In News:

The New Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (New START) expired on 5 February 2026, ending the last legally binding nuclear arms control agreement between the United States and Russia.

Context

The expiry of New START marks a major setback to global nuclear arms control. For the first time since 1972, there are no legally enforceable limits on U.S.–Russia strategic nuclear arsenals, raising concerns over arms racing, miscalculation, and erosion of nuclear deterrence stability.

Together, the United States and Russia possess about 87% of the world’s nuclear warheads, making bilateral arms control central to global strategic stability.

What is the New START Treaty?

Background

• START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) framework began during the Cold War.
• START-I: Signed in 1991 between the US and USSR; entered into force in 1994.
• Followed by SORT (Strategic Offensive Reductions Treaty).
• New START:
  • Signed in 2010
  • Entered into force in 2011
  • Extended in 2021 for five years until 2026

Parties Involved

• United States
• Russia

Key Provisions of New START

Arms Limitations

The treaty imposed verifiable ceilings on strategic nuclear forces:

• 700 deployed:
  • Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs)
  • Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs)
  • Heavy bombers
• 1,550 deployed nuclear warheads
• 800 deployed and non-deployed launchers and bombers

Verification Mechanism

• On-site inspections
• Data exchange and notifications
• Transparency to reduce mistrust and miscalculation

Scope

• Covered long-range strategic weapons capable of striking critical targets such as:
  • Command centres
  • Infrastructure
  • Population hubs

Suspension and Collapse

• In 2023, Russia suspended participation amid the Ukraine war.
• Inspections and data sharing were halted.
• Negotiations for a post-New START framework stalled (2024–25) due to:
  • Strategic mistrust
  • Disagreements over missile defence
  • Scope of future limits
• The treaty formally expired on 5 February 2026.

Sources of Strategic Friction

• U.S. missile defence systems
• Conventional prompt-strike capabilities
• Russian development of advanced weapons:
  • Kinzhal hypersonic missile
  • Avangard hypersonic glide vehicle

Both sides viewed each other’s capabilities as destabilising, undermining arms control confidence.

Global Implications of New START Expiry

• Unconstrained nuclear arsenals of US and Russia
• Higher risks of:
  • Arms buildup
  • Strategic miscalculation
  • Crisis escalation
• Weakens prospects for:
  • Future bilateral arms reduction
  • Multilateral arms control
• Complicates efforts to include China and other nuclear powers in future frameworks
• Undermines the global non-proliferation architecture

Global Nuclear Arms Control Frameworks

1. Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), 1968

• Prevents spread of nuclear weapons
• Promotes disarmament and peaceful nuclear energy
• Recognises five Nuclear Weapon States (NWS):
  • US, Russia, UK, France, China

2. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT), 1996

• Prohibits nuclear test explosions
• Not yet in force

3. Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), 2017

• Bans use, possession, testing and transfer of nuclear weapons
• Not supported by nuclear-armed states

In News:

Sodium-ion batteries are emerging as a strategic alternative to lithium-ion technology, offering India a safer, resource-secure and cost-effective pathway for energy storage and electric mobility.

Context

Batteries are a critical backbone of modern infrastructure-supporting electric vehicles (EVs), renewable energy integration, and grid stability. India’s current dependence on lithium-ion batteries exposes it to import dependence, supply-chain vulnerabilities, and geopolitical risks, as key minerals like lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite are scarce domestically and globally concentrated. This has prompted India to re-evaluate its battery strategy, with sodium-ion batteries (SiBs) gaining attention.

What are Sodium-ion Batteries?

• Sodium-ion batteries (SiBs) are rechargeable batteries that use sodium ions (Na?) as charge carriers instead of lithium ions.
• They belong to the same “rocking-chair” battery family as lithium-ion cells.

Working Principle

• Charging: Sodium ions move from cathode to anode through the electrolyte.
• Discharging: Sodium ions migrate back to the cathode, releasing electrical energy.
• Current collectors: Aluminium is used on both electrodes (unlike lithium-ion, which uses copper on the anode).

Key Features and Advantages

1. Resource Abundance and Security

• Sodium is abundantly available from sea salt and soda ash.
• Reduces reliance on imported critical minerals.
• Enhances energy security and strategic autonomy.

2. Safety Profile

• Intrinsically safer than lithium-ion batteries.
• Lower thermal runaway risk and lower peak temperatures during failure.
• Can be stored and transported at 0% state of charge, unlike lithium-ion batteries (classified as dangerous goods).

3. Cost Potential

• Use of aluminium instead of copper lowers material cost.
• Simplified logistics reduce transportation and insurance costs.
• Cost projections indicate SiBs could become cheaper than lithium-ion batteries by the mid-2030s.

4. Manufacturing Compatibility

• Can be produced using existing lithium-ion manufacturing lines with minor modifications.
• Aligns well with PLI-incentivised battery infrastructure in India.

Energy Density Comparison

• Historically, SiBs had lower energy density due to heavier sodium ions.
• Recent advances using layered transition-metal oxide cathodes have brought SiBs close to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries.
• Suitable for applications where ultra-high energy density is not critical.

Significance for India

• Reduced Import Dependence: Insulates India from global supply shocks and price volatility.
• Mass-market suitability: Ideal for electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, buses, and grid storage.
• Grid-scale storage: Well-suited for renewable energy integration.
• Geopolitical resilience: Less exposure to mineral supply chains dominated by a few countries.

India’s Policy and Institutional Initiatives

• PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC):
  • Target: 50 GWh domestic capacity.
  • 40 GWh awarded, but only ~1 GWh commissioned so far, indicating slow progress.
• National Critical Minerals Mission: Focus on exploration, mining, processing, recycling and overseas sourcing.
• Overseas mineral acquisition via Khanij Bidesh India Limited.
• Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022: Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for recycling and refurbishment.

Challenges in Scaling Sodium-ion Batteries

• Lower energy density limits use in long-range and premium EVs.
• Weight penalty compared to lithium-ion batteries.
• Moisture sensitivity requires deeper vacuum drying and tighter process control.
• Underdeveloped supply chain for sodium-specific cathodes, anodes and electrolytes.
• Policy gaps: Incentives and safety standards remain lithium-centric.
• Low market confidence due to limited real-world deployments.

Measures Suggested to Scale SiBs in India

• Farm-to-Battery Strategy:
  • Use agricultural waste to produce hard carbon anodes.
  • Convert stubble-burning problem into a resource solution.
• Desert-centric Manufacturing Clusters: Locate plants in low-humidity regions (Rajasthan, Kutch) to reduce energy costs.
• Standardisation for Early Markets: Focus on buses and three-wheelers where size and weight constraints are lower.
• Hybrid Battery Packs: Combine sodium-ion (cost efficiency) with lithium-ion (performance).
• Chemical Upgradation Support: Upgrade industrial soda ash to battery-grade sodium carbonate domestically.

In News:

The International Space Station (ISS) is scheduled to be de-orbited in 2030, marking the end of nearly three decades of continuous human presence in low Earth orbit.

What is the International Space Station (ISS)?

