25), and now ?14,925.81 crore.

Flagship Schemes and Initiatives

• Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) received ?7,088.60 crore, up from ?4,748 crore, to provide quality residential education to ST students. EMDBS, a pilot initiative in high-density tribal areas, enhances outreach.
• Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (PMJVM) saw a sharp rise to ?380.40 crore. It promotes tribal entrepreneurship, sustainable Minor Forest Produce (MFP) use, and value chain development.
• Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY) was allocated ?335.97 crore (163% increase). It aims to convert tribal-majority villages into model habitations by ensuring convergence of development schemes.
• PM-JANMAN Multi-Purpose Centers (MPCs) received ?300 crore, targeting Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) with essential services and institutional support.
• Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA), launched in 2024, envisions the holistic development of 63,843 tribal villages. With an outlay of ?79,156 crore over five years, it integrates 17 ministries and 25 interventions. The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has allocated ?2,000 crore for 2025–26 alone.

Persistent Challenges

Despite constitutional safeguards (Articles 15(4), 46, 244, 275(1), etc.), tribal communities face significant hurdles:

• Land and Resource Rights: Only 50% of 42.76 lakh Forest Rights Act (FRA) claims have been approved (MoTA, 2022). Displacement from mining and infrastructure projects persists.
• Education: ST literacy stands at 59% (Census 2011) with high dropout rates due to poverty and language gaps.
• Health: Malnutrition, maternal mortality, and diseases like Sickle Cell remain endemic.
• Marginalization: Tribals face economic deprivation, exploitation (bonded labor, trafficking), and erosion of cultural identity.
• Underrepresentation: Despite reserved seats, policy influence remains limited.

The Way Forward

• Land Rights: Effective implementation of FRA and safeguards against forced displacement.
• Education: Expand EMRS/EMDBS and promote bilingual, culturally relevant curricula.
• Health: Improve rural health infrastructure and target tribal-specific diseases.
• Women’s Empowerment: Support SHGs and skill-based livelihood through schemes like Adivasi Mahila Sashaktikaran Yojana.
• Cultural Continuity: Support tribal art, festivals, and language preservation through digital and educational platforms.
• Inclusive Governance: Strengthen Gram Sabhas and tribal representation in policymaking.

In News:

Recently, a US military aircraft carrying 104 deported Indian nationals landed at Amritsar Airport. These deportees had entered the United States through the illegal “Dunki” route, paying between ?30 lakh and ?1 crore to agents and human traffickers.

Since 2009, over 15,000 Indians have been deported from the US for illegal entry, with India now figuring among the top non-Latin American countries in deportation rankings.

What is the ‘Dunki Route’?

• The “Dunki” or “Donkey” route refers to an unauthorised, arduous journey that migrants undertake through multiple countries to reach destinations like the United States, bypassing legal immigration processes.
• Routes often begin in countries with visa-on-arrival access or easy tourist visa policies for Indians:
  • Latin America: Ecuador, Bolivia, Guyana, Brazil, Venezuela
  • Europe/Central Asia: Azerbaijan, Turkey, Kazakhstan
  • Southeast Asia: Malaysia (via Bangkok)
• Migrants often transit through Mexico, Guatemala, or Costa Rica before crossing into the US through illegal land borders.

How the Network Operates:

• Human trafficking syndicates use fake or manipulated visas (e.g., Schengen visas) to move migrants across Europe, Central Asia, and Latin America.
• Indian passport holders are sent to countries with lenient visa regimes, followed by overland or sea routes to US borders.
• Delhi Police (IGI unit) revealed that many migrants travel to Turkey or Kazakhstan and then cross to Russia or Latin America before attempting US entry.

Reasons Behind Illegal Migration:

• Economic Opportunities: Low wages in India drive migration to higher-paying economies.
• Limited Legal Avenues: Long, uncertain visa approval processes discourage legal pathways.
• Cultural Pressures: In communities like the Patels of Gujarat, migration to the US is tied to social prestige, often compelling families to sell land or take loans.
• Success Stories: Stories of successful illegal migrants inspire others to follow suit.
• Thriving Smuggling Rackets: Demand for migration has led to lucrative smuggling networks.

Consequences and Risks:

• Human Cost: Migrants risk robbery, assault, rape, and death, with bodies often unrecovered.
• Economic Loss: Families face financial ruin due to heavy agent fees.
• Legal Repercussions: Deportation, detention, and blacklisting from future visas.
• Geopolitical Sensitivity: Damages bilateral ties with countries like the US and strains consular systems.

Government Response and Policy Measures:

Proposed Legislation:

• India is considering the Overseas Mobility (Facilitation and Welfare) Bill, 2024 to:
  • Promote safe, orderly, and regular migration
  • Replace the outdated Emigration Act, 1983
  • Establish comprehensive mechanisms for migrant protection and regulation

Awareness Campaigns:

• Indian embassies and consulates regularly issue:
  • Advisories on fraudulent agents
  • Guidance on safe migration
  • Lists of registered recruiting agencies

Migration Trends and Global Standing:

• World Migration Report 2024 (IOM):
  • India received $111 billion in remittances in 2022 – highest globally
  • India is the largest country of origin for international migrants, with large diasporas in the UAE, US, and Saudi Arabia

H-1B Visa: The Legal Face of Indian Migration to the US

• H-1B Program: Allows US employers to hire foreign workers in high-skill occupations requiring at least a bachelor’s degree.
• Duration: Maximum of six years, renewable under certain conditions, or convertible into a Green Card.
• Indian Dominance:
  • Indians have accounted for over 70% of all H-1B visa approvals since 2015
  • Chinese applicants make up the second-largest group (~12–13%)

Political Challenges:

• Immigration, including H-1B, is a polarising issue in US politics.
• Rising anti-immigration sentiment, especially under administrations like Trump 2.0, affects policy and visa quotas.

Hotspot States and Migration Routes in India:

• Major source states of illegal migrants: Gujarat, Punjab, Haryana
• These regions are hubs for agents who facilitate illegal migration using Dunki routes and exploit aspirational youth.

In News:

Recent outbreaks of suspected Ranikhet disease (Newcastle Disease) have caused the death of approximately 1.5 lakh chickens in poultry farms across Andhra Pradesh (Eluru, Guntur, Prakasam, and the Godavari districts) and Haryana (Barwala and Raipur Rani in Panchkula). These outbreaks have raised alarms about biosecurity measures, especially in regions that are major poultry producers.

About Ranikhet Disease:

• Also known as: Newcastle Disease (ND)
• Causative Agent: Avian avulavirus 1 (also called Avian Paramyxovirus-1 or APMV-1)
• Affected Species: Primarily chickens, but also turkeys, ducks, pigeons, crows, geese, guinea fowls, partridges, doves, and even hedgehogs (suspected reservoirs).
• Nature of Disease: Highly contagious and fatal viral disease.
• Transmission:
  • Direct contact with infected bird secretions (especially feces)
  • Contaminated feed, water, equipment, clothing, and environment
  • ND virus can survive for weeks in cool environments, increasing risk in winter.

Symptoms and Impact:

• In Birds:
  • Respiratory issues: Sneezing, gasping
  • Nervous symptoms: Droopiness, loss of coordination
  • Digestive symptoms: Diarrhea
  • Mortality rate: Ranges from 50% to 100%
  • Production impact: Drop in egg production and fertility
• In Humans:
  • Mild zoonotic effect, primarily conjunctivitis in people handling infected birds or lab samples.
  • Usually self-limiting and non-fatal.

Recent Outbreaks and Investigations:

Andhra Pradesh:

• Approximately 1.5 lakh birds have died across multiple districts.
• Suspected cause: Highly virulent strain of Ranikhet Disease.

Haryana (Barwala–Raipur Rani belt):

• This belt houses around 115 poultry farms and is the second-largest poultry producer in Asia.
• Previously affected by bird flu outbreaks in 2006 and 2014.
• Northern Regional Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (NRDDL), Jalandhar collected 40 new samples from affected farms after being unsatisfied with earlier ones.
• Preliminary suspicion points toward Ranikhet Disease; however, cold wave conditions and the presence of older birds (not replaced due to COVID-19 restrictions) may have also contributed.
• The region falls in the path of migratory birds, whose droppings can spread avian flu viruses, complicating disease identification.

