In News:

• India, the world’s largest producer and consumer of pulses, continues to face a structural gap between domestic production and rising demand. Lower productivity levels, yield gaps, and increasing import dependence have highlighted the need for a targeted national strategy.
• To address these concerns, the Government of India has launched the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses (2025–31)—a six-year initiative aimed at transforming India into a self-reliant pulses-producing nation through scientific, institutional, and market reforms.

Overview of the Mission

Formally launched by the Prime Minister on 11 October 2025, the Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses was first announced in the Union Budget 2024–25. The programme is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, with collaborative support from NAFED, NCCF, and state governments.

Mission Duration and Financial Outlay

• Implementation period: 2025–26 to 2030–31
• Total outlay: ?11,440 crore
• Targets:
  • Raise production by 45%—from 242 lakh MT (2023–24) to 350 lakh MT (2030–31)
  • Expand cultivated area by 13%—from 275 lakh ha to 310 lakh ha
  • Improve average yield by 28%—from 881 kg/ha to 1,130 kg/ha

Rationale: Current Status and Challenges

India cultivates a wide variety of pulses across agro-climatic zones. Major pulse-growing states include:

• Area (2023–24): Rajasthan (54.67 lakh ha), Madhya Pradesh (51 lakh ha), Maharashtra (44 lakh ha), Uttar Pradesh (30 lakh ha)
• Production (2023–24): Madhya Pradesh (59.74 lakh MT), Maharashtra (40 lakh MT), Rajasthan (33 lakh MT), Uttar Pradesh (31 lakh MT)

Gram dominates both area and output, followed by moong, tur (arhar), urad, and masoor. Over 60% of pulses production occurs during the rabi season.

Despite being the largest pulses producer, India remains dependent on imports from Myanmar, Tanzania, Mozambique, Canada, Australia, among others. Demand is projected to reach 268 lakh MT by 2030 and 293 lakh MT by 2047 (NITI Aayog), far exceeding current production levels. Productivity remains significantly lower than global benchmarks—Canada (2200 kg/ha) and China (1815 kg/ha).

Why Focus on Tur, Urad, and Masoor?

These three pulses account for 34% of total pulses area and contribute significantly to national output. They also exhibit high yield gaps and are crucial for nutritional security. The Mission plans:

• 9 lakh ha expansion in tur—across Karnataka, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Jharkhand and non-traditional areas like the Northeast.
• Utilisation of rice fallows for expanding urad in Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
• Promotion of masoor in rice fallow areas of West Bengal, Bihar, Chhattisgarh.

Key Components and Features of the Mission

1. Development of Climate-Resilient Seeds: Focus on high-yielding, drought-tolerant, pest-resistant, and protein-enriched varieties.

2. Higher Productivity through Technological Adoption

• Enhanced support of ?10,000/ha for Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) of improved technologies (higher than ?9,000 under NFSM).
• Strengthening post-harvest storage, grading, and processing infrastructure.

3. 100% Assured Procurement

A major innovation in the mission framework:

• NAFED and NCCF will undertake 100% procurement of tur, urad and masoor for four years under PM-AASHA’s Price Support Scheme (PSS).
• Aadhaar-enabled biometric/facial authentication will ensure transparency and eliminate leakages.

4. Cluster-Based Approach

Each cluster will include minimum 10 ha (2 ha in hilly/Northeast region). Cluster selection based on:

• Four-fold district classification: HA-HY, HA-LY, LA-HY, LA-LY
• Rice fallow, rainfed, and watershed areas
• Aspirational districts, border/LWE districts
• Regions under PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana, Adarsh Gram Yojana, and Northeast/Himalayan areas

5. Value-Chain Strengthening: Interventions span input supply, extension, mechanisation, processing, market linkages and digital traceability.

Comparative Advantage over Previous Schemes

The Mission subsumes the pulses component of National Food Security and Nutrition Mission (NFSNM) but provides:

• Higher financial support
• Wider geographical coverage
• Expanded interventions (seed hubs, storage, procurement)
• Stronger digital governance
• Guaranteed procurement for three major pulses

National Significance

• Food and Nutritional Security: Pulses are key protein sources in Indian diets.
• Import Substitution: Reduces dependency on global markets and price volatility.
• Farmer Income Stability: Guaranteed procurement and improved yields boost profitability.
• Climate Resilience: Promotes drought-friendly crops, diversifies cropping patterns, and utilises rice fallows.
• Balanced Regional Development: Targets backward, rainfed, aspirational and border districts.

In News:

The Government of India has cleared the first batch of seven projects worth ?5,532 crore under the Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS), marking a critical milestone in India’s transition from assembling finished electronic products to building a strong component-level manufacturing base. These approved projects are expected to generate ?36,559 crore in production, create over 5,100 direct jobs, and significantly reduce India’s import dependence in high-value electronic components.

Overview of the ECMS

The Electronics Components Manufacturing Scheme (ECMS) is a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). Approved by the Union Cabinet in 2024, its objective is to strengthen India’s backbone in the electronic components and materials ecosystem.

Key Objectives

• Promote domestic manufacturing of bare components, sub-assemblies, and specialized materials.
• Enhance domestic value addition (DVA) across the electronics supply chain.
• Integrate Indian manufacturers with Global Value Chains (GVCs), especially in semiconductors, telecom, EVs, and renewable energy.
• Support capital investments through a mix of turnover-linked, capex-based, and hybrid incentives.

Tenure and Incentive Structure

• Turnover-linked incentive: 6 years, with a 1-year gestation period.
• Capex incentive: 5-year support window.

Projects Approved Under the First Batch

The first set of projects includes manufacturing units for:

• High-Density Interconnect (HDI) PCBs
• Multi-Layer PCBs
• Copper Clad Laminates (CCL)
• Camera Modules
• Polypropylene Films

These units are spread across Tamil Nadu (5 units), Andhra Pradesh (1 unit), and Madhya Pradesh (1 unit), promoting regional dispersion of advanced electronics manufacturing.

Strategic Impact on Domestic Manufacturing

Meeting Domestic Demand

• New manufacturing units will meet 100% of India’s demand for Copper Clad Laminates.
• 20% of domestic PCB demand and 15% of camera module demand will be met locally.
• Around 60% of total production from these plants is expected to be exported, strengthening India’s global integration.

Camera modules, PCBs, and base materials form the essential components in smartphones, laptops, drones, robotics, medical devices, automotive electronics, and industrial systems — sectors critical for future economic growth.

India’s Strong Entry into Base Material Manufacturing

• A major breakthrough is the establishment of India’s first Copper Clad Laminate manufacturing unit, which serves as the foundational material for multi-layer PCBs. Previously, the entire requirement was imported, exposing India to supply chain vulnerabilities.
• Similarly, Polypropylene Films, vital for capacitor production used in consumer electronics, automotive components, telecommunications, computing equipment, and industrial systems, will now be manufactured domestically.

Economic and Industrial Impact

• Import Reduction: Key components and base materials will be produced domestically, reducing foreign dependency.
• Cost Reduction: Local production will bring down manufacturing costs and improve competitiveness.
• High-Skill Employment: Over 5,100 direct jobs from the first batch and potentially 91,600 jobs across the scheme will be created, according to scheme projections.
• R&D Strengthening: The initiative fosters technology absorption and innovation capability.

These seven approved projects form part of a much larger response — with 249 applications received representing ?1.15 lakh crore investment, potential production of ?10.34 lakh crore, and 1.42 lakh jobs, marking the highest-ever investment commitment in India’s electronics sector.

Integration with National Electronics Vision

ECMS is designed as a complementary pillar to:

• PLI Scheme for Large-Scale Electronics Manufacturing
• India Semiconductor Mission (ISM)

Together, they aim to create a seamless end-to-end manufacturing chain, covering devices, chips, components, materials, capital equipment, and innovation ecosystems.

In News:

• In September 2025, India and the European Union adopted the EU–India New Strategic Agenda 2025, a comprehensive vision document aimed at elevating their partnership into a transformative global framework for the next decade.
• Building upon the 2020 EU–India Strategic Partnership Roadmap, the new agenda broadens cooperation in sustainable development, digital governance, supply-chain resilience, connectivity, and defence.
• It is structured around five core pillars: Prosperity and Sustainability; Technology and Innovation; Security and Defence; Connectivity and Global Issues; and Enablers Across Pillars, reflecting a multidimensional partnership.
• A landmark development under this agenda is the decision to link the Indian Carbon Market (ICM)—formally India’s evolving Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS)—with the EU's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). This integration allows carbon prices paid within India to be deducted from CBAM levies at the EU border, potentially shielding Indian exporters from double taxation and incentivising early decarbonisation. If successfully implemented, the linkage would represent one of the most significant North–South climate cooperation efforts, setting a precedent for global carbon market integration.

Key Features of the New Strategic Agenda 2025

1. Prosperity & Sustainability

The agenda emphasises climate cooperation and green transition pathways:

• Joint clean energy transition initiatives including renewable energy, green hydrogen, and sustainable finance.
• Expansion of the Green Partnership, focused on technology transfer, co-investment, and carbon neutrality strategies.
• The carbon market linkage aims to align India’s carbon pricing framework with global standards and reduce trade frictions arising from CBAM enforcement.

2. Technology & Innovation

The EU and India plan deep cooperation across critical technologies:

• Collaboration in semiconductors, 5G/6G standardisation, quantum technologies, and AI ethics frameworks.
• Development of digital public infrastructure aligned with principles of privacy, transparency, and data protection.