The International Space Station (ISS) is a permanently crewed, modular and habitable microgravity laboratory orbiting the Earth at an average altitude of ~400 km in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). It has remained continuously inhabited since November 2000, making it the longest-running human space mission in history.

Timeline and Development

• 1998: Assembly began with the launch of the first module Zarya.
• November 2000: Continuous human habitation started (Expedition 1).
• 1998–2011: Station assembled in orbit through multiple missions.
• 2030 (planned): Controlled de-orbit and re-entry over a remote oceanic region.

Participating Agencies

The ISS is operated through a unique international partnership involving five major space agencies:

• NASA (United States)
• Roscosmos (Russia)
• European Space Agency
• JAXA (Japan)
• Canadian Space Agency

The ISS is governed through shared responsibility, with each partner managing the hardware it contributes.

Key Features

• Largest human-made structure in space
  • Mass: ~400,000 kg
  • Length: ~109 metres
• Power Source: Large solar arrays generating tens of kilowatts of electricity.
• Modular Architecture: Multiple pressurised and truss modules assembled in orbit.
• Permanent Human Presence: Astronauts onboard 24/7 since 2000.
• Orbital Speed: ~7.7–8 km per second (one orbit every ~90 minutes).

Objectives and Functions

• Conduct microgravity research in biology, physics and materials science.
• Study long-term effects of spaceflight on humans:
  • Bone density loss
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Immune system changes
  • Radiation exposure
• Test technologies for deep-space missions (Moon and Mars).
• Enable Earth observation and climate-related studies.
• Support the emerging Low Earth Orbit (LEO) economy by hosting private experiments and technology demonstrations.

Planned De-orbit (2030)

• Ageing structure and outdated systems have necessitated retirement.
• A dedicated U.S. Deorbit Vehicle will slow the station and guide it into a controlled re-entry.
• The ISS will break up over a remote oceanic area (near Point Nemo) to avoid risk to human life.
• Similar controlled ocean disposal was used for earlier stations like Mir.

Significance

• Global Cooperation: A rare symbol of sustained peaceful collaboration even during geopolitical tensions.
• Scientific Legacy: Advanced understanding of human health, materials and long-duration spaceflight.
• Exploration Readiness: Operational experience critical for future lunar and Martian missions.
• Transition Phase: After 2030, China’s Tiangong will be the only operational space station in LEO, while focus shifts towards commercial space stations by private players.

In News:

A historic tripartite agreement was signed in New Delhi between the Government of India, the Government of Nagaland, and the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) for the creation of the Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA).

Background

The agreement marks a major step towards addressing long-standing political, economic and developmental grievances of Eastern Nagaland. It aligns with the Government of India’s broader objective of achieving a peaceful, dispute-free and developed North-East through dialogue and negotiated settlements.

Since 2019, multiple peace and autonomy agreements have been concluded in the North-East, reflecting a shift from conflict-driven approaches to democratic and constitutional solutions.

Key Parties to the Agreement

• Government of India
• Government of Nagaland
• Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO)
  • Apex body representing eight recognised Naga tribes of Eastern Nagaland.

About Frontier Nagaland Territorial Authority (FNTA)

Nature of the Arrangement

• FNTA is an autonomous territorial governance structure.
• It remains within the State of Nagaland (not a separate state or UT).
• Designed to provide enhanced administrative and financial autonomy.

Districts Covered

FNTA will cover six eastern districts of Nagaland: Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng, Noklak, and Shamator

Salient Features of the Agreement

1. Devolution of Powers

• 46 subjects transferred to FNTA.
• Enables localised decision-making and faster development execution.

2. Administrative Structure

• Establishment of a Mini-Secretariat for FNTA.
• Headed by an Additional Chief Secretary / Principal Secretary–level officer.

3. Financial Provisions

• Fixed annual allocation from the Union Government.
• Development outlay shared proportionate to population and area.
• Initial establishment expenditure to be borne by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Ensures financial autonomy and predictable funding.

4. Constitutional Safeguard

• The agreement does not dilute Article 371(A) of the Constitution.
• Protection continues for:
  • Naga customary laws
  • Land and resource rights
  • Social and religious practices

Objectives of FNTA

• Address historical neglect and regional imbalance in Eastern Nagaland.
• Promote balanced regional development.
• Enable financial autonomy and participatory governance.
• Strengthen peace, stability and democratic engagement in the North-East.

Significance

• Inclusive Federalism: Demonstrates flexibility within the Indian constitutional framework.
• Peace-building: Reduces scope for political alienation and separatist demands.
• Developmental Push: Facilitates infrastructure development, economic empowerment and efficient resource use.
• Democratic Resolution: Reinforces dialogue and negotiation over violence and insurgency.
• Strategic Importance: Eastern Nagaland’s location enhances the significance of stable governance.

In News:

The Government has introduced the National Blood Transfusion Bill, 2025 in Parliament to create a dedicated legal and institutional framework for blood transfusion services in India. At present, blood and blood components are regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, a law primarily designed for pharmaceuticalsseen as inadequate for managing blood as a life-saving public health resource. The new Bill seeks to move the sector into a clear, safety-first national system with uniform standards and stronger oversight.

Why a New Law?

• Public health sensitivity: Blood transfusion carries risks of transfusion-transmitted infections and adverse reactions, requiring rigorous quality control.
• Regulatory gaps: The existing drug-law framework does not fully address donor management, component therapy, traceability, and haemovigilance.
• Standardisation need: Wide variation in practices across States and facilities necessitates uniform national standards.

Institutional Architecture

The Bill provides for a statutory National Blood Transfusion Authority (NBTA). As the apex technical and regulatory body, NBTA will frame national norms and coordinate with State authorities to ensure consistent implementation.

Core Regulatory Provisions

• Uniform standards across the chain: NBTA will prescribe norms for collection, testing, processing, storage, distribution, issue, and transfusion of whole blood and components (e.g., packed red cells, platelets, plasma).
• Mandatory registration: All blood centres will require registration/authorization, improving traceability and accountability.
• Quality and safety protocols: Emphasis on validated testing, component separation, cold-chain maintenance, and documentation.
• Haemovigilance system: A national haemovigilanceprogramme will monitor and analyse transfusion-related adverse events to improve safety practices.
• Ethics and compliance: The Bill proposes stringent penalties for unsafe collection, improper storage, unlicensed operations, or other unethical practices.
• Promotion of voluntary donation: Strengthened, coordinated efforts to increase voluntary, non-remunerated blood donation, reducing reliance on replacement donations.

Expected Impact

• Patient safety:Standardised screening and monitoring reduce risks of infections and transfusion reactions.
• System efficiency: Better inventory management and component use can improve availability, especially during emergencies.
• Transparency and trust: Clear legal backing and oversight enhance public confidence in blood services.
• Data-driven regulation:Haemovigilance enables continuous quality improvement based on evidence.

In News:

India has expressed concern and called for the protection of the Preah Vihear Temple amid renewed border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia, which reportedly affected areas near the temple complex.

Location and Setting

• Preah Vihear Temple is located in Preah Vihear Province in northern Cambodia, dramatically positioned atop a cliff in the Dangrek Mountain range along the Cambodia–Thailand border.
• Its elevated placement provides commanding views over the surrounding plains and has historically contributed to territorial disputes between the two countries.

Religious Significance

• The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important example of Hindu religious architecture in mainland Southeast Asia, reflecting the spread of Indian cultural and religious influences across the region during the medieval period.

Historical Background

• The temple was constructed during the height of the Khmer Empire. Its earliest major construction phase is attributed to Suryavarman I (reigned 1002–1050 CE), and it was later expanded and refined under Suryavarman II (reigned 1113–1150 CE), the same ruler associated with major temple-building activity in the region.
• Preah Vihear was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008, recognizing its outstanding universal value in terms of architecture, history, and cultural significance.

Architectural Features

• Preah Vihear is considered an outstanding masterpiece of Khmer temple architecture. Unlike many other Khmer temples that are arranged concentrically, this complex is laid out along a long north–south axis stretching approximately 800 metres.
• The temple comprises a sequence of sanctuaries connected by pavements and steep staircases that climb the hillside. The approach includes multiple monumental gateways known as gopuras more than five in number which are linked by a long causeway rather than enclosed courtyards.
• Several of these gopuras are topped with multi-tiered platforms, and while some feature stone roofs, others historically had wooden superstructures, highlighting a blend of durable and perishable architectural elements.

In News:

Ponduru Khadi, a traditional handspun and handwoven cotton fabric from Andhra Pradesh, has recently been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

About Ponduru Khadi

• Ponduru Khadi is a heritage textile produced in Ponduru, located in Srikakulam district. Locally, it is known as “Patnulu.” The fabric is widely admired for its extremely fine texture and traditional production techniques that have been preserved for generations.
• The product has also been identified under the One District One Product (ODOP) initiative from Srikakulam district, highlighting its cultural and economic importance.
• During India’s freedom struggle, Mahatma Gandhi praised the fabric’s quality in his journal Young India, recognizing it as an example of self-reliant rural craftsmanship.

Key Characteristics

• Ponduru Khadi stands out due to its fully manual production process. Every step i.e. from cotton cleaning to spinning and weaving is done by hand without the use of mechanised tools.
• The cotton used is locally grown in and around Ponduru and comes from traditional varieties such as hill cotton, punasa cotton, and red cotton. These indigenous varieties contribute to the softness and durability of the fabric.
• The yarn used in Ponduru Khadi is extremely fine, with a yarn count ranging between 100 and 120, making it one of the finest handspun cotton fabrics in India.

Unique features that distinguish Ponduru Khadi

• One of the most distinctive aspects of Ponduru Khadi is the traditional cotton-cleaning method. Artisans use the jawbone of a Valuga fish to separate seeds from cotton — a practice not documented elsewhere in the world.
• Spinning is done using a single-spindle charkha with 24 spokes, popularly referred to as the “Gandhi Charkha.”Ponduru is among the very few places in India where this traditional spinning method is still actively practiced.

Why GI Tag Matters

The GI tag legally recognizes Ponduru Khadi as a product with a specific geographical origin and traditional know-how. This helps:

• Protect it from imitation
• Promote rural artisans
• Enhance export and branding potential
• Preserve intangible cultural heritage

In News:

The Union Cabinet has approved the Atomic Energy Bill, 2025, also called the SHANTI Bill (Sustainable Harnessing of Advancement of Nuclear Technology for India). It represents the biggest reform in India’s nuclear energy governance since the Atomic Energy Act of 1962.

Background of India’s Nuclear Sector

• India’s civilian nuclear power sector has traditionally been under complete government control. Nuclear power plants are operated only by public sector entities such as Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and BharatiyaNabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited (BHAVINI).
• Private participation has remained restricted mainly due to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962 and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLND Act), which created legal and liability-related uncertainties for suppliers and investors.

Need for the SHANTI Bill

India has set a target of 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047. Achieving this requires massive investment, advanced technology, and faster project execution. Existing laws were considered outdated, fragmented, and restrictive for modern nuclear expansion, especially with regard to private and foreign participation.

Scope and Nature of the Bill

The SHANTI Bill seeks to create a single, modern legal framework governing nuclear energy in India. It replaces the earlier fragmented legal structure with a unified system covering licensing, safety regulation, liability, and industry participation.

Opening of the Nuclear Value Chain

• The Bill allows private and foreign companies to participate in selected non-strategic areas of the nuclear sector. These include atomic mineral exploration, nuclear fuel fabrication, and the manufacturing of nuclear equipment and components.
• However, sensitive and strategic domains such as nuclear weapons-related activities and certain categories of reactor operations will continue to remain under strict government control.

Reform of the Nuclear Liability Regime

• A key feature of the Bill is the restructuring of the nuclear liability framework. The law aims to clearly define the responsibilities of plant operators, equipment suppliers, and the government in case of a nuclear incident.
• It proposes insurance-backed liability caps to reduce financial uncertainty for private players. Beyond a certain damage threshold, the government will step in to provide additional financial support. This brings India’s framework closer to global nuclear liability practices and addresses long-standing investor concerns under the CLND Act.

Independent Nuclear Safety Authority

• The Bill proposes the establishment of an independent nuclear safety authority. This body will be separate from agencies that promote nuclear energy, ensuring a clear distinction between promotional and regulatory roles. The aim is to enhance transparency, credibility, and adherence to international best practices in nuclear safety.

Dedicated Nuclear Tribunal

A specialised nuclear tribunal will be set up to handle disputes related to nuclear liability, contracts, and compensation. This is expected to ensure faster resolution of cases and reduce legal uncertainty in the sector.

Focus on Advanced Technologies and SMRs

The legislation supports research, development, and deployment of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). SMRs are considered suitable for industrial decarbonisation, remote regions, and flexible grid integration, and are seen as a key part of the future nuclear expansion strategy.

Strategic Significance

Nuclear energy provides clean and reliable baseload power, which complements intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind. Expansion of nuclear power will help India reduce its dependence on coal and imported fossil fuels, thereby strengthening energy security.

The reform also supports India’s long-term climate commitments, including its net-zero emissions target by 2070, while breaking more than six decades of exclusive state monopoly in the sector.

In News:

In a bid to promote responsible energy consumption and reduce pressure on natural resources, the oil industry has launched SAKSHAM 2026, a nationwide fuel conservation awareness campaign. The initiative reflects India’s broader strategy of combining energy security, environmental sustainability, and public participation.

What is SAKSHAM?

SAKSHAM (Samrakshan Kshamatha Mahotsav) is an annual public awareness campaign initiated under the guidance of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It focuses on:

• Conservation of petroleum and natural gas
• Promotion of energy-efficient habits
• Encouragement of sustainable mobility and clean energy use

The programme is implemented by public sector oil and gas companies in collaboration with educational institutions, industries, civil society groups, and local authorities.