Current Challenges:

• Lack of effective treatment: No curative treatment exists. Management relies on preventive vaccination, biosecurity measures, and good poultry housing practices.
• Diagnostic delays: Require reliable sampling and laboratory testing to confirm the cause.
• Climate sensitivity: Poultry are vulnerable to extreme cold, especially if housing and care are inadequate.
• Pandemic aftershocks: COVID-19 disruptions prevented the routine replacement of older birds, increasing vulnerability.

In News:

The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture has raised concerns over delays in the completion of projects under the Spiritual Tourism Circuits and the PRASHAD Scheme.

It has recommended the establishment of a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and emphasized obtaining prior clearances to ensure timely execution of future projects.

About PRASHAD Scheme

• Full Form: Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spirituality Augmentation Drive.
• Launched: 2014–15 by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
• Objective: To promote, develop, and enhance spiritual tourism infrastructure at important pilgrimage sites across India.

Aims and Objectives:

• Improve infrastructure (roads, water supply, sanitation, waste management).
• Enhance connectivity (road, rail, and air) to pilgrimage destinations.
• Preserve and conserve religious and cultural heritage sites.
• Promote eco-friendly and sustainable tourism practices.
• Increase domestic and international tourist footfall through spiritual tourism.
• Generate local employment through skill development and livelihood programmes.

Funding Model:

• 100% centrally funded for eligible components.
• Also includes voluntary contributions through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Public-Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives.

Implementation Challenges and Parliamentary Findings

Spiritual Tourism Circuits under Swadesh Darshan Scheme:

• Launched to promote thematic tourism circuits, including 23 Spiritual Circuits across India.
• Of these, five circuits remain incomplete, with two key circuits in Kerala—
  1. Sabarimala–Erumeli–Pampa–Sannidhanam Circuit
  2. Sivagiri Sree Narayana Guru Ashram Circuit
• Progress Status (as of September 2023):
  • Sabarimala Circuit: 76% complete
  • Sivagiri Circuit: 51% complete
• Original target completion dates: June 2023 and October 2023, respectively.

Reasons for Delay:

• Lack of timely clearances from Temple Authorities.
• Administrative and coordination issues across agencies.

Committee Recommendations:

• Formulate a clear-cut SOP for the execution of spiritual tourism projects.
• Ensure pre-approval and coordination with all concerned stakeholders before initiating construction.
• Strengthen planning at the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage to anticipate implementation challenges and avoid delays and cost overruns.

PRASHAD Scheme Performance:

• Out of 45 sanctioned projects, only 21 have been completed as of the latest report.
• The committee noted this performance as unsatisfactory, even accounting for disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

In News:

India-U.S. defence cooperation is advancing with the proposed co-production of the Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV). This deal represents a significant leap in bilateral defence industrial collaboration and aligns with India's strategic goal of military modernization and indigenisation under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

About Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV):

• Origin: Jointly developed by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) Canada and U.S., it is the first new military vehicle inducted into U.S. Army service since the 1980s.
• Type: Eight-wheeled armoured infantry combat vehicle designed for rapid deployment and battlefield mobility.
• Variants: Includes Infantry Carrier Vehicle (ICV), Mobile Gun System (MGS), reconnaissance vehicle, medical evacuation vehicle, fire support vehicle, and Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) carrier.

Key Features:

• Mobility: Top speed of ~100 km/h and an operational range of 483 km. Can be airlifted using C-17 and C-130 aircraft (both in IAF’s fleet) or Chinook helicopters, enhancing deployment in remote terrains.
• Firepower: Equipped with a 30 mm cannon and a 105 mm mobile gun.
• Protection: V-hull structure for blast protection; composite armour reinforced with ceramic tiles offers increased survivability against IEDs and small arms.
• Capacity: Operated by a 2-member crew and can transport a 9-member infantry squad.

Operational Evaluation in India:

• High-Altitude Trials: Conducted in Ladakh (13,000–18,000 feet) during September–October 2024. Evaluation reports were shared with Army Headquarters for further review.
• Javelin ATGM Demonstration: Conducted alongside Stryker trials; however, the performance was sub-optimal due to the vintage system used. Repeat trials have been requested by India.

Strategic Importance for India:

• Tactical Advantage: Enhanced mobility and survivability in high-altitude warfare make it suitable for regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
• Border Security: Bolsters India's defence posture along sensitive frontiers with China and Pakistan.
• Force Modernization: Meets the Indian Army’s requirement for ICVs with integrated ATGM capabilities.
• Aatmanirbhar Bharat Push: The proposed model includes initial direct imports followed by large-scale license production in India, potentially by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML).

Defence Diplomacy and Industrial Cooperation:

• The deal is being advanced under the India-U.S. Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, focusing on co-development and co-production.
• In November 2023, Indian Defence Secretary confirmed discussions under this framework.
• The U.S. has reiterated the importance of India enhancing procurement of U.S.-made defence equipment, aiming at a balanced trade partnership.
• The Stryker deal is expected to feature in high-level bilateral dialogues, including the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Washington DC and during engagements at Aero India.

Challenges and Reservations:

• Some Indian defence officials have flagged concerns, noting that similar ICVs have been developed by Indian private companies.
• Delays in previous U.S. defence exports (e.g., F-404 jet engines for LCA-Mk1A) have also raised caution regarding timelines and reliability.

In News:

In a significant step towards decolonising the Indian Armed Forces and aligning with indigenous historical consciousness, Fort William, the headquarters of the Eastern Command of the Indian Army in Kolkata, has been renamed Vijay Durg. This renaming is part of a broader initiative to remove colonial-era symbols and practices and restore Indian military heritage.

Historical Background of Fort William

• Construction: The original Fort William was constructed in 1696 by the English East India Company. It was later attacked and captured by Siraj-ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, in 1756.
• The Black Hole Incident: The original fort had an inner bastion used for imprisoning captives, leading to the infamous “Black Hole of Calcutta” narrative.
• Reconstruction: After the Battle of Plassey (1757) and the defeat of Siraj-ud-Daulah, Robert Clive initiated the construction of a new fort, which was completed in 1773 or 1781 (sources differ).
• Naming: It was named Fort William in honour of King William III of England.

Architectural Features

• Design: The fort is octagonal in shape with a massive structure made of brick and mortar.
• Area: Spread across 70.9 acres on the eastern bank of the Hooghly River, it features hundreds of arched windows and lush green surroundings.
• Aesthetics: Its walls are adorned with intricate stonework, reflecting colonial military architecture.

Recent Changes and Renaming

• New Name: Vijay Durg – Inspired by Vijaydurg Fort in Maharashtra, a prominent naval base of the Marathas under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
• Other Changes:
  • Kitchener House has been renamed Manekshaw House, after Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw.
  • St. George’s Gate has been renamed Shivaji Gate.
• Implementation: According to the Defence Public Relations Office in Kolkata, the name change was decided in mid-December 2024, and internal communications have already adopted the new nomenclature, though an official notification is awaited.

Broader De-Colonisation Drive in Indian Defence

The renaming of Fort William is part of a larger movement initiated by the Government of India to eliminate colonial vestiges in the armed forces. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a 2022 speech at Kevadia, Gujarat, urged the forces to discard “legacy systems” and move towards “freedom from the mentality of slavery (gulami ki mansikta se mukti)”.

Key Initiatives:

• Indianisation of military music during the Beating Retreat ceremony.
• Adoption of a new naval ensign (2022) inspired by the seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, moving away from British colonial symbols.
• Renaming of military establishments and symbols rooted in colonial heritage.
• Review publication (2024) titled “Colonial Practices and the Armed Forces – A Review”, released at the Joint Commanders’ Conference in Lucknow by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

In News:

In a significant legal and environmental development, Mount Taranaki—officially now known by its M?ori name Taranaki Maunga—has been granted legal personhood by the government of New Zealand.

This move marks it as the third natural feature in the country to receive such status, following the Te Urewera National Park (2014) and the Whanganui River (2017).

This recognition reflects an increasing global trend toward acknowledging the intrinsic rights of natural entities and respecting the spiritual beliefs of indigenous communities.

