In News:

The Government of India, through the Ministry of Finance, has implemented the "One State, One RRB" policy effective from May 1, 2025, aimed at consolidating 26 Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) across 10 states and 1 Union Territory, thereby reducing the total number of RRBs to 28. This move follows the recommendation of the Dr. Vyas Committee and is intended to enhance the performance and outreach of RRBs.

Objectives of the Policy

• Improve operational efficiency and governance.
• Rationalize costs and optimize resources (human and technological).
• Eliminate intra-state competition among sponsor banks.
• Promote uniform service delivery through technological integration.

About Regional Rural Banks (RRBs)

• Established: 1975 under the Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976.
• Recommended by: Narasimham Committee (1975).
• Ownership Pattern:
  • Government of India – 50%
  • State Government – 15%
  • Sponsor Bank – 35%

Regulatory Structure

• Regulated by: Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Supervised by: NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development)

Role and Objectives

• Provide institutional credit to rural India.
• Support priority sectors like agriculture, MSMEs, and rural artisans.
• Ensure financial inclusion among farmers, labourers, and small entrepreneurs.

Impact of the Reform

• Operational Scale: Enhanced credit delivery across wider geographies.
• Technological Standardization: Easier integration of IT infrastructure.
• Unified Governance: One sponsor bank per state improves accountability.
• Performance: RRBs recorded an all-time high net profit of ?7,571 crore in FY 2023–24.
• Asset Quality: GNPA (Gross Non-Performing Assets) stood at 6.1%, the lowest in a decade.

In News:

The Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD) is spearheading a dual approach to address malnutrition and childcare challenges in India through two flagship initiatives—Poshan Pakhwada 2025 and the Palna Scheme under Mission Shakti.

Poshan Pakhwada 2025

• 7th edition observed from April 8–22, 2025, under Poshan Abhiyaan.
• Focuses on four key themes:
  • Nutrition in the first 1,000 days (conception to age two).
  • Promotion of the Poshan Tracker digital platform.
  • Community-based Management of Acute Malnutrition (CMAM).
  • Encouraging a healthy lifestyle to reduce childhood obesity.
• Poshan Tracker App (AI-enabled; launched in 2021):
  • Registers all Anganwadi Centres (AWCs).
  • Enables real-time monitoring of beneficiaries, meal distribution, and health data.
  • Allows family self-registration via web.
• CMAM protocol (introduced in 2023): Empowers Anganwadi workers to detect and manage malnutrition at the grassroots.
• Special focus on tribal and remote areas, promoting awareness on breastfeeding, balanced diets, and early stimulation.
• Campaign supported by 18 partner ministries, with outreach via village camps, home visits, and awareness drives.

Palna Scheme under Mission Shakti

• Centrally sponsored scheme launched in 2022, succeeding the National Crèche Scheme.
• Operates under the Samarthya sub-scheme of Mission Shakti.
• Aims to provide quality crèche services for children aged 6 months to 6 years, especially for working mothers.

Key Features:

• Implemented by: Ministry of Women and Child Development (MoWCD).
• Funding Ratio:
  • 60:40 (Centre: State),
  • 90:10 for NE and special category states.
• Two crèche models:

• Standalone Crèches near homes/workplaces.
• Anganwadi-cum-Crèches (AWCCs) integrated within Anganwadi Centres.

• Facilities Provided:
  • Nutritional meals, growth monitoring, immunization.
  • Early stimulation and pre-school education.
  • Support for continued breastfeeding.
• Crèche Capacity: Each unit supports up to 25 children.
• As of March 2025:
  • 11,395 AWCCs approved across 34 States/UTs; 1,761 operational, catering to ~28,783 children.
  • 1,284 Standalone Crèches operational with ~23,368 children enrolled.
  • 17,000 new AWCCs planned for 2024–25.
• Legal Backing: Mandated in workplaces with 50+ employees under the Maternity Benefit Act (amended).

Significance for India

Together, Poshan Pakhwada and Palna contribute to achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being) by ensuring a lifecycle approach to nutrition and holistic early childhood care. They reflect the government's commitment to digital governance, gender empowerment, and inclusive development.

In News:

• The 6th BIMSTEC Summit is scheduled for April 4, 2025, in Bangkok, Thailand, under the theme "Prosperous, Resilient, and Open BIMSTEC."
• It aims to deepen cooperation among member states on trade, security, connectivity, and sustainable development, while endorsing the long-term roadmap titled Bangkok Vision 2030.

About BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation)

• Established: 6 June 1997 (via Bangkok Declaration)
• Initial Name: BIST-EC (Bangladesh, India, Sri Lanka, Thailand Economic Cooperation)
• Evolution:
  • Renamed BIMST-EC in 1997 with Myanmar’s inclusion
  • Full members as of 2004: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand
• Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh (Operational since 2014)
• Chairmanship: Rotational, alphabetical order
• Structure: Guided by the BIMSTEC Charter (adopted in 2022)

Objectives and Strategic Focus

• Foster economic and technical cooperation among littoral states of the Bay of Bengal
• Promote collaboration in trade, energy, transport, security, technology, and environmental protection
• Enhance regional connectivity through infrastructure, digital links, and maritime transport
• Address shared challenges like terrorism, poverty, natural disasters, and climate change
• Strengthen people-to-people exchanges and institutional frameworks

Highlights of the 6th Summit

• Follows the 5th Summit held virtually in Colombo (2022)
• Preceded by:
  • Senior Officials’ Meeting (April 2, 2025)
  • Foreign/External Affairs Ministers’ Meeting (April 3, 2025)

Key Agendas and Agreements:

• 6th BIMSTEC Summit Declaration – outlining vision and action points
• Bangkok Vision 2030 – strategic roadmap for future cooperation
• Agreement on Maritime Transport Cooperation – enhancing cargo and passenger movement across Bay of Bengal
• MoUs with:
  • Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)
  • United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC)
• Rules of Procedure for BIMSTEC Mechanisms – to operationalize the 2022 Charter
• Report of the Eminent Persons Group – outlines BIMSTEC's future direction; implementation has begun

Sectoral Priorities

• Reforms in 2021 streamlined BIMSTEC’s focus to seven core sectors:
  • Trade, Investment and Development
  • Environment and Climate Change
  • Security and Counter-Terrorism
  • Agriculture and Food Security
  • Connectivity
  • People-to-People Contact
  • Science, Technology and Innovation
• Emerging Focus Areas: Blue Economy and Disaster Risk Management

Significance

• Geostrategic Bridge: Connects South Asia and Southeast Asia, supplementing SAARC and ASEAN efforts
• Reinforces BIMSTEC’s role as the sole regional platform in the Bay of Bengal
• Strengthens institutional architecture for regional peace, prosperity, and resilience

Background:

The Chagos Archipelago, a remote group of over 60 islands in the Indian Ocean, has been at the center of a decades-long sovereignty dispute between the United Kingdom and Mauritius. The UK separated the islands from Mauritius in 1965, three years before Mauritius gained independence, and established the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT).

In the 1970s, the UK allowed the United States to build a military base on Diego Garcia, the largest island in the archipelago. The local Chagossian population was displaced, leading to international criticism and legal challenges.

Recent Development

In May 2025, the UK government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, agreed to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius. The agreement follows the 2019 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and United Nations resolutions urging the UK to end its colonial administration of the islands.

Key Provisions of the Treaty

• Sovereignty Transfer: Mauritius regains control over the Chagos Archipelago, including Diego Garcia.
• Lease Agreement: The UK will lease back Diego Garcia from Mauritius for 99 years, paying approximately:
  • £101–136 million annually, totaling over £3 billion ($4 billion) across the lease term.
• Strategic Base Retained: The US-UK military base on Diego Garcia will continue operating. It is vital for counter-terrorism, surveillance, and regional stability in South Asia, the Middle East, and East Africa.

Geographical Significance

• The Chagos Islands lie about 500 km south of the Maldives and are part of the Chagos–Laccadive Ridge.
• It is the southernmost archipelago of the ridge and is located over 9,000 km southeast of the UK.
• Major islands: Salomon Islands, PerosBanhos, Diego Garcia.

Strategic and Military Importance

• Diego Garcia serves as a key US military outpost, supporting operations in multiple global regions.
• Described as an “almost indispensable platform”, the base has hosted long-range bombers and surveillance missions.
• Recently, it has been used for nuclear-capable bomber deployments and airstrike missions.

Local and International Reactions

• Mauritius: The agreement is celebrated as the completion of its decolonisation process. Chagossian exiles expressed joy over the chance to return to their ancestral lands.
• India: Strongly supported the sovereignty restoration, aligning with its principles on decolonisation, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. India views the resolution as a positive development for Indian Ocean regional stability.

Criticism and Concerns

• Some UK opposition leaders raised concerns about national security and financial burden on taxpayers.
• There are apprehensions about Mauritius’s close trade ties with China, though the deal includes safeguards against “malign influence.”

In News:

In a significant breakthrough for clean energy technology, Indian scientists have engineered a metal-free catalyst capable of generating hydrogen fuel by harnessing mechanical energy. This innovation marks a major step forward in sustainable hydrogen production, aligning closely with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and its goal to lead in green energy solutions.

What is the Metal-Free Catalyst?

The catalyst is a specially designed donor-acceptor covalent organic framework (COF) that functions as a piezocatalyst without relying on any metal components. It can efficiently split water molecules to produce hydrogen gas (H?) when subjected to mechanical forces such as vibrations or pressure.

Development and Collaboration

This pioneering catalyst was developed at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bengaluru, under the leadership of Professor Tapas K. Maji. The project was carried out in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune and Wroc?aw University of Science and Technology in Poland.

Key Features of the Catalyst

• Metal-Free Composition: Made entirely from organic molecules, specifically TAPA (donor) and PDA (acceptor), connected through stable imide bonds.
• Ferrielectric Ordering (FiE): This internal property creates strong electric fields within the material, driving the catalytic water-splitting process.
• Porous, Sponge-like Structure: Enhances water permeability and promotes efficient separation of charges generated during the reaction.
• Mechanically Activated: The catalyst produces electron-hole pairs when exposed to mechanical pressure, enabling effective hydrogen generation.

Significance and Impact

• Environmentally Friendly: Eliminates the need for expensive and potentially harmful metal-based catalysts by using sustainable organic materials.
• Energy-Efficient: Utilizes ambient mechanical energy sources, such as vibrations or applied pressure, to power hydrogen production.
• Supports India’s Clean Energy Goals: Advances the objectives of the National Green Hydrogen Mission, strengthening India’s position in global clean energy innovation and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
• Scalable and Cost-Effective: Offers a practical and affordable alternative to conventional metal-based hydrogen production technologies, making it suitable for widespread adoption.

In News:

After nearly 30 years of absence, the Red-Crowned Roofed Turtle (Batagurkachuga) has been rediscovered in the Ganga River — a significant success for conservation efforts aimed at reviving endangered freshwater species.

Overview

• Commonly known as the Bengal Roof Turtle, it is a rare species of freshwater turtle found only in South Asia.
• Scientific Name: Batagurkachuga

Geographical Distribution

• Native Range: India, Nepal, and Bangladesh.
• Historical Presence: Widely distributed across the Ganga River system in India and Bangladesh, with additional presence in the Brahmaputra River basin.
• Current Habitat in India: The most viable population is now confined to the National Chambal Sanctuary, a protected riverine stretch for species like gharials and turtles.

Distinctive Features

• Size: Medium-sized species, females can grow up to 56 cm in length and weigh up to 25 kg, while males are significantly smaller.
• Coloration: Notable for their reddish-orange head marked with a black crown, and a greenish-brown carapace patterned with yellow streaks.
• Plastron (under-shell): Yellow with distinctive black markings.
• Adaptations: Possess a broad head, strong jaws, and webbed feet, suited for an aquatic lifestyle.
• Diet: Omnivorous — consumes both plant material and small aquatic organisms.

Conservation Status

• IUCN Red List: Critically Endangered
• Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Listed under Schedule I – providing the highest level of legal protection in India.
• CITES: Included in Appendix II, regulating international trade.

In News:

The government has introduced the Aadhaar Governance Portal, a new initiative developed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). This platform is designed to streamline the approval process for Aadhaar authentication requests and further enhance citizen services.

Key Features:

• Simplified Authentication Process: The portal offers a step-by-step guide to help both government and private entities apply for Aadhaar authentication. It aims to improve the overall delivery of services, reducing administrative delays.
• Seamless Onboarding: Entities can now access detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for onboarding Aadhaar authentication services. The portal serves as a comprehensive resource for entities seeking authentication approval.
• Wide Applications Across Sectors: The portal will be used for Aadhaar authentication in multiple sectors, including healthcare, education, e-commerce, and hospitality. It enables citizens to access essential services with ease.
• Face Authentication: The integration of face authentication in customer-facing applications will allow for anytime, anywhere authentication, enhancing the flexibility and accessibility of services.

Impact on Governance:

This initiative comes as part of the government's broader agenda to support good governance through technology and improve the delivery of welfare services. The new rules, introduced under the Aadhaar Authentication for Good Governance (Social Welfare, Innovation, Knowledge) Rules, 2025, aim to enhance service delivery and simplify processes for both citizens and service providers.

Role of Aadhaar:

Aadhaar, a 12-digit unique identification number, serves as proof of identity linked to an individual’s biometric and demographic information. Launched by UIDAI in 2009, Aadhaar has become integral to the delivery of government services and is now widely used by private entities for identification purposes.

With its ability to ensure verified identities, Aadhaar is crucial for streamlining processes in sectors ranging from welfare distribution to digital banking.

In News:

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has unveiled its first in-house quantum computing chip, Ocelot, aimed at significantly reducing the development time for commercially viable quantum computers.

Key Highlights:

• Developed By: AWS Center for Quantum Computing at the California Institute of Technology.
• Objective: To accelerate the development of scalable and error-resilient quantum computers using novel architecture.

What is Ocelot?

• Type: Prototype quantum computing chip.
• Technology: Utilizes “cat” qubits—named after Schrödinger’s cat paradox—to suppress certain types of quantum errors intrinsically.
• Efficiency: Achieves 1 logical qubit using only 9 physical qubits, compared to the industry norm of ~1 million physical qubits for similar output.

Technical Features:

• Chip Design:
  • Dual silicon microchips (~1 sq. cm each) stacked together.
  • 14 core components:
    • 5 cat qubits (for data storage),
    • 5 buffer circuits (for qubit stabilization),
    • 4 ancillary qubits (for error detection).
• Material Used: Standard chip fabrication techniques with tantalum.

Significance:

• Developmental Impact:
  • Expected to reduce quantum computer development timelines by 5–10 years.
  • Enables building practical quantum systems with around 100,000 qubits instead of the previously assumed 1 million.
• Potential Applications:
  • Advanced drug discovery,
  • New material development (e.g., batteries),
  • Financial modeling, and
  • Climate simulations.
• Strategic Implication: Strengthens Amazon’s position in the global quantum computing race alongside rivals like Google, Microsoft, and PsiQuantum.

Understanding Quantum Chips:

• Qubits vs Classical Bits:
  • Classical bits = 0 or 1;
  • Qubits = 0 and 1 simultaneously (superposition).
• Entanglement:Interlinked qubits can influence each other instantly, enhancing computational capacity.
• Quantum Gates:Operations are performed via gates like Hadamard, CNOT, and Pauli.
• Error Correction:Quantum systems are fragile; Ocelot’s built-in cat qubit architecture enhances stability and reliability.

In News:

Launched in August 2018 by the Ministry of Culture, the SevaBhoj Yojana is a Central Sector Scheme aimed at supporting charitable and religious institutions that provide free food (langar, prasad, bhandara) to the public without discrimination.

Key Highlights:

• The scheme provides reimbursement of the Central Government’s share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST) paid on the purchase of specific raw food items used in preparing meals.
• Objectives of the Scheme
  • Reduce the financial burden on charitable/religious institutions engaged in feeding the public.
  • Encourage the tradition of community kitchens and public service across diverse religious institutions.
  • Promote inclusive religious philanthropy while ensuring transparency and accountability in public spending.

Key Features

Feature                                                              Details

Launched By                                                   Ministry of Culture, Government of India

Year of Launch                                               August 2018

Target Beneficiaries                                  Temples, Gurudwaras, Mosques, Churches, Ashrams, Monasteries, etc.

Reimbursed Taxes                                      CGST and Central Share of IGST

Scope of Benefit                                             Raw food items used for free food distribution

Coverage Threshold                                   Institutions must serve free food to at least 5000 people/month

Required Duration of Operation         Minimum 3 years of continuous food service

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the scheme, institutions must:

• Serve free food to a minimum of 5,000 people per month.
• Be in operation for at least three years prior to application.
• Be registered under:
  • Section 10 or 12AA of the Income Tax Act, or
  • Societies Registration Act, or
  • Relevant public trust laws, or
  • Statutory religious bodies constituted under law.
• Possess a District Magistrate’s certificate confirming their ongoing food distribution service.

Implementation Mechanism

The scheme ensures transparency and streamlined reimbursement through a digital and multi-tier process:

• Institutions register on the NGO Darpan Portal of NITI Aayog.
• Apply through the Central Sector Monitoring System (CSMS) Portal of the Ministry of Culture.
• Submit relevant documents to the Nodal Central Tax Officer in their State/UT.
• On verification, a Unique Identity Number (UIN) is issued.
• Verified tax claims are forwarded by the concerned GST Authority to the Ministry.
• The Ministry releases the sanctioned amount to the GST Authority, which reimburses the institution.

Governance and Outreach

• The Ministry promotes the scheme through official websites and social media platforms.
• Efforts are made to ensure equitable representation of all religions and communities.
• As of January 2025, several institutions across states have benefited from the scheme, though individual beneficiary counts are not collected.

In News:

In a significant stride toward sustainable healthcare and waste management, India launched its first indigenous Automated Biomedical Waste Treatment Plant, named S?janam, on April 13, 2025, at AIIMS, New Delhi.

Developed by the CSIR-National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram, under the Ministry of Science & Technology, this innovative rig marks a paradigm shift in handling biomedical waste, moving away from conventional, polluting incineration techniques.

Why this matter?

India generates approximately 743 tonnes of biomedical waste daily (CPCB, 2023). Safe disposal has been a persistent challenge due to limited infrastructure, high costs, and environmental concerns. The launch of S?janam aligns with the government’s push for “Waste to Wealth” and environmentally responsible healthcare infrastructure, as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swachh Bharat initiatives.

What is S?janam?

• An automated, eco-friendly biomedical waste treatment rig.
• Designed to disinfect pathogenic waste like blood, urine, sputum, and lab disposables.
• Does not use incinerators, which release toxic emissions such as dioxins and furans.

Key Features & Capacity

Feature                                                 Details

Disinfection Process                    Non-incineration, antimicrobial treatment

Daily Treatment Capacity       400 kg of total biomedical waste

Organic Waste Handling           Initially handles 10 kg/day of degradable medical waste

Environmental Safety                   Neutralizes foul odor; releases pleasant fragrance

Health Safety                                       Minimizes human exposure and risk of contamination

Validation                                               Third-party tested; treated material safer than organic vermicompost

Significance for Public Health and Environment

• Reduces dependency on expensive, energy-intensive incinerators.
• Eco-friendly solution that prevents toxic emissions and groundwater contamination.
• Aligns with Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016, which mandate safe segregation, treatment, and disposal.
• Enhances India’s capability to respond to health crises (e.g., pandemics), where waste generation spikes.

Strategic Implications

• Promotes indigenous technological innovation under “Make in India.”
• Offers a scalable solution for both urban and rural healthcare setups.
• Contributes to India’s climate commitments by cutting healthcare-related emissions.

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 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 Payment System Report – December 2024 is a bi-annual publication by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

It analyses trends in digital and retail payment systems over the last five calendar years (up to CY-2024) and highlights India's transformation into a global leader in payment innovation and inclusion.

Growth in Digital Transactions

• Exponential Growth: Digital payment transactions rose 94 times in volume (from 222 crore in 2013 to 20,787 crore in 2024) and 3.5 times in value (from ?772 lakh crore to ?2,758 lakh crore).
• Recent CAGR (2019–2024):
  • Volume: 45.9% CAGR
  • Value: 10.2% CAGR
• Retail Digital Payments: From 162 crore transactions in FY13 to 16,416 crore in FY24 — a 100-fold increase in 12 years.
• Digital Payments Index (DPI): Surged from a base of 100 in March 2018 to 445.50 in March 2024, indicating massive digital adoption.

UPI: A Game-Changer

• Launched in 2016 by NPCI, UPI has revolutionized mobile-based payments.
• CAGR (Last 5 Years):
  • Volume: 74.03%
  • Value: 68.14%
• Monthly Transactions: UPI processes over 16 billion transactions monthly, ranking among the largest globally.
• Inclusive Innovations:
  • UPI Lite & UPI Lite X: For offline/small-value payments.
  • UPI123Pay: For feature phone users.
  • UPI 2.0: Includes auto-debit and recurring payment functionalities.

Credit and Debit Card Trends

• Credit Cards:
  • Growth: More than doubled from 5.53 crore (Dec 2019) to 10.80 crore (Dec 2024).
• Debit Cards:
  • Stable Usage: Marginal increase from 80.53 crore to 99.09 crore in the same period.

Cross-Border Payment Integration

• RBI is actively enhancing cross-border payments by integrating India's UPI with international Fast Payment Systems (FPSs), addressing high costs, delays, and limited access.
• Key Developments:
  • UPI-PayNow Linkage (Feb 2023): India-Singapore real-time cross-border payments.
  • UPI-enabled QR Payments: Available in Bhutan, France, Mauritius, Nepal, Singapore, Sri Lanka, UAE.
• Project Nexus:
  • A BIS-conceptualized multilateral project.
  • Aims to interlink FPSs of India, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand for seamless retail payments.

Institutional and Legal Framework

• Legal Backbone: Payments and Settlement Systems Act, 2007 (PSS Act) empowers RBI to:
  • Regulate, supervise, and license payment system operators.
  • Authorize systems like NPCI, card networks, ATM operators, etc.
• Governing Body:
  • Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems (BPSS) under RBI.
  • Chairperson: RBI Governor; Vice-Chairperson: Deputy Governor (in charge of DPSS).
• Payment Ecosystem Entities:
  • RBI-regulated: RTGS, NEFT, Cheques (CTS).
  • NPCI-managed: UPI, IMPS, AePS, BBPS, NETC, NACH, Cards.
  • Other PSOs: TReDS, PPIs.

Strategic Significance

• Financial Inclusion: Payment systems are critical tools for promoting inclusive growth by ensuring last-mile delivery of services and direct benefit transfers.
• Global Competitiveness: RBI’s regulatory foresight and innovation have placed India among the global frontrunners in digital payments.

In News:

India is set to deploy its first human-operated deep-sea submersible as part of the Deep Ocean Mission (DOM), marking a significant leap in the country’s marine research and technological capability.

Key Highlights:

• Submersible Deployment (2024):
  • India will operate its first human submersible at a depth of 500 meters this year.
  • The goal is to reach a depth of 6,000 meters by 2025.
  • The project aligns with the timelines of Gaganyaan, India’s first human space mission—showcasing parallel progress in marine and space technology.
• Indigenous Technology:
  • The mission is powered by 100% indigenous technology, underlining India’s growing self-reliance in high-end scientific infrastructure.

About Deep Ocean Mission (DOM):

• Launched: 2021
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
• Budget: ?4,077 crore over five years
• Framework: One of nine key missions under PM-STIAC (Prime Minister’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council)

Core Objectives:

• Develop deep-sea technologies, including a manned submersible for ocean exploration.
• Explore and harness ocean resources such as: Polymetallic nodules, Hydrothermal sulphides & Rare earth metals
• Study marine biodiversity for sustainable fisheries and conservation.
• Support India’s blue economy through innovation and research.
• Monitor ocean climate change and develop advisory services.
• Promote marine biology and biotechnology via dedicated marine research stations.
• Harvest renewable energy and freshwater from ocean sources.

Key Components and Technologies:

Matsya6000 Submersible:

• India’s first manned deep-sea vehicle.
• Designed to reach 6,000 meters depth.
• Crew Capacity: Three members
• Developed by: National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT), Chennai
• Structure: Made of titanium alloy, withstanding 6,000 bar pressure
• Equipped with: Scientific sensors, tools for sampling, viewports, propellers, and acoustic communication systems.
• Combines capabilities of ROVs (Remotely Operated Vehicles) and AUVs (Autonomous Underwater Vehicles).

Varaha Deep-Ocean Mining System:

• Developed by NIOT
• Successfully conducted trials at 5,270 meters
• Key to India’s future in deep-sea mining of critical minerals

Strategic Importance:

• Scientific Advancement: DOM places India among a select group of nations (USA, Russia, China, France, Japan) with human-crewed deep-ocean exploration capacity.
• Economic Potential: Unlocks access to underwater mineral wealth, critical for electronics, defense, and energy sectors.
• Environmental Sustainability: Supports marine biodiversity conservation and promotes sustainable use of oceanic resources.
• Geopolitical Significance: Enhances India’s presence and influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Technological Leap: Strengthens India’s capabilities in underwater robotics, materials engineering, and ocean sciences.

In News:

• The 85th AIPOC, held in Patna, Bihar, emphasized enhancing the effectiveness of legislative institutions through reforms in decorum, digitization, and public participation.
• A major outcome was the announcement of the One Nation, One Legislative Platform to digitally integrate legislative bodies across India.

All India Presiding Officers’ Conference (AIPOC):

• Established: 1921; first session held in Shimla.
• Role: Apex platform bringing together Presiding Officers of Parliament and State Legislatures.
• Objective: Strengthen democratic institutions by fostering cooperative federalism, legislative accountability, and improved law-making processes.

2025 Conference Highlights:

• Venue: Historic Bihar Legislature Premises, Patna.
• Key Themes:
  • Reducing disruptions and maintaining decorum in legislative houses.
  • Promoting qualitative debate and discussion.
  • Observing the 75th year of the Constitution with participatory democratic celebrations.
• Resolutions Adopted:
  • Formulation of internal code of conduct by political parties.
  • Nationwide campaigns involving PRIs, urban bodies, students, NGOs, media, and more to celebrate democratic values.

One Nation, One Legislative Platform (ONOLP):

What It Is:

A national mission to create a unified digital ecosystem integrating the Parliament, state legislatures, and local bodies for better legislative coordination and public access.

Key Objectives:

• Real-Time Data Sharing: Seamless, up-to-date legislative information across institutions—proceedings, bills, debates, etc.
• Transparency & Accountability: Open access to deliberations enables citizen oversight and institutional accountability.
• Public Participation: User-friendly access encourages civic engagement in law-making and governance.
• AI & Tech Integration: Use of Artificial Intelligence for data analysis, decision support, and enhanced efficiency.
• Paperless Legislatures: Digitization of records to promote sustainability and reduce bureaucratic delays.

Implementation Support:

• Spearheaded by the Lok Sabha, with Speaker Om Birla announcing its completion by 2025.
• Includes the creation of a central portal for public and institutional use.

In News:

IIT Madras has partnered with the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare on Project VISTAAR (Virtually Integrated System to Access Agricultural Resources). MoU signed between the Ministry and IIT Madras to integrate information about agricultural start-ups into the VISTAAR platform.

Key Highlights:

Project Objectives:

• Digitalisation of Agricultural Extension: To enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of the agricultural extension system through digital platforms.
• Access to Start-Up Innovations: Provide farmers easy access to over 12,000 start-ups in agriculture and allied sectors, connecting them to technological solutions and innovations.
• Support for Sustainable Agriculture: Focus on making farming more sustainable and climate-resilient by promoting adoption of innovative technologies.

Key Features of VISTAAR:

• Integration of start-up data via IIT Madras' startup information platform and its incubatee, YNOS Venture Engine.
• Advisory services covering:
  • Crop production
  • Marketing
  • Value addition
  • Supply chain management
• Information on government schemes for agriculture, allied sectors, and rural development.
• Real-time, contextual, and accurate information to enhance decision-making and improve farming practices.

Significance of the Project:

• The platform will expand the outreach of agricultural extension services, providing support to farmers across India.
• It will ensure farmers access high-quality advisory services that are critical for improving productivity and income.
• Integration of start-up-driven innovations will aid in the adoption of climate-resilient farming practices.
• Timely and accurate information will empower farmers to make informed decisions and improve the efficiency of agricultural processes.

Impact on Farmers:

• Digitalisation will provide farmers with easier access to expert advice and resources, enhancing productivity.
• Improved access to government schemes ensures farmers can avail themselves of financial and technical support for development.
• The project aligns with national objectives of enhancing agriculture’s contribution to India’s economy and ensuring food security.

In News:

• The Chinar Boat Race 2024 was successfully organized in Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Highlights:

• Organizers:The event was hosted by the Indian Army in collaboration with White Globe NGO and the Lake Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA).
• Purpose:The race aimed to celebrate Kashmir’s culture and traditions while promoting conservation of Dal Lake.The event emphasized the ecological importance of Dal Lake and the need for its protection.
• Cultural Impact:The race attracted a large crowd of both locals and tourists, highlighting the vibrant culture of Kashmir.The event fostered a sense of community and unity, with people cheering for the participants.
• Military Engagement:The Army organizes sports and cultural events in the region to strengthen Army-public relationships, engage local youth, and promote an honourable profession in the military.

Dal Lake Overview:

• Location: Situated in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, surrounded by the PirPanjal mountains.
• Area: 18 sq. km (lake); part of a 21.1 sq. km wetland.
• Islands: Includes 3 islands, two marked by Chinar trees: Roph Lank (Silver Island) and Sone Lank (Gold Island).
• Significance: Known as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir” or “Srinagar’s Jewel”.
• Floating Market: Famous for its floating market where vendors use wooden boats (Shikaras) to sell goods.
• Temperature: Can drop to −11°C in winter, sometimes freezing the lake.

In News:

The 11th ADMM-Plus held in Vientiane, Laos saw Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engage in discussions with his counterparts from the United States, Japan, and the Philippines.

Focus: The talks centered on strengthening defence partnerships, regional security, and enhancing cooperation among Indo-Pacific nations.

ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus):

• Platform for Dialogue: The ADMM-Plus is a key platform for ASEAN and its eight Dialogue Partners—Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, Republic of Korea, Russia, and the United States.
• Establishment: The inaugural ADMM-Plus was held in HàN?i, Vietnam on 12 October 2010.
• Annual Meetings: Since 2017, the ADMM-Plus has met annually to enhance dialogue and cooperation amidst an increasingly complex regional security environment.

Objectives:

• Capacity Building: To aid ASEAN members in addressing shared security challenges.
• Promote Trust and Transparency: Enhance mutual trust and confidence between ASEAN and partner nations.
• Regional Peace and Stability: Focus on cooperation in defence and security to counter transnational security challenges.
• ASEAN Security Community: Contribute to realizing the ASEAN Security Community, as per the Bali Concord II, aiming for peace, stability, democracy, and prosperity in the region.
• Vientiane Action Programme: Facilitate ASEAN's efforts towards a peaceful, secure, and prosperous ASEAN with outward-looking relations with Dialogue Partners.

In News:

The Ministry of Science and Technologyrecently launched India’s first Artificial Intelligence (AI) data bank that is aimed at propelling innovation and boosting the country’s national securityat the 7th Edition of the ASSOCHAM AI Leadership Meet 2024.

• • The event theme: “AI for India: Advancing India’s AI Development – Innovation, Ethics, and Governance”.

Key Highlights:

• Objective:
  • Propel innovation and enhance national security.
  • Provide access to diverse, high-quality datasets for creating scalable and inclusive AI solutions.
• Key Features of the AI Data Bank:
  • Target Audience: Researchers, startups, and developers.
  • Data Types: Satellite, drone, and IoT data.
  • Purpose:
    • To enhance national security through real-time analytics.
    • Enable predictive analytics for disaster management and cybersecurity.

Strategic Importance of AI in India:

• National Security: AI to strengthen national security by providing real-time analytics from satellite, drone, and IoT data.
• AI for Development:
  • AI’s role in reshaping sectors like governance, business, healthcare, education, and space exploration.
  • AI as a tool for economic growth, addressing climate change, improving public service delivery, and ensuring national security.
• Ethics and Governance:
  • Ensuring responsible AI use with optimal handling.
  • Addressing algorithmic bias and data privacy through robust governance frameworks.
  • Commitment to transparent and fair AI systems that empower people rather than replace them.
• AI in Disaster Management and Cybersecurity:
  • Aligning with India’s goals to use AI for predictive analytics in disaster management.
  • Enhancing cybersecurity through AI technologies.

Government’s Vision on AI:

• Empowering Citizens: AI must bridge divides and ensure equitable access to its benefits.
• AI as Backbone for Future Development: India’s focus on making AI an integral part of its future economic and technological growth.

In News:

• From November 10 to 18, 2024, the Indian Army is conducting a high-intensity tri-services exercise named PoorviPrahar in the forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The exercise aims to enhance the combat effectiveness and coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, focusing on integrated joint operations in the challenging mountainous terrain of the region.

About Exercise PoorviPrahar

Objective: The primary goal of Exercise PoorviPrahar is to hone the combat readiness and synergy across the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. It is designed to improve their ability to conduct integrated joint operations, especially in the difficult terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, which is crucial due to the region's strategic location along India's eastern frontier.

Key Features of the Exercise:

• Multidomain Integration:The exercise involves land, air, and sea operations, demonstrating India's capability to conduct multi-domain operations. This showcases the Indian Armed Forces' preparedness to tackle threats across all three domains simultaneously.
• Advanced Military Platforms:
  • Aircraft: Advanced fighter jets, reconnaissance aircraft.
  • Helicopters: Including Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH Rudra).
  • Artillery: The exercise makes use of the M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers, which provide mobility and precision firepower in rugged terrains.
  • Swarm Drones and Loitering Munitions: These cutting-edge technologies enable precision strikes and enhanced situational awareness, contributing to more flexible and adaptive operations.
• Technological Integration:
  • The exercise integrates next-generation technologies like Swarm Drones, Loitering Munitions, and First-Person View (FPV) Drones. These tools enhance operational flexibility, improve situational awareness, and enable precision in strike capabilities, marking a significant advancement in India's military technology.
• Operational Coordination:A core component of the exercise is the development of a Common Operating Picture (COP). This system integrates real-time data from land, air, and sea operations, improving coordination and decision-making. The system relies on AI-driven analytics and satellite communications, enabling rapid information sharing and quicker response times.
• Tactical Focus on Mountain Warfare:Arunachal Pradesh, with its mountainous and rugged terrain, is the perfect setting for honing skills required for mountain warfare. The region’s proximity to India’s border with China makes it a critical area for India’s defense strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• Integrated Joint Operations: The exercise focuses on improving the coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force to execute seamless operations across land, air, and sea.
• Advanced Technology Integration: The exercise features the use of Swarm Drones, Loitering Munitions, and AI-driven systems to enhance precision, situational awareness, and overall operational flexibility.
• Mountain Warfare Expertise: Conducted in the mountainous terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, the exercise is crucial for preparing the Indian Armed Forces to operate effectively in such challenging landscapes.
• Strategic Posture: The exercise reaffirms India’s ability to defend its Eastern frontier and maintain a robust defense posture in the face of potential threats in the region.