In News:

The Quality of Public Expenditure (QPE) Index, developed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), measures how efficiently public funds are allocated and utilized by the Central and State governments. Unlike traditional fiscal measures that focus on total expenditure, the QPE Index assesses the composition and developmental impact of government spending, emphasizing long-term economic growth and social development.

Key Components of the QPE Index

 Indicator                                                                                      What it Measures                                        Significance 

Capital Outlay to GDP Ratio    -   Share of GDP spent on physical infrastructure   -   Higher ratio = better quality of expenditure

Revenue Expenditure to Capital Outlay Ratio  - Relative spending on salaries, pensions vs. asset creation  - Lower ratio = better efficiency

Development Expenditure to GDP Ratio   -  Spending on education, healthcare, R&D, infrastructure   -  Higher ratio = enhanced productivity

Development Expenditure as % of Total Expenditure  - Proportion of total expenditure directed to development sectors   -  Higher share = improved allocation

Interest Payments to Total Expenditure Ratio   -     Financial burden from past borrowings    -    Lower ratio = better fiscal health

Evolution of Public Expenditure (1991–2025)

• 1991–1997(Early liberalization):
  • Slight improvement at Centre; states faced fiscal pressure.
  • Public investment declined due to focus on fiscal deficit reduction.
• 1997–2003:Decline in QPE due to Fifth Pay Commission, rising interest burden, dominance of revenue expenditure.
• 2003–2008(FRBM Era):
  • Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003 improved fiscal discipline.
  • States gained from higher tax devolution; capital spending rose.
  • Growth momentum sustained until the 2008 Global Financial Crisis (GFC).
• 2008–2013(GFC response):
  • Stimulus spending initially boosted development but later widened fiscal deficits.
  • Spending quality eroded over time.
• 2013–2019(GST & 14th Finance Commission):
  • 14th Finance Commission (2015) increased states' tax share to 42%, improving state-level development spending.
  • GST rollout (2017) benefited states more than Centre initially, stressing Centre’s finances.
• 2019–2025(COVID-19 & Recovery):
  • Pandemic-induced fiscal stimulus reduced QPE temporarily.
  • Post-pandemic recovery led by record capital expenditure boosted infrastructure, improving QPE.
  • By FY 2024–25, India's QPE reached its highest level since 1991 reforms.

Recent Trends in Public Expenditure (as per Economic Survey 2024–25 & Budget 2025–26)

• Capital expenditure (Capex) rose 8.2% YoY.
• Revenue expenditure (primarily by states) increased 12% YoY.
• FY 2025–26 Budget allocated ?11.21 lakh crore for Capex (3.1% of GDP).
• Capex to GDP ratio increased from 1.5% in 2000 to 2.5% in 2023.
• Revenue expenditure to Capex ratio improved from 8:1 in 2000 to 5:1 in 2023.
• Development expenditure rose from 6% to 8% of GDP between 2000–2023.
• Interest payments declined from 25% to 20% of total expenditure in the same period.

Why Quality of Public Expenditure Matters

• Governments use citizens’ money (via taxes or borrowing). Efficient use ensures better socio-economic outcomes.
• High QPE means greater focus on productive investment over populist spending (freebies, subsidies).
• Better QPE leads to:
  • Higher GDP growth (average 6.5% annually since 2000).
  • Improved infrastructure and service delivery.
  • Enhanced social indicators like literacy (77.7% in 2023) and life expectancy (70 years).

Challenges Affecting Public Expenditure Quality

• Persistent revenue deficits (3.3% of GDP in 2023) limit fiscal space for Capex.
• Rising populism: Loan waivers, cash handouts, free electricity.
• Welfare scheme inefficiencies: Leakages in MGNREGA, PDS.
• Debt servicing: High interest payments constrain spending.
• Inter-state disparities: Unequal fiscal capacity hampers balanced development.

Way Forward

• Boost Capex to over 3% of GDP to enhance infrastructure-led growth.
• Rationalize subsidies via Direct Benefit Transfers (DBT).
• Strengthen fiscal federalism through equitable devolution and performance-based grants.
• Leverage technology for transparent and outcome-based expenditure tracking.
• Reform FRBM Act:
  • Focus on debt-to-GDP targets.
  • Introduce flexibility in deficit norms during crises.

In News:

Indian wildlife biologist Dr. Purnima Devi Barman has been named among TIME Magazine’s Women of the Year 2025, recognizing her as one of 13 global leaders working toward a more equitable and sustainable world. She is the only Indian woman on the list.

Key Contributions:

• Known for her pioneering conservation work with the greater adjutant stork (locally called Hargila), once critically endangered and culturally stigmatized in Assam.
• Founded the Hargila Army, a women-led grassroots movement focused on protecting the stork’s habitat and changing negative local perceptions.
• Her model uniquely blends wildlife conservation with women’s empowerment, engaging thousands of rural women in ecological and livelihood activities.

Impact:

• Due to her efforts, the greater adjutant stork’s population in Assam has significantly recovered, leading to its status being upgraded from “endangered” to “near threatened” by IUCN.
• The Hargila Army, with over 10,000 members, participates in bird rescue, awareness campaigns, tree planting, and embroidery-based income generation.
• Her approach has become a global model for community-based conservation.

Background:

• Hails from the Kamrup region of Assam.
• Holds a Master’s degree in Zoology from Gauhati University.
• Inspired by her early life near the Brahmaputra and her grandmother’s teachings on biodiversity.

Awards & Recognition:

• Nari Shakti Puraskar (2017) – India’s highest civilian award for women.
• UN Champions of the Earth Award (2022) – For entrepreneurial vision in conservation.
• Whitley Gold Award (2017, 2024) – Often called the "Green Oscar".

Other Roles:

• Director of Women in Nature Network (YNN) – India chapter.
• Member of IUCN’s Stork, Ibis, and Spoonbill Specialist Group.

About TIME Magazine:

• Founded in 1923, USA.
• Known for its global recognitions like Person of the Year and Women of the Year.
• Now operates as a multimedia platform covering politics, science, and culture.