SAKSHAM 2026 Campaign Highlights

• Theme: “Conserve Oil and Gas, Go Green” (Tel aur Gas Bachao, Harit Urja Apnao)
• Objective: Promote behavioural change for efficient fuel use and transition toward cleaner energy sources

Major Activities

The campaign uses participatory outreach methods to engage diverse sections of society:

• Debates and seminars
• Workshops in schools and colleges
• Cyclothons and walkathons
• Wall paintings and street plays
• Awareness rallies and mobile exhibition vans
• LPG safety and fuel-saving demonstrations

Target Groups

SAKSHAM 2026 is designed to reach multiple segments of society:

• Schoolchildren and youth
• LPG consumers
• Fleet operators and drivers
• Farmers (fuel-efficient agricultural practices)
• Industrial stakeholders

This broad outreach reflects the understanding that energy conservation is a shared societal responsibility.

Regional Outreach Example

In regions such as Punjab and Chandigarh, the campaign included public events involving state authorities and oil industry representatives. Activities focused on:

• Reducing petroleum consumption
• Lowering import dependence
• Promoting energy-efficient technologies in transport and agriculture

Such state-level efforts demonstrate how national campaigns translate into localized behavioural change initiatives.

Significance of SAKSHAM

• Energy Security: India is a major importer of crude oil. Conservation reduces import bills and vulnerability to global price volatility.
• Environmental Sustainability: Efficient fuel use lowers carbon emissions and urban air pollution, supporting climate goals.
• Economic Savings: Fuel-efficient practices benefit households, industries, and transport operators through cost reduction.
• Behavioural Change: Unlike policy-only measures, SAKSHAM promotes citizen-led action, which is critical for long-term sustainability.

In News:

The Indian Navy is set to commission Diving Support Craft (DSC) A20 at Kochi under the aegis of the Southern Naval Command. The vessel marks a significant step in enhancing India’s underwater operational preparedness and advancing indigenisation in specialised naval platforms.

About DSC A20

• DSC A20 is the first indigenously designed and constructed Diving Support Craft and serves as the lead ship in a series of five vessels being built by Titagarh Rail Systems Limited (TRSL), Kolkata.
• It is purpose-built to undertake a wide spectrum of diving and underwater missions in coastal waters, supporting naval operations that require specialised diving assistance and underwater technical intervention.

Key Features

• The vessel features a catamaran hull design, which provides superior stability, larger deck space, and improved seakeeping capabilities compared to conventional hull forms.
• It is equipped with advanced, state-of-the-art diving systems, ensuring high standards of operational efficiency and diver safety.
• DSC A20 has an approximate displacement of 390 tonnes, making it suitable for sustained coastal support roles.
• The ship has been designed and constructed in accordance with the Naval Rules and Regulations of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS).
• Extensive hydrodynamic analysis and model testing were conducted at the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Operational Role

DSC A20 is intended to support:

• Diving operations for underwater repairs and maintenance
• Underwater inspection of hulls, harbours, and maritime structures
• Salvage and recovery assistance
• Coastal operational deployment, including emergency response

Once commissioned, the vessel will be based at Kochi and operate under the Southern Naval Command, a key formation responsible for training and operational readiness in the southern maritime theatre.

Strategic and Policy Significance

The induction of DSC A20 reflects India’s progress in maritime self-reliance (Aatmanirbharta) and the success of the Make in India initiative in defence manufacturing. The project represents close collaboration between the Navy, domestic shipbuilding industry, and national research institutions.

By enhancing underwater operational capability, the vessel strengthens India’s preparedness for naval maintenance, search and rescue, disaster response, and maritime security operations in coastal regions.

In News:

The Supreme Court of India has reaffirmed that involuntary narco-analysis tests are unconstitutional, setting aside a decision of the Patna High Court that had permitted such a test. The ruling strengthens the protection of fundamental rights of the accused and underscores that investigative efficiency cannot override constitutional liberties.

What is a Narco Test?

Narco-analysis is an investigative technique in which a person is administered sedatives such as Sodium Pentothal (a barbiturate) to lower inhibitions. In a semi-conscious state, the subject is expected to reveal concealed or suppressed information.

It is often clubbed with other so-called scientific techniques such as:

• Polygraph (lie detector) tests
• Brain mapping / BEAP tests

Although described as “non-violent,” these methods interfere with a person’s mental processes, bodily integrity, and decisional autonomy.

Constitutional Protections Involved

• Article 20(3) - Protection Against Self-Incrimination: This Article states that no accused person can be compelled to be a witness against themselves. Forced narco-analysis extracts responses directly from the mind, amounting to compelled testimony. In Selvi v. State of Karnataka (2010), the Court held that narco, polygraph, and brain-mapping tests cannot be conducted without voluntary consent.
• Article 21 – Right to Life, Privacy, and Dignity: Forcible narco tests violate bodily integrity, mental privacy, and personal liberty. The Court linked this protection with the “Golden Triangle” doctrine flowing from Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978), which requires all State procedures to be just, fair, and reasonable.

Recent Case: Supreme Court Overturns Forced Test

In Amlesh Kumar v. State of Bihar, the Patna High Court had allowed an involuntary narco test during investigation. The Supreme Court struck this down, reiterating that compulsory administration of such tests violates Articles 20(3) and 21, regardless of investigative objectives.

The judgment sends a clear message that constitutional rights cannot be diluted in the name of solving crimes.

Evidentiary Value of Narco Tests

The Court has consistently clarified that narco-analysis results:

• Do not amount to confessions
• Are not admissible as substantive evidence
• Can only provide investigative leads
• Must be corroborated by independent evidence

This position was reiterated in Manoj Kumar Saini v. State of MP and Vinobhai v. State of Kerala, where courts held that narco findings alone cannot establish guilt.

When Can Narco Tests Be Conducted?

The Supreme Court permits narco tests only under strict safeguards and voluntary consent:

• Consent must be informed, voluntary, and recorded before a Judicial Magistrate
• The accused must understand the legal and medical implications
• The test must be conducted by qualified medical professionals
• Legal counsel should be accessible
• Statements made during the test cannot be treated as confessions

Even if an accused volunteers under procedural law such as the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), courts are not obligated to allow the test automatically.

Why This Judgment Matters

The ruling is significant because it reasserts that rule of law prevails over investigative shortcuts. It protects the dignity and mental privacy of individuals, even when they are accused of crimes. The judgment also reinforces the idea that criminal justice must be guided by due process and fairness, not coercion.

It further highlights the need for better forensic capacity, scientific investigation, and police reforms instead of reliance on ethically and legally questionable techniques.

Concerns Associated with Narco Tests

Narco-analysis raises serious concerns:

• Statements made under sedation may be unreliable, mixing fact and fantasy
• There is a high risk of coerced or influenced consent in custody
• It represents State intrusion into an individual’s thought processes
• There are medical and psychological risks involved

The Supreme Court’s ruling reinforces that constitutional morality and human dignity must guide criminal investigations. While scientific tools may assist policing, they cannot replace voluntariness, fairness, and respect for fundamental rights. The judgment strengthens India’s commitment to a justice system where liberty and due process remain non-negotiable, even in the pursuit of truth.

In News:

The World Inequality Report 2026, released by the World Inequality Lab, highlights widening disparities in income, wealth, gender earnings, and climate responsibility. India is identified as one of the countries with high concentration of income and wealth at the top.

Global Inequality Trends

• Top 10% of the global population own 75% of total wealth
• Bottom 50% own just 2%
• Top 1% alone control 37% of global wealth, nearly 18 times more than the bottom half of humanity combined
• The ultra-rich (top 0.001%) hold more wealth than billions at the bottom

Gender Inequality

• Women earn 61% of men’s income per working hour (excluding unpaid work)
• Including unpaid care work, this falls to 32%
• Women receive only 26% of global labour income, largely unchanged since 1990

Regional Gender Gaps

• Middle East & North Africa: 16% share of labour income
• South & Southeast Asia: 20%
• Sub-Saharan Africa: 28%
• East Asia: 34%
• Europe/North America/Oceania: ~40%

Climate Inequality

Economic inequality overlaps with environmental injustice:

• Poorest 50% contribute only 3% of carbon emissions linked to private capital
• Top 10% responsible for 77%
• Top 1% alone account for 41%, nearly double the emissions of the bottom 90%

Income Inequality in India

• Top 10% earn 58% of national income
• Bottom 50% receive only 15%
• Female labour income share in India is just 18%, below global average

Wealth Inequality in India

Wealth disparity is even sharper than income inequality:

• Top 10% hold 65% of total wealth
• Top 1% control 40%
• Bottom 50% own less than 6%

Changing Global Economic Geography

1980

• Global elite concentrated in North America & Europe
• India and China largely in the bottom income groups

2025

• China’s population has moved upward into middle and upper-middle income groups
• India’s population remains heavily concentrated in the bottom half of the global distribution

Policy Failures Highlighted

• Ultra-rich often pay lower effective tax rates than middle-income groups
• Regressive tax systems weaken state capacity for:
  • Education
  • Healthcare
  • Social protection
  • Climate action

Key Recommendations of the Report

1. Progressive Taxation – Higher contributions from the wealthy
2. Public Investment – Universal education, healthcare, childcare, nutrition
3. Redistributive Measures – Cash transfers, pensions, unemployment benefits

These policies are essential to reduce structural inequality and build inclusive growth.

In News:

The Government of India released a Working Paper on Generative AI & Copyright proposing a national framework titled “One Nation, One License, One Payment”—India’s first structured model to regulate AI training on copyrighted works while balancing creator rights and AI innovation.

Core Issue

Generative AI (GenAI) models are trained on vast datasets scraped from books, news, music, films, and art—often without permission or compensation to creators.

Legal Gap

India’s Copyright Act, 1957:

• Protects reproduction rights under Section 14
• Provides fair dealing exceptions under Section 52
• Does not explicitly recognise Text & Data Mining (TDM) for commercial AI training

This creates ambiguity on whether large-scale AI training constitutes copyright infringement.

Key Concerns Identified

1. AI Training = Reproduction?

Training requires copying and transforming works, which may amount to reproduction under Section 14.

2. Fair Dealing Limitations: Fair dealing covers private research, criticism, reporting—not commercial AI model training.

3. No Compensation Mechanism: Creators (writers, artists, musicians, journalists) currently receive no royalties despite their works improving AI outputs.

4. Cultural & Economic Risk: Unregulated AI usage may dilute Indian cultural content and reduce long-term incentives for human creativity.

5. Unequal Bargaining Power: Large global AI firms benefit from Indian datasets, while individual creators lack negotiating capacity.

Need for a Balanced Framework

• Protect India’s growing creative economy
• Ensure predictable legal access to data for AI innovation
• Support the IndiaAI Mission and domestic startups
• Maintain cultural diversity and sustainability of creative professions
• Enable fair revenue-sharing between AI firms and Indian creators

Key Proposals of the Working Paper

1. Mandatory Blanket License: AI developers can train on lawfully accessible copyrighted works without individual permissions under a single national licence.

2. Statutory Royalty Payments: Creators will receive royalties linked to AI revenues, ensuring ongoing compensation.

3. Creation of a Collective Management Body: A proposed Copyright Royalties Collective for AI Training (CRCAT) would:

• Collect licence fees
• Distribute royalties to rights holders
• Represent both members and non-members

4. Royalty Rate-Setting Committee: A government-appointed body will determine fair royalty rates with periodic review and oversight.

5. Single-Window Digital Licensing: A simplified compliance system to:

• Reduce legal burden
• Enable startups and MSMEs to innovate
• Provide nationwide validity through one licence → one payment

Why This Model is Significant

• First attempt to align copyright law with AI-era realities
• Seeks to avoid litigation-heavy, opt-out frameworks
• Balances innovation, cultural preservation, and economic justice
• Positions India as a policy pioneer in AI governance

In News:

Recent studies indicate that suitable habitats for the Western Tragopan exist in Jammu & Kashmir, but habitat fragmentation and human disturbance continue to threaten the species. Meanwhile, a captivebreeding programme at Sarahan Pheasantry (Himachal Pradesh) has helped stabilise its numbers.

About Western Tragopan

• Common Name: Western Tragopan
• Scientific Name:Tragopan melanocephalus
• Also known as Jujurana or “King of Birds”
• State Bird of Himachal Pradesh
• One of the world’s rarest pheasants

Habitat & Distribution

• Found in the Western Himalayas at elevations of 2,400–3,600 metres
• Prefers:
  • Moist temperate forests
  • Dense undergrowth
  • Ringal bamboo thickets
  • Rhododendron shrubs
  • Conifer forests

Key Strongholds

• Great Himalayan National Park (Himachal Pradesh)
• Kazinag and Limber areas in Jammu & Kashmir
• Pockets in Uttarakhand and northern Pakistan

Populations now survive only in small, fragmented pockets.

Population Status

• IUCN estimates 3,000–9,500 mature individuals remain
• Entire global population forms a single fragile sub-population
• Around a quarter of the population occurs in the Western Himalayas and northern Pakistan

Key Characteristics

Male

• Velvet-black head
• Bright crimson breast
• White-spotted body
• Distinctive blue and orange facial wattles used in courtship displays

Female

• Smaller, brown and camouflaged
• Immature males resemble females

Behaviour

• Ground-dwelling and shy
• Most active at dawn and dusk
• Diet includes berries, seeds, buds, shoots, and insects

Breeding

• Breeding season: May–June
• Lays 3–5 eggs in well-hidden nests

Threats

• Habitat loss due to forest degradation
• Fragmentation of temperate forests
• Human disturbance (grazing, tourism, infrastructure)
• Hunting and poaching

These pressures reduce safe breeding areas and isolate populations.

Conservation Status

• Listed as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List
• Recognised as a flagship and indicator species of high-altitude forest ecosystem health

Conservation Efforts

• Captive Breeding: The Sarahan Pheasantry in Himachal Pradesh has successfully bred 40+ Western Tragopans, creating an insurance population against extinction.
• Habitat Protection: Protected areas like Great Himalayan National Park and forest reserves in J&K are critical for wild populations.

However, reintroduction into natural habitats remains challenging due to ongoing habitat disturbance.

In News:

Researchers recently documented unusual predatory behaviour of a horn-eyed ghost crab at Rushikonda Beach, Visakhapatnam, drawing attention to the ecological role of ghost crabs in coastal ecosystems.

Taxonomy

• Belongs to the genus Ocypode
• Commonly known as ghost crabs due to their pale colour and rapid, almost “vanishing” movements on beaches

Habitat

• Found primarily in sandy intertidal zones
• Builds deep burrows above the high-tide line on beaches
• Most active during dawn, dusk, and night, avoiding daytime heat

Distribution

• Occurs widely across the Indo-Pacific region
• Range extends from the east coast of Africa to the Philippines, and from Japan to the Great Barrier Reef
• Absent in the Red Sea
• Six species of ghost crabs have been recorded along the Indian coastline

Physical and Behavioural Features

• Pale, sand-coloured body helps in camouflage against predators
• Possesses long legs adapted for fast sideways running
• The term “horn-eyed” refers to eye stalks that may appear elongated or horn-like
• Known for agile hunting and burrow-dwelling behaviour

Feeding Habits

Although traditionally considered scavengers, recent observations show active predation.

Diet includes:

• Clams
• Snails
• Marine worms
• Isopods
• Shrimps
• Insects
• Other crabs, including small hermit crabs

This highlights their role not just as scavengers but also as important predators in beach ecosystems.

Ecological Role

Horn-eyed ghost crabs are considered:

• Keystone species in sandy shore ecosystems
• Bio-indicators of coastal health

Why important?

• Their burrowing activity aerates sand and influences sediment structure
• Their feeding controls populations of smaller invertebrates
• Healthy ghost crab populations generally indicate less-disturbed beaches

Threats

Ghost crabs are sensitive to environmental disturbances. Major threats include:

• Coastal pollution
• Beach tourism and human trampling
• Changes in sediment patterns due to erosion or construction
• Rising sea temperatures
• Altered tidal cycles due to climate change

Such pressures may force them to shift habitats in search of food and suitable burrowing sites.

In News:

Researchers have discovered a new spider species, Dolomedes indicus, in the evergreen rainforests of the Western Ghats, specifically in Wayanad district, Kerala.

What is Dolomedes indicus?

• Dolomedes indicus is a newly identified species of spider belonging to the genus Dolomedes, commonly known as raft spiders or fishing spiders.
• This discovery marks the first recorded member of the Dolomedes genus in India.

Genus Dolomedes (Raft/Fishing Spiders)

• Members of this genus are known for their semi-aquatic lifestyle.
• Unlike web-building spiders, they are active hunters.
• They are typically found near freshwater streams, ponds, and wetlands.

Habitat

• Found in evergreen forest streams of the Western Ghats, a global biodiversity hotspot.
• Prefers cool, clean, shaded freshwater habitats under dense forest canopies.
• Its presence indicates pristine stream ecosystems with minimal disturbance.

Behaviour and Hunting Strategy

Dolomedes indicus is a semi-aquatic predator that:

• Uses surface tension of water to stand and move on water surfaces
• Detects vibrations caused by insects or small aquatic animals struggling in water
• Swiftly lunges across the water to capture prey
• Is capable of swimming and diving to escape predators or catch prey

This makes it ecologically different from typical web-dependent house spiders.

Physical Characteristics

• Males: Identified by a distinctive snow-white marking extending from the face to the middle of the back
• Females: Larger in size and greenish-brown, helping them camouflage against mossy rocks and streamside vegetation

Sexual dimorphism (difference in appearance between males and females) is clearly visible.

Ecological Importance

• Being highly sensitive to environmental changes, Dolomedes indicus may serve as an indicator species
• Its survival depends on:
  • Clean freshwater
  • Stable forest canopy cover
  • Undisturbed stream ecosystems

Thus, its presence can help scientists monitor freshwater ecosystem health and assess the impact of habitat degradation.

Significance of Discovery

• Highlights the rich but understudied biodiversity of the Western Ghats
• Expands the known geographical range of the Dolomedes genus
• Emphasizes the importance of conserving freshwater habitats within forest ecosystems

In News:

The Mahad Satyagraha was one of India’s earliest organisedcivil rights movements, led by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar in 1927 in Mahad (present-day Raigad district, Maharashtra). It challenged the practice of untouchability and asserted the right of Dalits to access public water sources, marking a crucial step in the evolution of India’s human rights discourse and later constitutional morality.

Background

• In 1923, the Bombay Legislative Council passed the Bole Resolution, recommending that so-called “untouchable” communities be allowed to use public wells, tanks, schools, and other civic facilities. Despite this legal provision, caste discrimination continued, especially in Mahad, where Dalits were denied access to the Chavdar (Chavadar) Tank, a public water reservoir.
• Mahad was chosen by Ambedkar due to its active social reform environment and presence of anti-caste leaders and organisations advocating equality.

Mahad Satyagraha - Phase I (March 19–20, 1927)

• Thousands of Dalits led by Ambedkar marched to the Chavdar Tank and drank water, symbolically asserting their right to equality and human dignity.
• The act triggered backlash from upper-caste groups, who performed “purification rituals” to “cleanse” the tank, reinforcing caste hierarchies.
• Legal disputes followed, with local elites claiming the tank was privately owned, leading to a court stay on Dalit access.

Mahad Satyagraha - Phase II (December 25–26, 1927)

• A second conference was organised at Mahad.
• As the legal case was pending, Ambedkar refrained from directly accessing the tank again.
• Instead, on December 25, 1927, he led the public burning of the Manusmriti, an ancient text seen as justifying caste hierarchy and gender inequality.
• Ambedkar also addressed women participants, stressing that gender equality was integral to the anti-caste struggle.

Key Features

• Assertion of Civil Rights: Access to public resources framed as a fundamental human right.
• Challenge to Scriptural Authority: Symbolic rejection of texts legitimising caste discrimination.
• Non-violent Protest: Inspired by democratic ideals but rooted in Ambedkar’s ethical vision of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
• Women’s Participation: Marked an early articulation of the link between caste oppression and gender inequality.

Outcomes and Legacy

• In 1937, the Bombay High Court ruled that there was no valid custom barring Dalits from public tanks, affirming equal civic rights.
• The movement strengthened Dalit political consciousness and laid the groundwork for later struggles, including temple entry movements.
• The principles articulated at Mahad later influenced the Fundamental Rights, equality provisions, and constitutional morality embedded in the Constitution of India.
• December 25 is commemorated in some traditions as Indian Women’s Liberation Day, recalling Ambedkar’s emphasis on gender justice.

In News:

The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) is set to release six captive-bred vultures-three males and three females-into the wild in Assam in January 2026. The birds belong to two critically endangered species: the Slender-billed Vulture and the White-rumped Vulture. The release will take place in Kamrup and Biswanath districts, areas within the natural range of these species and close to Kaziranga National Park.

This initiative is part of India’s long-term vulture recovery programme, supported by the Assam Forest Department and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). BNHS has bred over 800 vulturesacross its conservation breeding centres and has worked for more than 15 years to prepare suitable habitats and community awareness for reintroduction.

Before release, the vultures will undergo a soft-release acclimatisation period of at least three months, allowing them to adapt to natural surroundings and observe other scavengers. Vultures are social birds, mature after about five years, and can live up to 50–60 years.

Slender-billed Vulture (Gyps tenuirostris)

• IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
• Distribution: Assam, Gangetic plains, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Cambodia
• Habitat: Open landscapes, riverine areas, tall trees near human settlements
• Identification: Slender narrow bill, dark head, long bare neck, grey plumage
• Breeding: Slow breeder; lays one egg per clutch
• Diet: Carrion, often feeds with other vultures
• Threats: Veterinary drug poisoning (especially diclofenac), habitat loss

Population estimates suggest fewer than 1,000 mature individuals remain globally.

White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis)

• IUCN Status: Critically Endangered
• Distribution: Indian subcontinent, often near villages and towns
• Habitat: Plains, open country, nesting on tall trees
• Identification: Dark body, distinct white rump patch, white neck ruff
• Breeding: October–March season, one egg
• Diet: Carrion; commonly feeds in mixed-species groups

This species has suffered one of the fastest bird population crashes in history, primarily due to diclofenac, a veterinary anti-inflammatory drug toxic to vultures.

Vultures in India - Key Facts

India hosts 9 vulture species, including:

• Critically Endangered: White-rumped, Slender-billed, Indian (Long-billed), Red-headed Vulture
• Endangered: Egyptian Vulture, Himalayan Griffon (status often regionally assessed)
• Others: Griffon Vulture, Bearded Vulture, Cinereous Vulture

Why Vultures Matter

Vultures are vital scavengers that prevent the spread of diseases by rapidly disposing of carcasses. Their decline has led to ecological imbalance and increased feral dog populations, raising risks of rabies and other zoonotic diseases.

Conservation Measures in India

• Ban on veterinary diclofenac (2006)
• Vulture Safe Zones across several states
• Captive breeding programmes led by BNHS and state forest departments
• Community awareness and monitoring

The 2026 release in Assam marks an important step toward restoring these keystone scavengers to India’s ecosystems.

In News:

The Department of Posts (DoP) under the Ministry of Communications has proposed a new digital addressing framework called DHRUVA (Digital Hub for Reference and Unique Virtual Address). It aims to create a standardised, interoperable, and user-centric digital address system as part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) initiatives.

What is DHRUVA?

DHRUVA is designed as a national digital address framework that allows individuals to use UPI-like virtual address labels such as “name@entity” instead of repeatedly sharing full physical addresses.

These virtual labels act as proxies for real-world locations and are built on the concept of Address-as-a-Service (AaaS), a system for secure, consent-based management and sharing of address data.

Key Features

1. Virtual Address Labels: Users will be able to share a simple label (similar to a UPI ID or email ID) instead of filling out detailed address forms across platforms.

2. Consent-Based Access: Users can authorise companies to access their address information for a limited duration, after which access must be renewed. This gives citizens control over who can view their address.

3. Interoperability &Standardisation: DHRUVA aims to standardise address formats and ensure interoperability across government services, e-commerce platforms, logistics providers, and emergency services.

4. Public–Private Participation: Private firms can participate in the ecosystem, similar to how the UPI system involves banks and fintech firms. A not-for-profit entity (on the lines of NPCI) may oversee operations under government supervision.

DIGIPIN: Foundational Layer

DHRUVA builds upon the DIGIPIN (Digital Postal Index Number) system.

Key Facts about DIGIPIN:

• Developed by the Department of Posts with IIT Hyderabad and NRSC, ISRO
• A 10-character alphanumeric code representing precise geographic coordinates
• Each code corresponds to roughly a 4 m × 4 m grid (earlier approximated as ~14 sq m area)
• Open-source and covers the entire territory of India
• Useful in areas where traditional textual addresses are unclear or absent

DIGIPIN improves location accuracy for rural areas, logistics, emergency response, and public service delivery.

Institutional Framework

• Address labels will be issued by Address Service Providers (ASPs)
• Consent management will be handled by Address Information Agents (AIAs)
• The platform will be designed with multilingual and mobile-first access
• It may integrate with identity systems like Aadhaar for verification

Significance

• Reduces repetitive address entry across digital platforms
• Enhances privacy through consent-based data sharing
• Improves e-governance, e-commerce, logistics, and emergency services
• Strengthens India’s digital infrastructure alongside Aadhaar and UPI

In News:

World Soil Day (WSD) is observed annually on 5 December to raise global awareness about the importance of healthy soils and to promote the sustainable management of soil resources. The observance is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and endorsed by the UN General Assembly (UNGA).

History and Background

• The idea of a global day dedicated to soil conservation was first proposed in 2002 by the International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS).
• FAO promoted the initiative, and in 2013 the FAO Conference endorsed the proposal and sought formal UN recognition.
• The UN General Assembly officially designated 5 December 2014 as the first World Soil Day.

Theme for 2025

“Healthy Soils for Healthy Cities”

The 2025 theme highlights the critical role of urban soils in supporting sustainable cities. It shifts attention from rural agriculture to the often-overlooked soils beneath urban environments.

Importance of Healthy Soils

Soils are a life-sustaining resource essential for:

• Food production
• Water filtration and groundwater recharge
• Carbon storage and climate regulation
• Biodiversity support
• Nutrient cycling

In urban areas, healthy soils help mitigate:

• Urban heat island effect
• Flooding by acting as natural water sponges
• Pollution through filtration of contaminants
• Food insecurity through urban agriculture

Extent of Soil Degradation

Despite their importance, soils are under severe stress:

• The FAO estimates that nearly one-third of the world’s soils are degraded.
• Urban soils face compaction, contamination, and sealing by concrete, reducing their ecological functions.
• Unsustainable agricultural practices, deforestation, and land misuse further worsen soil erosion and nutrient depletion.

Global Soil Conservation Efforts

1. Global Soil Partnership (GSP):An FAO-led initiative aimed at improving soil governance and promoting sustainable soil management worldwide.

2. United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD):Works to prevent land degradation and achieve Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) by 2030.

India’s Soil Conservation Initiatives

India has launched multiple programmes to protect and restore soil health:

• Soil Health Card Scheme: Provides farmers with soil nutrient analysis to encourage balanced fertiliser use.
• Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Promotes organic farming to maintain soil fertility.
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Improves water management and reduces soil erosion.
• Watershed Development Programmes: Enhance soil moisture and prevent land degradation.
• MGNREGA land works: Support soil and water conservation at the local level.
• Smart Cities Mission: Encourages green infrastructure, open spaces, and soil-friendly urban planning.

In News:

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is set to mandate telecom operators to introduce Caller Name Presentation (CNAP), a system that will display the KYC-registered name of incoming callers on mobile phones. The move aims to curb the rising menace of spam and fraudulent calls by improving caller identification.

What is CNAP?

Caller Name Presentation (CNAP) is a telecom-based feature that allows users to see the name of the caller when receiving a call. Unlike third-party apps such as Truecaller, CNAP will rely on official telecom records.

• The caller’s name will be drawn from the Customer Application Form (CAF) submitted during SIM registration.
• The feature is designed to function as a network-level service, not an app-based solution.

How CNAP Works

• Each telecom operator will maintain a database linking mobile numbers with subscriber names.
• When a call is initiated, the operator’s system will retrieve and transmit the registered name to the recipient’s device.
• Initially, the system may work within the same telecom network (e.g., Airtel-to-Airtel).
• Cross-network name display (e.g., Jio-to-Vi) will require regulatory approvals and technical arrangements for inter-operator data sharing.

Regulatory Background

In February 2024, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommended the implementation of CNAP across telecom networks, especially for smartphones. TRAI emphasised that the feature should be based on verified subscriber data rather than crowd-sourced information.

The DoT is now moving towards making CNAP mandatory for telecom service providers in phases.

Objectives of CNAP

• Reduce spam and fraudulent calls
• Enhance consumer protection
• Increase trust in telecom communication
• Deter misuse of SIM cards obtained through false identity

Key Distinction from Caller ID Apps

Challenges

• Privacy concerns regarding display of registered names
• Data-sharing protocols needed for cross-network calls
• Technical compatibility across diverse handset types
• Handling cases where SIMs are registered under different individuals (e.g., family use)

In News:

The Union Government has reiterated that States must comply with all conditions of the Samagra Shiksha scheme to receive Central funds. Fund release depends on submission of utilisation certificates, audit reports, physical and financial progress reports, State share contributions, and adherence to scheme norms, including alignment with NEP 2020.

About the Scheme

Samagra Shiksha is an Integrated Centrally Sponsored Scheme for School Education implemented by the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), Ministry of Education since 2018–19. It provides a holistic framework for education from pre-school to Class 12.

It subsumes three earlier schemes:

• Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) – Elementary education
• Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) – Secondary education
• Teacher Education (TE)

Funding Pattern

• 90:10 – Northeastern & Himalayan States
• 60:40 – Other States
• 100% Central funding – Union Territories without legislatures

Objectives

• Ensure universal access to schooling
• Improve quality of education and learning outcomes
• Reduce social and gender gaps
• Promote equity and inclusion, including for children with disabilities
• Support implementation of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009
• Encourage vocational education and holistic school development

Key Interventions

The scheme supports States/UTs through:

• Composite school grants
• Free uniforms and textbooks
• Library and sports grants
• ICT and digital learning initiatives
• Remedial teaching and teacher training
• Leadership development for school heads

Special focus areas include:

• Kasturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalayas (KGBVs) for girls from disadvantaged groups
• Residential schools and hostels in underserved regions
• Support for Children with Special Needs (CwSN) including assistive devices, Braille kits, stipends, and transport allowances

Alignment with NEP 2020

Samagra Shiksha is aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, incorporating:

• New curricular and pedagogical structure (5+3+3+4)
• Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE)
• Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN)
• Competency-based learning and holistic assessment reforms

Global Linkages

The scheme supports India’s commitments under:

• SDG 4.1 – Free, equitable and quality primary and secondary education
• SDG 4.5 – Elimination of gender disparities and inclusion of vulnerable groups

In News:

The Supreme Court of India has directed the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to lead a pan-India probe into rising cases of “digital arrest” scams, a form of cyber fraud involving impersonation of law-enforcement agencies. The Union government informed the Court that fraudsters have siphoned off thousands of crores of rupees, with senior citizens being frequent victims.

What is a Digital Arrest Scam?

A digital arrest is a cyber fraud where scammers pose as officials from agencies such as the police, CBI, ED, or customs authorities.

Modus Operandi

• Victims receive calls about a fake parcel, KYC issue, or alleged criminal link.
• Fraudsters use spoofed phone numbers, forged documents, and even video calls to appear official.
• Victims are threatened with arrest, passport cancellation, or frozen bank accounts.
• Under psychological pressure, victims are forced to transfer money as a “security deposit” or “fine”.

This scam combines cybercrime and psychological coercion, making it particularly dangerous.

Reasons for the Rise

• Fear-based social engineering exploiting public trust in law enforcement
• Easy access to SIM cards, mule bank accounts, and spoofing tools
• Cross-border cybercrime syndicates operating in organised networks
• Widespread adoption of digital payments (UPI, QR codes, online banking)
• Low digital awareness among vulnerable groups such as elderly citizens

Supreme Court Directions

The Court issued several key directives:

Investigation & Coordination

• CBI given nationwide jurisdiction to probe digital arrest scams.
• States directed to grant consent under Section 6 of the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946.
• CBI to coordinate with States, Interpol, RBI, telecom authorities, and digital platforms.

Financial Tracking

• RBI asked to explore AI and Machine Learning tools to detect suspicious money “layering” through multiple accounts.
• Banks and financial institutions to assist in identifying mule accounts.

Telecom Accountability

• The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) directed to tighten SIM issuance norms and KYC processes.
• Action sought against negligent telecom operators enabling misuse of SIMs.

Platform Responsibility

• Online intermediaries must comply with IT Rules, 2021 and provide data to investigators.

Institutional Strengthening

• States to operationalise Regional Cybercrime Coordination Centres and integrate them with the Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C).

Scale of the Problem

• I4C has blocked over 59,000 WhatsApp accounts linked to such scams.
• Financial cyber fraud reporting systems have saved thousands of crores of rupees through timely intervention.

Challenges in Tackling Digital Arrests

• Use of advanced technologies like deepfakes, encrypted apps, and AI-generated documents
• Dark web networks supplying scam tools
• Cross-border jurisdictional hurdles
• Delayed reporting by victims due to stigma or fear
• Limited cyber forensic and policing capacity

Government Initiatives

In News:

India is set to strengthen its military footprint in Lakshadweep, with a new naval detachment on Bitra Island expected to become fully operational next year. Simultaneously, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is expanding facilities on Agatti and planning a new air base on Minicoy. These steps are aimed at enhancing India’s maritime security posture in the Arabian Sea amid rising strategic challenges.

Why Lakshadweep Matters Strategically

Lakshadweep’s location gives India a vantage point over critical sea lanes of communication (SLOCs) in the Arabian Sea, through which a significant portion of global energy and trade flows.

Rising shipping traffic, growing Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), and threats such as piracy and maritime crime have increased the strategic relevance of the islands. Enhanced surveillance and rapid response capabilities from Lakshadweep will strengthen India’s maritime domain awareness.

About Bitra Island

Basic Facts

• Smallest inhabited island of Lakshadweep
• Part of the Amindivi subgroup
• Located about 483 km west of Kochi in the Arabian Sea

Geographical Setting

• Lies north of Perumal Par and southeast of Byramgore Reef
• A coral atoll, formed from reef growth over submerged volcanic structures
• Features a ring-shaped lagoon system

Physical Features