About Taranaki Maunga

• Location: Situated in Egmont National Park, North Island, New Zealand.
• Dual Naming: Historically known as Mount Egmont, it is now officially referred to by its indigenous name, Taranaki Maunga, as part of decolonization and cultural revival efforts.
• Elevation: Stands at 8,261 feet, making it the second-highest peak in the North Island of New Zealand.
• Geological Type: It is a stratovolcano (composite cone) with a nearly perfect symmetrical shape—one of the most symmetrical volcanic cones in the world.
• Formation: Formed due to the subduction of the Pacific Plate beneath the Australian Plate. The magma source lies deeper than that of the Taupo Volcanic Zone volcanoes.
• Topography: Surrounded by a circular ring plain formed from lahars (volcanic mudflows) and landslides.
• Status: A snow-capped dormant volcano and culturally revered natural landmark.
• Cultural Significance: The M?ori, indigenous people of New Zealand, regard Taranaki Maunga as a sacred ancestor, embedding it deeply in their oral traditions and spirituality.

Legal Personhood and Its Significance

Granting legal personhood to Taranaki Maunga means it now holds rights, duties, and liabilities akin to a legal human being, and its interests will be represented by appointed guardians—often including indigenous representatives.

This legal framework recognizes:

• The spiritual and cultural relationship that the M?ori have with the mountain.
• The need to protect natural ecosystems not merely for utility but as living entities deserving of rights and dignity.

Comparative Insights: India’s Legal Approach to Natural Entities

India has witnessed similar developments:

• Uttarakhand High Court (2017–18): Granted legal personhood to the Ganga and Yamuna rivers, along with the Gangotri and Yamunotri glaciers. However, the Supreme Court later stayed this ruling.
• Punjab and Haryana High Court (2020): Recognized Sukhna Lake (Chandigarh) as a living entity for environmental protection.
• These decisions stem from the Doctrine of Parens Patriae, which allows the state to act as a guardian for those who cannot protect themselves—extending this protection to natural entities such as rivers, forests, and wildlife.

In News:

In a significant defense development with wide-ranging geopolitical implications, the Russian Federation is preparing to mass-produce the Iskander-M tactical ballistic missile, a new-generation weapon system with enhanced range and destructive capabilities. This move is part of Russia’s broader strategy to upgrade its missile arsenal amid ongoing tensions with NATO, especially in the context of the Ukraine conflict.

Key Features and Strategic Purpose

The 9K720 Iskander-M, developed by the Machine-Building Design Bureau (Kolomna), is a medium-range tactical ballistic missile with an effective range of up to 1,000 kilometers. It is capable of delivering both conventional and nuclear warheads, making it a versatile and high-impact weapon in regional conflict scenarios.

• The missile is precision-targeted and designed to neutralize high-value enemy assets, including NATO’s military infrastructure in Eastern Europe, especially in Ukraine.
• The production of the upgraded missile, unofficially referred to as the Iskander-1000, is expected to begin in full swing by 2025.
• The missile is reported to be highly destructive, with the ability to conduct deep strikes with minimal detection, offering Russia a tactical advantage in asymmetric warfare.

Deployment of Oreshnik Missile Systems in Belarus

In a parallel development, Russia has confirmed the deployment of Oreshnik medium-range ballistic missile systems in Belarus, a strategic ally. This decision follows agreements between the Russian and Belarusian leadership, reinforcing the military integration under their collective defense pact.

• The Oreshnik system, though less publicly detailed than the Iskander, is designed for tactical use and contributes to enhancing Russia’s regional defense shield.
• According to Russian foreign ministry officials, Belarus already hosts a joint Regional Forces Group, non-strategic nuclear weapons, and modern Russian defense systems.
• The positioning of these systems near NATO’s eastern borders heightens tensions with Western powers, particularly the United States, Poland, the Baltic States, and the European Union.

Geopolitical Ramifications

The Iskander-M and Oreshnik missile programs are part of Russia’s strategic doctrine to deter NATO's influence and reassert its military dominance in Eastern Europe. These deployments are:

• Likely to escalate NATO-Russia tensions, increasing the risk of a regional arms race.
• Expected to complicate European security dynamics, especially in Poland, Ukraine, and the Baltic states, which are seen as potential frontlines.
• Raising the prospect of further military escalation in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
• Prompting NATO countermeasures, including deployment of missile defense systems and increased troop presence near Eastern borders.

In News:

An eight-year-old girl, Shasa Fathima, from Kottakkal in Malappuram district, Kerala, recently died after undergoing nearly two months of treatment for brucellosis at the Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode. This tragic incident has renewed public health concerns regarding zoonotic infections in India.

What is Brucellosis?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), brucellosis is a bacterial disease caused by various species of the genus Brucella. The bacteria primarily infect: cattle, swine, goats, sheep & dogs.

Humans typically contract the infection through:

• Direct contact with infected animals or their secretions (blood, placenta, fetus, uterine fluids)
• Ingestion of contaminated animal products, especially unpasteurised milk and cheese
• Inhalation of airborne bacteria (e.g., in lab or farm environments)

Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare, as per WHO guidelines.

Symptoms and Incubation Period

• The disease presents a wide spectrum of symptoms: fever, weakness, weight loss, general discomfort or malaise.
• In many cases, symptoms may be mild or go undiagnosed. The incubation period ranges from one week to two months, most commonly between two to four weeks.

At-Risk Populations

• Brucellosis can affect individuals of all age groups. However, certain occupational groups are at higher risk, including: farmers and dairy workers, butchers, hunters, veterinarians, laboratory personnel. These individuals are often exposed to animal blood and reproductive fluids, which are primary modes of transmission.

Status in Kerala

Kerala has reported sporadic cases of brucellosis in recent years. In 2023, cases emerged from Kollam (July) and Thiruvananthapuram (October). While the disease is not new to the state, fatalities remain rare.

In response, the Department of Animal Husbandry has initiated awareness campaigns for dairy farmers and conducted milk sample testing across cooperative societies to monitor possible sources of infection.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics:

• Doxycycline (100 mg, twice daily for 45 days)
• Streptomycin (1 g daily for 15 days)

Effective preventive measures include:

• Vaccination of livestock (cattle, goats, sheep)
• Pasteurisation of milk and dairy products before human consumption
• Public awareness campaigns on the dangers of consuming unpasteurised animal products
• Regulatory policies on the sale of raw milk

In News:

The Ministry of Ayush has launched a nationwide campaign titled “Shatavari – For Better Health” to raise public awareness on the health benefits of Asparagus racemosus (commonly known as Shatavari), especially in the context of women’s health and the broader objective of holistic well-being.

About Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)

• Family: Asparagaceae (formerly Liliaceae)
• Common Names: Satawar, Satamuli
• Ayurvedic Significance: Known as the “Queen of Herbs”, Shatavari is praised in classical Ayurvedic texts like Charak Samhita and Ashtang Hridayam for treating women’s reproductive health disorders.
• Name Meaning: ‘Shatavari’ translates to “acceptable to many”, signifying its diverse benefits.
• Botanical Description: It is a woody climber (1–2 meters tall), with pine-needle-like leaves and small white flowers.
• Habitat and Distribution: Found in tropical climates at low altitudes across Asia, Africa, and Australia.

Medicinal Uses

• The dried roots of Shatavari are used medicinally.
• Acts as a tonic, diuretic, galactagogue (promotes lactation), and has ulcer-healing properties.
• Strengthens mucosal resistance and provides cytoprotection.
• Widely used for addressing female reproductive health issues, immunity enhancement, and promoting overall vitality.

The Campaign: “Shatavari – For Better Health”

• Launched by: Shri Prataprao Jadhav, MoS (Independent Charge), Ministry of Ayush.
• Organized by: National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB).

• This campaign follows successful species-specific initiatives on Amla, Moringa, Giloe, and Ashwagandha.
• Shatavari is being positioned as a crucial resource in advancing women’s health, supporting the Panch Pran Goals set by the Prime Minister for a Developed India by 2047.
• Focus on achieving holistic well-being and integrating traditional medicine with public health awareness.

Policy and Financial Support

• Under the Central Sector Scheme for Conservation, Development, and Sustainable Management of Medicinal Plants, the Ministry promotes the cultivation and sustainable use of Shatavari.
• Financial assistance of ?18.9 lakhs will be provided to eligible organizations to support awareness and adoption.

In News:

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has recently provided updates in the Rajya Sabha on the National Youth Parliament Scheme (NYPS) 2.0, emphasizing its role in fostering democratic values, constitutional awareness, and active citizenship among Indian youth.

About NYPS 2.0

Launched by the Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs, NYPS 2.0 aims to strengthen the roots of democracy and enhance understanding of parliamentary practices and government functioning among citizens, especially students.