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:

Meta has launched Project Waterworth, its most ambitious subsea cable initiative to date, aimed at enhancing global digital connectivity. The project involves the deployment of AI-driven subsea cable infrastructure, with India being a key beneficiary.

Key Features:

• Massive Scale:A multi-billion dollar, multi-year global initiative, the project will lay over 50,000 km of undersea cables, connecting five continents, including India, the USA, Brazil, South Africa, and others.
• AI Integration:The project leverages advanced machine learning models to predict and mitigate network disruptions, ensuring greater resilience and reliability of global internet infrastructure.
• Deep Water Deployment:The cable will operate at depths reaching 7,000 meters, using enhanced burial techniques in high-risk areas to prevent damage from ship anchors and other maritime hazards.
• Digital Backbone:Subsea cables like those in Project Waterworth currently carry over 95% of global internet traffic, forming the backbone of international digital communication, video streaming, e-commerce, and cloud-based AI services.

Strategic Relevance for India:

• India’s Digital Push:The project supports India’s growing digital economy by ensuring faster, more reliable internet connectivity and fostering digital inclusion and innovation.
• AI and Infrastructure Synergy:With AI-driven maintenance and deployment, the initiative complements India's vision of becoming a global hub for AI, data centers, and digital services.
• Economic and Strategic Benefits:Enhanced connectivity is expected to boost economic cooperation, cross-border trade, and participation in global digital platforms.

In News:

In January–February 2025, Karnataka's property registration portal, Kaveri 2.0, faced major disruptions due to a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack, severely affecting property registrations and revenue generation. The portal, launched in 2023, is a key component of the state's e-governance infrastructure.

What is a DDoS Attack?

A Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack aims to disrupt a server, service, or network by flooding it with excessive traffic, rendering it inaccessible to legitimate users.

How it works:

• Botnet Formation: Hackers compromise multiple devices using malware, turning them into bots.
• Traffic Overload: These bots generate huge volumes of fake traffic directed at the target system.
• Service Disruption: The targeted service slows down or crashes, affecting user access.

Types of DDoS Attacks:

• Bandwidth Saturation – Exhausting the target's internet capacity.
• Protocol Exploitation – Abusing vulnerabilities in network protocols.
• Application Targeting – Crashing specific applications or services.

Kaveri 2.0 Case: AI-Based DDoS Attack

• The Stamps and Registration Department (SRD) of Karnataka confirmed that the portal was targeted using AI tools that generated over 20 lakh fake search queries per day—far beyond its capacity of 2.5 lakh.
• These queries mainly targeted services like Encumbrance Certificate (EC) searches, causing widespread slowdown and outages.
• On February 1, only 556 property registrations occurred, compared to the usual 8,000–9,000 daily, with revenue dipping to ?15.18 crore from an average of over ?62 crore.
• After mitigation, services were restored by February 7, returning to normal levels of 7,225 registrations and ?62.59 crore in revenue.

Impact of DDoS Attacks on Public Services

• Operational Disruption: Essential citizen services are halted, creating public inconvenience.
• Financial Loss: Delayed transactions and reduced revenue, as seen in the Kaveri 2.0 case.
• Reputational Damage: Public trust in digital governance platforms may erode.
• Cybersecurity Risks: DDoS attacks can mask more sophisticated intrusions.

Preventive Measures

• Traffic Filtering: Using AI tools to detect and block abnormal traffic.
• Rate Limiting: Restricting the number of queries per user/IP.
• Bot Detection: Implementing CAPTCHAs and behavior analysis.
• Robust Authentication: Enhancing security for administrative access.
• Incident Response Teams: Dedicated cybersecurity units to respond to threats promptly.

In News:

India has amended the Customs Tariff Act, 1975, becoming the first country in the world to introduce a Harmonised System (HS) code for Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged rice varieties. This was announced in the Union Budget 2025–26.

Key Features of the Amendment

• HS Code Introduced For:
  • 1006-30-11 – GI-tagged parboiled rice
  • 1006-30-91 – GI-tagged white rice
• Objective:
  • To enable uninterrupted exports of GI rice even during general export restrictions or bans.
  • GI rice exports will not require special government notification during such bans.

About Harmonised System (HS) Code

• Full Form: Harmonised System Code
• Developed by: World Customs Organization (WCO)
• Structure: 6-digit global standard; India uses an 8-digit extension for more specific classification.
• Purpose: Classification of traded goods for customs, tariffs, and trade statistics.
• HS Code Hierarchy:
  • First 2 digits: Chapter (e.g., “10” for cereals)
  • Next 2 digits: Heading (e.g., “06” for rice)
  • Last 2 digits: Subheading (e.g., “30” for semi-milled or wholly milled rice)

Impact on GI Rice Exports

• Facilitates global market access for Indian specialty rice varieties.
• Differentiates GI-tagged rice from conventional rice in trade documents.
• Prevents mislabeling and misuse of India’s GI rice identity.
• Allows exports of GI rice even under export bans, without fresh government clearance.

GI-Tagged Rice Varieties in India

• 20 GI-recognized rice varieties, including:Navara, Palakkadan Matta, Pokkali, Wayanad Jeerakasala, etc.
• 20 pending GI applications, including:Seeraga Samba, Jammu & Kashmir Red Rice, Wada Kolam Paddy, etc.

About the World Customs Organization (WCO)

• Established in 1952 as the Customs Co-operation Council; renamed WCO in 1994.
• Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium.
• Membership: 183 customs administrations, including India, covering 98% of global trade.
• Key Functions:
  • Maintains and updates the HS Code every 5 years.
  • Drives customs modernization through instruments like the Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC).
  • Coordinates anti-smuggling, anti-counterfeiting, and trade enforcement efforts.
  • Collaborates with global institutions like the WTO and UN to enhance trade efficiency.

In News:

Pong Dam Lake Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh, has witnessed a record-breaking influx of migratory birds in 2025, according to the latest annual bird census conducted on February 1, 2025.

The sanctuary, a designated Ramsar Site (since 2002) and a Wetland of National Importance (1994), recorded a total of 1,53,719 birds across 97 species, indicating a sharp rise in avifaunal population and reaffirming its ecological significance.

