In News:

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj recently held a two-day national write-shop in New Delhi to roll out the Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) Version 2.0 for the financial year 2023–24. This updated version marks a significant stride toward enabling evidence-based, participatory local governance in India.

What is Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI)?

The PAI is a multi-domain, multi-sectoral index designed to assess the developmental progress, performance, and governance efficiency of Gram Panchayats. It aligns with the Localization of Sustainable Development Goals (LSDGs) and India's broader commitment to the 2030 SDG Agenda.

Key Features of PAI 2.0

• Framework: Based on 435 unique local indicators (331 mandatory, 104 optional), drawn from 566 data points across 9 LSDG themes, aligned with the National Indicator Framework (NIF) of the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).
• Purpose:
  • Measures holistic development and well-being at the grassroots level.
  • Helps identify developmental gaps and supports data-driven planning for Panchayats.
  • Encourages bottom-up planning and governance.
• Performance Classification:
  • Achiever: 90 and above
  • Front Runner: 75 to <90
  • Performer: 60 to <75
  • Aspirant: 40 to <60
  • Beginner: Below 40

Evolution from PAI 1.0 to 2.0

• PAI 1.0 established the baseline, covering 2.16 lakh Gram Panchayats across 29 States/UTs.
• PAI 2.0 offers enhanced functionality, efficiency, and user-friendliness, with refined indicators and improved data usability, while maintaining thematic comprehensiveness.

Recent Developments

• Launch of the PAI 2.0 Portal and a comprehensive PAI 2.0 Booklet for FY 2023–24 to guide implementation.
• According to the Ministry, PAI 2.0 now contains over 100 indicators that collectively offer a robust picture of social and economic development at the Panchayat level.

In News:

India has officially taken over the Chairmanship of the Asian Productivity Organization (APO) for the 2025–26 term during the 67th Governing Body Meeting.

About APO:

• Type: Regional intergovernmental organization.
• Established:1961.
• Headquarters:Tokyo, Japan.
• Membership: 21 member economies from the Asia-Pacific region, including India, Japan, Iran, Indonesia, Vietnam, Philippines, South Korea, Singapore, and others.
• India:Founding member of the APO.

Key Objectives:

• Enhance productivity in member countries through mutual cooperation.
• Foster sustainable and inclusive socioeconomic development.
• Promote innovation-led growth across industry, agriculture, services, and public sectors.

Core Functions:

• Policy Advisory:Assists governments in designing national productivity strategies.
• Capacity Building:Conducts training programs, workshops, and research initiatives to boost productivity skills.
• Centres of Excellence:Facilitates innovation and best practices sharing among members.
• Green Productivity:Promotes environmentally sustainable growth models.
• Digital & Innovation Ecosystem:Encourages digital transformation and entrepreneurship through regional collaboration.

Organizational Structure:

• Governing Body:The apex decision-making entity; sets strategic direction and reviews performance annually.
• National Productivity Organizations (NPOs):Act as nodal agencies coordinating with the APO at the national level.
• Secretariat:Based in Tokyo, headed by a Secretary-General, manages daily operations.

Significance for India:

• India’s chairmanship marks a step forward in shaping regional productivity policies and highlights India’s commitment to sustainable development and economic cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has introduced a structured framework designed to standardize the creation and revision of its regulatory policies. This initiative aims to enhance transparency, consistency, and public engagement throughout the regulatory process.

Key Aspects of the Framework

• Unified Application:The framework covers all forms of RBI regulations, including directions, guidelines, notifications, policies, and standards.
• Mandatory Public Consultation:Draft regulations are required to be published on the RBI’s official website along with a detailed Statement of Particulars. These drafts will remain open for public comments for a minimum period of 21 days, allowing stakeholders to provide their inputs.
• Impact Evaluation:Each draft must clearly outline its objectives, conduct an impact assessment, and reference relevant international best practices and global standards to ensure comprehensive evaluation.
• Response to Feedback:After considering public comments, the RBI will release a summary addressing the feedback alongside the final version of the regulations.
• Regular Review:Existing regulations will undergo periodic reassessment based on supervisory insights, alignment with global developments, and their continued applicability in a dynamic environment.

Significance of the Framework

• Enhances Transparency and Inclusiveness:By inviting public participation, the framework ensures a more open and accountable regulatory process.
• Encourages Evidence-Based Policy:The incorporation of impact analysis and stakeholder feedback supports more informed and effective policymaking.
• Aligns with Global Standards:The framework positions India’s regulatory governance in harmony with international best practices.
• Boosts Regulatory Efficiency:Continuous review and rationalization help in eliminating redundant regulations and improving overall governance.

In News:

NITI Ayog releases strategic paper on implication of quantum computing on national security.

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing utilizes quantum bits (qubits), which leverage the principles of superposition and entanglement, enabling them to exist in multiple states simultaneously. Unlike classical bits (0 or 1), qubits can perform parallel computations, exponentially increasing processing power.

Global Landscape and India's Position

• Global Investments: Over $40 billion invested by 30+ nations.
  • China: $15 billion (leader)
  • USA and EU: Close followers
• India: Launched the National Quantum Mission (NQM) in 2023 with a budget of ?6,003 crore (~USD 750 million) to boost indigenous capabilities in computing, cryptography, communication, and sensing.

National Quantum Mission (NQM): Key Highlights

• Timeframe: 2023–2031
• Quantum Computers: Build systems with 50–1000 physical qubits using superconducting, photonic, and other platforms
• Secure Communication: Satellite-based secure quantum links over 2000 km within India and long-distance secure communication with other nations
• Quantum Sensing & Metrology: Development of precision navigation tools like atomic clocks and magnetometers
• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): To be established in premier R&D institutes in four domains:
  • Quantum Computing
  • Quantum Communication
  • Quantum Sensing & Metrology
  • Quantum Materials & Devices

Quantum Technology in Defence& National Security

• Cybersecurity
  • Existing encryption standards will become obsolete.
  • Urgent need for Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to protect critical digital infrastructure.
• Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) & Espionage
  • Quantum computers can decrypt communications at scale, risking exposure of classified diplomatic and military data.
  • Enables real-time data processing for advanced surveillance.
• Military Applications
  • Quantum materials improve stealth detection and weapon precision.
  • Enhances autonomous weapons and navigation in GPS-denied environments.
• Logistics & Planning: Quantum AI can optimize defence logistics, battlefield resource allocation, and strategic decision-making.
• Economic Security: Quantum computing can protect or exploit vulnerabilities in financial systems, posing potential risks to economic stability.

Challenges for India

• Funding Gap: India’s allocation is modest compared to global peers.
• Hardware Dependence: Relies on imports for cryogenic systems, high-purity materials, and specialized lasers.
• Limited Industry Participation: India's ecosystem is academia-driven, with limited private sector engagement.
• Cybersecurity Risk: Legacy systems vulnerable to quantum attacks.
• Talent Shortage: Lack of trained quantum scientists and engineers.
• Geopolitical Race: Export restrictions by advanced countries can limit India’s access to key technologies.

Recent Advances in Quantum Technology

• Atom Computing/ColdQuanta: Improved qubit coherence for stable computations.
• IBM/Quantinuum: Enhanced qubit control and error reduction.
• Google Willow Chip: Introduced self-correcting qubit system.
• Microsoft Majorana-1: Developed topological qubits to improve fault tolerance.

Recommendations by NITI Aayog

• Policy & Preparedness:
  • Form a National Quantum Task Force to monitor global trends and threats.
  • Develop an Early Warning System for quantum vulnerabilities.
  • Implement a PQC Transition Plan across critical sectors.
• R&D & Startups:
  • Increase funding to scale quantum startups and indigenous hardware.
  • Promote public-private partnerships to commercialize academic research.
• Supply Chain Development:Invest in domestic manufacturing for quantum components like chips and lasers.
• Global Engagements:
  • Strengthen partnerships with the US, EU, and Japan.
  • Advocate for easing export controls to access vital technologies.

In News:

The 21st AARDO Conference recently concluded in New Delhi, reaffirming the commitment to community-led rural development, local knowledge sharing, and South-South cooperation.

About AARDO

• Full Form: African-Asian Rural Development Organization
• Nature: Intergovernmental, autonomous organization
• Established:March 31, 1962
• Headquarters:New Delhi, India
• Origin:
  • Conceptualized at the 1955 East Asian Rural Reconstruction Conference (Tokyo)
  • Formalized after the 1961 Afro-Asian Conference on Rural Reconstruction (New Delhi)
  • Permanent HQ established in 1966 in India

Membership

• Full Members:32 countries from Asia and Africa (e.g., India, Bangladesh, Egypt, Zambia, Malaysia)
• Associate Members:3 entities (e.g., Korea Rural Community Corporation, Agricultural Bank of Sudan)
• Eligibility: Open to Afro-Asian countries that are full or associate members of the UN or its specialized agencies focused on rural development

Observer Status with International Organizations

AARDO has observer status with:

• FAO – Food and Agriculture Organization
• IFAD – International Fund for Agricultural Development
• UNDP – United Nations Development Programme
• UNESCO – United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
• UNCTAD – United Nations Conference on Trade and Development

Objectives & Aims

• South-South Cooperation: Enhance technical and economic collaboration in rural development between Asia and Africa
• Sustainable Rural Development: Promote poverty alleviation, food security, and climate-resilient agriculture
• Capacity Building & Knowledge Sharing: Encourage exchange of best practices, innovations, and research

Functions

• Policy & Dialogue Platform: Facilitates discussions among member countries on rural development strategies
• Training & Capacity Building: Organizes international, regional, and national training programs to strengthen rural institutions
• Research & Action Studies: Initiates and disseminates research on shared challenges in agriculture and rural livelihoods
• Pilot Projects: Offers technical and financial assistance for pilot projects to serve as replicable models
• International Collaboration: Partners with UN agencies, regional bodies, and NGOs for integrated rural development
• Data Sharing: Provides members with disaggregated statistics and information for informed decision-making

In News:

A two-day Mahabodhi Mahotsav is currently being held at the Great Stupa in Sanchi, Madhya Pradesh, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Key Highlights:

• The festival will include religious ceremonies and cultural activities centered around the relics of Lord Buddha’s chief disciples, Sariputra and Maudgalyayana.
• Cultural Significance: The Mahotsav serves as a platform for celebrating and reaffirming the cultural and spiritual heritage of the region, with a focus on the teachings of Lord Buddha.

About Sanchi Stupa:

Sanchi Stupa is one of the oldest and most significant monuments of Buddhist architecture in India. It has stood as a symbol of Buddhist history, spirituality, and culture for over two millennia.

• Historical Importance:Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE, the stupa was later expanded by the Shunga and Satavahana rulers. It stands as a testament to the spread of Buddhism across India and beyond.
• Architectural Features:
  • Hemispherical Dome (Anda): The large dome represents the universe, encapsulating the essence of Buddhist cosmology.
  • Chatras: The umbrella-like structures on top of the dome symbolize divine protection and royalty.
  • Harmika: A small balcony on the dome, which is considered the abode of the gods.
  • Medhi: The base of the stupa, which stores sacred relics.
  • Toranas: Four intricately carved gateways that depict scenes from the life of Buddha and various Jataka tales. These gateways point to the four cardinal directions, symbolizing the universality of Buddha’s teachings.
  • Vedica: The railings surrounding the stupa serve as sacred enclosures.
  • Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation, allowing devotees to walk around the stupa as a sign of respect.
• Symbolism:The stupa’s architecture is an example of early Buddhist aniconism, where the Buddha is not directly depicted but is represented symbolically through footprints, wheels, or empty thrones.
• Inscriptions:The stupa contains important inscriptions, including the Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts, reflecting the historical significance of the site.
• UNESCO World Heritage Status:In 1989, Sanchi Stupa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its exceptional historical and cultural importance as a center for Buddhist art, architecture, and philosophy.

Significance of the Mahabodhi Mahotsav:

The Mahabodhi Mahotsav at Sanchi not only provides a spiritual experience but also highlights the historical and cultural legacy of Buddhism in India. The event brings attention to the preservation and promotion of Buddhist heritage, reflecting India’s rich diversity and commitment to maintaining its ancient traditions. Through this festival, Sanchi continues to be a center of pilgrimage and learning, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to understand and experience the teachings of Lord Buddha.

In News:

• Bali Jatra 2024 is being held from November 15 to November 22 in Cuttack, Odisha.
• The festival celebrates Odisha’s ancient maritime history and its cultural and trade links with Southeast Asia.
• The event has gained international attention due to the participation of diplomats and cultural troupes from ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and Pacific Island countries.

Historical and Cultural Significance:

• Bali Jatra ("Voyage to Bali") commemorates the 2,000-year-old maritime trade routes between ancient Kalinga (modern-day Odisha) and Southeast Asia, including regions like Bali, Java, Sumatra, Borneo, Burma (Myanmar), and Sri Lanka.
• The festival honors the skills of Kalinga sailors who contributed to the prosperity of the region through trade, including commodities like pepper, cinnamon, cardamom, silk, camphor, gold, and jewelry.
• It highlights Odisha’s maritime legacy and the cultural exchanges between India and Southeast Asia, particularly the cultural influence of Odia merchants on Bali.

Commercial and Economic Aspects:

• Bali Jatra is Asia’s largest open-air trade fair, featuring over 2,500 stalls selling a variety of products including artisanal crafts, household items, and food.
• The event is a major commercial activity with business transactions estimated to exceed ?100 crore over the course of the festival.
• The festival provides an opportunity for both local and national traders to exhibit products at competitive prices.

Cultural Performances and International Participation:

• The festival includes daily cultural performances showcasing Odissi dance, Chhau dance, Bihu, Mahari, Gotipua, Sambalpuri, and Santali folk dances.
• This year, cultural troupes from countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka have participated, enhancing the international profile of the festival.
• Diplomats, including Ambassadors, High Commissioners, and Heads of Mission from 14 countries attended the inaugural ceremony.

Historical Background of Bali Jatra:

• The festival is linked to Kartika Purnima, the full moon night of the month of Kartika, marking the annual migration of traders from Odisha to Southeast Asia.
• Traders used boats called Boitas to travel to distant lands, which is now symbolically represented in the festival.
• The event’s cultural significance extends to the recognition of Odisha’s historic maritime routes, with ports like Tamralipti, Manikpatna, Chelitalo, Palur, and Pithunda playing key roles in global trade from as early as the 4th century BC.

Kalinga's Maritime Influence:

• The Kalinga Empire (present-day Odisha) had significant influence over the Bay of Bengal, referred to as the Kalinga Sea.
• Kalinga’s dominance in maritime trade is reflected in Kalidasa's Raghuvamsa, where the King of Kalinga is called "Lord of the Sea."
• Kalinga's Boitas (ships) were instrumental in connecting India with the Southeast Asian archipelago, including Bali.

Cultural Linkages with Bali:

• Odisha's trade with Bali influenced the culture, religion, and architecture of the region.
• Balinese Hinduism today still reflects Indian influences, with worship of Hindu deities like Shiva, Vishnu, Brahma, and Ganesha.
• The MasakapankeTukad festival in Bali, similar to Bali Jatra in Odisha, is a tribute to the maritime ancestors of Bali and commemorates the long-standing cultural ties.

Recognition and Milestones:

• Bali Jatra 2022 achieved a Guinness World Record for creating the largest collection of origami sculptures.
• The festival has evolved from a traditional trade fair to an international cultural event that highlights Odisha’s historical role in global trade and cultural exchanges.

In News:

Chinese rover helps find evidence of ancient Martian shoreline.

Mission Overview:

• Rover: Zhurong, part of China’s Tianwen-1 Mars exploration program.
• Mission Launch: Zhurong landed in 2021 in the Utopia Planitia region of Mars' northern hemisphere.
• Key Discovery: Evidence of an ancient ocean on Mars, suggesting a habitable past for the planet.

Key Findings:

• Geological Features Indicating a Coastline:
  • Data from Zhurong and orbiting spacecraft (Tianwen-1 Orbiter, NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter) revealed geological features such as troughs, sediment channels, and mud volcano formations, suggesting the existence of a Martian coastline.
  • Features indicate both shallow and deeper marine environments, supporting the idea of a past ocean.
• Age of the Ocean:
  • The ocean likely existed around 3.68 billion years ago, with its surface potentially frozen in a geologically short period.
  • The ocean is thought to have disappeared by 3.42 billion years ago.

Evolutionary Scenario of Mars:

• At the time of the ocean, Mars might have already begun transitioning away from a habitable planet, losing much of its atmosphere and becoming cold and dry.
• The ocean may have formed after Mars' climate began to change, suggesting that it was once more hospitable, possibly capable of supporting microbial life.

Implications for Life on Mars:

• The presence of water, a key ingredient for life, raises the possibility that Mars could have supported microbial life in its early history.
• When Mars had a thick, warm atmosphere, conditions might have been favorable for life, as microbial life would have been more likely to exist.

Significance of Zhurong's Contribution:

• Zhurong exceeded its original mission duration of three months, operating until May 2022, helping provide key data to understand Mars' ancient water history.
• The discovery adds to ongoing efforts to study the disappearance of water on Mars and its implications for the planet's habitability.

Future Exploration:

• Other studies, including seismic data from NASA’s InSight lander, suggest that liquid water might still exist deep beneath the Martian surface, hinting at the possibility of finding water in the planet's subsurface in the future.

In News:

Israeli researchers from the Israel Institute of Technology have developed the PyPIM platform, which allows computers to process data directly in memory, eliminating the need for a central processing unit (CPU). This breakthrough aims to address key challenges in modern computing, particularly in terms of energy consumption and processing efficiency.

Key Features of the PyPIM Platform:

• Integration with Python and PIM Technology:
  • The PyPIM platform merges Python programming with digital processing-in-memory (PIM) technology, facilitating in-memory computing where computations occur directly within memory instead of transferring data to and from the CPU.
• Functionality and Innovations:
  • Direct In-Memory Computations: PyPIM uses specialized instructions that enable computations to take place directly in memory, reducing the need for data movement between the CPU and memory.
  • Developer-Friendly: It allows developers to use familiar languages like Python to write software for in-memory computing systems.
• Solving the "Memory Wall" Issue:
  • The platform addresses the memory wall problem, where the speed of the CPU and memory exceeds the data transfer rates, creating bottlenecks that lead to inefficiencies.
  • By performing calculations directly in memory, PyPIM reduces time and energy spent on data transfer, optimizing performance.
• Performance Improvements:
  • Energy and Time Efficiency: By minimizing energy-intensive data transfers, PyPIM leads to significant energy and time savings.
  • Simulation Tools: The platform includes tools that allow developers to simulate potential performance improvements from in-memory processing.
• Real-World Benefits:
  • Faster Processing: Tasks performed using PyPIM have demonstrated faster processing speeds, with minimal code changes, particularly in mathematical and algorithmic tasks.
  • The platform delivers a significant performance boost in areas like data analysis and algorithmic operations.

The PyPIM platform marks a pivotal advancement in computing architecture, providing a more energy-efficient and faster alternative to traditional CPU-dependent systems by reducing reliance on external memory processing and cutting down on data transfer delays.