Objectives

• Instill discipline, tolerance for diverse views, and democratic ethos among youth.
• Educate students about the procedures of Parliament, constitutional values, and functioning of the government.
• Encourage a democratic way of life through civic engagement.

Participation Modes via NYPS 2.0 Web Portal

The dedicated web-portal enables inclusive citizen participation in three formats:

• Institutional Participation:
  • Open to all educational institutions.
  • Institutions can organize Youth Parliament sittings as per portal guidelines.
  • Two sub-categories:
    • Kishore Sabha: For students of Class VI to XII.
    • Tarun Sabha: For undergraduate and postgraduate students.
• Group Participation: Open to any group of citizens willing to conduct Youth Parliament sittings under defined norms.
• Individual Participation: Citizens can individually engage by taking a quiz on the theme ‘Bhartiya Democracy in Action’.

Training and Educational Resources

To support participants, the portal offers comprehensive e-training material, including:

• Literature on Youth Parliament
• Model Debates, Questions, and List of Business
• Model Scripts
• Video tutorials and other interactive resources

In News:

Patient advocacy groups across India have raised serious concerns over delays in implementing the National Policy for Rare Diseases (NPRD) 2021, which has left many rare disease patients — especially children — in life-threatening situations. They have urged the government for immediate intervention to resume life-saving treatments and release stalled funds under the policy.

Rare Diseases:

• Rare diseases are severe, often genetic, life-threatening disorders that impact a small percentage of the population.
• They disproportionately affect children, with 30% of diagnosed patients not surviving beyond age five without timely treatment.
• Examples include Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSDs) such as Gaucher, Pompe, Fabry, and MPS I & II.

About NPRD 2021

The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare launched the National Policy for Rare Diseases in March 2021 to streamline the diagnosis, research, and treatment of rare diseases in India.

Key Features of NPRD 2021:

• 63 rare diseases currently included under the policy (as recommended by the Central Technical Committee for Rare Diseases (CTCRD)).
• Categorization of diseases into three groups:
  • Group 1: Diseases amenable to one-time curative treatment.
  • Group 2: Diseases requiring long-term/lifelong treatment with relatively lower cost.
  • Group 3: Diseases requiring very high-cost lifelong therapy where patient selection is critical.

Institutional Support:

• 12 Centres of Excellence (CoEs) identified at premier government hospitals to provide diagnosis and treatment.
• Nidan Kendras established to provide genetic testing and counselling services.
• National Consortium for Research and Development on Therapeutics for Rare Diseases (NCRDTRD) set up to coordinate R&D and promote indigenous drug manufacturing.
• Tax exemptions (on GST and Customs Duty) granted for imported drugs for individual and institutional use.

Financial Provisions:

• Financial assistance of up to ?50 lakh per patient for treatment at CoEs.
• Patients must register at CoEs to receive diagnosis and initiate treatment.

Challenges and Crisis

Despite policy provisions, implementation has been stalled, leading to a healthcare emergency for rare disease patients.

Key Issues Raised:      

• Insufficient funding: The ?50 lakh cap is inadequate for chronic and ultra-rare diseases that need lifelong therapy.
• Administrative delays: Fund disbursement to CoEs has been slow, disrupting continuity of treatment.
• Impact on Patients:
  • Patients like Alishba Khan, Ashok Kumar, Imran Ghoshi, and Adrija Mudy with Gaucher or MPS I have exhausted their funding.
  • Patients who had previously stabilized are now regressing due to interrupted therapy at leading hospitals like AIIMS Delhi, IGICH Bangalore, and IPGMER Kolkata.

Legal Developments:

• On October 4, 2024, the Delhi High Court directed the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to:
  • Release additional funds beyond the ?50 lakh limit.
  • Create a ?974 crore National Fund for FY 2024–25 and 2025–26.
• Months later, no concrete action has been taken, further eroding trust in the policy's effectiveness.

Demands by Advocacy Groups

• Sustainable, long-term funding model for lifelong treatment of rare and ultra-rare diseases.
• Immediate fund release to CoEs and simplification of administrative processes.
• Ensure uninterrupted access to essential therapies and expand the scope of financial support.

In News:

In a significant development, tribal families from Neelabandha, a remote hilltop hamlet in Anakapalli district, Andhra Pradesh, received electricity for the first time since Independence. In celebration, they performed the Dhimsa dance, a vibrant expression of tribal culture.

About Dhimsa Dance:

• Origin & Region:
  • Dhimsa is a traditional tribal dance predominantly performed in Andhra Pradesh, especially in the tribal belts of the Eastern Ghats.
  • Its origin can be traced to the Koraput region (present-day Odisha and bordering Andhra Pradesh), primarily home to the Gond tribe.
• Communities Performing Dhimsa:
  • Tribes such as Bagata, Valmiki, Poraja, Khond, Gadaba, Kondadora, Mukadora, and Kotia actively perform this dance.
• Occasions:
  • Commonly performed during festivals, weddings, and the hunting festival in April.
  • Celebratory, spiritual, and social in nature, symbolizing unity and joy.
• Dance Formation and Movements:
  • Performed in circular formations with dancers holding each other's arms.
  • Emphasis on synchronized hand and leg movements.
  • Troupes usually consist of 20 or more dancers.
• Themes:
  • Dhimsa is a narrative dance that expresses tribal mythologies, folktales, cultural mores, economic activities, kinship, and marital life.
• Musical Instruments Used:
  • Dappu, Tudumu, Mori, Kidgi, Gilka, and Jodukommulu.
  • A combination of percussion and wind instruments drives the rhythm and variation in the dance.
• Varieties:
  • There are 12 known types of Dhimsa dances, each varying in pace, rhythm, and purpose.

Rural Electrification of Neelabandha Village:

• Background:
  • Neelabandha is located in Arla Panchayat of Rolugunta Mandal in Anakapalli district.
  • Consists of four households (approximately 20 individuals) who had been living without electricity since Independence.
• Implementation:
  • The electrification was part of the Andhra Pradesh government’s rural development drive to provide basic infrastructure to underdeveloped tribal villages.
  • Under the directions of District Collector Vijaya Krishnan, and CMD of APEPDCL, Prithvi Tej, the Eastern Power Distribution Company of Andhra Pradesh (EPDCL) carried out the electrification.
• Challenges Overcome:
  • The hamlet lacked motorable roads, making it difficult to transport materials.
  • Electricity poles had to be carried manually for over 6 km to reach the village.
• Outcome:
  • Free electricity was provided to the villagers, marking a major milestone in tribal welfare.
  • In a heartfelt celebration, the villagers performed Dhimsa under electric lights for the first time.

Issues Still Persisting:

• Infrastructure Deficits:
  • The village still lacks road connectivity, educational access, and healthcare facilities.
  • These gaps hinder children's ability to attend school and access essential services.
• Community Response:
  • Local leaders, including CPI(M) district committee member K. Govind, welcomed the electrification but urged the government to address remaining developmental needs.

In News:

In the Union Budget 2025–26, Finance Minister announced the establishment of a Makhana Board in Bihar with a dedicated budget of ?100 crore to boost the production, processing, and export of Makhana (Fox Nuts).

About Makhana (Fox Nuts):

• Botanical Name: Euryale ferox
• Family: Nymphaeaceae (Water lily family)
• Description:
  • Makhana is the dried edible seed of the prickly water lily.
  • Grown in freshwater bodies across South and East Asia.
  • The plant is known for its violet and white flowers and large, round, prickly leaves.
  • Due to its black outer covering, Makhana is nicknamed the "Black Diamond."

Nutritional and Medicinal Value:

• Low in fat, rich in carbohydrates, and a good source of protein and minerals.
• Widely used in:
  • Traditional medicine
  • Health and wellness products
  • Culinary preparations such as popped Makhana (‘Lava’)

Major Producing Regions:

• India:
  • Bihar produces 90% of India’s total Makhana, especially in the Mithilanchal region.
    • Key districts: Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, Katihar, Saharsa, Supaul, Araria, Kishanganj, Sitamarhi.
    • The first four districts contribute 80% of Bihar’s Makhana output.
• Other Indian states: Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, Tripura, Odisha.
• Other countries: Nepal, Bangladesh, China, Japan, Korea.
• GI Tag: Mithila Makhana received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2022.