Key Highlights from the 2025 Census

• Migratory birds recorded: 1,44,371 individuals from 55 species.
• Total bird count: 1,53,719 birds from 97 species.
• Increase from 2024: 83,555 more birds.
• Bar-headed Goose population: 90,959 (up from 37,501 in 2024) — highest ever recorded since the census began in 2004.

Other dominant waterfowl included:

• Eurasian Coots – 10,785
• Common Pochards – 9,692
• Common Teals – 8,497
• Northern Pintails – 8,053

Lesser-spotted species included the Greater and Lesser White-fronted Goose, Red Crested Pochard, and Northern Lapwing.

Reasons Behind the Surge

• Experts attribute the significant increase in bird numbers to a decline in the water level of Pong Dam Lake, which exposed additional lakebed areas, creating new feeding grounds. This has made the sanctuary increasingly attractive to birds migrating from Tibet, Central Asia, Russia, Siberia, and the Trans-Himalayan region.

Survey and Conservation Collaboration

• The census was conducted by over 100 participants, including officials from the Himachal Pradesh Forest Department, experts from the Bombay Natural History Society, Wildlife Institute of India, and local birdwatchers. The sanctuary was divided into 25 zones for comprehensive coverage.
• To further conservation efforts, a new Interpretation Centre was inaugurated on January 18, 2025, aimed at promoting awareness about the wetland's role in sustaining biodiversity and supporting migratory birds.

Ecological and Geographical Profile

Pong Dam Lake (Maharana Pratap Sagar)

• Type: Manmade reservoir formed by construction of Pong Dam on the Beas River.
• Location: Wetland zone of the Shivalik hills, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh.
• Area: Approx. 307 sq. km — among the largest man-made wetlands in northern India.
• Importance: Key stopover on the Trans-Himalayan flyway for migratory birds.

Flora

• Vegetation types: Submerged aquatic vegetation, grasslands, forests.
• Dominant species:Eucalyptus, Acacia, Shisham.

Fauna

• Avifauna: Over 220 bird species recorded; 54 waterfowl species.
• Notable birds: Bar-headed Geese, Pintails, Pochards, Coots, Grebes, Cormorants, Herons, Storks, Grey Partridge, Peafowl.
• Mammals: Sambar, Barking Deer, Nilgai, Wild Boar, Clawless Otter, Leopard.

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:

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:

In 2024, the Gujarat government declared the Inland Mangrove of Guneri, located in Kutch district, as the first Biodiversity Heritage Site (BHS) of the state under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The declaration followed a recommendation by the Gujarat Biodiversity Board.

Key Features of Guneri Inland Mangroves:

• Location: Guneri village, Lakhtar tehsil, Kutch district, Gujarat.
• Area: 32.78 hectares.
• Distance from Sea: ~45 km from the Arabian Sea; ~4 km from Kori Creek.
• Nature: Inland (non-coastal) mangrove ecosystem — one of only eight such sites globally and the last remaining in India.
• Terrain: Flat land resembling a forest; no tidal influence or sludge typically seen in coastal mangroves.
• Water Source: Sustained by groundwater retained in limestone deposits; no direct contact with seawater.

Ecological and Geological Significance:

• Possibly originated from:
  • Miocene marine transgression, or
  • Along the ancient Saraswati River, believed to have flowed in the Great Rann of Kutch around 3000–4000 BCE.
• Limestone formations in western Kutch provide continuous subsurface water flow, enabling survival of this unique mangrove system.

Biodiversity:

• Habitat to:
  • 20 migratory bird species
  • 25 resident migratory avifaunal species
• Acts as a vital ecosystem for local and seasonal wildlife.

Mangroves in India – 2024 Snapshot:

• As per the “Red List of Mangrove Ecosystems” (May 22, 2024):
  • India has 3% of South Asia’s mangrove cover.
  • Total mangrove area: 4,975 sq km (0.15% of India's land area).
  • Increase: 54 sq km (1.10%) since last assessment.
  • State-wise share:
    • West Bengal: 42.45% (notably South 24 Parganas & Sundarbans)
    • Gujarat: 23.66% (with highest increase: 37 sq km)
    • Andaman & Nicobar Islands: 12.39%

Legal Framework:

• Declared under the Biological Diversity Act, 2002, which empowers state governments to notify BHS after consulting local self-government bodies.
• A local Biodiversity Management Committee (BMC), including representatives from self-governance institutions, will oversee protection and conservation.
• This provides a formal structure for site management, previously absent.

Conservation Measures:

• Training programs for local and tribal communities along with forest officials.
• A management plan will be implemented to preserve the unique flora and fauna.

In News:

In the Union Budget 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) will set up a partial credit enhancement facility to promote corporate bond issuance in the infrastructure sector.

Need for Credit Enhancement:

• Pension and insurance funds in India, as per regulatory norms, can invest only in AA-rated or higher securities.
• Most infrastructure firms issue bonds rated below this threshold (often "A" rated).
• Partial credit enhancement will elevate such bonds to AA ratings, enabling large-scale participation from long-term institutional investors.

Significance:

• Currently, pension and insurance funds prefer government bonds. However, with the government's ongoing fiscal consolidation, sovereign bond issuance is expected to decline.
• This measure provides alternative, long-term investment avenues for these funds.
• Enhances liquidity in the corporate bond market, especially for infrastructure players.
• Helps in reducing infrastructure companies' dependence on banks for funding.

About NaBFID:

• Established: 2021 under The National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development Act, 2021.
• Type: Development Finance Institution (DFI).
• Regulator: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as an All-India Financial Institution (AIFI).
• Purpose: Bridge gaps in long-term, non-recourse infrastructure financing and promote bond and derivatives markets in India.

Development Finance Institutions (DFIs):

• Government-owned or public sector-backed institutions that finance large-scale, long-gestation projects.
• Provide medium (1–5 years) and long-term (>5 years) financing.
• Raise funds via sovereign borrowings, insurance companies, pension funds, and sovereign wealth funds.
• Offer both financial support (loans, guarantees) and technical support (project viability, consultancy).
• Do not accept public deposits.