3. Security & Defence

The agenda institutionalises a Security and Defence Partnership:

• Joint naval exercises, maritime domain awareness, and cybersecurity operations in the Indo-Pacific.
• Greater strategic alignment in the context of China’s increasing assertiveness and the need for secure maritime routes.

4. Connectivity & Global Issues

Cooperation includes:

• The EU’s Global Gateway Initiative and India’s participation in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC).
• Infrastructure connectivity, supply-chain resilience, and sustainable transport systems.

5. Enablers Across Pillars: Enhanced mobility, education and research exchanges, and institutional dialogues strengthen long-term engagement.

Significance of Linking ICM with CBAM

The linkage is historically significant because it allows Indian carbon credits to be recognised within the EU’s border adjustment framework. This could:

• Prevent double carbon penalties on Indian exporters entering the EU market.
• Reward early decarbonisation by reducing CBAM-related costs.
• Provide a model for climate cooperation between developed and developing economies, addressing equity concerns embedded in global climate governance.

In News:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually addressed the 22nd India–ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, reaffirming India’s commitment to enhancing cooperation in maritime security, digital inclusion, resilient supply chains, and economic integration.
• During the address, he announced that 2026 will be celebrated as the “ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation,” reflecting an intensified focus on the Indo-Pacific maritime domain. The remarks aligned with ASEAN’s theme under Malaysia’s chairmanship — “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

Evolution of India–ASEAN Engagement

India’s engagement with ASEAN has evolved over more than three decades:

• 1992: Sectoral Dialogue Partnership initiated.
• 1996: Upgraded to Full Dialogue Partnership.
• 2002: India began regular participation in ASEAN Summits.
• 2009: ASEAN–India FTA in Goods (AITIGA) came into force;
• 2015: Services and Investment Agreements added.
• 2014 onwards: Transition from “Look East” to Act East Policy, increasing political, cultural and strategic connectivity.
• 2022: Partnership elevated to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The partnership is grounded in shared civilisational links, especially through Buddhism, historical maritime routes, and cultural exchanges dating back to the Gupta and Srivijaya eras.

Recent Summit Highlights: Strategic Messaging

Despite PM Modi’s long-standing practice of physical participation in ASEAN summits, his virtual presence this year was noted as an unusual departure. Given the symbolic importance of leader-level diplomacy in ASEAN's consensus-driven ecosystem, some observers considered his absence a missed opportunity, especially amid strengthening bilateral ties with Malaysia after upgrading relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Nevertheless, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s intent to complement ASEAN’s Community Vision 2045 and India’s national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047, framing both as convergent long-term goals. He highlighted India’s role as a First Responder in regional crises, a position increasingly recognised across Southeast Asia.

Unlike previous years featuring extensive multi-point proposals, the 2025 address emphasised consolidation over expansion, centred primarily on maritime cooperation — a significant signal as the Philippines assumes ASEAN chairmanship in 2026 amid rising maritime tensions in the South China Sea.

Key Pillars of Cooperation

1. Maritime Security & Indo-Pacific Cooperation

• Joint patrols, coordinated naval exercises, and enhanced maritime domain awareness.
• Blue economy initiatives under the ASEAN–India Year of Maritime Cooperation (2026).

2. Economic Integration

• Review of the ASEAN–India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) to address market access constraints, streamline rules of origin, and reduce non-tariff barriers.
• Policymakers are urged to prioritise long-term regional integration over short-term protectionist anxieties.

3. Digital & Green Economy

• Cooperation in digital public infrastructure, cybersecurity, AI governance, renewable energy, green ports, and climate-resilient supply chains.

4. Connectivity Projects

• Acceleration of India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway.
• Progress on the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Corridor, strengthening multimodal and economic connectivity.

5. Cultural Diplomacy & People-to-People Links

• ICCR scholarships, academic exchanges, tourism linkages, and the ASEAN–India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT).
• Emphasis on shared civilisational heritage and cultural exchanges.

Initiatives & Institutional Mechanisms

• ASEAN–India Plan of Action (2026–2030) focusing on trade, innovation, food security, agriculture, health, and education.
• India’s ?500 crore ASEAN–India Fund supporting capacity building, agriculture, and connectivity projects.
• Track 1.5 dialogue platforms reveal growing regional acknowledgement of India’s strategic role in Southeast Asia.

In News:

• National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) is observed annually on 31 October to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister.
• Introduced in 2014, the day highlights Patel's pivotal role in consolidating the nation by integrating over 560 princely states into the Indian Union at the time of Independence— a task that earned him the enduring title, the “Iron Man of India.”
• The year 2025 marks the 150th birth anniversary of Sardar Patel, and the commemorative events have been organised on an unprecedented scale at the Statue of Unity in Ekta Nagar, Gujarat, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• The celebrations highlight the theme “Unity in Diversity”, underscoring India’s multicultural character and the importance of national cohesion.

Historical Significance of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel

• Born on 31 October 1875 in Nadiad, Gujarat, Patel initially practised law before joining the national movement under Mahatma Gandhi.
• His leadership in the Kheda Satyagraha (1918) and Nagpur Flag Satyagraha (1923) marked his rise as a mass leader.
• As President of the Ahmedabad Municipal Board (1924), he reformed urban infrastructure, sanitation and civic systems.
• The Bardoli Satyagraha (1928) elevated him to national prominence, earning him the honorific “Sardar.”
• At Independence, he was entrusted with unifying the 17 British provinces and integrating the princely states—an immense administrative and diplomatic feat.
• Served as Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister (1947–1950) and also held charge of the Information and Broadcasting Ministry.

In News:

With Delhi’s air quality plunging to severe levels each winter, the state government has renewed its call for cloud seeding as a potential intervention to reduce pollution. However, scientific assessments and governance experts warn that this approach offers limited, temporary relief and risks diverting attention from structural reforms required to address air pollution sustainably.

Why Delhi’s Air Quality Deteriorates in Winter

Delhi’s winter pollution is driven by a combination of meteorological and anthropogenic factors:

• Temperature Inversion: During winter, colder air remains trapped near the surface while warmer air lies above. This temperature inversion acts as a lid, preventing pollutants from rising and dispersing vertically.
• Low Wind Speeds: Weak winds limit horizontal movement of pollutants, causing particulate matter to accumulate in the lower atmosphere.
• Crop Residue Burning: Post-harvest stubble burning in Punjab, Haryana, and western Uttar Pradesh releases large quantities of smoke and suspended particles, which are carried to Delhi via prevailing winds.
• Dust and Urban Emissions: Vehicular emissions, construction dust, industrial exhaust, and waste burning remain trapped within the low boundary layer height, intensifying pollution.
• Post-Monsoon Stagnation: Stable high-pressure systems reduce atmospheric mixing, compounding North India’s chronic winter air quality problem.

What is Cloud Seeding?

Cloud seeding is a form of weather modification intended to enhance rainfall using chemical agents.

• Origin: First demonstrated in 1946 by Vincent J. Schaefer.
• Seeding Agents: Silver iodide, potassium iodide, sodium chloride, and dry ice are commonly used.
• Mechanism: The agents act as nuclei for condensation or ice-crystal formation, encouraging droplet growth. Once droplets become heavy, they fall as precipitation.
• Delivery Methods: Aircraft, rockets, or ground-based generators disperse particles into suitable moisture-laden clouds.

However, cloud seeding requires the presence of natural clouds with adequate moisture and cannot generate clouds on its own.

Scientific and Environmental Limitations

• Reliance on Existing Clouds: Delhi often lacks suitable cloud systems during peak pollution periods. Cloud seeding has no impact in the absence of adequate moisture.
• Weak Evidence of Effectiveness: Global scientific studies show inconsistent results. Even when rainfall occurs after seeding, establishing causality is difficult.
• Only Temporary Pollution Relief: Rain may wash away PM2.5 and PM10 temporarily, but pollution typically rebounds within 1–2 days. Secondary pollutants like ozone and sulphur dioxide remain unaffected.
• Environmental and Health Concerns: The use of silver iodide raises concerns regarding long-term ecological and health impacts due to chemical deposition. Evidence on safety is limited and inconclusive.
• Governance and Accountability Issues
  • Unpredictable outcomes may lead to public criticism.
  • Accountability becomes unclear if cloud seeding coincides with flooding or adverse weather events.

Ethical and Policy Concerns

• Misallocation of Resources: Investing in cloud seeding may divert funds from proven interventions.
• Distracting Public Attention: Temporary fixes risk undermining public trust and shifting focus away from systemic issues.
• Potential Misuse: Short-term optics may overshadow long-term environmental governance.

Real Solutions for Air Pollution Control

Experts emphasise that lasting improvement requires sustained structural action:

• Cleaner Transportation
  • Strengthening public transport
  • Transition to electric mobility
  • Enforcing emission norms
• Sustainable Energy Transition
  • Phasing down coal-based power
  • Scaling up renewables
  • Promoting clean industrial technologies
• Improved Waste Management
  • Curbing open waste burning
  • Efficient municipal systems
• Construction and Dust Control
  • Enforcement of dust mitigation norms
  • Use of green barriers and mechanised sweeping
• Agricultural Reforms
  • Subsidising sustainable stubble management
  • Promoting crop diversification in Punjab and Haryana
• Urban Planning Reforms
  • Increasing green cover
  • Reducing congestion through better mobility planning

In News:

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has termed the establishment of the National Makhana Board as a transformative step and a “revolution” for the makhana sector.
• The initiative aims to unlock the commercial potential of Makhana (foxnut)—the dried edible seed of Euryale ferox, a prickly water lily that grows in freshwater ponds across South and East Asia—and address long-standing structural gaps in India’s leading production region, Bihar.

Makhana: Botanical, Nutritional and Cultural Features

• Makhana is derived from the seeds of the gorgon plant, recognised by its large prickly leaves and violet-white flowers. Traditionally used in ritual offerings, it has gained global traction as a nutrient-dense, low-fat “superfood”, expanding its market appeal among health-conscious consumers.
• The global makhana market, valued at USD 43.56 million in 2023, is projected to surpass USD 100 million by 2033, signalling strong export potential for India.

Production Profile: Bihar’s Dominance

• Bihar accounts for 90% of India’s makhana production, with cultivation concentrated in nine districts of the Mithilanchal region—particularly Darbhanga, Madhubani, Purnea, and Katihar, which together contribute 80% of the state’s output. Roughly 15,000 hectares under cultivation yield around 10,000 tonnes of popped makhana annually.
• Over 10 lakh families, mainly from the Mallah (fishermen) community, are involved in its cultivation, harvesting, and processing—making the crop socio-economically significant for Bihar’s rural economy.

Challenges: Low Productivity, Labour-Intensive Processes and Market Limitations

Despite being the largest producer, Bihar faces multiple structural constraints:

1. Weak Food Processing and Export Infrastructure

• Punjab and Assam dominate makhana exports despite minimal or no production.
• Bihar sells raw foxnuts cheaply to external food processing units (FPUs), which add value through flavouring, packaging, and branding—capturing higher profits.

2. Poor Market Organisation

• A long chain of intermediaries suppresses farmer earnings.
• Limited organised market systems hinder transparent pricing and revenue growth.

3. Labour-Intensive and Low-Productivity Cultivation

• Harvesting requires diving into water bodies and manually collecting seeds.
• Cleaning, sun drying, roasting, and popping are entirely manual processes.
• Adoption of high-yield varieties (HYVs) like Swarna Vaidehi and Sabour Makhana-1 remains low, keeping output at 1.7–1.9 tonnes/hectare, far below the HYV potential of 3–3.5 tonnes/hectare.
• Mechanisation attempts have been unsuccessful due to technological inefficiencies.

4. Institutional Weakness

• The ICAR National Research Centre for Makhana, established in 2002, has suffered understaffing, lack of administrative support, and underutilisation.

Government Efforts: Policy Push and Institutional Strengthening

The government is working to commercialise makhana through:

• Creation of the National Makhana Board with an initial budget of ?100 crore to address production, processing, value addition, and marketing.
• Promotion of makhana as a commercial crop with improved processing linkages.
• Expansion of industrial infrastructure, including cargo facilities at airports in Patna, Darbhanga, and Purnea, aimed at facilitating exports.
• Training, capacity-building, and linkage of farmers to government schemes.
• Awarding the GI tag to Mithila Makhana in 2022, recognising its unique geographical identity and boosting brand value.

Political Significance: Makhananomics in an Election Year

The push for makhana development carries strong electoral implications:

• With elections approaching, makhana has emerged as a key narrative in Bihar’s economic agenda.
• The sector directly impacts the Mallah community, which constitutes just 2.6% of the state population but commands significant influence in North Bihar owing to their 6% regional vote share.
• Success of “makhananomics” could bolster the ruling coalition’s political appeal by promising employment generation, economic upliftment, and rural prosperity.

In News:

• In a major breakthrough for India’s dairy and livestock sector, scientists at the ICAR–National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology (NIANP), Bengaluru, have developed CRYODIL, the country’s first egg yolk-free, ready-to-use semen preservation solution for buffalo breeding.
• Designed to revolutionise artificial insemination practices, CRYODIL enables long-term storage and improved semen quality during cryopreservation, offering significant benefits to dairy productivity and livestock management.

What is CRYODIL?

CRYODIL is an innovative semen extender developed specifically for buffaloes. Unlike conventional extenders that rely on egg yolk for preservation, CRYODIL employs a purified whey-protein–based formulation to maintain semen motility and fertility. This eliminates the variability and contamination risk associated with egg-yolk-based solutions.

Key Features and Advantages

• Egg Yolk-Free Composition: Eliminates microbial contamination risks often linked to raw biological materials like egg yolk.
• Extended Shelf Life: Can preserve buffalo semen for up to 18 months, making long-distance transport and storage more efficient.
• Stable and Consistent Quality: Whey proteins ensure chemical uniformity, improving post-thaw sperm survival and movement.
• Field-Tested Innovation: Demonstrated successful results in trials conducted on 24 buffalo bulls, showing superior post-thaw semen motility and higher fertility potential.
• Cost-Effective Alternative: Indigenous development reduces reliance on imported commercial extenders, making it affordable for rural breeding programmes.
• Ready-to-Use Formulation: Simplifies the insemination process and enhances field applicability without requiring complex lab preparations.

Significance for India’s Dairy and Livestock Sector

• Boosts Buffalo Breeding Efficiency: India is home to the world’s largest population of buffaloes and relies heavily on them for dairy output. CRYODIL strengthens artificial insemination efforts by enhancing semen viability and improving conception rates.
• Advances Atmanirbhar Bharat: The indigenous formulation supports self-reliance, reducing dependence on imported extenders and promoting innovation under ICAR research initiatives.
• Improves Dairy Sector Economics: Higher fertility rates and improved breeding efficiency translate to increased milk yield, benefiting farmers and strengthening India’s dairy economy.
• Enhances Biosecurity and Hygiene: Removal of egg yolk minimises microbial load and contamination risks, making the solution safer for large-scale use in breeding centres.

In News:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his October 2025 Mann Ki Baat address, called upon citizens to mark the 150th anniversary of VandeMataram.

Historical Origins and Evolution

• VandeMataram—meaning “I bow to thee, Mother”—was composed by Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay in the 1870s in Sanskritised Bengali.
• It was later published in his novel Anandamath (1882), where the motherland was depicted symbolically as a divine, nurturing force.
• The song gained prominence during the freedom struggle. Its first public rendition was by Rabindranath Tagore at the 1896 Indian National Congress session, marking its transition from literary creation to a nationalistic anthem.
• Despite British censorship, it echoed across protest marches, swadeshi gatherings, and revolutionary movements, becoming an enduring symbol of defiance.

Role in National Movement and Political Debates

• During the early 20th century, the song became deeply embedded in anti-colonial resistance, especially during the Swadeshi Movement (1905) and later the Quit India Movement (1942). However, its later stanzas, portraying the motherland as a Hindu goddess, drew objections from the All-India Muslim League and some Muslim leaders.
• To maintain inclusivity, the Indian National Congress in 1937 officially adopted only the first two stanzas, which do not include religious imagery. This selective adoption reflected efforts to preserve unity in a diverse society.
• On 24 January 1950, the Constituent Assembly accorded equal honour to VandeMataram and Jana Gana Mana, defining the former as the national song and the latter as the national anthem.

Cultural, Symbolic and Constitutional Status

Today, VandeMataram holds a unique constitutional and cultural position:

• National Song Status: It enjoys the same respect as the national anthem as per Constituent Assembly resolutions.
• Parliamentary Tradition: An instrumental version is played at the end of every Parliament session.
• Cultural Identity: It continues to symbolise unity, patriotism, and emotional attachment to the motherland.
• Secular Projection: Emphasis remains on the first two stanzas to ensure inclusivity across religious communities.
• Judicial Affirmation: In 2022, the Delhi High Court reaffirmed that citizens should show equal respect to both the national anthem and national song.

In News:

• Cyclone Montha, a tropical cyclonic system that formed over the southeast Bay of Bengal in late October 2025, has emerged as one of the most significant weather events of the year for India’s eastern coastal states.
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued high-level warnings for Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and coastal Telangana as the system intensifies and advances toward landfall.

Formation and Meteorological Characteristics

• Cyclone Montha originated from a well-marked low-pressure area over the southeast Bay of Bengal around 24 October 2025.
• Under favourable atmospheric and oceanic conditions—warm sea surface temperatures above 28°C, high moisture availability, and low vertical wind shear—the system progressed from a depression to a deep depression by 26 October and further strengthened into a cyclonic storm. The IMD projected that it could intensify into a Severe Cyclonic Storm (SCS) before landfall.
• As of 27 October 2025, the storm was positioned approximately 350 km southeast of Kakinada, moving in a north-northwest direction at nearly 14 km/h.
• The IMD forecast predicted landfall between Machilipatnam and Kalingapatnam, near Kakinada, on the evening or night of 28 October. Wind speed estimates indicated gusts reaching 110 km/h, accompanied by “very rough to high” sea conditions and potential storm surge up to 1 metre.

Naming Mechanism and Regional Cyclone Governance

• “Montha” is a name contributed by Thailand to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO)/ESCAP Panel on Tropical Cyclones.
• Cyclone naming in the North Indian Ocean is overseen by a 13-member regional committee comprising India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Maldives, Oman, Yemen, Qatar, Iran, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand.
• Each country submits suggested names, which are then assigned sequentially to future cyclones. This system enhances communication, public awareness, and clarity during simultaneous storm events.

Geographical Spread and Affected Regions

• While Andhra Pradesh remains the primary zone of impact—especially districts such as Kakinada, Konaseema, West Godavari, Krishna, Bapatla, Prakasam and Nellore—its effects range wider. Odisha has alerted 30 districts, Tamil Nadu has issued orange and yellow alerts for coastal belts, and Telangana is preparing for secondary rainfall impacts.
• Rayalaseema is also vulnerable due to the forecast of extremely heavy rainfall (>210 mm in 24 hours), increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides. Fisherfolk in all three major maritime states—Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha—have been advised against venturing into the sea due to high waves and strong winds.

Expected Impacts

• Heavy to Extremely Heavy Rainfall: Isolated areas in coastal Andhra Pradesh and south Odisha may witness rainfall ≥21 cm in 24 hours, leading to flooding of rivers, drains, and agricultural fields.
• Strong Winds: Sustained winds of 90–100 km/h and gusts up to 110 km/h can uproot trees, damage kutcha houses, and disrupt electricity and telecom infrastructure.
• Storm Surge: Low-lying coastal pockets face inundation risks due to a possible storm surge of around 1 metre above the astronomical tide.
• Marine Hazards: Fishing vessels have been anchored, with over 900 boats already guided ashore. High swell waves and turbulent sea conditions threaten coastal ecosystems and livelihoods.
• Extended Weather Effects: Secondary effects may be felt in Telangana, Chhattisgarh, and even parts of West Bengal through rainfall, thunderstorms, and transportation disruptions.

Government Response and Preparedness Measures

State and central agencies have activated a coordinated disaster-response framework. Key measures include:

• Activation of emergency control rooms and pre-deployment of NDRF, SDRF, Coast Guard, and Army teams.
• Closure of schools in high-risk districts until 31 October.
• Stockpiling of essential commodities and readying PDS distribution systems.
• Evacuation of vulnerable populations including pregnant women and residents of low-lying areas.
• Temporary shelters being prepared with sanitation and food facilities.
• Suspension of fishing activities along the entire east coast stretch under threat.
• Continuous IMD bulletins issued for public safety instructions.

Inter-state cooperation has been emphasised, particularly between Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu, to strengthen response logistics.

In News:

• The Booker Prize Foundation has announced the establishment of the Children’s Booker Prize, a landmark global award dedicated to fiction written for children aged 8 to 12 years.
• Scheduled to debut in 2027, this prize represents the first major expansion of the Booker brand into children’s literature and carries a purse of £50,000, matching the award value of its established sister prizes.

What the Prize Represents

• The Children’s Booker Prize aims to celebrate and elevate fiction for middle-grade readers, acknowledging the importance of early reading habits in shaping future generations of informed, imaginative, and engaged adults. Books originally written in English or translated into English will be eligible, making the award internationally inclusive.
• The Booker Prize Foundation, in partnership with the AKO Foundation, which supports arts, education, and environmental initiatives, seeks to nurture a global culture of reading and inspire literary excellence in children’s storytelling.

Eligibility and Key Features

• Age Category: Fiction aimed at 8–12-year-old readers.
• Geographic Scope: Open to books published in the UK or Ireland, regardless of the author’s nationality.
• Languages: Both original English works and translated works can be submitted.
• Prize Value: £50,000 (same as the adult Booker and International Booker), funded by the AKO Foundation.
• Selection Process: The first award in 2027 will be decided by a jury of children and adults, chaired by acclaimed British children’s author Frank Cottrell-Boyce, the current children’s laureate.

The submission process begins in early 2026, and the prize hopes to build enthusiasm and visibility around high-quality children’s literature.

Purpose and Vision

• According to Booker Prize Foundation Chief Executive Gaby Wood, the award aims to cultivate an enduring love for reading among younger audiences and to serve as a catalyst for literary engagement across generations. The initiative builds on the Booker’s legacy of recognising works that shape global literary culture.

Position Within the Booker Ecosystem

The Children’s Booker Prize joins two established awards under the Booker umbrella:

1. Booker Prize

• Founded: 1969
• Eligibility: Original novels written in English and published in the UK or Ireland.
• Prize Distribution: Award solely to the author.
• Objective: Celebrates outstanding English-language fiction.
• Indian Winners:
  • Salman Rushdie – Midnight’s Children (1981)
  • Arundhati Roy – The God of Small Things (1997)
  • Kiran Desai – The Inheritance of Loss (2006)
  • Aravind Adiga – The White Tiger (2008)

2. International Booker Prize

• Established: 2005; restructured in 2016.
• Eligibility: Translated fiction published in the UK or Ireland.
• Prize Distribution: Shared equally between author and translator.
• Objective: Promotes cross-cultural literary exchange and honours translation.
• Indian-Linked Winners:
  • Geetanjali Shree – Tomb of Sand (2022) (Hindi, translated by Daisy Rockwell)
  • Banu Mushtaq – Heart Lamp (2025) (Kannada, translated by Deepa Bhasthi)

In News:

India’s foreign exchange reserves recorded a strong rise, increasing by $4.496 billion and reaching an all-time high of $702.28 billion, according to RBI data. This marks the second consecutive week of expansion, following a $2.176 billion rise in the previous reporting week. The jump was primarily driven by a steep increase in the value of gold reserves, even as foreign currency assets registered a decline.

Component-wise Movement of Reserves

1. Foreign Currency Assets (FCA)

• FCAs, which form the largest component of India’s forex reserves, fell by $1.692 billion to $570.411 billion.
• The changes reflect valuation effects due to fluctuations in currencies such as the euro, pound, and yen against the US dollar.

2. Gold Reserves

• Gold holdings rose sharply by $6.181 billion, taking their total value to $108.546 billion.
• The increase is attributed to RBI’s gold purchases and the global surge in gold prices.

3. Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)

• SDR holdings increased slightly by $38 million, reaching $18.722 billion.

4. Reserve Position in the IMF

• India’s reserve position with the IMF declined by $30 million to $4.602 billion.

Overall, the rise in gold assets offset the fall in foreign currency assets, helping the total reserves cross the historic $702-billion mark.

Understanding India’s Forex Reserves

Foreign exchange reserves represent external assets held by the RBI in the form of:

• Foreign currency assets
• Gold reserves
• Special Drawing Rights (SDRs)
• Reserve position in the IMF

These reserves act as a protective financial buffer for the economy.

Objectives and Functions

• Monetary Stability: Helps maintain stability of the Indian Rupee during volatility.
• Crisis Management: Provides liquidity support during balance of payments pressure or external shocks.
• Investor Confidence: Strengthens India’s credibility and ensures macroeconomic stability.
• Trade and Debt Support: Enables smooth settlement of import bills and external debt servicing obligations.

Key Features

• India’s forex reserves are valued on a weekly basis, factoring in global gold prices and New York closing exchange rates.
• The RBI manages these reserves following IMF data dissemination standards, maintaining international transparency.
• Foreign currency assets remain the largest component, followed by gold, SDRs, and India’s IMF reserve position.

Economic Significance

• Economic Security: Acts as an insurance mechanism against currency crises, capital outflows, or external market shocks.
• Policy Flexibility: Allows RBI to intervene in the forex market to curb excessive rupee volatility.
• Global Standing: Reinforces India’s global financial strength, supporting favourable sovereign credit ratings and greater investor trust.

In News:

• A recent multidisciplinary research study by Deccan College, Symbiosis School for Liberal Arts, and the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has reinterpreted the Harappan settlement of KotadaBhadli in Kutch, Gujarat, as the earliest known caravanserai, dating to the Mature Harappan phase (2300–1900 BCE).
• The study, published in L’Anthropologie (2025), pushes back the origins of organised trade infrastructure in South Asia by nearly 2,000 years, long before the rise of the Silk Route.

Location and Strategic Significance

• KotadaBhadli lies in the Kutch district of Gujarat, positioned along inland trade corridors linking prominent Harappan centres such as Dholavira, Lothal, and Shikarpur.
• Its placement reveals a purposeful design—serving as a rural logistical stopover facilitating long-distance trade between urban and coastal settlements.

Nature and Function of the Settlement

• Researchers have identified KotadaBhadli as a fortified rural halt, intended not for permanent habitation but for short-term stops by traders and their caravans.
• Its function aligns closely with caravanserai-style establishments known from later historical periods—providing shelter, security, food, and space for pack animals during overland journeys.
• The study clarifies a previously missing link in Harappan commerce: while trade with Mesopotamia and inland India was well documented, the operational mechanism—how traders and goods moved safely across long distances—was not fully understood. KotadaBhadli provides the first archaeological evidence to support this model.

Archaeological and Scientific Evidence

Excavations conducted between 2010 and 2013 and re-analysed through advanced techniques have revealed:

• A multi-roomed central complex, likely functioning as administrative or resting quarters.
• Fortified walls with bastions, confirming its role as a protected stopover.
• Large open courtyards, interpreted as holding areas for animals and storage of goods.
• Remains of food waste and imported material, suggesting active trade activity.

Cutting-edge scientific methods—including ground-penetrating radar, satellite mapping, magnetic surveys, isotopic and lipid analysis, and multiple dating techniques—have improved understanding of the site’s functional layout and confirm its zoning for logistical purposes.

Implications for Harappan Trade Networks

The findings demonstrate that the Harappan economy had a structured overland trade system, supported by a network of small fortified checkpoints rather than solely urban market centres. This reveals an advanced level of planning and coordination within Harappan economic systems.

Key implications include:

• Chronological significance: Organised trade infrastructure existed in South Asia more than two millennia before the Silk Route.
• Economic insight: Harappans displayed sophisticated logistics and administrative planning.
• Civilizational understanding: The Harappan world was not merely dependent on ports like Lothal or trade with Mesopotamia—it also relied on inland support systems that sustained commerce.

In News:

Kerala has reported yet another fatal case of amoebic meningoencephalitis in 2025, deepening public health concerns in the state. With this incident, Kerala’s cases linked to amoebic meningoencephalitis in 2025 have risen to 27, highlighting an emerging disease surveillance challenge. Health authorities are still investigating the exact source of infection in the latest case, as environmental exposure remains the primary risk factor.

Understanding Amoebic Meningoencephalitis

• Nature of the Disease: Amoebic meningoencephalitis, or Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), is a rare but rapidly progressing and typically fatal brain infection. It occurs when a free-living amoeba invades the central nervous system, causing severe inflammation and extensive brain tissue damage.
• Causative Organism: The infection is caused by Naegleria fowleri, often referred to as the “brain-eating amoeba.” This thermophilic organism is naturally present in warm freshwater bodies and moist soil.

Transmission and Environmental Factors

• The disease is not transmitted person-to-person.
• Infection occurs when contaminated water enters the nasal cavity, allowing the amoeba to migrate through the olfactory nerve into the brain.
• Naegleria fowleri proliferates in warm freshwater, particularly during summer months, in environments such as:
  • Lakes
  • Ponds
  • Hot springs
  • Poorly chlorinated swimming pools
  • Warm freshwater streams and rivers

Kerala’s warm and humid climate, combined with widespread freshwater sources, may create favourable conditions for the organism, necessitating stronger environmental monitoring and public awareness.

Clinical Presentation

Early Symptoms (1–9 days after exposure):

• Fever
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vomiting

Advanced Symptoms:

• Stiff neck
• Seizures
• Confusion
• Loss of balance
• Hallucinations
• Progressive neurological deterioration

The disease often leads to coma and death within days, making it one of the deadliest infections of the central nervous system.

Treatment and Mortality

Treatment remains highly challenging, with over 95% mortality. Some survival cases have been associated with:

• Early diagnosis
• Rapid initiation of drugs like amphotericin B and miltefosine
• Aggressive supportive care in intensive settings

However, the overall prognosis remains extremely poor due to the fast progression of the infection.

Preventive Measures

Given the absence of person-to-person transmission, prevention focuses on reducing environmental exposure:

• Avoid swimming or diving in untreated freshwater bodies, especially during warmer months.
• Use nose clips while entering freshwater.
• Ensure proper chlorination and maintenance of swimming pools.
• Avoid stirring mud or sediment in shallow freshwater areas where amoebae thrive.

In News:

The Pradhan Mantri–Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (PM-ABHIM), launched in October 2021, represents one of India’s most ambitious national health-system strengthening initiatives. Conceived in the aftermath of COVID-19, the Mission aims to build a resilient, modern, and self-reliant public health infrastructure capable of responding effectively to future pandemics and health emergencies.

Mission Structure and Financial Outlay

• PM-ABHIM is implemented as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS) with select Central Sector components, with a total allocation of ?64,180 crore for the period 2021-22 to 2025-26.
• This multi-layered programme focuses on fortifying health infrastructure from the village level to the district level, while simultaneously creating a national network for disease surveillance and laboratory capacity.

Key Components of PM-ABHIM

1. Primary and Secondary Healthcare Strengthening

The Mission envisions comprehensive infrastructure development through:

• Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs) replacing and upgrading Sub-Centres and Primary Health Centres.
• Urban Health and Wellness Centres established in slum and underserved urban areas.
• Block Public Health Units (BPHUs) to enhance diagnostic, surveillance, and public health management capacity at the block level.

These interventions aim to fill service delivery gaps and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare, especially in rural and vulnerable regions.

2. District-Level Critical Health Infrastructure

• Establishment of Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCHBs) in every district to provide advanced and emergency care.
• Creation and upgradation of Integrated District Public Health Labs (IDPHLs) for comprehensive testing and epidemiological support.

These facilities are intended to strengthen district-level readiness for public health emergencies and mass-casualty situations.

3. Strengthened Disease Surveillance and Pandemic Preparedness

A significant feature of PM-ABHIM is the creation of an IT-enabled, real-time disease surveillance system. This network links:

• Block-level labs
• District surveillance units
• Regional surveillance centres
• National institutions

The government has highlighted that PM-ABHIM has substantially enhanced India’s health surveillance capabilities, enabling faster detection, notification, and response during outbreaks. The integration of digital tools allows seamless data sharing and analytics—essential for early warning and rapid containment strategies.

4. Research, Innovation, and One Health Approach

The Mission supports:

• Advanced research on COVID-19, emerging infectious diseases, and health emergencies.
• Laboratories and platforms promoting scientific innovation.
• Adoption of the One Health approach, recognising the linkages between human, animal, and environmental health to prevent zoonotic diseases.

Policy Significance

PM-ABHIM marks a paradigm shift from reactive health crisis management to proactive preparedness. Its multi-tiered infrastructure plan, focus on training, surveillance networks, and integration of modern technologies positions India to handle:

• Emerging infectious diseases
• Climate-linked health threats
• Biosecurity risks
• Mass public health emergencies

The Mission also contributes to the broader goals of Ayushman Bharat, Universal Health Coverage (UHC), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by bridging regional disparities and strengthening healthcare accessibility.

In News:

• The Government of India has announced the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP) 2025, the nation’s premier recognition for exceptional achievements in science, technology, and innovation.
• The awards acknowledge landmark contributions by scientists, technologists, young researchers, and collaborative teams working across diverse domains that drive India’s S&T leadership and national development goals.

About the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar

Instituted by the Government of India, the RVP honours outstanding scientific excellence and impactful innovation. The awards are conferred in four categories:

• Vigyan Ratna (VR): Recogniseslifetime achievements in any field of science and technology.
• Vigyan Shri (VS): Honoursdistinguished contributions by individuals in any scientific discipline.
• Vigyan Yuva– Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar (VY-SSB): Celebrates exceptional contributions by young scientists up to 45 years of age.
• Vigyan Team (VT): Awarded to a team of 3 or more researchers for exceptional collaborative work.

The awards span 13 scientific domains, including Physics, Chemistry, Biological Sciences, Engineering, Agriculture, Environmental Science, Earth Science, Atomic Energy, Space Science and Technology, Medicine, Mathematics & Computer Science, Technology & Innovation, and allied interdisciplinary fields.

Selection Process

• Nominations for the 2025 edition were accepted through the government portal (awards.gov.in) between October 4 and November 17, 2024.
• An expert committee comprising the Principal Scientific Advisor, secretaries of leading science departments, heads of national academies, and domain specialists rigorously evaluated the submissions.
• The final decisions were coordinated by the Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar Secretariat.

Significance of the Awards

The Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar:

• Strengthens India’s scientific ecosystem
• Motivates emerging researchers and innovators
• Recognises pathbreaking discoveries and technological advancements
• Reinforces India’s strategic vision of becoming a global S&T leader
• Encourages collaborative, interdisciplinary research

The award ceremony will be organised separately, with formal notifications issued to the awardees.

In News:

India’s largest hydroelectric venture, the 2000 MW Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project, has officially entered its commissioning phase after years of delays, protests, and structural overhauls. Located at Gerukamukh on the Arunachal Pradesh–Assam border, the project marks a crucial milestone in India’s renewable energy expansion, especially in the Northeast.

Overview of the Project

• Type: Run-of-the-river hydroelectric project
• Capacity: 2000 MW (8 × 250 MW units)
• River:Subansiri River, a major tributary of the Brahmaputra
• Developer: National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC)
• Location:Gerukamukh, in the foothills of the Himalayas
• Construction Timeline: Work began in 2005; commissioning initiated in 2025
• Financing Structure: 70% equity and 30% debt; Central government provided budgetary support as equity

When fully operational, it will be India’s single largest hydroelectric power plant, providing a major boost to national energy security and clean energy capacity.

Engineering Features

• Concrete Gravity Dam:
  • Height: 116 m from riverbed; 130 m from foundation
  • Length: 284 m
  • Reservoir Storage Capacity: 1.37 km³
• Power Generation System:
  • Eight Francis-type turbines, each generating 250 MW
  • Eight headrace tunnels, eight surge tunnels, and eight circular penstocks
  • A 35 m-long, 206 m-wide tailrace channel to release water back into the river

Recent Developments – Commissioning Phase

On the first mechanical run, Unit-I generated 250 MW, marking the start of wet commissioning and its synchronization with the national grid. NHPC described this achievement as a “landmark moment for India’s hydropower landscape,” signalling steady progress toward bringing the remaining units online.

• Three additional units are expected to be commissioned within the year, adding 1,000 MW of clean energy to the grid.
• Once all 8 × 250 MW units become operational, the project will light millions of households and reinforce India’s push toward sustainable, reliable, and carbon-free energy.

Historical Delays and Controversies

The project’s trajectory has been far from smooth:

• Original commissioning target: December 2012
• Sanctioned: 2003
• Work halted: 2011–2019 due to widespread protests

Concerns raised by local communities and civil society groups:

• High seismic vulnerability of the region
• Potential ecological disruption
• Fear of downstream flooding
• Impact on riverine ecosystems and local livelihoods

Organisations such as the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) demanded a complete reassessment of safety and environmental impacts.

Expert Review and Redesign

During the eight-year suspension:

• Expert committees from IIT Guwahati and the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) evaluated structural integrity and proposed design modifications.
• Recommended changes led to:
  • Enhanced seismic reinforcements
  • Additional grouting
  • Redesign of spillways
  • Strengthened safety protocols

The redesign ensured compliance with updated safety, hydrological, and structural norms before work resumed in October 2019.

Cost Escalation

The prolonged delays and modifications caused a substantial budget escalation:

• Initial Estimate: ?6,285 crore
• Revised Estimate: ?26,075 crore
• Cost Increase Drivers:
  • Inflation
  • Monsoon-induced damage
  • Prolonged suspension of civil works
  • Safety overhaul and redesign

Strategic Importance

• A cornerstone of India’s renewable energy strategy in the Northeast
• Strengthens national energy security with clean, baseload hydro capacity
• Supports grid stability and contributes to India’s climate goals
• Symbol of engineering resilience and India’s capability in executing large-scale infrastructure projects

NHPC leadership hailed the achievement as an emblem of “India’s unstoppable march towards a cleaner and self-reliant energy future.”

In News:

East Timor (Timor-Leste) was formally admitted as the 11th member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) at the 47th ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, marking the organisation’s first expansion since the late 1990s.

Historical Milestone for East Timor

• Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão declared the moment “historic,” noting that ASEAN membership reflects both the aspirations and resilience of the Timorese people. President José Ramos-Horta, a Nobel Peace Prize laureate, and Gusmão—both icons of the independence movement—lead the nation as it navigates socio-economic challenges such as high unemployment, persistent malnutrition, and widespread poverty (with 42% of the population living below the national poverty line).
• East Timor’s journey to statehood has been arduous. A former Portuguese colony for over four centuries, it declared independence in 1975, only to face a 24-year occupation by Indonesia that claimed tens of thousands of lives. AUN-supervised referendum in 1999 paved the way to sovereignty, which was finally restored in 2002, making it one of the world’s youngest nations.

Why East Timor’s ASEAN Membership Matters

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, chairing the summit, emphasised that East Timor’s entry “completes the ASEAN family,” reflecting shared regional identity and a commitment to equitable growth. Analysts view the expansion as a declaration of ASEAN’s inclusivity and adaptability, especially amid global geopolitical volatility and rising protectionism.

Membership grants East Timor greater access to:

• ASEAN’s free trade arrangements
• Regional investment opportunities
• Broader markets and labour mobility
• Platforms for cooperation in education, technology, and digital economy

For a small, resource-dependent nation with a youthful demographic—nearly two-thirds of its people are under 30—ASEAN integration offers new possibilities for job creation, capacity building, and economic diversification. With oil and gas reserves declining, the government seeks fresh pathways for economic resilience.

East Timor: Key Facts

• Official Name: Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste
• Location: Eastern half of Timor Island in the Malay Archipelago; bordered by Indonesia and the Timor Sea
• Capital: Dili
• Geography: Mountainous terrain; highest peak Mount Tatamailau (2,963 m); tropical climate; rich biodiversity
• Population: ~1.4 million
• Economy: Predominantly dependent on hydrocarbons

East Timor applied for ASEAN membership in 2011 and was granted observer status in 2022, culminating in full accession in 2025.

About ASEAN and Its Relevance

• The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a regional intergovernmental organisation established in 1967 with the signing of the Bangkok Declaration by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand. Its headquarters is located in Jakarta, Indonesia.
• Current Membership (11 Countries):Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar, Cambodia, and East Timor.
• Core Goals:

• Promote political stability through dialogue and diplomacy
• Advance economic integration via AFTA and RCEP
• Strengthen cooperation on climate change, disaster response, and transnational threats
• Foster socio-cultural exchange and people-to-people connectivity
• Engage global powers through mechanisms like ASEAN+3 and East Asia Summit (EAS)

Significance for Regional Dynamics

East Timor’s accession:

• Reinforces ASEAN’s commitment to regionalism and openness, countering trends of protectionism
• Expands the bloc’s political influence and strengthens its collective strategic posture
• Enhances ASEAN’s identity as a community representing diverse political and economic systems
• Encourages equitable development within the region’s smallest and youngest member state

In News:

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI), under the Ministry of Finance, continues its nationwide anti-smuggling campaign titled “Operation Fire Trail”, aimed at curbing the illegal import of hazardous foreign-origin firecrackers into India. The operation focuses on intercepting smuggling networks that violate India’s trade regulations, safety norms, and environmental standards.

About Operation Fire Trail

• Nature of Operation:Operation Fire Trail is an intelligence-driven enforcement initiative designed to detect and prevent the illegal entry of non-compliant Chinese firecrackers into India. These pyrotechnic materials often contain harmful chemicals, posing severe risks to public health, safety, and the environment.
• Implementing Agency:The operation is carried out by the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI)—India’s apex anti-smuggling agency.
• Objectives:

• To dismantle organised smuggling syndicates involved in routing foreign firecrackers into India using false declarations.
• To enforce compliance with licensing norms mandated by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) under the Explosives Rules, 2008.
• To strengthen India’s customs surveillance and safeguard national security.

Recent Seizure at Nhava Sheva Port

In one of the largest seizures during the ongoing operation, DRI intercepted a 40-foot container at Nhava Sheva port that had originated from China. The consignment, falsely declared as containing "leggings," was destined for ICD Ankleshwar.

A detailed examination revealed:

• 46,640 pieces of smuggled Chinese-origin firecrackers.
• Total estimated value: ?4.82 crore.
• Firecrackers were concealed behind a thin layer of garments to evade detection.

Subsequent raids led to the confiscation of incriminating documents exposing the smuggling syndicate’s modus operandi. A key suspect from Veraval, Gujarat, was arrested, marking a major breakthrough in the case.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

• Import of firecrackers into India is classified as “Restricted” under the ITC (HS) classification of the Foreign Trade Policy.
• Legitimate imports require:
  • Valid DGFT licence, and
  • Approval from PESO under the Explosives Rules, 2008.
• Smuggling of non-compliant fireworks bypasses these safeguards and introduces hazardous substances into the domestic market.

Significance of the Crackdown

• Protection of Public Safety: Smuggled firecrackers are often made using unsafe chemical compositions. Their uncontrolled entry poses serious risks of fire, explosions, and injury.
• Safeguarding Port and Supply Chain Infrastructure: Hazardous consignments threaten critical port infrastructure, warehouse safety, and logistics operations.
• Strengthening Enforcement Capacity: Operation Fire Trail enhances India’s intelligence-led enforcement, boosts customs vigilance, and disrupts transnational smuggling networks.
• Environmental Protection: Many imported Chinese firecrackers release toxic pollutants, violating environmental norms. Curtailing their inflow supports India’s pollution-control efforts.
• Supporting Domestic Manufacturing: The operation discourages cheap illegal imports and promotes domestic, compliant firecracker production aligned with safety and environmental regulations.

In News:

• The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) released the Global Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) 2025 Report, titled “Overlapping Hardships: Poverty and Climate Hazards”.
• The report provides an evidence-based assessment of poverty that goes beyond income measures, highlighting how climate vulnerability and multidimensional deprivation reinforce each other.

About the Global MPI

• Nature of Index: The MPI is a global composite measure of acute poverty, capturing simultaneous deprivations in health, education, and standard of living through 10 indicators.
• Introduced: First featured in the 2010 Human Development Report.
• Published by: Jointly by UNDP Human Development Report Office and OPHI, annually since 2010.
• Objective: To assess:
  • Who is poor
  • How they are poor
  • How deprivations overlap across households
  • Enabling policymakers to align development strategies with SDG-1 (No Poverty).
• Methodology Highlights:
  • 3 Dimensions: Health, Education, Living Standards.
  • 10 Indicators: Nutrition, child mortality, years of schooling, school attendance, cooking fuel, sanitation, drinking water, electricity, housing, assets.

Global Trends in the MPI 2025

Poverty Headcount & Severity

• Out of 6.3 billion people assessed across 109 countries, 1.1 billion (18.3%) live in acute multidimensional poverty.
• 43.6% of the poor (≈501 million) experience severe poverty—being deprived in half or more indicators.

Regional Distribution of Poverty

• Sub-Saharan Africa (565 million) and South Asia (390 million) account for 83% of global poverty.
• Sub-Saharan Africa alone contains 49.2% of the world’s multidimensionally poor.

Children Disproportionately Affected

• Children form 33.6% of the global population but 51% of those living in multidimensional poverty.
• Malnutrition and disruption in schooling are primary drivers of child deprivation.

Middle-Income Countries as Core Contributors

• Nearly 740 million of the global poor live in middle-income countries, highlighting inadequacies of income-based poverty classifications.

Rural Concentration

• 83.5% of all multidimensionally poor live in rural areas, despite these areas comprising only 55% of total population.

Climate Hazard Exposure

• Nearly 80% of poor populations live in climate-vulnerable areas.
• Climate hazards include droughts, floods, extreme heat, and erratic precipitation patterns.
• South Asia has the highest number of poor people living in climate hazard zones.

Poverty & Climate Vulnerability in SIDS

• 22 Small Island Developing States (SIDS) show a combined poverty rate of 23.5%, higher than the developing world average.
• Rising sea levels (projected up to 70 cm by 2080–2099) threaten livelihoods in nations such as Belize, Comoros, and Samoa.

Post-Pandemic Stagnation

• Poverty reduction has slowed, with many countries witnessing stagnation or reversal due to:
  • Inflation
  • Conflict
  • Climate shocks
  • Post-pandemic economic disruptions

India in Global MPI 2025

Significant Poverty Reduction

• India reduced multidimensional poverty from 55.1% (2005–06) to 16.4% (2019–21).
• Over 414 million people moved out of multidimensional poverty.
• India's progress is among the fastest globally.

Persistent Child Poverty

• Children continue to face high deprivation, particularly in:
  • Nutrition
  • Sanitation
  • Housing
  • Cooking fuel

Climate Vulnerability and Poverty Link

• Nearly 99% of India’s poor live in climate-exposed regions.
• Heatwaves, floods, droughts, and air pollution intensify hardship and threaten livelihood security.

Drivers of MPI Improvement

India’s poverty reduction correlates with large-scale welfare and infrastructure missions:

• Swachh Bharat Mission – sanitation improvement
• PM Ujjwala Yojana – access to clean cooking fuel
• PM-Awas Yojana – housing for rural and urban poor
• Jal Jeevan Mission – access to clean drinking water
• Universal electrification initiatives

Key Challenges

• Rural–Urban Divide: 83% of the multidimensionally poor live in rural regions.
• Climate shocks: Frequent floods and droughts reverse development gains.
• Data Gaps: Lack of updated household-level data limits monitoring and policy targeting.
• Gender disparities: Women face inequalities in nutrition, education, healthcare, and asset ownership.
• Financial constraints: Several states struggle with fiscal capacity, affecting social protection and climate adaptation.

Policy Recommendations

• Integrate Climate & Poverty Policy: Adopt climate-resilient strategies combining:
  • Green infrastructure
  • Social protection
  • Disaster risk reduction
• Localised Poverty Tracking: Develop district-level MPI dashboards for real-time, granular monitoring.
• Promote Green Livelihoods: Expand employment in:
  • Renewable energy
  • Organic farming
  • Circular economy sectors
• Enhance Global Support: Strengthen access to:
  • Climate finance 
• • Concessional aid
  • Technology transfers
• Gender and Child-Focused Interventions: Reinforce programs for:
  • Nutrition
  • Maternal health
  • Education
  • Clean cooking energy

In News:

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, has launched the Mission for Advancement in High-Impact Areas (MAHA)–Medical Technology (MedTech).This landmark initiative seeks to accelerate innovation in India’s medical technology ecosystem, reduce dependence on costly imports, and ensure affordable, high-quality healthcare technologies for all.

About the MAHA MedTech Mission

• Launched by: ANRF, in partnership with ICMR and Gates Foundation
• Mission Duration: 5 years
• Deadline for Concept Note Submission: 7 November 2025
• Implemented through: ANRF online portal – www.anrfonline.in

The mission represents a strategic push under the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision to strengthen India’s domestic MedTech sector, which is currently import-heavy and fragmented.

Objectives of the MAHA MedTech Mission

• Public Health Impact:
  • Promote technologies addressing priority disease areas such as tuberculosis, cancer, neonatal and maternal care, and primary healthcare.
  • Expand access to safe, high-quality medical care across India.
• Affordability and Accessibility:
  • Support innovative solutions that reduce healthcare costs while maintaining quality standards.
  • Promote equitable access to advanced medical devices, especially in rural and underserved regions.
• Self-Reliance and Competitiveness:
  • Catalyze indigenous research, manufacturing, and commercialization in MedTech.
  • Foster industry–academia collaboration and boost India’s global competitiveness in medical innovation.

Scope of the Mission

The MAHA MedTech Mission will support a wide range of medical technologies and innovations, including:

• Medical devices and equipment
• In-vitro diagnostics (IVDs) and subcomponents
• Implants and surgical instruments
• Assistive and wearable devices
• Consumables and disposables
• AI/ML-driven software-based medical platforms
• Robotics, imaging, and minimally invasive technologies
• Point-of-care and molecular diagnostics

These innovations will target priority national health areas, promoting early disease detection, efficient treatment delivery, and improved healthcare infrastructure.

Funding Mechanism

• Milestone-linked funding:
  • ?5–25 crore per project
  • Up to ?50 crore for exceptional projects with transformative potential.
• Eligible Applicants:
  • Academic and R&D institutions
  • Hospitals and clinical research centers
  • Startups and MSMEs
  • Established MedTech industries
  • Interdisciplinary collaborations between public and private entities

The funding structure encourages translational research, product prototyping, clinical validation, and commercialization of indigenous medical technologies.

Enabling Support Framework

The Mission also provides institutional and regulatory facilitation through several national support programs:

• Patent Mitra:Facilitates intellectual property protection, patent filing, and technology transfer.
• MedTech Mitra:Provides regulatory guidance, helps in obtaining clinical and market approvals, and supports compliance with national and international standards.
• Clinical Trial Network:Offers access to a national network of hospitals and research centers for clinical validation and evidence generation.
• Mentorship and Industry Linkages:Access to industry mentors, market experts, and commercialization partners to support end-to-end product development.

In News:

India has recently issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a large-scale tri-services military exercise, “Ex Trishul,” scheduled along the Pakistan border. The announcement highlights India’s focus on joint operational preparedness, self-reliance, and technological innovation in defence.

About Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)

• Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), also known as Notice to Air Missions, is an official notification issued by national aviation authorities to inform airspace users about temporary or permanent changes that may affect flight operations.
• Purpose: NOTAMs ensure flight safety by providing timely information about:

• Changes in aeronautical facilities or services
• Temporary airspace restrictions
• Hazards or obstacles along flight paths
• Military activities, such as exercises or missile tests

They are critical for pilots, air traffic controllers, and flight planners, allowing them to modify flight paths or schedules to ensure operational safety.

Common Reasons for Issuing NOTAMs

• Airshows, parachute jumps, or glider operations
• VIP movements (e.g., heads of state)
• Runway or taxiway closures
• Unserviceable navigational aids or airport lighting
• Construction activities or temporary obstacles near airfields
• Military exercises involving restricted or closed airspace

NOTAMs are disseminated rapidly via aeronautical communication systems, online aviation portals, and electronic flight planning tools, enabling real-time updates for all stakeholders.

India’s Recent NOTAM: Context and Significance

The recent NOTAM covers a large segment of India’s western frontier, extending up to 28,000 feet, indicating one of the largest joint operational drills in recent years. Satellite imagery has highlighted the vast scale of the restricted airspace, reflecting India’s intent to conduct multi-domain, tri-service coordination along the Pakistan border.

This development follows Operation Sindoor (May 2025)—a precision air campaign against Pakistan’s terror infrastructure launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025). The operation neutralized over 100 terrorists, marking one of the most intense India–Pakistan military confrontations in decades.

About Exercise Trishul

Exercise Trishul (Ex Trishul) is a tri-services military exercise involving the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. It aims to strengthen jointness, operational integration, and technological innovation, aligning with the government’s JAI Vision—Jointness, Aatmanirbharta, and Innovation.

Objectives

• To enhance inter-service coordination in high-tempo, multi-domain operations.
• To test indigenous systems and weapons platforms developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
• To refine tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) suited to emerging hybrid and asymmetric threats.

Key Operational Components

• Joint Operations:
  • Coordinated manoeuvres across desert, creek, and coastal sectors, led by Southern Command.
  • Amphibious operations off the Saurashtra coast, integrating Navy and Army assets.
  • Air defence missions, reconnaissance, and electronic warfare (EW) exercises by the Air Force.
• Multi-Domain Integration:
  • Exercises in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) networks.
  • Deployment of cyber warfare and space-enabled systems.
  • Incorporation of Artificial Intelligence–based decision support and digital command systems.
• Indigenous Focus:
  • Use of home-grown technologies in sensors, communication networks, and combat systems.
  • Demonstrates the operational maturity of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

In News:

The Indian Navy has recently received ‘Mahe’, the first of eight Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Crafts (ASW SWCs), built indigenously by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi. The induction marks a major step towards bolstering India’s littoral (coastal) defence capabilities and advancing the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat in naval shipbuilding.

About Mahe – ASW Shallow Water Craft

• Builder: Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi
• Delivered to: Indian Navy
• Named after:Mahe, a historic port town in the Union Territory of Puducherry, symbolizing India’s rich maritime heritage.
• Classification: Designed and constructed under the rules of Det Norske Veritas (DNV) classification society.
• Displacement: Around 1,100 tons
• Length: Approximately 78 metres
• Indigenous Content: Over 80%, showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in naval design and shipbuilding.

Design and Features

• Advanced Warfare Capabilities
  • Equipped with torpedoes and multi-functional anti-submarine rockets.
  • Integrated radar and sonar systems for precise detection and engagement of underwater threats.
  • Designed for Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operations in shallow coastal waters.
• Operational Flexibility
  • Capable of underwater surveillance, mine-laying operations, and Low Intensity Maritime Operations (LIMO).
  • Suitable for coastal defence, escort missions, and search and rescue operations in littoral zones.
• Sustainability and Efficiency
  • Compact yet powerful platform for quick maneuverability in shallow regions.
  • Built using modern shipbuilding technologies, ensuring durability, stealth, and operational efficiency.

Strategic Significance

• Enhancing ASW Capabilities:The induction of Mahe will significantly strengthen India’s anti-submarine warfare capacity in coastal waters, enabling faster response to sub-surface threats from enemy submarines or unmanned underwater vehicles.
• Maritime Security:Strengthens surveillance and security along India’s vast 7,500 km coastline, ensuring greater control over sea lines of communication (SLOCs) and exclusive economic zones (EEZs).
• Boost to Aatmanirbhar Bharat:The vessel, with more than 80% indigenous components, reflects the Make in India initiative’s success in the defence manufacturing sector. It reinforces India’s ambition to be a net security provider in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
• Support to Blue Water Aspirations:While designed for shallow waters, the ASW SWC fleet complements India’s blue-water naval capability by securing coastal zones — the first line of maritime defence.

About Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL)

• Established: 1972
• Location: Kochi, Kerala
• Ownership: Under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways
• CSL has emerged as one of India’s premier shipbuilding and repair facilities, with successful projects like:
  • INS Vikrant (India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier)
  • ASW Shallow Water Craft series

In News:

Project Arunank of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) recently celebrated its 18th Raising Day at Naharlagun, marking over 17 years of sustained infrastructure development in Arunachal Pradesh’s remote and strategic regions.

About Project Arunank

• Launched: 2008
• Implementing Agency: Border Roads Organisation (BRO), under the Ministry of Defence.
• Name Origin: Derived from the state’s name — Arunachal Pradesh.
• Objective:To enhance road connectivity in remote valleys and forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh, supporting both civilian access and the operational needs of the Indian Armed Forces.

Key Achievements

• Strategic Road Development
  • Constructed and maintained over 696 km of roads and 1.18 km of major bridges across the state.
  • Completed the 278 km Hapoli–Sarli–Huri Road, which was blacktopped for the first time since Independence, connecting the remote KurungKumey district — a major milestone in post-Independence connectivity.
• Technological Innovations
  • Adopted modern and sustainable construction technologies, including:
    • Steel Slag and GGBFS Concrete for durability.
    • Cut-and-Cover Tunnels and Geo Cells for terrain stability.
    • Plastic Sheets, Gabion Walls, and Slope Stabilisation Systems to prevent landslides and improve road resilience.
  • These innovations promote eco-friendly and climate-resilient infrastructure in fragile Himalayan terrain.
• Green and Welfare Initiatives
  • Under the ‘Ek Ped MaaKe Naam’ campaign, over 23,850 trees were planted across Arunachal Pradesh to promote environmental conservation.
  • Welfare measures for Casual Paid Labourers (CPLs) included better shelters, protective gear, and regular health camps—acknowledging their crucial contribution to BRO’s success.
• Community and Awareness Programs: Conducted a motorable expedition along the Naharlagun–Joram Top–Sangram–Ziro–Naharlagun route to promote road safety and connectivity awareness among locals and officials.

Future Plans

• Focus on road widening, construction of new bridges and tunnels, and improving all-weather, high-altitude connectivity for both civilian and defence use.
• Integration of digital monitoring tools, geotextiles, and eco-friendly materials to enhance infrastructure sustainability while reducing maintenance costs.

About the Border Roads Organisation (BRO)

• Established: 7 May 1960
• Parent Ministry: Ministry of Defence
• Mandate:To construct and maintain road networks in border areas of India and in friendly neighbouring countries to ensure defence preparedness and socio-economic development.
• The BRO has been pivotal in strategic connectivity across northern and northeastern India, including projects like Arunank (Arunachal Pradesh), Vartak (Assam & Arunachal), Himank (Ladakh), and Sampark (Jammu & Kashmir).

In News:

The World Trade Organization (WTO) has recently credited India’s Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) Scheme for significantly boosting exports from Least Developed Countries (LDCs). India has surpassed China and the European Union (EU) in providing duty-free market access to the world’s poorest economies, strengthening South-South trade cooperation.

About the DFTP Scheme

• Launched: 2008
• Implementing Agency: Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India
• Framework: In line with the WTO’s Hong Kong Ministerial Declaration (2005), which encouraged developed and developing members to provide duty-free and quota-free (DFQF) market access to LDCs.
• Objective:To promote trade-led economic growth of LDCs by granting preferential tariff concessions on their exports to India.

Key Features

• Comprehensive Duty-Free Access
  • Provides duty-free or preferential tariff access to a large range of products exported from LDCs to India.
  • Nearly 98% of India’s tariff lines are now covered under the scheme.
• Eligible Countries
  • Open to all LDCs recognized by the United Nations.
  • Currently, around 48 countries in Africa, Asia, and the Pacific benefit from it.
• Product Coverage
  • Agricultural goods: Fruits, vegetables, grains, spices, coffee, and tea.
  • Textiles & garments: Clothing, fabrics, and handwoven textiles.
  • Leather & handicrafts: Bags, jewelry, and artisan products.
  • Minerals & metals: Including raw materials like gold and diamonds.
  • Processed foods and beverages: Key export commodities for African and Asian LDCs.
• Trade Facilitation: Simplified customs procedures and transparent rules of origin help integrate LDC exporters into global value chains (GVCs).

Recent WTO Recognition

According to the WTO, India now provides one of the widest duty-free market access schemes among developing economies—outperforming China and the EU in terms of product and tariff-line coverage.
This initiative has:

• Enhanced export diversification in LDCs.
• Strengthened India’s trade and diplomatic engagement with Africa and other developing regions.
• Supported inclusive global trade, aligning with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals).

Significance

• For LDCs: Encourages industrial growth, employment, and export competitiveness.
• For India: Reinforces its image as a responsible development partner and a leader in South-South cooperation.
• For Global Trade: Promotes equity by integrating vulnerable economies into mainstream trade flows.

In News:

The Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (LISA) is a joint mission of the European Space Agency (ESA) and NASA, scheduled for launch in the mid-2030s. It represents the first-ever space-based observatory designed to detect gravitational waves, offering an unprecedented opportunity to study some of the most energetic and mysterious phenomena in the universe.

Mission Objective

LISA aims to:

• Directly detect and study gravitational waves—minute ripples in spacetime caused by massive cosmic events such as black hole mergers, neutron star collisions, and possibly phenomena from the early universe.
• Explore the fundamental nature of gravity and black holes, providing insights into Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity.
• Investigate cosmic evolution by probing how galaxies and black holes have grown and interacted over time.
• Contribute to understanding the universe’s expansion rate, complementing other cosmological observations.

Design and Configuration

• The LISA system will consist of three identical spacecraft, positioned in an equilateral triangular formation.
• Each side of this triangle will span approximately 2.5 million kilometres, and the formation will trail Earth in its orbit around the Sun at a distance of about 50 million kilometres.
• This configuration will enable ultra-precise measurements of tiny variations in distance between the spacecraft caused by passing gravitational waves.

Scientific Principle

• Each spacecraft will contain two free-floating test masses (gold-platinum cubes) that serve as nearly perfect reference points in space.
• Laser beams exchanged between the spacecraft will measure the relative distance between these cubes with extraordinary accuracy using laser interferometry.
• As gravitational waves pass through, they will slightly alter the distances between the spacecraft—by as little as a fraction of the width of an atom—allowing LISA to record and analyse these distortions.

Technological Significance

• LISA extends the capabilities of ground-based detectors like LIGO and VIRGO, which can only detect higher-frequency gravitational waves.
• By operating in space, LISA can sense low-frequency gravitational waves generated by supermassive black hole binaries and other massive cosmic systems, which are beyond the reach of terrestrial observatories.
• The mission will also test cutting-edge technologies in laser stability, drag-free navigation, and precision metrology.

Scientific Impact

• Enhance understanding of black hole dynamics, galaxy formation, and cosmic structure evolution.
• Provide new data on extreme astrophysical events and test the limits of General Relativity.
• Contribute to multi-messenger astronomy, linking gravitational wave observations with electromagnetic and particle signals from the same sources.
• Offer valuable inputs for cosmology, including studies of dark matter, dark energy, and the early universe.

In News:

The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sahyadri, an indigenously built Shivalik-class guided missile stealth frigate, participated in the Japan–India Maritime Exercise (JAIMEX-25).

About JAIMEX 2025

• Nature of Exercise: JAIMEX is a bilateral maritime exercise conducted between the Indian Navy (IN) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
• Objective: It aims to enhance operational interoperability, mutual understanding, and maritime cooperation, reflecting the robust ‘Special Strategic and Global Partnership’ established between India and Japan in 2014.
• Theme: Upholding a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific based on the principles of rules-based order, freedom of navigation, and shared maritime security.

Exercise Structure

JAIMEX 2025 was conducted in two distinct phases — the Sea Phase and the Harbour Phase, each designed to deepen operational synergy and people-to-people interaction between the two navies.

1. Sea Phase:

• Participating vessels included INS Sahyadri, and JMSDF ships Asahi, Oumi, and Submarine Jinryu.
• The drills focused on:
  • Advanced Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW)andmissile defence operations.
  • Flying operationsandunderway replenishmentexercises.
  • Maritime domain awareness and communication interoperability.
• These activities aimed to enhance tactical coordination, build mutual trust, and improve joint operational readiness between the two navies.

2. Harbour Phase (Yokosuka, Japan)

• Featured professional and cultural exchanges, including:
  • Cross-deck visits,
  • Collaborative operational planning,
  • Sharing of best practices, and
  • A combined Yoga session to promote cultural camaraderie.
• The harbour engagement served as a part of INS Sahyadri’s Long Range Deployment (LRD) to the Indo-Pacific, reflecting India’s increasing maritime outreach and strategic presence in the region.

Significance of JAIMEX

• Strengthens Maritime Cooperation: Enhances India–Japan naval interoperability, crucial for coordinated responses to maritime security challenges such as piracy, illegal fishing, and humanitarian assistance.
• Supports the Indo-Pacific Vision: Reinforces the shared commitment to a rules-based maritime order and an inclusive Indo-Pacific, aligning with initiatives like QUAD and Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI).
• Boosts Defence Diplomacy: Builds mutual trust and operational understanding through regular bilateral and multilateral engagements.
• Showcases India’s Indigenous Naval Capability: INS Sahyadri’s participation underscores India’s progress under ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and its ability to deploy advanced indigenous platforms for extended missions.