Climatic Conditions for Cultivation:

• Type: Aquatic crop; grows in stagnant water bodies (ponds, lakes, wetlands).
• Ideal Conditions:
  • Water Depth: 4–6 feet
  • Temperature: 20°C – 35°C
  • Relative Humidity: 50% – 90%
  • Annual Rainfall: 100 – 250 cm

About the Makhana Board:

• Allocated Budget: ?100 crore
• Objectives:
  • Train farmers in advanced cultivation techniques.
  • Support processing and value addition in the Makhana supply chain.
  • Facilitate financial aid and access to government schemes.
  • Develop export infrastructure and promote branding and marketing.

Makhana under ODOP Scheme:

• Recognized as a One District One Product (ODOP) commodity for Bihar.
• Under ODOP, the Union Government provides subsidies to processors for:
  • Infrastructure development
  • Branding and marketing

About ODOP Scheme:

• Launched by: Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)
• Objective: Promote district-level economic specialization and turn each district into an export hub.
• Origin: First launched in Uttar Pradesh (2018); adopted as a national initiative under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.
• Implementation:
  • In coordination with the ‘Districts as Export Hubs’ (DEH) initiative.
  • Managed by DGFT, Department of Commerce, and DPIIT.
• Significance:
  • Encourages rural entrepreneurship, local employment, and global trade linkages.
  • Strengthens district economies by scaling up traditional and unique products.

In News:

The Union Budget 2025–26 announced the launch of the Gyan Bharatam Mission, a significant cultural initiative aimed at the survey, documentation, digitization, and conservation of over one crore manuscripts across India.

Key Details:

• A special national mission focusing on India’s manuscript heritage preserved in:
  • Academic institutions
  • Libraries
  • Museums
  • Private collections
• Objective:
  To document and conserve more than one crore manuscripts, centralize them into a national digital repository, and make them accessible to researchers, students, and institutions globally.
• Significance:
  • Facilitates knowledge-sharing through digitization.
  • Promotes India's traditional knowledge systems.
  • Enhances academic and historical research in the Indian knowledge domain.

What is a Manuscript?

• A manuscript is a handwritten composition on materials such as:
  • Palm leaf, paper, cloth, bark, or metal.
• Must be at least 75 years old and possess scientific, historical, or aesthetic value.
• Printed texts and lithographs are not considered manuscripts.
• Manuscripts may exist in hundreds of languages and scripts, e.g.:
  • Sanskrit manuscripts written in Devanagari, Grantha, Oriya, and other scripts.
• Unlike epigraphs or official records (firmans, revenue documents), manuscripts hold knowledge content, not just historical data.

National Manuscripts Mission (NMM)

• Launched in 2003 under the Ministry of Culture, operated through the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
• Mandate: Identify, preserve, and make accessible India's manuscript wealth.
• Revival: The 2025–26 Budget seeks to rejuvenate NMM to implement the Gyan Bharatam Mission effectively.

Budgetary Provisions

• NMM allocation increased from ?3.5 crore to ?60 crore for FY 2025–26.
• Culture Ministry overall allocation:
  • ?3,360.96 crore, up from a revised estimate of ?3,260.93 crore.
• Other Key Allocations:
  • Archaeological Survey of India (ASI): ?1,278.49 crore
  • National Libraries and Archives: ?156.55 crore
  • Museums (National Museum, NGMA): ?126.63 crore
• Note: Allocations for centenary events, cultural collaborations have been reduced.

In News:

In the Union Budget 2025–26, the Union Finance Minister announced a five-year Cotton Mission to boost productivity, sustainability, and promotion of Extra-Long Staple (ELS) cotton in India, aiming to reduce import dependency and strengthen the high-end textile sector.

What is Extra-Long Staple (ELS) Cotton?

• Definition: ELS cotton refers to cotton varieties with fibre lengths of 30 mm or more, renowned for their superior softness, strength, durability, and premium quality.
• Botanical Origin: Derived primarily from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton.

Distinguishing Cotton Types by Fibre Length

Type                      Fibre Length        Species                          Quality                 Uses                Yield per Acre   

Short Staple             < 25 mm             Gossypium hirsutum      Coarser         Low-cost textiles        High

Medium Staple       25–28.6 mm         Gossypium hirsutum     Moderate       Everyday fabrics       10–12 quintals

Extra-Long          30 mm & above   Gossypium barbadense  Superior     Luxury textiles        7–8 quintals

Staple (ELS)

Special Characteristics of ELS Cotton

• Softer & Smoother: Ideal for premium, luxury clothing.
• Stronger & More Durable: Resistant to wear and tear.
• Resistant to Pilling: Maintains smoothness over time.
• Luxurious Finish: Produces fine yarns with a natural sheen.
• Minimal Finishing Required: Retains natural texture and quality.

Global and Indian Production Landscape

• Origin: Native to South America.
• Globally Grown In:
  • Egypt, China, Australia, Peru – leading producers.
• In India:
  • Cultivated in Atpadi Taluka (Sangli, Maharashtra), around Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), and in parts of Karnataka and Madhya Pradesh.
  • Grown mostly in rain-fed areas with warm climates and fertile soil, aiding fibre quality.

Challenges in ELS Cotton Cultivation in India

• Low Yield: ELS cotton yields 7–8 quintals/acre, significantly lower than medium staple varieties (10–12 quintals/acre).
• Market Linkage Deficit: Farmers struggle to fetch premium prices for ELS cotton due to weak market access and lack of dedicated procurement infrastructure.
• Technological Gaps: Limited access to improved seed varieties, agronomic practices, and technologies like HtBT (Herbicide-tolerant Bt) cotton.
• Import Dependency: India imports 20–25 lakh bales annually, accounting for ~90% of its ELS cotton requirements, to meet demand from the premium textile industry.

Significance of the Five-Year Cotton Mission

• Aimed at:
  • Enhancing productivity and sustainability of ELS cotton.
  • Reducing import dependence through indigenous development.
  • Strengthening high-value textile exports by ensuring reliable ELS supply.
• Supports:
  • Farmer income enhancement through value-added cultivation.
  • Research and development in ELS cotton seed technology.
  • Improved extension services, supply chain development, and market support mechanisms.

In News:

The Southern Zonal Bench of the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has recently restrained the Andhra Pradesh government from proceeding with six proposed infrastructure projects in the Kolleru wetland area, citing violations of environmental protocols and lack of statutory clearances.

About Kolleru Lake

• Location: Northeastern Andhra Pradesh, between the Krishna and Godavari river deltas, near Eluru city.
• Type: One of Asia’s largest shallow freshwater lakes, covering an area of 308 sq. km.
• Hydrology:
  • Fed by Budameru and Tammileru rivers.
  • Drains into the Bay of Bengal via Upputeru river (a tidal water channel).
  • Acts as a natural flood-balancing reservoir for the Krishna and Godavari river systems.
• Ecological Importance:
  • Declared a Wildlife Sanctuary in 1999 and a Ramsar Site in 2002.
  • Designated as an Important Bird Area (IBA) due to the presence of over 50,000 waterfowl annually.
  • Lies on the Central Asian Flyway (CAF), a major migratory bird route.
• Key Avian Species:
  • Grey Pelican (indicator species), Siberian Cranes, Glossy Ibis, Open-billed Stork, Purple Moorhen, Painted Storks.

Kolleru Bird Sanctuary

• A protected wetland marsh habitat within the Kolleru Lake region.
• Supports diverse aquatic flora and fauna, serving as a crucial ecosystem for migratory and resident bird species.

Infrastructure Projects and Legal Challenges

• The projects were proposed under the entity "A.P. Krishna – Kolleru Salinity Mitigation Projects Corporation Limited" with a total capital outlay of approximately ?2,952 crore.
• The plans included construction of three regulators-cum-roads across the Upputeru river and other barrages, regulators, and sluices, falling within the Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ).
• The Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Department (WRD) issued G.O. Ms. No. 63 (dated 2nd December 2020) authorizing the project.

Grounds for NGT Intervention

• Key objections included:
  • Absence of scientific or ecological studies.
  • Lack of consultations with wetland experts, wildlife conservationists, and hydrologists.
  • No clearances obtained from:
    • Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
    • A.P. Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA)
    • A.P. Pollution Control Board (PCB)
    • National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)

NGT Observations and Ruling

• The tribunal emphasized the need for comprehensive evaluation of ecological and hydrological impacts before proceeding.
• It cited potential threats to the lake’s ecosystem, including:
  • Disruption to natural hydrology.
  • Loss of biodiversity and eco-sensitive habitats.
• The NGT ruled that the projects should not proceed unless fully compliant with environmental laws and backed by appropriate expert assessments.
• The ruling reinforced India's obligations under the Ramsar Convention and domestic environmental legislation, stressing the urgent need to protect the integrity of the Kolleru ecosystem.