Benefits of Partial Credit Enhancement:

• Democratizes access to the corporate bond market for sub-AA-rated firms.
• Attracts long-term capital into infrastructure through safer, credit-enhanced instruments.
• Promotes diversification and deepening of India's debt markets.
• Makes infrastructure financing more cost-efficient and sustainable over the long term.

Challenges Ahead:

• Regulatory streamlining is essential.
• Guarantee fees need optimization to ensure cost competitiveness against traditional bank lending.

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:

Contract farming has emerged as a significant model in India's agricultural landscape, especially with its success in processed potato cultivation and the recent rise in French fry exports. As the country transitions from being an importer to a major exporter in sectors like frozen French fries, the contract farming model underpins the structural transformation of Indian agriculture.

Understanding Contract Farming

Contract farming is an agricultural production system where farmers and buyers (agribusinesses, processors, exporters, or retailers) enter into a pre-harvest agreement. This contract outlines key parameters including price, quality, quantity, delivery schedules, and in many cases, input provision and technical assistance.

Types of Contract Farming Arrangements

• Direct Input Provision by the Company: Firms supply seeds, fertilizers, and support services, deducting costs from the final payment to farmers.
• Partnership with Local Input Dealers: A hybrid model balancing company control with third-party services, chosen based on crop complexity, local support availability, and firm capabilities.

Advantages of Contract Farming

• Stable and Enhanced Income: Contracts assure farmers of a fixed price and market access, shielding them from volatile markets. RBI data shows farmers typically receive only 31%–43% of consumer prices; contract farming can significantly improve this share.
• Access to Inputs and Technology: Companies provide high-quality seeds, fertilizers, training, and modern farming practices, leading to improved yields and quality.
• Post-Harvest Efficiency: Streamlined procurement reduces wastage of perishables and post-harvest losses, ensuring efficient supply chain management.
• Credit and Financial Support: Assured incomes help farmers access institutional credit, reducing dependency on informal lenders.
• Food Safety and Export Standards: Training on pesticide use and residue limits ensures compliance with international standards like Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs), boosting export potential.
• Consumer Benefits: Direct procurement reduces intermediaries, enabling competitive pricing and higher quality products.
• Technology Transfer: Farmers benefit from the introduction of new, high-efficiency production techniques.

Concerns and Challenges

• Power Imbalance: Small and marginal farmers often lack bargaining power. This dependency may lead to exploitative contracts or one-sided terms, especially where firms demand investments in crop-specific infrastructure.
• Market Risk and Default: Price volatility can lead to side-selling by farmers or contract breaches by firms when market prices crash.
• Delayed Payments and Inputs: Contractual delays in payment or input delivery can severely affect crop cycles and farmer finances.
• Exclusion of Marginal Farmers: For economies of scale, firms often prefer large landholders, sidelining smallholders.
• Environmental Impact: Monocropping, overuse of water and agrochemicals, and soil degradation threaten long-term sustainability.
• Food Security Trade-offs: A shift to high-value crops under contracts may reduce acreage for food crops, impacting local food security.
• Loss of Autonomy: Farmers may lose control over farming decisions, with firms determining most aspects of cultivation, leading to indirect control over land use.

Case Study: Contract Farming in Potato Sector

India is the second-largest potato producer globally, with Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, and Bihar as leading states. The Central Potato Research Institute (CPRI), Shimla developed several high-yielding Kufri varieties to support commercial cultivation.

The success of processed potato farming is best illustrated by India’s emergence as an exporter of frozen French fries, driven by contract-based procurement from farmers. However, issues such as the PepsiCo vs. Indian farmers legal dispute over unauthorized cultivation of the FL 2027 variety underline ongoing concerns around intellectual property rights and farmers’ autonomy.

Policy and Legal Framework

• Model APMC Act, 2003: Introduced contract registration, dispute resolution, and exempted market fees while protecting land ownership.
• Model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Contract Farming Act, 2018: Proposed institutional frameworks, insurance provisions, and promotion of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs).
• e-NAM Integration: Supports transparent pricing and contract enforcement.
• National Agriculture Policy: Endorses contract farming as a tool for enhancing productivity and rural incomes.

In News:

After a four-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Galwan Valley clash, India and China have agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in June 2025, along with other confidence-building measures.

This decision aligns with the 75th anniversary of India-China diplomatic relations, symbolizing an attempt to stabilize and recalibrate bilateral ties through people-centric initiatives.

Key Highlights:

Key announcements include:

• Resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
• Restoration of direct air services
• Visa issuance for journalists and think tanks
• Hydrological data sharing and cooperation on trans-border rivers
• Enhanced people-to-people exchanges and academic/media dialogues

About the Yatra

• The Yatra involves a pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Lake Mansarovar in the Tibetan Autonomous Region (Xizang).
• Organised by India’s Ministry of External Affairs between June–September, via two routes:
  • Lipulekh Pass (Uttarakhand)
  • Nathu La Pass (Sikkim)
• Supported by the state governments of Uttarakhand, Sikkim, and Delhi, and coordinated with the Indo-Tibetan Border Police.
• Open only to Indian citizens with valid passports; no financial subsidy is provided by the Government of India.

Geographical and Religious Significance:

• Mount Kailash, located in the Kailash Range (Transhimalaya), is the source of four major rivers: Sutlej, Brahmaputra, Indus, and Karnali.
• Revered across religions:
  • Hindus consider it the abode of Lord Shiva; Mansarovar is one of the 51 Shaktipeeths.
  • Buddhists and Tibetans regard it as the ‘Stairway to Heaven’.
  • Jains believe Rishabhanatha attained enlightenment here—referred to as Ashtapada.

Diplomatic Interpretations and Differences

• India’s Position: Emphasized a step-by-step, cautious approach focusing on rebuilding trust and resolving contentious issues, particularly the border situation. India sought policy predictability and transparency in trade, and reaffirmed the importance of mutual respect and interests.
• China’s Position: Took a more optimistic and strategic stance, stressing the need to avoid "mutual suspicion" and to advance cooperation based on long-term national interests. It emphasized early action, including the swift resumption of the Yatra and flights.