In News:

A henipavirus, specifically the Camp Hill virus, has been detected in North America for the first time. This discovery in northern short-tailed shrews—a small mammal species found commonly in Canada and the U.S.—raises concerns over a potential zoonotic disease outbreak.

About Henipavirus

• Virus Type: Henipaviruses are zoonotic, negative-sense RNA viruses.
• Family: Paramyxoviridae.
• Natural Hosts: Pteropid fruit bats (commonly known as flying foxes).
• Other Hosts: Capable of infecting various mammals, including humans, horses, pigs, and shrews.

Notable Henipaviruses:

• Hendra virus (HeV):
  • First identified in Australia.
  • Mortality rate: Up to 70%.
• Nipah virus (NiV):
  • Found in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Bangladesh.
  • Case fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%, depending on surveillance and clinical care.

Symptoms and Disease Progression

• Initial symptoms: Fever, dizziness, headache, and muscle pain (myalgias).
• Advanced symptoms: Respiratory issues, encephalitis (brain inflammation), confusion, abnormal reflexes, seizures, and coma.
• Relapsing encephalitis may occur months or years after apparent recovery.
• Fatality Risk: High, primarily due to encephalitis and multi-organ failure caused by damage to small blood vessels (microinfarction) in organs like the brain, liver, and kidney.

Why are Henipaviruses so dangerous?

• Henipaviruses produce proteins that:
  • Suppress the innate immune system.
  • Block interferon-stimulated antiviral responses, aiding viral replication.
  • Act as virulence factors, allowing widespread infection and severe outcomes.

Modes of Transmission

• Animal-to-human:
  • Direct contact with infected animals (e.g., fruit bats, pigs, horses, shrews).
  • Consumption of contaminated food or water (e.g., raw date palm sap in Nipah outbreaks).
• Human-to-human: Via bodily fluids, close contact, or respiratory droplets during caregiving.

Treatment and Prevention

• Treatment:
  • No specific vaccine or antiviral currently exists.
  • Management is symptomatic and supportive (respiratory support, ICU care).
• Prevention:
  • Vaccination of horses (in HeV-risk regions like Australia).
  • Avoiding contact with fruit bats and sick animals.
  • Isolating infected individuals and animals to prevent spread.

In News:

The 13th edition of Exercise Ekuverin, a bilateral joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), commenced in the Maldives on February 4, 2025. The exercise continues to reinforce defence and strategic ties between the two nations.

About Exercise Ekuverin

• Name Meaning: “Ekuverin” means ‘Friends’ in Dhivehi, the official language of the Maldives—symbolizing the deep and friendly defence partnership between India and the Maldives.
• First Conducted: The exercise was initiated in 2009 as part of annual bilateral defence cooperation.
• Venue Alternation: It is held alternatively in India and the Maldives every year.
  • 2023 Edition: Conducted at Chaubatia, Uttarakhand from June 11 to 24.
  • 2025 Edition: Being hosted in the Maldives.

Key Objectives and Features

• Military Interoperability: Enhances coordination and operational synergy between Indian and Maldivian armed forces.
• Counter-Insurgency and Counter-Terrorism (CI/CT): Focuses on joint tactical drills to counter modern asymmetric threats.
• Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR): Equips forces to respond effectively to natural disasters and humanitarian crises.
• Strengthening IOR Security: Reinforces regional maritime and strategic stability in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), a key area of India’s strategic interest.

Significance for India-Maldives Relations

• Strategic Partnership: Builds mutual trust and defence preparedness, aligning with India’s “Neighbourhood First” policy.
• Capacity Building: Helps enhance the capability of the MNDF through joint training with a larger and more experienced Indian Army.
• Regional Security Cooperation: Plays a crucial role in maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation in the IOR.

India’s Defence Engagement with Southeast Asia

India actively conducts multiple bilateral and multilateral defence exercises with Southeast Asian countries to enhance defence diplomacy and promote a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.

Key Defence Exercises with Southeast Asian Nations:

• Garuda Shakti: Special Forces exercise with Indonesia (Nov 2022, Sangga Buana Training Area).
• Mitra Shakti: Annual exercise with Sri Lanka, last held in 2022.
• VINBAX: India-Vietnam bilateral exercise; 3rd edition held in 2022.
• IMBEX: India-Myanmar bilateral exercise (last noted in 2017–18).
• Maitree: Joint annual military exercise with Thailand, conducted since 2006.
• CORPAT: Coordinated Patrols with Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia for maritime domain awareness and security.
• AIME 2023: The first ASEAN-India Maritime Exercise, conducted in May 2023, involving navies from India and ASEAN nations (Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam).

In News:

In a remarkable ornithological development, the Golden-headed Cisticola (Cisticola exilis) has been sighted in the Mathikettan Shola National Park, Idukki district, Kerala, marking its first recorded presence in the southern Western Ghats after a significant gap.

The finding underscores the ecological richness of the region and highlights the need for intensified avian research in the Western Ghats.

About Golden-headed Cisticola (Cisticola exilis)

• Also known as the bright-capped cisticola, it is a small warbler belonging to the family Cisticolidae.
• It is an omnivorous bird, feeding primarily on invertebrates such as insects and small slugs, along with grass seeds.
• The species is typically found in grassland habitats within mountain ranges, and has been previously recorded in parts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and northern Kerala, notably in Banasura Hills, Wayanad. However, this is the first confirmed sighting in the southern part of the Palakkad Gap.

Physical features of breeding males include:

• Golden-orange plumage on the head, neck, and chest
• Pinkish beaks
• Black streaks on the back
• A distinctive call that aids identification

Habitat and Distribution

• It is widely distributed across Australia and several Asian countries.
• In India, its presence had been limited to select regions of the Western Ghats, making its recent sighting in Mathikettan Shola both rare and ecologically significant.

Conservation Status

• According to the IUCN Red List, the Golden-headed Cisticola is classified as Least Concern. Despite this, the new finding calls for further research into its habitat preferences and conservation needs within India.

About Mathikettan Shola National Park

Located in the southern part of the Palakkad Gap in the Western Ghats of Kerala, Mathikettan Shola is a vital biodiversity hotspot.

• It comprises evergreen forests, moist deciduous forests, shola grasslands, and semi-evergreen vegetation.
• The park hosts three major streams: Uchillkuthi Puzha, Mathikettan Puzha, and Njandar, which are tributaries of the Panniyar River.
• Its highest point is Kattumala, located at the eastern border adjoining Tamil Nadu.
• The Muthavan tribal community resides near the park’s northeastern boundary, reflecting the intricate human-nature interface in the region.

Scientific and Conservation Importance

The rediscovery has been documented in the journal Malabar Trogon by the Malabar Natural History Society, bringing attention to the importance of long-term monitoring and baseline studies in underexplored ecosystems.

It emphasizes:

• The ecological richness of the Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• The importance of citizen science, as local birdwatchers played a key role in the finding.
• The need for enhanced habitat protection and ornithological research in grassland ecosystems of high-altitude regions.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) Digital Payments Index (DPI) rose to 465.33 as of September 2024, up from 445.5 in March 2024, indicating a sustained increase in the adoption and penetration of digital payments across India.

About the RBI-DPI

• Launched: January 2021
• Constructed by: Reserve Bank of India
• Purpose: To measure the extent and progress of digitisation of payments in India.
• Base Period: March 2018 (DPI Score = 100)
• Frequency of Publication: Semi-annually (March and September)

Significance of the Index

• Acts as a quantitative tool to monitor India’s progress in achieving a less-cash economy.
• Provides stakeholders, policymakers, and researchers a composite view of digital payment trends.
• Helps identify policy focus areas and gaps in digital infrastructure and adoption.
• Supports the goals of financial inclusion, innovation, and digital public infrastructure.

Recent Trends

• September 2024 DPI Score: 465.33
• March 2024 DPI Score: 445.5
• Implication: Demonstrates continued momentum in digital payment adoption, driven by improved payment infrastructure and payment performance nationwide.

Structure of the RBI-DPI

The index is composed of five broad parameters, each with defined weightages and sub-indicators:

Parameter                                                               Weightage         Description

1. Payment Enablers                                              25%                   Internet/mobile penetration, bank account ownership, Aadhaar usage.

2. Payment Infrastructure – Demand Side          10%                  Number of debit/credit cards, user demand for digital options.

3. Payment Infrastructure – Supply Side            15%                  Availability of POS machines, ATMs, bank branches, QR codes.

4. Payment Performance                                      45%                  Actual volume and value of digital transactions, currency usage trends.

5. Consumer Centricity                                        5%                    Digital payment awareness, fraud prevention, grievance redressal.

Each parameter is further broken down into measurable sub-indicators, offering a comprehensive framework for assessment.

Why RBI-DPI Matters for India

• Digital Transformation: Encourages the shift from cash to digital payments, aligning with the goals of Digital India.
• Policy Impact Assessment: Evaluates the effectiveness of regulatory and policy interventions in the payment ecosystem.
• Infrastructure Development: Reflects the outreach of digital payment infrastructure, aiding targeted investments.
• Financial Inclusion: Helps assess how digital modes are reaching the underserved and unbanked populations.
• Data-Driven Governance: Facilitates evidence-based decision-making in financial sector reforms.

In News:

The Ministry of Railways has launched a unified mobile application, SwaRail, currently in beta testing as of January 31, 2025.

This initiative aims to streamline access to Indian Railways services and enhance user experience by consolidating various apps into a single digital platform.

Key Highlights

What is SwaRail?

• SwaRail is a SuperApp developed by the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS).
• It serves as a comprehensive, one-stop solution for a wide range of Indian Railways services.
• The app is currently in beta testing and is available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Objective

• To integrate multiple railway-related services under a unified platform.
• To reduce app clutter and device storage consumption.
• To improve user experience through a seamless and intuitive interface.

Developed By: Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS)

• CRIS is an organization under the Ministry of Railways.
• It combines IT expertise with railway operational experience.
• CRIS is responsible for developing and maintaining software for core railway functions.

Services Offered via SwaRail

The SuperApp merges functionalities of multiple existing apps, offering:

1. Ticketing Services
   • Reserved ticket booking
   • Unreserved and platform ticket booking
2. Freight & Parcel Enquiries
   • Parcel booking status
   • Freight services information
3. Passenger Enquiries
   • Real-time train status
   • PNR enquiry (along with associated train details)
   • Train schedules
4. Onboard Services
   • Food ordering while traveling
   • Complaint redressal via Rail Madad

Notable Features of the SuperApp

Feature                                  Description

Single Sign-On                    Access all services using a single set of credentials

Unified App                         Combines multiple previously separate apps (e.g., IRCTC RailConnect, UTS)

Integrated Interface            Displays consolidated data like PNR + train info on the same screen

Easy Onboarding                Existing users can log in with RailConnect/UTS credentials

Multiple Login Modes        Supports m-PIN, biometric authentication, and OTP-based guest login

Smart Wallet Integration   Auto-linking of R-Wallets from UTS App for ticket booking transactions

User-Centric Approach

• The app is being actively tested, and users are encouraged to provide feedback during the beta phase.
• CRIS is monitoring performance and issues for improvement before the final public release.
• The government envisions technological integration to ensure efficient, smarter, and citizen-friendly rail services.

In News:

World Wetlands Day is observed every year on 2nd February to commemorate the adoption of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.

India has been a signatory to the Convention since 1982 and has actively worked towards the conservation and sustainable management of wetlands—critical ecosystems that serve as biodiversity hotspots, natural flood buffers, and carbon sinks.

Theme 2025: "Protecting Wetlands for Our Common Future"

The 2025 theme emphasizes collaborative efforts to protect wetlands to ensure ecological sustainability, biodiversity preservation, and long-term human well-being. It highlights the need for integrated management and foresight in conservation strategies.

Key Event: Parvati Arga Ramsar Site, Gonda, Uttar Pradesh

The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) organized the national-level celebrations of World Wetlands Day 2025 at the Parvati Arga Ramsar Site in Gonda district, Uttar Pradesh.

Significance of the Site

• Comprises two rain-fed oxbow lakes—Parvati and Arga—located in the terai region of the Gangetic plains.
• Supports endangered and critically endangered species like the white-rumped vulture, Indian vulture, and Egyptian vulture.
• Attracts migratory birds such as Eurasian coots, greylag geese, northern pintails, and red-crested pochards.
• Threatened by invasive species, notably the common water hyacinth.
• The nearby Tikri Forest is being developed as an eco-tourism site, and a nature-culture tourism corridor is planned between Ayodhya and Devi Patan.

Cultural and Economic Value

• The area includes heritage sites such as the birthplaces of Maharishi Patanjali and Goswami Tulsidas, enhancing its potential as a religious and cultural tourism hub.
• A MoU between Amazon and ARGA (UP Government initiative) aims to empower women entrepreneurs through digital training and market access under Amazon’s Saheli programme.

India's Wetland Landscape and New Ramsar Sites (2025 Update)

India’s tally of Ramsar Sites has risen to 89, with four new additions:

1. Udhwa Lake – Jharkhand (first Ramsar site for the state)
2. Theerthangal – Tamil Nadu
3. Sakkarakottai – Tamil Nadu
4. Khecheopalri – Sikkim (first Ramsar site for the state)

• Tamil Nadu leads with 20 Ramsar Sites, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 10 sites.
• Total area under Ramsar protection in India is now approximately 1.358 million hectares.

Amrit Dharohar Initiative

Launched in June 2023, the Amrit Dharohar initiative promotes conservation and sustainable use of Ramsar Sites over three years. It aligns with Budget 2023–24 announcements and focuses on:

1. Species and Habitat Conservation
2. Nature Tourism
3. Wetlands-based Livelihoods
4. Wetlands and Carbon Mitigation

The initiative encourages convergence among central ministries, state authorities, and community stakeholders.

Workshops and Public Engagement

A regional workshop for Northern States was organized on 1st February 2025, with participants from nine states and UTs, highlighting collaborative models in wetland management. The main event also included:

• Exhibitions on eco-friendly products, wetland conservation, and green skills.
• Launch of publications like the Integrated Management Plan for Parvati Arga, Factbook of India’s 85 Ramsar Sites, and Development of Van Taungya Villages.
• Felicitation of painting, quiz, and Nukkad Natak competition winners, promoting grassroots awareness.

Significance of Wetlands in India

Wetlands are water-covered ecosystems, either permanently or seasonally flooded. They:

• Support rich biodiversity, including migratory birds and aquatic species.
• Recharge groundwater and regulate floods.
• Provide livelihoods through fisheries and tourism.
• Act as natural carbon sinks, aiding in climate change mitigation.

Major Threats

• Pollution from industrial and domestic effluents
• Encroachment and urbanization
• Invasive species

In News:

India recently dispatched a humanitarian shipment of medical supplies to the Kurdistan Region in Iraq, reflecting its commitment to global cooperation and humanitarian diplomacy.

About the Kurdistan Region

• Geographical Spread: The Kurdistan Region is a culturally and geographically distinct area predominantly inhabited by ethnic Kurds, spread across:
  • Northern Iraq (Erbil, Sulaymaniyah, Dohuk, Halabja)
  • Eastern Turkey
  • Western Iran
  • Northern Syria and parts of Armenia
• Capital: Erbil (Iraq)
• Terrain: Dominated by the Zagros and Taurus mountain systems
• Major Rivers: Tigris River and Greater Zab River, crucial for agriculture and settlement

Ethnic and Political Context

• Kurds: An ethnic group of 25–30 million people, mostly Sunni Muslims, with no official nation-state. They seek autonomy or independence through the Kurdish nationalist movement.
• Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG): An autonomous administration in northern Iraq, managing the Kurd-majority areas with limited sovereignty under Iraq’s federal system.
• Geopolitical Significance:
  • Rich in oil and natural gas, especially in Iraqi Kurdistan
  • Strategically located, controlling key border regions and trade routes
  • Kurdish militia (Peshmerga) played a critical role in the fight against ISIS

Ongoing Political Disputes

• Kurdish Independence Movement:
  • The 2017 independence referendum in Iraqi Kurdistan was rejected by Baghdad, followed by economic and military backlash.
  • Kurds face resistance from Iraq, Turkey, Iran, and Syria, which fear territorial fragmentation.
  • Turkey regularly conducts military operations against Kurdish groups, labeling them as threats to national security.