Ongoing Concerns in Bilateral Relations

• Unresolved Border Disputes:
  • Tensions persist along the Line of Actual Control (LAC)—notably in Galwan (2020) and Tawang (2022).
  • India and China have made limited progress in resolving issues in Depsang and Demchok.
• Trade Imbalance:
  • Bilateral trade in 2023–24 stood at USD 118.4 billion, with India facing a trade deficit of USD 85 billion.
  • India raised concerns on market access and non-tariff barriers.
• China-Pakistan Axis:
  • The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) runs through Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, violating India’s territorial sovereignty.
  • China’s support for Pakistan in multilateral forums remains a thorn in bilateral ties.
• China’s Regional Assertiveness:
  • Expanding influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean through the String of Pearls, strategic presence in Maldives, Sri Lanka, and strong claims in the South China Sea, contribute to regional unease.

Significance of the Current Diplomatic Thaw

• The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra reflects a symbolic softening in ties, emphasizing religious diplomacy and people-to-people connection.
• Restoration of direct flights and journalistic presence can aid in reducing mistrust.
• Hydrological cooperation, particularly over the Brahmaputra River, is essential for India’s water security, especially with China constructing mega-dams upstream.

Way Forward

• Rebuild Trust Through Engagement: Maintain diplomatic dialogues via platforms like BRICS, SCO, and G20, while holding to core national interests.
• Resolve Border Disputes: Pursue early finalization of the LAC through confidence-building agreements and military disengagement.
• Diversify Economic Strategy: Reduce dependency on Chinese imports by strengthening domestic manufacturing and regional trade alternatives.
• Enhance Cultural Diplomacy: Use platforms like the Kailash Yatra to foster mutual understanding rooted in shared civilizational values.
• Promote Transparency and Reciprocity: Especially in media, trade, and information sharing, to ensure balanced bilateral engagement.

In News:

In 2024, at the age of 100, Libia Lobo Sardesai was awarded the Padma Shri for her pivotal role in Goa’s liberation struggle from Portuguese colonial rule.

About Libia Lobo Sardesai

• Born: 25 May 1924, in Portuguese-ruled Goa; raised in Mumbai.
• Profession: Freedom fighter, broadcaster, and Goa’s first Director of Tourism post-liberation.
• Legacy: Symbol of courage and resistance, known as the “voice of Goa’s liberation.”

Role in Goa’s Liberation Movement

• Involvement: Joined the Goan nationalist movement during her college years.
• Underground Radio:
  • From 1955 to 1961, Libia, along with her husband Vaman Sardesai and Nicolau Menezes, ran an underground radio station – initially called ‘Q’, later named:
    • Goenche Sodvonecho Awaz (Voice of Freedom of Goa) – Konkani
    • Voz de Liberdade – Portuguese
  • Operated from Amboli (Maharashtra) and Castle Rock (Karnataka) in the Western Ghats.
  • Purpose: Counter Portuguese censorship and propaganda; broadcast news, updates, and morale-boosting messages to Goans.
• Final Broadcast:
  • On 19 December 1961, Libia flew over Panaji in an IAF plane, announcing Goa’s liberation with the message:

“Rejoice brothers and sisters, Rejoice! Today, after 451 years of alien rule, Goa is free and united with the Motherland.”

Goa Liberation Movement: Background

• Colonial Rule: Goa was under Portuguese rule for over 451 years (from 1510 to 1961).
• Key Phases:
  • 1954: India imposed an economic blockade after Portuguese crackdown on satyagrahis.
  • August 1955: Mass satyagraha met with violent repression by Portuguese forces.
  • Censorship: Portuguese regime enforced total censorship; only official Portuguese narratives were allowed.
  • 1961 – Operation Vijay:
    • Initiated on 17 December 1961 by the Indian Army under Lt. Gen. J.N. Chaudhuri.
    • Portuguese forces surrendered by 19 December 1961, marking Goa’s official liberation.

Notable Leaders of the Movement

• Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia: Sparked initial resistance against Portuguese rule.
• Libia Lobo Sardesai: Voice of the resistance via underground broadcasting.
• Lt. Gen. J.N. Chaudhuri: Led military operations during Operation Vijay.

Significance

• Libia Lobo Sardesai represents the unsung contributions of civil resistance and communication warfare in India’s decolonization.
• Her work sustained nationalist morale, informed citizens under censorship, and shaped the narrative of a liberated Goa.

In News:

Aero India 2025, the 15th edition of India’s premier aerospace and defence exhibition, is scheduled from February 10–14, 2025, at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru.

Organised by the Ministry of Defence and the Defence Exhibition Organisation (DEO), the event continues to be a vital forum for promoting India's indigenous defence capabilities and fostering international collaboration.

Evolution of Aero India: From Showcase to Strategic Asset

• Inception (1996): Launched as a modest exhibition to attract foreign investments and highlight India’s aerospace potential.
• Growth Phase (2005–2015): Marked by the entry of global giants like Boeing, Airbus, Lockheed Martin, and Dassault Aviation. Indigenous platforms like LCA Tejas began gaining prominence.
• Current Phase (2015–Present): Aligned with ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, Aero India has become a symbol of India's defence self-reliance and a magnet for global partnerships.

Aero India 2025 Highlights

1. International Participation and Strategic Displays

• Participation from 15+ countries and major OEMs.
• Russia’s Su-57 and USA’s F-35—two of the world’s most advanced 5th-generation fighters—will be showcased together, reflecting India’s growing strategic importance.
• Other prominent platforms: KC-135 Stratotanker, Embraer C-390, and Light Combat Helicopter Prachand.

2. Indigenous Innovation

• Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India’s 5th-generation stealth fighter, developed by HAL and ADA, will be unveiled.
• Indigenous platforms like LCA Mk2, LUH, HTT-40, ALH, and Naval Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter will also be featured.

3. Start-Up Integration via 'Manthan'

• Through the iDEX initiative, Aero India is promoting start-ups working in AI, unmanned systems, cybersecurity, and electronic warfare.
• Start-ups will showcase innovations including jetpack suits, robotics, and defence software tools.

4. Business & Public Engagement

• Business Days: February 10–12, 2025
• Public Days: February 13–14, 2025
• Over 7 lakh visitors expected; the event offers aerial displays, seminars, tech expos, and networking forums.

5. Defence Diplomacy and Deals

• Aero India 2023 had seen over ?80,000 crore worth of MoUs. A similar or higher scale of defence agreements is expected in 2025.
• High-level participation from defence ministers, air chiefs, and CEOs of OEMs, signalling deepening international defence cooperation.

Strategic Significance for India

• Geopolitical Leverage: Participation of both US and Russian defence firms signals India’s strategic autonomy and balanced defence diplomacy.
• Self-Reliance Boost: The event enhances domestic manufacturing by integrating MSMEs, promoting co-development and co-production with foreign partners.
• Global Recognition: Positions India as an emerging aerospace hub in the Indo-Pacific.
• Technological Edge: Demonstrates advancements in stealth technology, avionics, and unmanned systems.

Theme of Aero India 2025: “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities” — highlighting India’s expanding defence manufacturing capabilities and its aim to integrate with the global supply chain.

In News:

On January 27, 2025, Uttarakhand became the first Indian state to formally implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) after Independence. The legislation was passed by the State Assembly on February 7, 2024, and received Presidential assent on March 12, 2024.

Historical Background:

• A five-member expert committee chaired by Justice (Retd.) Ranjana Prakash Desai was constituted to draft the UCC report.
• The committee submitted its report on October 18, 2023.
• Though initially scheduled for implementation by November 9, 2024 (Uttarakhand's Foundation Day), the rollout was delayed due to administrative preparedness and staff training.

Scope and Applicability:

• Applicable to all residents of Uttarakhand, including those in live-in relationships outside the state.
• Scheduled Tribes (as per Article 342) and migrated natives have been exempted to safeguard cultural rights.

Key Provisions of the UCC:

1. Marriage, Divorce & Live-in Relationships

• Legal marriage age: 21 years (men), 18 years (women).
• Mandatory registration of marriages, divorces, and live-in relationships.
• Prohibited practices: Triple talaq, halala, iddat, polygamy, and child marriage.
• Live-in Relationships:
  • Mandatory registration for couples aged 21 and above.
  • Parental consent required if under 21.
  • Termination of live-in relationships requires mutual consent.
  • Mandatory reporting of pregnancy within 30 days of childbirth.
  • Landlords cannot deny housing to registered live-in couples.

2. Inheritance & Property Rights

• Equal inheritance rights for sons and daughters.
• Children born to live-in couples recognized as legitimate, eligible for inheritance.

3. Wills and Succession

• Wills can be:
  • Submitted online.
  • Uploaded as handwritten/typed documents.
  • Recorded as a 3-minute video.

Digital Infrastructure – UCC Portal (ucc.uk.gov.in):

• Aadhaar-based verification for authenticity.
• AI-based multilingual translation in 22 Indian languages.
• Tatkal service for expedited registrations with a nominal fee.
• Integrated with 13+ departments, including police, civic bodies, and courts.
• Disaster recovery systems and cloud-based architecture ensure secure data management.
• Access to:
  • Online registration of marriages, divorces, live-in relationships.
  • Upload and registration of wills.
  • Grievance redressal and appeal mechanisms.

Administrative Framework:

• Village Panchayat Development Officers appointed as sub-registrars in rural areas.
• Common Service Centres (CSCs) enabled to facilitate registration, especially in remote and mountainous areas.
• Registration applications processed within 15 days, or 3 days in emergencies.
• Appeals must be filed within 30 days of rejection, resolved within 60 days.

Penalties:

• Initial warnings for non-compliance.
• Fines imposed for repeated violations.

Significance:

• The UCC aims to promote gender equality, legal uniformity, and women's empowerment.
• Represents a constitutional vision under Article 44, reinforcing the idea of a common civil law for all citizens.
• Seen as a potential model for other states in India.

In News:

• In a landmark ruling, a Thiruvananthapuram court sentenced a 24-year-old woman to death for the murder of her boyfriend by poisoning him with paraquat, a highly toxic herbicide.
• The incident, which occurred in 2022, has brought the spotlight back on paraquat's widespread availability, extreme toxicity, and the lack of regulatory enforcement in India.

What is Paraquat?

• Paraquat, chemically known as paraquat dichloride or methyl viologen, is one of the most widely used herbicides globally.
• It is primarily used for:
  • Weed control
  • Crop desiccation, especially in crops like cotton before harvest
• Despite its toxicity, India and the United States continue to permit its usage, unlike over 70 countries, including China, Brazil, and the European Union, which have banned it.

WHO Classification

• The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies paraquat as a Category 2 chemical, meaning it is moderately hazardous and irritating to the skin and eyes.
• It has a narrow margin between a safe and lethal dose, making accidental or intentional poisoning common and often fatal.

Routes and Effects of Exposure

• Ingestion is the most common method of poisoning.
• It may also occur through inhalation or skin contact, especially if the exposure is prolonged or the skin is broken.

Symptoms Vary by Dosage and Exposure Time:

Exposure Level                        Symptoms and Organ Damage

Small Quantity                       Gradual damage to lungs, liver, kidneys, and heart over days/weeks

Large Quantity                       Immediate symptoms such as:

• Acute kidney failure
• Liver and heart failure
• Seizures
• Respiratory failure
• Severe abdominal pain
• Bloody diarrhea
• Nausea
• Mouth and throat swelling |

Treatment and Challenges

• No known antidote exists for paraquat poisoning.
• Treatment options include:
  • Immunosuppressive therapy
  • Charcoal hemoperfusion (a blood-purification technique)
• However, these treatments offer limited efficacy, especially in cases of large-dose ingestion.

Regulatory and Public Health Implications in India

• Despite paraquat’s well-documented toxicity, it remains:
  • Legally available in India
  • Easily accessible in rural markets
• The lack of regulation increases the risks of:
  • Occupational exposure
  • Accidental poisoning
  • Use in crimes or suicides

In News:

ISRO successfully launched the NVS-02 satellite aboard GSLV-F15, placing it into a Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit (GTO). This marks ISRO’s 100th mission, reinforcing India’s space and navigation capabilities under the NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation) program.

What is NavIC?

• NavIC is India’s indigenous regional satellite navigation system, developed for both civilian and strategic use.
• Offers accurate positioning over India and up to 1,500 km beyond its borders.
• Comparable to GPS (USA), GLONASS (Russia), Galileo (EU), and BeiDou (China).

About NVS-02 Satellite:

Feature                 Description

Series                   Second satellite in the next-gen NVS series (after NVS-01 in 2023)

Mission Role       Replaces aging IRNSS-1E satellite

Mass                    2,250 kg

Power Capacity   ~3 kW

Orbit                    Final orbital slot at 111.75°E in geosynchronous orbit (~36,000 km)

Life Span             12 years

Developed by      URSC (U R Rao Satellite Centre), Bengaluru

Technological Advancements:

• Equipped with navigation payloads across L1, L5, and S-bands for enhanced accuracy and broader coverage.
• Features the Rubidium Atomic Frequency Standard (RAFS) – an indigenously developed atomic clock for precision timekeeping.
• Includes C-band ranging payload, similar to NVS-01.

Significance of NVS-02:

• Enhances NavIC’s positioning accuracy for civilian, commercial, and strategic applications:
  • Disaster management
  • Fleet tracking
  • Precision agriculture
  • Emergency response
  • Mobile navigation
• L1 signal inclusion makes NavIC-compatible with international GNSS systems, improving global device integration.
• Demonstrates India’s technological self-reliance, particularly in atomic clock development.

ISRO’s Launch Vehicles

Vehicle         First Flight         Notable Use

SLV              1980                     Launched Rohini satellite

ASLV           1987                     Five-stage solid rocket, retired in 1990s

PSLV           1994                     Reliable, used for Mars Orbiter, LEO missions

GSLV          2001                      Used for heavier payloads, INSAT/GSAT

GSLV         2014                       Heavy-lift, Chandrayaan-2/3, Gaganyaan crew module

Mk III (LVM3)

SSLV          2022                      Affordable launches for nano/micro satellites

In News:

In January 2025, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) proposed the “sachetisation” of mutual fund investments to promote financial inclusion, especially among low-income and first-time investors.

What is Sachetisation?

• Originating from the FMCG sector (e.g., shampoo sachets), sachetisation refers to offering financial products in small, affordable units, enhancing accessibility and affordability.
• In capital markets, it implies micro-level investment options, particularly through low-ticket SIPs (Systematic Investment Plans).

Objectives:

• Promote financial inclusion and empower economically underserved sections.
• Expand mutual fund penetration to semi-urban and rural areas.
• Encourage long-term savings and wealth creation among new investors.
• Reduce dependency on large institutional or foreign investors by broadening the domestic retail base.

Key Features of SEBI’s Sachet SIP Proposal:

Feature                                            Details

Minimum SIP Amount                  ?250 per month

Eligibility                                        Only for new mutual fund investors

Investment Limit                           Up to 3 sachet SIPs across different AMCs

Excluded Schemes                         Debt funds, sectoral/thematic, small-cap, mid-cap equity funds (due to higher risk)

Commitment Period                     Encouraged to commit for 5 years (60 SIPs), but premature withdrawal allowed

Payment Modes                            Only via auto-pay mechanisms such as UPI Autopay and NACH

Cost Incentives                             AMCs to receive subsidies from SEBI’s Investor Education and Awareness Fund

Distributor Incentive                   ?500 per investor after completion of 24 monthly SIPs

Significance:

• Democratizes investment access by lowering the entry barrier for mutual funds.
• Encourages behavioral shift towards long-term financial planning and discipline.
• Stabilizes domestic markets by broadening and diversifying the retail investor base.

Supports SEBI’s vision of making capital markets inclusive, tech-enabled, and accessible.

In News:

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently flagged off Sanjay, an indigenously developed Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS), to be inducted into the Indian Army in phased manner from March to October 2025, designated as the ‘Year of Reforms’ by the Ministry of Defence.

Overview:

• Nature: Automated surveillance system
• Purpose: To integrate real-time data from ground and aerial sensors, enabling swift, informed decision-making in conventional and sub-conventional warfare scenarios.

Key Features:

• Common Surveillance Picture (CSP): Fuses verified sensor data to generate a real-time surveillance image of the battlefield.
• Real-time Integration & Analytics: Processes inputs using advanced analytics to eliminate duplication and enhance situational awareness.
• Secure Networks: Operates over the Indian Army’s Data Network and Satellite Communication Network, ensuring reliable and secure data flow.
• Centralized Web Application: Provides integrated inputs to Command Headquarters and Army HQ through a unified platform, supporting the Indian Army's Decision Support System.
• Indigenous Development: Jointly developed by the Indian Army and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) under the Buy (Indian) category, promoting Aatmanirbharta in defense.

Operational Significance:

• Enhances battlefield transparency, situational awareness, and surveillance capabilities along vast and sensitive land borders.
• Functions as a force multiplier in Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) operations.
• Enables network-centric warfare, marking a shift towards data-driven military operations.

Deployment:

• To be inducted into all Brigades, Divisions, and Corps of the Army in three phases (March–October 2025).

In News:

To address the mounting pendency of criminal cases in several High Courts, the Supreme Court of India has suggested invoking Article 224A of the Constitution, which allows the appointment of retired High Court judges on an ad hoc basis.

Constitutional Provision: Article 224A

• Title: Appointment of Retired Judges at Sittings of High Courts.
• Key Provision: The Chief Justice of a High Court, with the consent of the President, may invite retired judges of the same or other High Courts to act as judges temporarily.
• Status: These judges enjoy the powers, jurisdiction, and privileges of regular High Court judges, but are not deemed permanent judges.

Why the Provision is Being Invoked Now:

• Backlog of Cases: Over 40% vacancy rate in High Courts; huge pendency, especially of criminal cases.
• Delays in Regular Appointments: Slow process of regular judicial appointments prompted the Supreme Court to consider alternative mechanisms.
• Underuse of Article 224A: Only three recorded instances of ad hoc appointments since Independence:
  • Justice Suraj Bhan – MP High Court (1972)
  • Justice P. Venugopal – Madras High Court (1982–83)
  • Justice O.P. Srivastava – Allahabad High Court (2007, Ayodhya case)

Judicial Interpretation – Lok Prahari v. Union of India (2021):

• The Supreme Court laid down guidelines for invoking Article 224A.
• The process must be routed through the SC collegium (CJI + 2 senior-most judges).
• Trigger Point for Appointment:
  • High Court vacancies exceed 20% of sanctioned strength (excluding pending proposals).
  • More than 10% of pending cases are over 5 years old.

Procedure for Appointment:

• Consent: Retired judge must agree to serve again.
• Initiation: Chief Justice of the High Court forwards the name.
• State and Centre: Proposal routed through State CM → Union Law Ministry.
• SC Collegium: Must review and approve the name.
• Executive Clearance: Law Ministry → PM → President for final approval.

Term & Allowances:

• Duration: Typically 2–3 years, renewable if required.
• Number of Judges: Suggested 2–5 ad hoc judges per High Court.
• Remuneration: Entitled to allowances as per Presidential order.
• Status: Have full judicial powers during tenure.

Concerns & Safeguards:

• Fear of using ad hoc appointments as a substitute for regular appointments.
• Therefore, SC mandates that regular appointment process must be underway before invoking Article 224A.
• Periodic review and panel creation of eligible retired judges recommended.

In News:

The Prime Minister of India praised Indian space startup Digantara for the successful launch of Mission SCOT (Space Camera for Object Tracking) — the world’s first commercial SSA satellite, launched via SpaceX’s Transporter-12 rideshare mission.

What is Mission SCOT?

Feature                            Description

Developer                       Digantara (Indian space startup), supported by Aditya Birla Ventures & SIDBI

Launched on                  SpaceX Transporter-12 mission (rideshare platform)

Type                                First commercial Space Situational Awareness (SSA) satellite

Orbit                             Sun-Synchronous Orbit – ideal for consistent Earth observation

Function                       Tracks Resident Space Objects (RSOs) as small as 5 cm in Low Earth Orbit (LEO)

What is Space Situational Awareness (SSA)?

• SSA involves the detection, tracking, cataloging, and prediction of natural and man-made objects in Earth's orbit (like satellites, debris, etc.).
• Ensures safe and sustainable operations by minimizing collision risks.
• Critical due to increasing congestion in LEO, especially with rising numbers of small satellites and mega-constellations.

Key Features of Mission SCOT

Feature                                       Advantage

High Revisit Rate                          More frequent observations of objects in orbit

Precision Tracking                        Can track debris ≥ 5 cm in size

All-Weather Monitoring               Overcomes limitations of ground-based systems like cloud cover, FoV

Space-based System                      Unhindered by geography, providing continuous global surveillance

Supports SSA Infrastructure       Aids in collision avoidance, space traffic management, and defence preparedness

???????? India’s SSA Ecosystem

Initiative                                                                     Role

ISRO’s IS4OM                                                          Provides Indian Space Situational Assessment Report (ISSAR); enables safe & sustainable space operations

NETRA Project                                                 Network for Space Objects Tracking & Analysis – aims to build a dedicated SST (Space Surveillance & Tracking) network using radars & optical telescopes

Multi-Object Tracking Radar                                Operated at Sriharikota – limited range, being augmented

Collision Avoidance Manoeuvres (CAMs)           Regularly performed by ISRO to protect its satellites from debris threats

Global Context: Transporter-12 Rideshare

• A SpaceX program providing low-cost access to space by allowing multiple customers to launch small payloads on a single rocket.
• Enhances global commercial space activity, democratizes space access.

Significance for India

Strategic:

• Strengthens national space defence by enabling indigenous tracking of space threats.
• Reduces reliance on foreign SSA data (e.g., NORAD/US Space Command).

Technological:

• Demonstrates India’s capability in space-based surveillance tech.
• Positions India as a global contributor in the emerging SSA domain.

Economic:

• Boosts private sector space innovation aligned with India’s NewSpace Policy.
• Attracts venture capital and international collaboration.

In News:

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump (2025) signed an executive order to rename Denali (North America’s highest peak) back to Mount McKinley, and also proposed renaming the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America, citing the need to "honor American greatness."

About Denali / Mount McKinley:

Feature                              Description

Location                           Alaska Range, South-Central Alaska, USA

Height                              20,310 feet (6,190 meters) – Highest in North America

Geology                            Giant granite block uplifted by tectonic activity ~60 million years ago

Glaciers                            Feeds major glaciers: Kahiltna, Muldrow, Peters, Ruth, Traleika

Tectonics                          Lies along the Denali Fault, a major right-lateral strike-slip fault

National Park                  Forms the core of Denali National Park and Preserve

Historical Background of the Name:

• Original Name: Denali, meaning “The High One” in the Athabascan language of the Koyukon people.
• 1897: Renamed Mount McKinley by a gold prospector in honor of President William McKinley (1897–1901).
• 1917: Official federal recognition with the creation of Mount McKinley National Park.
• 1980: Park renamed Denali National Park and Preserve; mountain's name remained McKinley federally.
• 2015: Obama administration officially renamed the peak Denali through the U.S. Department of the Interior.
• 2025: Trump issued executive order to revert the name to Mount McKinley, stating McKinley “deserves” the honor.

Rationale Behind Trump’s Renaming Order:

• Claims it honors McKinley’s legacy: economic growth, leadership in Spanish-American War, and tariff reforms.
• Declares Obama’s 2015 decision an “affront” to American heritage.
• Connects the move to his broader theme of “Restoring Names that Honor American Greatness.”

Opposition & Cultural Sensitivity:

• Alaska’s bipartisan leadership, including Senators Lisa Murkowski (R) and Scott Kawasaki (D), oppose the move.
• Indigenous groups maintain that Denali is the rightful and culturally authentic name.
• Critics argue it undermines native heritage and local identity.

Renaming the Gulf of Mexico to “Gulf of America”:

• Also part of Trump’s 2025 executive order.
• Geographic Facts:
  • Borders the US, Mexico, and Cuba.
  • Crucial to the US energy sector:
    • 14% of US crude oil
    • 5% of US natural gas
    • 48% of refining capacity
• International Validity: The International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) allows local name usage but retains “Gulf of Mexico” in global records.
• Not binding on Mexico or Cuba.