India-Kurdistan Relations

• Diplomatic Presence: India established a Consulate in Erbil in August 2016 to deepen ties with the Kurdistan Region and Iraq.
• Economic and Workforce Engagement:
  • Indian companies have participated in trade fairs in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah.
  • A growing number of Indian workers are employed in sectors like:
    • Steel mills
    • Oil companies
    • Construction projects
  • Indian workers are valued for their skills and reliability in these industries.

In News:

The Economic Survey 2024–25 cautions against the risks of excessive financialisation in India, emphasizing that while finance is a crucial enabler of economic growth, unchecked expansion of the financial sector can pose systemic risks, increase inequality, and divert resources from the real economy.

What is Financialisation?

Financialisation refers to the growing dominance of financial markets, institutions, and motives in shaping economic policies, business decisions, and resource allocation. It involves:

• A shift from productive (real sector) activities like manufacturing to financial activities, including trading, speculation, and asset management.
• Increasing reliance on asset price growth (e.g., stocks, real estate) to stimulate the economy.
• Deep influence of financial motives in corporate governance, economic policies, and household behavior.

Key Drivers of Financialisation in India

• Increased household savings funneled into stock markets.
• Growing retail investor participation in equities and mutual funds.
• Policy and regulation increasingly influenced by financial market considerations.
• Rising public and private sector debt to leverage economic growth.

Risks Highlighted by the Economic Survey

• Real Sector Crowding Out: Over-expansion of the financial sector may compete with the real economy for scarce resources like skilled labour and capital, potentially depriving productive sectors.
• Unsustainable Booms: Rapid financial growth often favours high-collateral, low-productivity investments (e.g., construction) over innovation and manufacturing, creating unsustainable financial booms.
• Complex Financial Products: Proliferation of opaque and complex financial instruments can increase consumer risk exposure and the probability of a financial crisis, as seen during the 2008 global financial meltdown.
• Increased Inequality: Financialisation tends to transfer income from the real sector to the financial sector, worsening income inequality and contributing to wage stagnation.
• Debt Dependency: Over-reliance on financial leverage (debt) increases macro-financial vulnerabilities, especially if credit growth outpaces productive investment.

Global Lessons and Historical Context

• 2008 Global Financial Crisis: Reckless lending and financial engineering, including mortgage-backed securities, led to a global economic collapse. India was impacted indirectly, prompting RBI intervention to stabilise the economy.
• Examples from Ireland & Thailand: Rapid growth of private credit in these countries led to reduced productivity and economic distortions, serving as cautionary tales.

Balanced View on Finance

The Survey recognizes that a well-regulated financial system plays a vital role in:

• Channeling capital to innovative and high-risk ventures.
• Reducing transaction costs and improving price discovery.
• Alleviating poverty and inequality by enabling shock absorption for households and firms.
• Smoothing consumption across economic cycles.

However, the Survey emphasizes that there is a tipping point beyond which financial development becomes counterproductive.

In News:

The Economic Survey 2024–25 underscores the adverse impact of Ultra-Processed Foods (UPFs) on public health, particularly among children and youth, and calls for urgent regulatory intervention.

Key Recommendations

• Stringent Front-of-the-Pack Labelling (FOPL): The Survey advocates for clear, enforceable FOPL rules to inform consumers, curb misleading nutrition claims, and restrict aggressive marketing, especially those targeted at children and adolescents.
• Stronger Role for FSSAI: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is advised to:
  • Define UPFs clearly in regulation.
  • Establish labelling standards.
  • Monitor compliance of branded products.
• ‘Health Tax’ Proposal: The Survey proposes higher taxes on UPFs, especially brands engaging in excessive advertising, to act as a deterrent and promote healthier food choices.
• Awareness and Education: It recommends targeted awareness campaigns in schools and colleges, integrated with broader health and lifestyle campaigns, to reduce the rising consumption of UPFs.

Why this matter

• Rising Consumption: According to a 2023 WHO report, India’s UPF consumption grew from $900 million (2006) to over $37.9 billion (2019).
• Long-term National Impact: India's ?2,50,000 crore UPF industry is built on hyper-palatability and is a threat to India’s demographic dividend, productivity, and future economic growth.

Health Risks of UPFs

• Directly linked to:
  • Obesity
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Colorectal cancer
  • Respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders
  • Mental health issues, especially among youth
• Poor dietary intake due to UPFs contributes to micronutrient deficiencies, while synthetic additives may have long-term biological impacts.

What are Ultra-Processed Foods?

UPFs are industrial formulations that undergo extensive processing and typically include:

• Artificial flavours, colours, preservatives, emulsifiers, sweeteners, and other cosmetic additives.
• High sugar, salt, and fat content for taste enhancement.
• Low in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fibre.
• Designed for convenience and high palatability, often leading to overconsumption.

Examples of Ultra-Processed Foods

(As per Indian Council of Medical Research - ICMR):

• Commercial bakery items: bread, cakes, biscuits, breakfast cereals
• Snack foods: chips, fries
• Condiments: sauces, jams, mayonnaise
• Dairy & protein products: processed cheese, butter, protein powders, soy chunks, tofu
• Frozen and ready-to-eat foods with additives
• Beverages: energy drinks, health drinks, sweetened fruit juices
• Refined flours of cereals, millets, legumes
• Culinary ingredients containing cosmetic additives like artificial colours or emulsifiers

In News:

The Government of India has added four new Ramsar sites, increasing the total to 89, the highest in Asia and third globally. The newly designated wetlands include:

• Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Therthangal Bird Sanctuary (Tamil Nadu)
• Khecheopalri Wetland (Sikkim)
• Udhwa Lake (Jharkhand)

This marks a significant milestone as Sikkim and Jharkhand have received their first Ramsar recognitions, while Tamil Nadu strengthens its lead with 20 Ramsar sites, the most among Indian states.

About the Ramsar Convention

• Adopted: 1971 in Ramsar, Iran
• Objective: Conservation and wise use of wetlands through local, national, and international cooperation.
• World Wetlands Day: Celebrated on 2nd February to promote awareness.

Key Highlights:

Therthangal Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Notified in 2010; covers 29.29 ha.
• Crucial breeding and foraging site for waterbirds like Spot-billed Pelican, Black-headed Ibis, and Oriental Darter.
• Aids groundwater recharge and climate regulation.
• Part of the Central Asian Flyway.

Sakkarakottai Bird Sanctuary – Tamil Nadu

• Notified in 2012; spans 230.49 ha.
• Located near Gulf of Mannar; significant stopover for migratory birds.
• Hosts endemic species and near-threatened fauna like Lion-tailed Macaque and Giant Squirrel.

Khecheopalri Wetland – Sikkim

• Sacred lake revered by Buddhists and Hindus; called Sho Dzo Sho locally.
• Known as a wish-fulfilling lake.
• Birds prevent leaves from settling on the surface.
• Rich in avifauna: fishing eagles, Brahminy kites.
• Integral to ecotourism and biodiversity conservation.

Udhwa Lake – Jharkhand

• Comprises Pataura Jheel (155 ha) and Brahma Jamalpur Jheel (410 ha).
• First Ramsar site of Jharkhand; near Ganga River.
• Declared a bird sanctuary in 1991; attracts migratory birds from September onwards.
  Falls under the Gangetic Plains biogeographic zone.

In News:

The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MoMSME), in collaboration with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), has launched the Trade Enablement and Marketing (TEAM) Initiative. It aims to promote digital commerce among micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in India.

Key Features of TEAM Initiative

• Scheme Under: Raising and Accelerating MSME Productivity (RAMP) Programme
  • RAMP is a World Bank-supported Central Sector Scheme implemented from 2022–2027 to enhance market access, technology upgradation, and financial inclusion for MSMEs.
• Objective:
  • To empower MSEs through digital commerce integration using ONDC.
  • To formalize operations, reduce the cost of doing business, and expand market access.
  • To ensure inclusivity with 50% of beneficiaries being women-led enterprises.
• Budget & Duration:
  • ?277.35 crore over three years (FY 2024–25 to FY 2026–27).
• Target Beneficiaries:
  • 5 lakh MSEs (50% women-led).
  • Eligibility: Registered MSEs in manufacturing or service sectors with valid Udyam Registration. Medium enterprises are excluded from most benefits.
• Implementing Agency:
  • National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC)