Monthly Current Affairs January 2024 January 2024

Table of Contents
1. POLITY AND GOVERNANCE ________________4 3.8.11. Audit Quality Deficiencies ________________ 43

1.1. Tribunal System in India ___________________ 4 3.8.12. Bharatmala Phase 1 Extended _____________ 44
1.2. Finances of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) _ 6 3.8.13. 2023 List of D-SIBs ______________________ 44
3.8.14. Payments Infrastructure Development Fund
1.3. Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and
(PIDF) Scheme ________________________________ 45
Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014 _________ 7 3.8.15. National Transit Pass System (NTPS) ________ 45
1.4. Revamped Scheme for Administrative Reforms 9 3.8.16. Atal Setu Nhava Sheva Sea Link ____________ 46
1.5. News in Shorts _________________________ 10 3.8.17. Standardisation in India __________________ 46
1.5.1. Dual Citizenship __________________________ 10 3.8.18. Urea Gold _____________________________ 47
1.5.2. Supreme Court Legal Services Committee (SCLSC) 3.8.19. Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights
____________________________________________ 10 Act _________________________________________ 47
1.5.3. SC Annuls Remission in Bilkis Bano Case ______ 10 3.8.20. Solar Power Scheme for PVTGs Habitations __ 48
1.5.4. Panel for Equitable Distribution of Benefits 3.8.21. Electricity (Amendment) Rules, 2024 Notified 48
Amongst SCs _________________________________ 11 3.8.22. Global Hydrogen Trading Mechanism (GHTM) 49
1.5.5. MPLADS e-SAKSHI Mobile Application ________ 11 3.8.23. Point of Presence (PoP) Regulations for NPS
1.5.6. Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB) ___________ 11 Subscribers __________________________________ 49
2. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS ______________13 3.8.24. Future of Growth Report 2024 ____________ 49
2.1. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) ____________ 13 3.8.25. Inclusive Access to Advanced AI ___________ 50
2.2. Information Fusion Centre for Indian Ocean 3.8.26. Labour Rules for Workers Abroad __________ 50
Region (IFC-IOR)____________________________ 14 3.8.27. Rules Exploration License for Mining ________ 51
2.3. India-Nepal Relations ____________________ 16 3.8.28. Coal/Lignite Gasification Projects __________ 51
2.3.1. India-Nepal Hydropower Cooperation ________ 17 3.8.29. Steel Making ___________________________ 52
3.8.30. Decline in Individual Income Inequality: SBI
2.4. India-Russia Relations ___________________ 18
Research ____________________________________ 52
2.5. India-Italy Relations _____________________ 20
4. SECURITY _____________________________ 54
2.6. Genocide Convention ____________________ 21
4.1. Policing Power to Central Armed Police Forces
2.7. The Global Cooperation Barometer 2024 Report
(CAPFs) ___________________________________ 54
_________________________________________ 22
4.2. Geospatial Intelligence ___________________ 56
2.8. News in Shorts _________________________ 24
2.8.1. Angola withdraws from OPEC _______________ 24
4.3. Drones and Security _____________________ 57
2.8.2. United Nations Statistical Commission (UNSC) _ 24 4.4. Illegal Migration ________________________ 59
2.8.3. Hague Apostille Convention, 1961 ___________ 25 4.5. News in Shorts _________________________ 61
2.8.4. Iran's Retaliation And India’s Interest in West Asia 4.5.1. Operation Sarvashakti ____________________ 61
____________________________________________ 25 4.5.2. Akash-NG (New Generation) Missile _________ 62
2.8.5. UAE-India CEPA Council (UICC) ______________ 25 4.5.3. Indian Navy Commissioned INS Imphal _______ 62
2.8.6. Henley Passport Index 2024 (HPI) ___________ 26 4.5.4. Exercises in News ________________________ 63
3. ECONOMY _____________________________27 5. ENVIRONMENT ________________________ 64
3.1. National Multidimensional Poverty Index ___ 27 5.1. 50 Years of Project Tiger _________________ 64
3.2. Unified Payments Interface (UPI) __________ 29 5.2. Sewage Management in India _____________ 65
3.3. Non- Performing Assets (NPA) _____________ 31 5.3. Swachh Survekshan Awards 2023 __________ 67
3.4. G-Securities ____________________________ 33 5.4. India Meteorological Department (IMD)_____ 68
3.5. Petroleum Exploration & Production _______ 35 5.5. Indian Landslide Susceptibility Map ________ 70
3.6. Food Processing Industry _________________ 38 5.6. PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI) Scheme __________ 72
3.7. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana ________ 39 5.7. News in Shorts _________________________ 74
3.8. News in Shorts _________________________ 40 5.7.1. Report on ‘Trade Policy Tools for Climate Action’
3.8.1. India Becomes Fourth-Largest Stock Market ___ 40 ____________________________________________ 74
3.8.2. Direct Listing of Public Indian Companies _____ 40 5.7.2. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ______ 74
3.8.3. Aadhaar-Based Pay Mandatory for MGNREGA _ 41 5.7.3. Megalosaurus ___________________________ 74
3.8.4. 16th Finance Commission __________________ 41 5.7.4. Latitudinal Diversity Gradient (LDG) _________ 75
3.8.5. Direct Tax to GDP Ratio Rose to 15-Year High __ 42 5.7.5. Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) ____________ 75
3.8.6. Reverse Flip _____________________________ 42 5.7.6. 5 years of National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
3.8.7. Momentum Investing _____________________ 42 ____________________________________________ 75
3.8.8. Model Based Lending _____________________ 43 5.7.7. Global Risk Report 2024 ___________________ 76
3.8.9. Modern Monetary Theory (MMT) ___________ 43 5.7.8. Global Ocean Heat Content (OHC) ___________ 76
3.8.10. Indian Iron Ore Market ___________________ 43 5.7.9. Conjoined Silverline (Cigaritis conjuncta) _____ 76
1 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

5.7.10. Humboldt’s Enigma ______________________ 76 7.11.7. Kilonova Explosion _____________________ 107
5.7.11. Himalayan Wolf _________________________ 77 7.11.8. Chameleon Trojan _____________________ 107
5.7.12. Tibetan Brown Bear _____________________ 77 7.11.9. Direct-to-Cell__________________________ 107
5.7.13. Kumki Elephants ________________________ 77 7.11.10. Revised Pharma Manufacturing Rules _____ 107
5.7.14. Vulture Restaurant ______________________ 78 7.11.11. Havisure: Indigenously Developed Hepatitis A
5.7.15. Eurasian Otter __________________________ 78 vaccine ____________________________________ 107
5.7.16. Binturong (Arctictis binturong) and Small-clawed 7.11.12. ‘SMART 2.0’ for Ayurveda Teaching Professionals
otter (Aonyx cinereus) __________________________ 79 ___________________________________________ 108
5.7.17. Invasive Mosquitofish Species _____________ 79 7.11.13. WHO’s International Classification of Diseases 11
5.7.18. Kuril Islands ____________________________ 79 (ICD-11) ____________________________________ 108
5.7.19. Willingdon Island ________________________ 79 7.11.14. WHO Report on Prevalence of Tobacco Use 109
5.7.20. Deep-Sea Coral Reef _____________________ 80 7.11.15. Disease X ____________________________ 110
5.7.21. Wildlife (Protection) Licensing (Additional Matters 7.11.16. Bio-Imaging Bank (BIB) _________________ 110
for Consideration) Rules, 2024 ___________________ 80 7.11.17. New Treatment Regimen for Leprosy _____ 110
5.7.22. Wadge Bank Ecosystem __________________ 80 7.11.18. Bubble Baby Syndrome (BBS) ___________ 110
5.7.23. Kuno National Park (KNP) _________________ 81 7.11.19. Steel Slag Road Technology (SSRT) _______ 110
6. SOCIAL ISSUES _________________________82 7.11.20. ANEEL (Advanced Nuclear Energy for Enriched
6.1. Socialism in India _______________________ 82 Life) _______________________________________ 111
6.2. Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana 8. CULTURE ____________________________ 112
(PMAAGY) ________________________________ 84 8.1. Mitakshara Law _______________________ 112
6.3. News in Shorts _________________________ 85 8.2. News in Shorts ________________________ 113
6.3.1. Gender-Based Violence ____________________ 85 8.2.1. Geographical Indications (GI) Tag __________ 113
6.3.2. Alliance for Global Good- Gender Equity and 8.2.2. Sri Veerabhadra Temple (or Lepakshi Temple) 113
Equality _____________________________________ 85 8.2.3. Guruvayur Temple ______________________ 113
6.3.3. PRERANA Program _______________________ 85 8.2.4. Shree Kalaram Mandir ___________________ 113
6.3.4. Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes 8.2.5. Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple _____________ 114
(DNTs) ______________________________________ 85 8.2.6. Vadnagar ______________________________ 114
7. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ______________87 8.2.7. Punganur cows _________________________ 114
8.2.8. Warli Tribe ____________________________ 114
7.1. X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSAT) ________ 87
8.2.9. Bru Tribe ______________________________ 115
7.2. International Space Stations ______________ 88 8.2.10. Madhika Language _____________________ 115
7.2.1. Space Habitation _________________________ 89 8.2.11. West Bengal Notified State Day & State Song 115
7.3. National Quantum Mission (NQM) _________ 91 8.2.12. Statue of Social justice __________________ 115
7.4. Fourth Industrial revolution _______________ 93 8.2.13. 'Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)’ _________ 115
7.5. Lithium _______________________________ 95 8.2.14. National Sports Awards (NSA) 2023 _______ 115
7.6. Graphene _____________________________ 96 8.2.15. Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar (PMRBP)
7.7. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems _______ 98 ___________________________________________ 116
7.8. Induction Charging ______________________ 99 8.2.16. Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan
7.9. Antimicrobial Resistance ________________ 101 Puraskar (SCBAPP)-2024 _______________________ 116
7.10. Fixed-Dose combinations (FDCs) Drugs ____ 103 9. ETHICS ______________________________ 117
7.11. News in Shorts _______________________ 105 9.1. Buddha's Teachings ____________________ 117
7.11.1. Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) 9.2. Good Samaritans ______________________ 118
Project _____________________________________ 105 9.3. Beyond Bites: Ethical Considerations in Stray
7.11.2. OSIRIS-APEX ___________________________ 105 Dogs Control _____________________________ 119
7.11.3. Peregrine Mission 1 (Peregrine Lunar Lander) 106 10. SCHEMES IN NEWS ___________________ 122
7.11.4. Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (SLIM) _ 106 10.1. Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (SSY) _________ 122
7.11.5. GSAT-20 ______________________________ 106
7.11.6. FEAST (Finite Element Analysis of Structures) 106
APPENDIX _____________________________ 123
Copyright © by Vision IAS

All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Vision
IAS.

1. POLITY AND GOVERNANCE
1.1. TRIBUNAL SYSTEM IN INDIA
Why in the News?
Recently, the Supreme Court (SC) ruled that
tribunals cannot direct the government to
frame policy.
More about News
• Context: SC was deciding on whether
the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) could
have directed the government to make
a policy to fill up the post of Judge
Advocate General (Air).
o The AFT was set up under the AFT
Act, of 2007.
o AFT provide for adjudication or
trial of disputes and complaints to
the commission, appointments,
enrolment and conditions of
service in respect of persons
subject to the Army Act, 1950,
Navy Act, 1957, Air Force Act,
1950.
✓ It can further provide for
appeals arising out of orders,
findings or sentences of
courts-martial held under the said Acts and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto.
• Court Ruling: SC held that a tribunal subject to the High Court’s jurisdiction under Article 226, cannot be permitted
by law, to direct the framing of a policy by the Government.
o Also, SC said that making policy is not in the domain of the Judiciary.
About Tribunals System
• Nature: Tribunals are quasi-judicial bodies. The objective may be to reduce the caseload of the judiciary or to bring
in subject expertise for technical matters.
• Constitutional Recognition: In 1976, Articles 323A and 323B were inserted in the Constitution of India through the
42nd Amendment.
o Article 323A: Empowered Parliament to constitute administrative Tribunals (both at central and state level) for
adjudication of matters related to recruitment and conditions of service of public servants.
o Article 323B: Specified certain subjects (such as taxation and land reforms) for which Parliament or state
legislatures may constitute tribunals by enacting a law.
✓ In 2010, the Supreme Court clarified that subject matters under Article 323B are not exclusive, and
legislatures are empowered to create tribunals on any subject matter under their purview as specified in the
Seventh Schedule of the Constitution.
• Composition of Tribunals: The presence of expert members (technical members) along with judicial members is a
key feature of tribunals which distinguishes them from traditional courts.
• Jurisdiction: Each tribunal is given specific jurisdiction to hear and decide cases within its designated area of expertise.
o Some tribunals have appellate jurisdiction, meaning they hear appeals from decisions made by lower authorities
or government bodies.

• Appeals: Appeals from tribunals usually lie with the concerned High Court. However, some laws specify that appeals
will be heard by the Supreme Court.
o In Chandra Kumar Case (1997), appeals against decisions of tribunals were allowed in the division bench of High
Courts.
• Currently, tribunals have been created both as substitutes to High Courts and as subordinate to High Courts.
Significance of Tribunals
• Specialization: This specialization ensures that cases are adjudicated by individuals with a deep understanding of the
relevant legal and technical issues.
• Speedy Resolution: This is particularly important in areas where timely decisions are crucial, such as service matters,
tax disputes, and environmental issues.
• Reduced Case Load: By handling specific types of cases, tribunals contribute to reducing the burden on traditional
courts, helping to address the issue of judicial backlog.
• Accessibility: Tribunals are geographically dispersed, with benches located across the country.
• Efficiency in Service Matters: Administrative Tribunals, such as the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT), expedite
the resolution of service-related matters for government employees.
Concerns with Tribunals
• Lack of Independence: Critics argue that certain tribunals might not be entirely independent, as their members are
often appointed by the government.
o This raises concerns about the potential for undue influence or interference in decision-making.
o In 2019, the SC reiterated that the lack of judicial dominance in selection committees of tribunals violates the
doctrine of separation of powers.
• Pendency of cases: For example, in 2021, the AFT had 18,829 pending cases.
o The lack of human resources is observed to be one of the key reasons for the accumulation of pending cases in
courts.
• Term of office: In 2019, SC stated that a short tenure of members along with provisions of re-appointment increases
the influence and control of the Executive over the judiciary.
• Lack of Uniformity in Procedures: Procedures adopted by different tribunals can vary widely, leading to inconsistency
in the application of legal principles and potential confusion for litigants.
• Overlapping Jurisdictions: There have been instances of overlapping jurisdictions between tribunals and regular
courts, leading to confusion and potential conflicts.
• Concerns Regarding Technical Members: In certain tribunals, technical members may lack legal qualifications.
Way Ahead
• Enhance Independence: Mechanism for appointment and removal of members in tribunals, and tenure of their
employment should have adequate protection from legislative and executive interference.
• Administration of Tribunals: The Standing Committee on Personnel, Public Grievances, Law and Justice (2015)
recommended the creation of an independent body called the National Tribunals Commission (NTC) for the
administration of all tribunals in India.
o In 2020, SC also emphasised creating NTC to supervise appointments, as well as the functioning and
administration of tribunals.
• Timely Appointments: Expedite the appointment process for tribunal members to prevent delays in the resolution of
cases and reduce backlogs.
o A judicial impact assessment would be helpful to determine the extra resources required to handle fresh cases
resulting from the enactment of a new law.
• Clear Jurisdictional Boundaries: Clearly define and demarcate the jurisdiction of each tribunal to avoid overlapping
and conflicting decisions with regular courts.
• Training and Qualifications: Ensure that technical members of tribunals possess adequate legal qualifications or
receive training to understand legal principles, promoting a better understanding of the legal context.

1.2. FINANCES OF PANCHAYATI RAJ INSTITUTIONS (PRIS)
Why in the news?
Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released its report titled
“Finances of Panchayati Raj Institutions”. The report discusses the fiscal
position of PRIs for the years 2020-21 to 2022-23.
About Panchayati Raj Institutions and their finances
• 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act 1992: institutionalised the PRIs at
three levels i.e.,
o Mandate for setting up of Panchayats is provided by Article 243 in
Part IX of the Constitution of India.
o Panchayats, being Local Government, is a State subject.
• Number of PRIs: There are a total of 2.62 lakh PRIs in India, with 2.55
lakh Gram Panchayats, 6,707 Mandal Panchayats and 665 Zila
Parishads as of October 2023.
• Constitutional Provisions for Financial Empowerment of Panchayats
o Article 243H: Provides for finance for the Panchayats by securing
authorization from State Legislatures for grants-in-aid to the Panchayats from the Consolidated Fund of the State.
✓ It empowers panchayats to impose, collect, and allocate taxes, duties, tolls, and fees.
o Article 243-I: Setting up a Finance Commission (FC) every 5 years to review the financial position of Panchayats
and make recommendations to improve their financial position.
o Article 280(3)(bb): Mandates FCs to recommend measures needed to augment the Consolidated fund of the
state and supplement panchayat resources to the President.
Sources of Finance for PRIs
Internal/Own • Tax Revenue from Property tax on lands (other than Agriculture Land) or buildings or both; Taxes on
sources of revenue Duties and Commodities; Service tax; Taxes on Profession Trades etc.
• Non tax revenue from market fees on persons exporting goods for sale in Panchayat area; Fees on
Registration of Cattle sold within the Panchayat area etc.
Transfer of Funds • Tied Grants: Earmarked for specific purposes or sectors, like sanitation, education etc.
from Central Finance • Untied Grants (General purpose grants): These are provided without specific conditions or
Commission (CFC) restrictions and can be utilised for local needs and priorities.
and State Finance • Performance-based Grants: Additional funds granted to PRIs based on recommendations of CFCs and
Commission (SFC) specific performance criteria.
• Special Category Grants: These grants are additional financial support designed to address unique
challenges or particular needs of PRIs in specific regions or contexts.
Other Sources • Transfer from Central Government and State Government under different schemes like MGNREGA,
PMAY (Rural), Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana etc.
• Grants from internationals bodies like World Bank, etc.
Challenges associated with the finance of PRIs
• Structural challenges: Inadequate financial resources, heavy reliance on grants from upper tiers of government; and
weak infrastructure impede the functioning of PRIs.
o Around 95 % of their revenues come from grants by higher levels of government.
• Inconsistency in data: Assessment of the fiscal health of PRIs is difficult due to a lack of data on their revenues and
expenditures and a lack of skilled staff to maintain data in standardised formats.
o Audit reports have been generated for only 46% of Gram Panchayats for 2019-20.
• Tax revenue: Sources of revenue for PRIs are limited, mainly property taxes, fees, and fines.
o They face challenges in raising tax revenue due to a limited tax base, shortage of staff and adequate
infrastructure along with a lack of clear guidelines for introducing new taxes.
• Corruption: Instances of misuse of funds for personal gain have hindered the ability of PRIs to effectively carry out
their roles and responsibilities.
o For example, Rs 1.58 crore was diverted from the gram panchayat account without prior permission from the
panchayat body and higher officials in Vijayawada.
• State Finance Commissions (SFC): As per rural development and Panchayati raj report, only 9 states have been
constituting SFCs regularly, and out of them, only two are active.
Initiatives taken to improve financial ecosystem of PRIs.
• e-Gram Swaraj: It assist in enhancing the credibility of Panchayats which would induce greater devolution of funds to PRIs
as well as provide a platform for effective monitoring by higher authorities.
• Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP): It is an annual exercise carried out by Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) in all
Gram panchayats and other local self-governance bodies where GP development plans are prepared in a participatory
manner under people’s Plan Campaign.
• Capacity Building- Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhiyan (CB-PSA): It had provided assistance to the States/ UTs for capacity
building and training of Panchayat Elected Representatives to enable them to perform their functions, including planning
and implementation of development programmes, effectively and efficiently.
• Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA): It aims to strengthen capacities of institutions for rural local governance to become
more responsive towards local development needs, and efficiently utilise available resources for realizing sustainable
solutions to local problems linked to SDGs.
Way forward
• Budgetary support: Increase budgetary allocations from higher levels of government to ensure PRIs have sufficient
resources to fulfil their responsibilities. Also, steps should be taken to diverse funding sources of the PRIs.
• Skilling: Training and capacity-building of PRI members to enhance their financial management skills, ensuring
effective and transparent handling of funds.
• Accountability: Enforce strict financial accountability measures, regular and independent audits, and transparent
reporting mechanisms to prevent misuse of funds and corruption.
• Strengthening SFC: SFCs should be constituted timely every 5 years and reports should be tabled in state legislatures
regularly. It can fortify the financial position of PRIs and help them in better delivery of their responsibilities.
• Awareness: Raise citizen’s awareness about the functions and significance of PRIs by encouraging their increased
participation in local governance processes.
1.3. STREET VENDORS (PROTECTION OF LIVELIHOOD AND REGULATION OF

STREET VENDING) ACT, 2014
Why in the news?
Recently, the Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs highlighted the slow pace of implementation of the provisions of the
Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014.
More about the news
• A revamped PAiSA Portal Dashboard and the PM SVANidhi Mission Monitoring Portal were also launched at the
event.
o Portal for Affordable credit and Interest Subvention Access (PAiSA) is a portal designed to provide a centralized
platform for Processing of Interest Subsidy to eligible beneficiaries under PM Svanidihi, Self-Employment Program
etc.
Key features of the Street Vendors Act, 2014
• Rights of street vendors: Every street vendor shall have the right to carry on the business of street vending activities
as per the terms and conditions mentioned in the certificate of vending.
• Duties of Street Vendors:
o Remove his goods and wares every day at the end of the time-sharing period allowed to him.
o Maintain cleanliness and public hygiene in vending zones and adjoining areas.
o Maintain civic amenities and public property in the vending zone in good condition.
o Payment of maintenance charges for the civic amenities and facilities as determined by local authorities.
• Town Vending Committees (TVCs): They are to be established in each Local Authority. These committees are in charge
of enumerating, identifying, and allocating vending zones in a city.
o TVCs are to be heterogeneously constituted with at least 40% of its elected members being street vendors, of
which one-third are to be women.
• Survey of the Street Vendors: At least once every five years for the issuance of a Certificate of Vending (CoV) to the
vendors identified.
• Ceiling limit on the number of vendors:
It is set at 2.5% of the population of the
ward or zone or town or city for
accommodating the vendors in the
respective vending zones.
• Grievance redressal Committees: They
are to be set up by the States under the
chairmanship of a retired judicial
officer to maintain impartiality towards
grievances of street vendors.
• Period for the release of seized goods:
For non-perishable goods, the goods
are to be released within two working
days and in the case of perishable
goods, the goods shall be released the same day of claim.
Challenges associated with the functioning of the act
• Lopsided implementation: Despite a decade since enactment only 17 States have constituted Grievance redressal
Committees for the welfare of the street vendors.
o The TVCs are yet to be formed in many Urban local bodies and existing TVCs also lack proper representation in
many states.
• Ceiling on Number of Vendors: The act has set the limit of street vendors to 2.5% of the total population of the
ward/city, which is inadequate for a major metropolis like Delhi, Mumbai etc.
• Exclusion of Railways land and its premises: The act does not apply to any land, premises and trains owned and
controlled by the Railways, which is a huge business area for the vendors.
• Lack of uniformity: Currently, street vending is regulated under municipal laws enacted by state legislatures and this
leads to a lack of uniformity in its implementation.
o For example, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation issued a Certificate of Vending based on domicile certificates
till 2022, despite domicile not being a criterion under the 2014 act.
Way forward
For better implementation of the Act
• Revision of the ceiling on the number of vendors: It can be increased in consonance with the nature of the city and
as per the latest survey of street vendors.
• Ensuring adequate representation: Street vendors and TVCs as stakeholders while deciding any policy framework
that impacts their livelihood.
• Creation of Vending Zones near Railway Stations: This will provide more opportunities for the vendors and ensure
more consistent implementation of the Act.
• Integration with the Smart City mission: Including members from the Street vendor’s community in deliberations
and formulation of the Smart City projects.
• Establishment of Model Vending zones as "Light House Projects" by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, to be
replicated in states.
For the Welfare of Street Vendors
• Issuance of Smartcards which integrate the details of Vendor ID cards and Certificate of Vending.
• Sensitize police force and local body officials by including the Street Vendors Act in their training curriculum to avoid
excessive actions over street vendors.
• Publish Street vendors charter by every TVC specifying the time within which a CoV shall be issued, renewed and
other activities to be performed.
1.4. REVAMPED SCHEME FOR ADMINISTRATIVE REFORMS
Why in the News?
The government has approved funds for the revamped Scheme for Administrative Reforms of the Department of
Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
About the revamped Scheme for Administrative Reforms
• Ministry: Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions.
• Period: The scheme is to be implemented in the next two years (2024-25 and 2025-26) of the 15th Finance
Commission Cycle.
• 2 Verticals: Comprehensive System for Redressal of Public Grievances and Administrative Reforms.
o Scheme for Comprehensive System for Redressal of Public Grievances:
✓ Quality of grievance redressal: Taking forward the 10-Step CPGRAMS reforms (refer to table) aimed at
improving the quality of grievance redressal.
✓ AI-Assisted Redressal: Reducing timelines by developing an AI-assisted Public Grievance Redressal
System (CPGRAMS).
✓ Unified Grievance Redressal: The project will integrate all other grievance portals, thus making CPGRAMS
the single largest interface for public grievances.
✓ Capacity building: Deeper technology adoption, capacity building of grievance redressal officers, etc.
o Scheme for Administrative Reforms:
✓ Strategic Allocation: The scheme seeks to utilize resources for International Exchange and Cooperation
activities, the National e-Governance Awards Scheme etc.
About Centralised Public Grievance Redress
and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS)
• DARPG has put in place CPGRAMS since
2007.
• It is an online platform available to the
citizens 24x7 to lodge their grievances to
the public authorities on any subject
related to service delivery.
• It is a single portal connected to all
Ministries/Departments of Government of
India and States.
• Issues that are not taken for redress:
o RTI Matters.
o Court related matters.
o Religious matters, etc.
• In 2022, Government implemented the 10-
step reforms of CPGRAMS.

1.5. NEWS IN SHORTS
1.5.1. DUAL CITIZENSHIP 1.5.2. SUPREME COURT LEGAL SERVICES
COMMITTEE (SCLSC)
• Recently the Union External Affairs Minister remarked
that dual citizenship is a challenge in India. • Recently, a Supreme Court judge has been nominated
• Dual or Multiple Citizenship: It grants an individual as the Chairman of the SCLSC.
legal status as a citizen of two or more countries • About SCLSC
simultaneously. o It is a statutory body.
• Countries offering dual citizenship: United States, ✓ Constituted under section 3A of Legal Services
Finland, Albania, Israel, and Pakistan, etc. Authorities Act, 1987 by National Legal Service
• The Indian Constitution prohibits dual citizenship for Authority.
nationals. o Objective: Providing free legal services to poor,
• Alternative to dual citizens in India under-privileged and those marginalized in
○ India offers the Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) society.
program to Persons of Indian Origin (PIO), o Chief Justice of India in Patron-in-Chief of
excluding those who migrated to Pakistan and Committee.
Bangladesh. • Members: Chairman (sitting Judge of SC) and 9
• Benefits for OCI cardholders members (nominated by the Chief Justice of India).
○ Multi-purpose, multiple entry, lifelong visa for
visiting India. 1.5.3. SC ANNULS REMISSION IN BILKIS
○ Exemption from registration with local police BANO CASE
authority for any length of stay in India. • Supreme Court sets aside remission of 11 convicts in
○ Parity with NRIs in respect of economic, financial, Bilkis Bano’s case given by Gujarat government
and education fields except in matters relating to • SC held that Gujarat is not appropriate government to
the acquisition of agricultural/plantation
decide on remission petition as the trial was
properties.
conducted in Maharashtra. Thus, remission orders
• Foreign national eligible to apply for OCI were held to be invalid.
○ Who was eligible to become a citizen of India on • Remission refers to reduction in period of sentence
26.01.1950.
that has been imposed on a person, without affecting
○ Was a citizen of India on or at any time after
the nature of sentence.
26.01.1950.
o State may release convicts early under its
○ Who is a child or a grandchild or a great- remission policy.
grandchild of such a citizen given above.
• Constitutional provisions related to Remission
o Article 72 empowers President of India to grant
pardons, reprieves, respites, suspend, remit, or
commute the sentence of a person convicted of
any offense where sentence is
✓ by a court Martial;
✓ for an offence against any law relating to a
matter to which executive power of Union
extends;
✓ a sentence of death.
o Under Article 161, Governor's power is similar to
that of President, but limited to a matter to which
executive power of state extends.
• Legal basis of Remission
o Section 432 of Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC)
1973 grants government power to suspend or
remit sentences.
o Section 433A mandates remission only after 14
years of imprisonment.

Supreme Court verdict on Remission 1.5.5. MPLADS E-SAKSHI MOBILE
• Laxman Naskar versus Union of India (2000): SC laid
down five grounds on which remission is to be
APPLICATION
considered. • MPLADS (Member of Parliament Local Area
o offence affects society at large;
Development Scheme (MPLADS) e-SAKSHI Mobile
o probability of crime being repeated;
o potential of convict to commit crimes in future;
Application
o if any purpose is being served by keeping convict in was launched by Ministry of Statistics and Programme
prison; and Implementation (MoSPI) that allows MPs to propose,
o socio-economic condition of convict's family. track, and oversee projects under MPLAD Scheme.
• State of Haryana vs. Rajkumar (2021): Court held that • About MPLADS
Section 433-A of CrPC cannot and does not in any way o Central Sector Scheme under MoSPI.
affect the constitutional power conferred on o MPLADS funds used for creation of durable
President/Governor under Articles 72/161 of community assets in areas of drinking water,
Constitution. primary education, etc.
o Atleast 15 percent of MPLADS entitlement
1.5.4. PANEL FOR EQUITABLE
allocated for areas inhabited by Scheduled Caste
DISTRIBUTION OF BENEFITS AMONGST population and 7.5 percent for areas inhabited by
SCS ST population.
• Centre forms committee for the equitable distribution o Funds are non-lapsable i.e. if money is not utilised,
of benefits amongst Scheduled Castes (SCs) across the it gets carried to next year.
country o District authority must inspect atleast 10% of all
• Committee under Cabinet Secretary will formulate a work under implementation every year.
methodology to ensure the fair distribution of benefits
1.5.6. SOCIAL AUDIT ADVISORY BODY
and initiatives among over 1,200 Scheduled Castes
(SAAB)
nationwide that have been crowded out by relatively
forward ones. • First meeting of the Social Audit Advisory Body (SAAB)
• Although the committee cannot delve into questions held
of reservation, its constitution holds significance owing • SAAB is a first of its kind advisory body in India.
to the demand for sub-categorisation of SCs. o It is set up in the National Institute of Social
○ A 7 judge Constitution bench of Supreme Court Defence (NISD).
(SC) is set to hear if states have power to ✓ NISD function under the Department of Social
subcategorise SCs. Justice & Empowerment (DoSJE), Ministry of
• Legal Precedents on Sub categorisation of SCs Social Justice and Empowerment.
○ In E.V. Chinnaiah v State of Andhra Pradesh the SC o It will guide the Ministry in institutionalizing social
held that the subcategorisation of SCs by State is audits for its various schemes.
violative of the right to equality as well as Article ✓ It will promote capacity building of the
341 of the Constitution. members of Social Justice Cell of the Social
✓ Article 341 gives the President the power to Audit Units.
create a list of SC communities for reservation. • About Social Audit:
○ In State of Punjab v. Davinder Singh (2020) SC held o SA is a process of examination and assessment of
that deciding on the quantum of benefits in the a programme/scheme.
lists of SCs/STs already notified would not amount ✓ It is conducted with the active involvement of
to “tinkering” with it and States could do it. people and comparing official records with
○ ‘Jarnail Singh v Lachhmi Narain Gupta 2018 the SC actual ground realities.
upheld the concept of “creamy layer” within SCs o Key guiding principles of SA: Access to
too (for reservation in promotion). information (Jaankari); Participation (Bhagidari);
○ Experts also belive that Article 16(4) of the Protection of citizens (Suraksha); etc.
Constitution already provided for States to create • Implementation of SA:
special laws for any backward classes it felt were o Union Government has introduced the provision of
under-represented. SA in many flagship programmes, like Mahatma
Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act
(MGNREGA), etc.

o DoSJE has established the National Resource Cell
for Social Audit (NRCSA) to ensure SA through
dedicated Social Audit Units at the state level.
o Meghalaya is the first state to operationalise a
social audit law.
• Significance: Promote transparency and
accountability, strengthen institutions at the
grassroots level etc.
• Challenges: Lack of awareness among stakeholders,
apathetic attitude of implementing agency etc.

Government Schemes
Quarterly
Revision
The Civil Services Examination is a rigorous test of knowledge, analytical skills, and the ability to stay updated with the
dynamic landscape of government policies and initiatives. In this challenging journey, a comprehensive and
structured approach is essential.
In this direction, embark on a transformative journey towards Civil Services Examination triumph with our exclusive
offering – the Government Schemes Quarterly Revision. Our meticulously curated document is designed to not only
enhance your learning process but also to optimize your time efficiency and retention capacity. Crafted with a
quarterly frequency, it acts as a beacon for aspirants seeking continuous improvement and stress-free preparation for
the final exam.
It transforms the process of learning from an isolated activity into a seamless, ongoing journey.
As a result, you're not just preparing for an exam; you're nurturing a deep understanding of
government schemes, policies, and their implications.
Key Features of the Government Scan the QR code,

to read the document
Schemes Quarterly Revision
1. Schemes in News: Stay Updated, Stay Ahead!

This section keeps you abreast of the latest developments, ensuring that your preparation is
not only comprehensive but also relevant to the recent quarter. This real-time integration of
information empowers you to confidently approach the exam, armed with the latest
knowledge.
2. Flagship Schemes in Focus: Your Path to Exam Success!

The Government of India's 'Flagship Schemes' are at the core of the Civil Services
Examination syllabus. Our document delves deep into these pivotal initiatives, providing you
with a nuanced understanding of the Government policies. By focusing on these flagship
schemes, we guide you towards mastering the key aspects that examiners seek in
successful candidates.
3. Test Your Learning: Reinforce, Assess, Retain!

Understanding the material is one thing; retaining key facts is another. To bridge this gap, we've
incorporated a 'Test Your Learning' section. Twenty carefully crafted Multiple Choice Questions
(MCQs) span the document, serving as checkpoints to reinforce your understanding. These
assessments not only help gauge your progress but also contribute to the effective retention of
crucial information.
The Government Schemes Quarterly Revision isn't just a document; it's a strategic companion in your exam preparation
journey. It transforms the way you approach learning, making it a continuous and efficient process. Say goodbye to
last-minute stress, embrace a proactive learning experience, and stride confidently towards success.
ONLINE | AHMEDABAD | BHOPAL | CHANDIGARH | DELHI | GUWAHATI | HYDERABAD | JAIPUR | JODHPUR | LUCKNOW | PRAYAGRAJ | PUNE | RANCHI | SIKAR
2. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
2.1. NON-ALIGNED MOVEMENT (NAM)
Why in the news?
Recently, 19th Summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) was
held in Kampala, Uganda.
More on News
• Theme of the summit: 'Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global
Affluence'
• Kampala declaration was adopted at the summit. Under it,
member countries,
o commit to strengthen the UN as the primary multilateral
organization
o agreed to make joint efforts to realize the 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development and the Addis Ababa Action
Agenda (AAAA)
✓ AAAA provides a global framework for financing
sustainable development by aligning all financing flows
and policies with economic, social and environmental
priorities.
o strongly condemned the illegal Israeli military aggression on
the Gaza Strip and called for an immediate and durable
humanitarian ceasefire.
• South Sudan became the new member(121st) of NAM.
About Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
• Genesis: Asia-Africa Conference held in Bandung, Indonesia in 1955.
• About: NAM was created during the independence struggles of Africa, Asia, Latin America and other regions of the
world at the height of the Cold War.
o A key role was played in this process by the then Heads of State of Egypt, Ghana, India, Indonesia and Yugoslavia,
who later became the founding fathers of the movement.
o The idea was to declare themselves as "nonaligned" from either of the two nascent military blocks (NATO and
the Warsaw Pact). Challenges faced by NAM
• Principles: "Ten Principles of Bandung" proclaimed • Change in world order from bipolar to a more complex and
during Bandung Conference were later adopted as the multipolar global system.
main goals/principles of NAM. (Refer Image) • Evolving alliances in the form of plurilateral partnerships
such as QUAD, I2U2, etc.
• NAM’s first conference - The Belgrade Conference in
• Many NAM members support ideas of socialism and state
1961.
control; and are dependent on the US.
• Membership: It has 121 members (including India) • Regional organizations such as ASEAN, SCO and BRICS
comprising 53 countries from Africa, 39 from Asia, 26 address specific regional challenges more effectively.
from Latin America and the Caribbean and 2 from • Emerging global issues such as climate change, cyber
Europe. security, and pandemics.
o 18 countries and 10 international organizations • Lack of leadership, internal disagreements, and a failure to
are observers at NAM. take clear positions on global issues.
• Other Key information: • Approach of multi-alignment presents a more pragmatic
o The policy of NAM was based on the 5 principles approach for contemporary geopolitical landscape.
of Panchsheel (principles for the conduct of international relations, signed between India and China in 1954).
o The NAM does not have a formal founding charter or treaty, nor does it have a permanent secretariat.

Current Relevance of NAM
• Reform and democratization of UNO: NAM advocates for expediting reform of the United Nations Security Council
to make it a more democratic, transparent and representative organ of the United Nations.
• Protecting Sovereignty: NAM countries support the principles of self-determination, respect for territorial integrity,
non-aggression, and safeguarding the independence and autonomy of member states.
• An integral part of foreign policy: Many developing countries like India still follow the NAM policy, as ‘independence
of action’ in foreign policy is enshrined in NAM.
• Unifying force: NAM is still applicable as a strict measure to prevent colonization and imperialism of small and
developing countries.
• Platform for South-South Cooperation: It provides a platform for developing countries to come together and discuss
common challenges and interests and exert influence in global affairs.
• Promoting Multilateralism and Global Peace: NAM upholds the principles of multilateralism, diplomacy, and peaceful
coexistence;
o NAM’s advocating for democratising UN and condemning Israel’s war is a testament to this.
• Rising importance of the concept of Active Non-Alignment (ANA): It embodies a pro-active attitude (instead of
passive neutrality) which is aimed at solving problems and generating the much-needed solutions for the troubled
world.
Non-alignment vs Neutrality
• Non-alignment is a political concept; neutrality is a legal concept.
• Non-alignment is not written into a state's constitution; neutrality can be a permanent feature of state policy.
• Non-alignment emphasizes an active role in world affairs, promotes friendship and cooperation with all countries, hence it is
a positive concept.
o Neutrality implies non-involvement, does not necessarily involve such positive relationships.
Conclusion
NAM needs to redefine itself and reinvent its objectives in the contemporary world system. NAM continues to be relevant
so long as there is exploitation, war, hunger, poverty and disease on the earth.
2.2. INFORMATION FUSION CENTRE FOR INDIAN OCEAN REGION (IFC -IOR)
Why in the News?
Recently, IFC-IOR played a crucial role in tackling the hijacking incident of the Malta-flagged vessel (Merchant Vessel) m.v.
Ruen.
To know more about Maritimes Trade Routes, kindly refer to article "4.3. Securing Maritime Trade Routes" of December
2023 edition of the Monthly Current Affairs Magazine.
About IFC-IOR
• Genesis: IFC-IOR was established in 2018, based at IMAC, and hosted by the Indian Navy.
o Soon after 26/11, India brought together countries of the Indian Ocean rim to form the Information Management
and Analysis Centre (IMAC) in 2014 in Gurugram.
o IMAC is jointly administered by the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.
• Aim: Strengthening maritime security in the region by building a common coherent maritime situation picture using
White Shipping Agreements.
o White Shipping Agreements deal with the sharing of information regarding commercial non-military merchant
vessels.
• Region covered: Indian Ocean Region and adjoining Seas.
o 67 linkages in 25 countries have been established to secure the global commons for a peaceful, stable and
prosperous region towards the well-being of all.
o Also, IFC-IOR hosts 12 International Liaison Officers (ILOs) from 12 partner nations viz. Australia, France, Italy,
Japan, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Seychelles, Singapore, Sri Lanka, the UK and the USA.
• Four sectors: Gulf of Guinea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and the Bay of Bengal & South East Asia.
• The Maritime Information Sharing Workshop (MISW): It is the flagship platform of IFC-IOR that conducts training
programs and is attended by delegates from a large number of countries.
How does IFC-IOR strengthen India’s foreign relations?

• Strategic Partnership: A small group of India's strategic partners such as the USA, France, etc. have positioned their
ILOs at the Gurgaon-based facility.
• Strengthening Neighbourhood relations: through the information-sharing framework. For example, Sri Lankan
coastal surveillance radars being integrated into the IFC-IOR.
• Regional Cooperation: The IFC-IOR promotes regional cooperation by facilitating information exchange related to
maritime security.
o India is developing 32 coastal surveillance radar stations in Sri Lanka, Mauritius, Seychelles and Maldives, all of
which will feed data to the IFC-IOR.
Implementation challenges faced by IFC-IOR
• Challenges in information sharing such as issues with standardization, duplicative efforts, and differing organizational
formats. This hinders the creation of a unified operational picture.
• Data Fusion and Analysis: Information sense-making poses a formidable challenge with member countries grappling
with overcoming extra-regional influences and addressing domestic political motivations.
• Trust and coordination Issues: Multilateral collaborations often encounter challenges arising from restricted
coordination scope or unwillingness to share data equitably.
Way forward
• Reciprocal Deployments: India should also deploy its ILOs in other nations’ centres.
• Enabling coordination and standardization: Efforts at the global level can be made to standardize information-sharing
patterns and create collaborative arrangements to reduce duplication of effort.
• Continued Expansion: It should expand its information-sharing with more countries in and beyond the Indian Ocean
Region, to give the initiative a more global character.

• Enhanced Maritime Surveillance: Augment MDA to cover grey shipping (military) and dark shipping (identity-hidden
vessels) at the surface level.
2.3. INDIA-NEPAL RELATIONS

Why in the news?
India and Nepal ink agreements during the 7th India-Nepal Joint Commission meeting held in Kathmandu.
More about the news
• The commission was established in 1987 and acts as a platform for both foreign ministers to review the bilateral
partnership.
• Key Agreements signed between India-Nepal include:
o Cooperation in Renewable Energy Development.
o Export 10,000 MW of electricity over the next decade.
o ISRO to launch Nepal’s Munal satellite on Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV).
India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship of 1950 forms the basis of relations between two countries, characterized by
an open border and deep-rooted people-to-people contacts of kinship and culture.
Areas of Cooperation between India and Nepal
Trade and • Trade and Investment: India has been a key development partner of Nepal. India is the largest trading
Development partner of Nepal and the highest source of FDI.
o Bilateral trade crossed US$ 7 billion in FY 2019-20 with a trade deficit in favour of India.
• Connectivity and Development Partnership: India actively supports Nepal’s infrastructure development,
including border infrastructure and cross-border rail links.
o Line of credit of $680 million by India to fund three major transmission corridors in Nepal- Bheri
Corridor, Nijgadh-Inaruwa Corridor and Gandak-Nepalgunj Corridor.
o Twin Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) in Rupaidiha in India and Nepalgunj in Nepal in 2023.
o Revised treaty of transit that would provide Nepal access to inland waterways of India.
Political and • Political cooperation: Regular high-level visits between two countries. Nepal is a priority partner of India
Security under its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy.
• Defence Cooperation:
o Recruitment of Nepalese soldiers in Gorkha regiments of the Indian Army.
o Surya Kiran- annual Joint military exercise conducted alternatively in the two countries.
• Multilateral Cooperation as part of BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, and Nepal), BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal
Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation), Non-Aligned Movement, and SAARC.
Nepal also joined India-led International Solar Alliance (ISA).
Energy • Power: India and Nepal have had a Power Exchange Agreement since 1971 for meeting the power
requirements in the border areas.
o In 2023, India agreed to the first trilateral power trade from Nepal to Bangladesh through India for
up to 40 megawatts of power.
• Hydropower cooperation: India and Nepal have had long-standing and fruitful hydropower cooperation
(refer below article for the same).
Other areas • Culture:
o Prevalence of deep people-to-people connect especially along the border region of both countries.
o The Swadesh Darshan scheme has Buddhist and Ramayana circuits which connect the religious cities of
Lumbini and Janakpur with that of India.
• Disaster Management:
o Following the 2015 earthquake in Nepal, New Delhi was the first responder as it carried out Operation
Maitri in the region.
o India supplied Covishield to Nepal under its Vaccine Maitri Initiative.
Major Issues in India-Nepal Relations
• Border Dispute: The ties between the two countries came under severe strain after Kathmandu published a new
political map in 2020 that showed three Indian territories - Limpiyadhura, Kalapani and Lipulekh - as part of Nepal.
• China’s influence: China has increased its economic engagement with Nepal through projects under its Belt and Road
Initiative (BRI).
o Also, there are concerns over Chinese interference in Nepal’s politics.
• Trust Gap: Due to India’s slow pace of project implementation and the alleged perception of India’s interference in
Nepal’s politics.
• Security issues: Porous border facilitates arms smuggling, terrorist activities and flow of counterfeit Indian currency,
all of which pose serious security risks to India.
• Gurkha issues: Relations came under strain when Nepal government blocked recruitment of Nepalese Gorkhas for
the Indian Army’s Gorkha Regiment claiming that the Agnipath Scheme violated the 1947 Tripartite Agreement signed
between the two countries and the UK.
• Treaty of Peace and Friendship, 1950: The Treaty of Peace and Friendship has been at the center of the troubled
history of Nepal-India relations which Nepal has declared “not in tune with time.”
Way Forward
• Bilateral mechanisms are needed to discuss contentious issues such as border disputes.
o Boundary dispute resolution between India and Bangladesh can serve as a model.
• Multilateral platforms such as BBIN, BIMSTEC, and SAARC can be utilised to serve common interests such as climate
change, disaster management, and regional security.
• Enhancement of air connectivity between the countries which is crucial for Nepal’s economy.
• Revisiting the Friendship treaty as recommended by the Eminent Persons Group set up jointly by the two countries.
• Hydropower Cooperation: Further explore and implement joint hydropower projects to harness Nepal's hydroelectric
potential for mutual benefit.
2.3.1. INDIA-NEPAL HYDROPOWER COOPERATION

Why in the news?
Nepal and India have inked an agreement setting the target to reach
10,000 megawatts of electricity export to India in the coming decade.
Indian Hydropower projects in Nepal
• West Seti and Seti River (SR6) projects (1,200 MW).
• Sapta Kosi high dam project on Kosi river.
• Mahakali Treaty (6,480 MW), the Upper Karnali Project (900 MW)
and the Arun - III projects (900 MW).
• Phukot Karnali Hydroelectric Project
o Through agreements between NHPC and VUCL (Vidyut
Utpadan Company Ltd), Nepal.
• Lower Arun Hydroelectric Project
o Through an agreement between SJVN (India) and the
Investment Board of Nepal.
Significance of cooperation for India Significance of cooperation for Nepal

• Bilateral cooperation: Hydro-power cooperation is a solid pillar • Technological Expertise: Collaboration with India
in India-Nepal relations. provides access to technological expertise and
• Energy demand: Nepal’s enormous water wealth and huge experience in the construction and management of
hydropower potential can cater to India’s increasing energy hydropower projects.
requirement. • Infrastructure Development: Investments from India
• China Factor: It will help India minimise the geopolitical can help build the necessary infrastructure in Nepal.
influence of China and firm India’s presence in Nepal. • Export Revenue: Exporting surplus electricity to India
can become a source of revenue for Nepal.

Major areas of concern in the development of hydropower
• Natural constraints: Fragile geological features and inadequate hydrological data, High sediment load in rivers in
Nepal, and the presence of glacial silt.
• Lack of Infrastructure: Lack of adequate access to transport facilities, and transmission grid for power evacuation
decreases the viability of the projects.
• Chinese concern: India is reluctant to purchase energy produced by hydropower projects which are run by Chinese
companies in Nepal.
• Lack of policy, and regulatory mechanism for the third party access to the grid.
• Water sharing issues: The issue of downstream water use and flood control etc. also emanates with bigger
multipurpose projects.
Road Ahead
• Resilient and effective infrastructure: Aiding Nepal in developing its transmission network within the country and
also the interconnections with India.
• Hydropower as a multiplier: Both sides should view hydropower projects in Nepal as an enabler of long-term
cooperation and regional stability.
• More Coverage: The projects can also be extended to other regional partners under the Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-
Nepal (BBIN) framework for cross-border energy cooperation.
2.4. INDIA-RUSSIA RELATIONS

Why in the news?
Recently, India and Russia signed three documents including a Protocol on consultations during the External Affairs
Minister’s official visit to Russia in December 2023.
More about the news
• The protocol will foster progress
in military and economic
cooperation, energy trade,
military-technical cooperation,
connectivity and people-to-
people exchanges.
o The duration of the protocol
is four years (2024-2028).
• Two other documents relating to
the Kudan Kulam Nuclear
Power Plants and an MoU on
cooperation in pharmaceuticals
and healthcare were also signed
during the visit.
The longstanding and time-tested
partnership between India and Russia is driven by shared interests of multilateralism, and global peace and prosperity.
Major Areas of India-Russia Cooperation and Its Significance
Defence and • Russia is a major supplier of defense items to Indian armed forces and both nations are in joint research,
Security development, and production of advanced defence items.
Cooperation ○ Bilateral projects include the supply of S-400, licensed production of T-90 tanks and Su-30 MKI,
production of Ak-203 rifles in India and BrahMos missiles among others.
• Cooperation is guided by the Agreement on the Programme for Military-Technical Cooperation for 2021-
2031.
• INDRA as a tri-service bilateral military exercise.
International • Russia supports India’s bid for a permanent seat in the UN Security Council (UNSC) and membership of
/Multilateral Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Cooperation • Also, both nations have an active engagement at:
○ International/Multilateral Organizations (e.g. BRICS and SCO).
○ Connectivity projects such as INSTC (International North-South Transport Corridor), etc.
• It helps to act decisively against international terrorism and cooperate on matters such as drug trafficking,
issues in Afghanistan, etc.
Trade and • Bilateral trade during FY 2021-22 amounted to $13.2 billion. ($30 billion set for 2025)
Economic • Bilateral investments between the two countries crossed the US$30 billion target set in 2018. ($50 billion
Cooperation target set for 2025)
Other Areas of • Nuclear Energy: The impeccable non-proliferation record of India has strengthened the partnership for
Cooperation peaceful use of nuclear energy.
o India and Russia have also signed a tripartite pact with Bangladesh for civil nuclear cooperation.
• Space Cooperation: Russia has supported India’s space programme since its early days. E.g.
o Russia is supporting India’s 1st manned space mission ‘Gaganyaan’.
• Science and Technology: India-Russia relationship extends to the field of basic sciences as well including
Russian-Indian Network (RIN) of Universities, Arctic and Antarctic research etc.
Challenges to India-Russia Relationship
• Defence Challenges: India needs to reduce its defence supplies from Russia as part of defence modernization, and
diversification and to avoid USA sanctions under CAATSA.
• Changing World Order: The USA-China rivalry is shifting the world order towards a bipolar world. It is against India-
Russia’s vision for a multipolar world.
About CAATSA
• Expanding Geo-strategic Interests: As India grows
• CAATSA Act, also known as Countering America’s Adversaries
beyond a regional power; its geo-strategic Through Sanctions Act, was enacted by the USA in 2017 to
interests are expanding beyond the Indian Ocean impose sanctions on three nations, i.e., Russia, Iran, and North
and South Asia. E.g. Korea.
○ The Indo-Pacific Region and the Eurasian • It allows the imposition of sanctions on countries dealing with
Region where India is partnering with these three nations.
countries having stressed relations with o E.g. India was threatened by CAATSA sanctions on the
Russia. purchase of the S-400 air defence system from Russia.
• Natural inclination towards the West: Many
experts believe that being the biggest democracy in the world, India shares a natural affinity towards the West (USA
and major European nations) due to their democratic set-up.
• Economic Challenges: High trade deficit between two nations. The regulatory impediments and the use of
phytosanitary standards and non-tariff barriers by Russia add to it. E.g.
○ Russia classifies tea as fruit and vegetable, leading to more phytosanitary restrictions.
○ The increased oil purchases in 2022 and the strengthening of the Russian Ruble against the Indian Rupee will
increase the deficit further.
Way Forward
• Modernization of Defence Supplies from Russia through joint development and co-production of advanced
weapons, promoting self-sufficiency and reduced dependence of India on others for modernization and diversity
under Make in India.
o Joint manufacturing of Spare parts and Reciprocal Logistics Support for increased defence cooperation can also
add to it.
• Protect Multilateralism/Multipolarity at UN and other forums such as BRICS, SCO etc. for more rules-based
international order.
• Diversification of Trade to overcome the issues of limited economic relationship with high trade deficit.
o Positive outcome on the recent list of over 500 products from Russia to India for exports can be a good starting
point.
• Increasing private sector participation in the economic relationship with removal of barriers to trade and investment.

• Operationalising Eastern Maritime Corridor: The proposed sea route that connects Chennai and Vladivostok (Russia’s
Far East) will improve logistical connectivity.
• Broaden collaboration on bilateral and regional issues covering new theatres of cooperation as part of shared
common responsibilities on global peace and stability.
2.5. INDIA-ITALY RELATIONS

Why in the news?
Recently, the Union Cabinet approved the Migration and Mobility Agreement between India and Italy.
More about the news
• Key provisions of the agreement:
o Indian students, after completing academic/vocational training in Italy, may be granted temporary residence for
up to 12 months.
o For workers, the Italian side has reserved a quota for non-seasonal and seasonal Indian workers for 2023, 2024,
and 2025 under the current Flows Decree.
o The agreement will remain in force for five years and will be automatically renewed for a successive period
unless it's terminated by either signatory.
India and Italy are
ancient civilizations
that have interacted
and traded with
each other for over
2000 years via the
spice route. Modern
political relations
between India and Italy were established in 1947.
Major areas of engagement between India and Italy
• Political relations: There has been a regular exchange of visits at political and official levels between both countries.
o For Instance, the Indian PM paid his first official visit to Italy in October 2021 to attend the G20 Summit. In March
2023, the Italian PM paid her first-ever state visit to India as the guest of honour of Raisina Dialogue.
• Economic Relations: Italy is India's 4th largest trading partner in the EU.
o The bilateral trade between the two countries was valued at US$ 14.25 billion in 2022-23, with the balance of
trade being in India’s favour.
• Defence Relations: India - Italy Military Cooperation Group (MCG) is a forum established to boost defence
cooperation.
o India and Italy signed a defence cooperation agreement (in 2023) to promote cooperation in varied defence
domains such as security and defence policy, and defence industrial cooperation among others.
• Strategic Relations: The relationship between India and Italy was elevated to Strategic Partnership in March 2023
during the visit of the Italian Prime Minister to India.
o A connection was identified between the Indo-Pacific, in which India plays a leading role, and the enlarged
Mediterranean where Italy sits at the centre of the Mediterranean Sea and acts as a natural bridge towards the
Indo-Pacific.
o Italy's decision to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative aligns with common goals in global connectivity
between Rome and New Delhi.
• Multilateral:
o Italy supported India’s entry into the Wassenaar Arrangement and Australia Group.
o The Blue-Raman project (with an Italian company at its core) will bring the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean
closer in exchange of digital data through a submarine cable system.

o Italy supported
India's major
initiatives
including the
International
Solar Alliance
(ISA), the India-
Middle East-
Europe
Economic
Corridor (IMEC),
and the Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA).
Issues in India-Italy Relations
• Low Trade: India and Italy, despite having historical trade ties dating back to the Roman era have relatively low
current volume of trade and investment.
• Trust deficit due to earlier issues:
o Italian Mariners’ case: The case sparked a conflict over legal jurisdiction and functional immunity, which ended
only in 2020 with the verdict of the Permanent Court of Arbitration.
o Agusta Westland helicopter scandal: The defence firm owned by Italian company Leonardo was accused of
bribery, resulting in India cancelling the procurement deal and banning Leonardo from the Indian defence market
in 2015.
• Unrealized Alliance: In 2021, the India-Italy-Japan trilateral partnership was launched yet it has not been
operationalised.
Way forward
• Economic Partnership: Strengthen trade ties to increase trade volume, explore new avenues for investment, and
promote economic cooperation.
• Strengthening EU-India partnership: If the India and EU sign a trade pact in the coming time, Italy and India can enjoy
major two-way trade benefits. It would also add fodder to the reinvigorated EU-India partnership.
• Shared global agenda: Italy and India can converge on multilateral issues, sharing a common imperative to shape
and endorse a new global agenda together.
• Culinary Exchanges: Celebrate and promote the culinary heritage of both countries through food festivals and
gastronomic events, with Italian pasta and pizza finding a place on Indian tables, and Indian spices adding a punch to
Italian dishes.
2.6. GENOCIDE CONVENTION

Why in news?
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) gave its interim ruling on South
Africa’s genocide case against Israel.
More on news
• South Africa vs. Israel case in ICJ: South Africa argued that the
manner in which Israel was conducting its military operations in
Gaza violated the Genocide Convention.
• Provisional Measures by ICJ: ICJ ruled that Israel must take all
measures to prevent genocidal acts in Gaza (Palestine). However, it
did not order ceasefire and did not find Israel guilty yet.

About Genocide convention
• Name: Officially known as Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, 1948.
o It codified the crime of genocide for the first time.
o It was also the first human rights treaty adopted by the UN General Assembly.
• Definition of Genocide: The crime of genocide is defined in Article II of the Genocide Convention.
o Genocide is defined as acts committed with the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnic, racial,
or religious group.
o According to the convention, genocide is a crime that can take place both in time of war as well as in time of
peace.
• Membership: The Genocide Convention has been ratified by 153 States. India has signed the treaty in 1949 and
ratified in 1959.
• Responsibility of State parties: State have obligation not to commit genocide and to take measures to prevent and
to punish the crime of genocide, including by enacting relevant legislation and punishing perpetrators.
o However, India did not enact any legislation on the subject.
• Jurisdiction: International Court of Justice (ICJ) hears cases related to the interpretation and application of the
convention.
• Other key information: The definition of the crime of genocide, as set out in the Convention, has been widely adopted
at both national and international levels, including in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC)
(Article 6).
About International Court of Justice (ICJ) About International Criminal Court (ICC)
• Genesis: It is a principal judicial organ of the United • Genesis: Established by the Rome Statute of the International
Nations (UN) established in 1945. Criminal Court in 1998.
• HQ: The Peace Palace in The Hague (Netherlands) • HQ: The Hague (Netherlands)
o It is the only principal organ of the UN which is • About: It is an international court to investigate and prosecute
not located in New York. individuals accused of serious international crimes: genocide,
• Role: To settle legal disputes as per International law crimes against humanity, war crimes, and aggression.
and to provide advisory opinions. • Members: 123 countries are party to Rome Statute. India is not a
o Judgment is binding on the parties to a case and member.
without appeal (subject to interpretation or • Jurisdiction:
revision). o It has jurisdiction only over crimes committed after July 1,
• Composition: 15 judges (Currently India serves one 2002, when the Rome Statute entered into force.
Judge), who are elected for nine years by the UN o Only States are eligible to appear before the Court in
General Assembly and the Security Council. contentious cases. It has no jurisdiction over applications from
• Official languages: English and French. individuals, non-governmental organizations, corporations or
• Comparison with ICC: ICJ hears disputes between private entity.
nations over matters of law, unlike the International • Other Key information:
Criminal Court (ICC) which holds individuals o Its judgments are final without appeal and binding upon the
criminally responsible for offences and crimes parties concerned.
against humanity. o The Court does not have its own police force and relies on
State cooperation, to the arrest and surrender of suspects.
2.7. THE GLOBAL COOPERATION BAROMETER 2024 REPORT

Why in the News?
World Economic Forum (WEF) in collaboration with McKinsey & Company released the report.
About Global Cooperation Barometer
• It is a tool for leaders to better understand the contours of cooperation broadly along five dimensions using 42
indicators of global connection (see the table)
o These five pillars were chosen because of their impact on global development and their explicit dependence on
cooperative efforts among nations and economies.

• It measures cooperation from 2012 through 2022 and could help
business and government stakeholders to:
o Face global challenges: Such as rising global temperatures,
growing forcible displacement (42 million in 2012 to 82 million in
2020), threats of a pandemic and the risks associated with new,
unregulated technologies.
o Unlock new opportunities: For example, Generative AI has the
potential to contribute as much as $2.6 trillion to $4.4 trillion to
the global economy.
The 5 pillars of Global Cooperation Barometer

Pillars About Observation
Trade and Promote global • Grew through the pandemic disruption, but slowed in 2023.
capital development • Geopolitical tensions and new restrictions make the future path unclear.
and resilience
Innovation Accelerate • Flows of data, IP and international students powered an increase in cooperation until 2020.
and innovation and o Pandemic drove widespread remote working for white-collar workers that supported
technology beneficial continued growth in cross-border data flows and relatively robust IT services growth.
technological • However, new questions have arisen about how to work together to harness opportunities.
progress o The race to dominate the frontiers of technology development has led to import and
export bans on 5G network technologies, limitations on semiconductors and bans on
some social media platforms.
o The share of cross-border patents fell sharply to the lowest point in the past decade.
Climate Support the • Level of cooperation has been rising steadily, due in large measure to an increase in
and resolution of commitments, but emissions also continue to rise.
natural climate and o Net-zero commitments in the private sector have also proliferated due to groups such
capital natural capital as Glasgow Financial Alliance for Net Zero (GFANZ).
challenges o Emissions intensity (emissions relative to GDP) improved over the decade, reflecting
advances in electrification, decreases in heavy industry and increasing presence of
renewable energy sources.
Health and Enable global • Rose swiftly in response to the pandemic, but appears to be settling back to historical
wellness population to patterns.
lead longer and o Maternal mortality rates increased for the first time in three decades.
better lives o WHO’s Pandemic Preparedness Treaty (to be considered in 2024) is a prime example of
international cooperation in progress.
Peace and Prevent and • Cooperation in peace and security has declined since 2016 and plummeted recently.
security resolve conflicts o This trend is driven by a rise in forcibly displaced people, a surge in cyberattacks, and a
recent rise in conflict and conflict-associated deaths.
Report suggested following measures to foster global cooperation:
• Practice coopetition: Stakeholders should focus on identifying avenues toward advancing shared interest that can
exist despite competition – a practice known in the private sector as “coopetition”.
• Raise the capabilities of management: An understanding of both global connections and geopolitical realities – and
implications for the business – should be a core competency for every multinational corporation C-suite executive
(company's top management positions).
• Think diversifying, not decoupling: Greater diversification not only strengthens resilience, but also promote a more
inclusive trading system and economy. This could further enable broader participation by various countries.
• Promote innovation: Commit to greater cross-border collaboration through
o foundational R&D,

o international student exchanges,
o cross-border patent applications,
o simplified approaches to global regulation of frontier
technologies such as Generative AI.
• Bolstering cooperation to achieve interdependent climate
objectives: Spending must focus on creating incentives to deploy
lower-cost solutions (e.g. solar/wind power) and reducing the costs
of expensive solutions (e.g. passenger battery EVs; onshore wind
power).
• Intensifying pandemic era cooperation: Global health norms and
infrastructure established during and before the pandemic can be
preserved to improve health outcomes, address future pandemics,
aging populations, and chronic conditions.
• Support for vulnerable populations: By managing the integration
of refugee populations from conflict zones, identifying
mechanisms to support impacted individuals in conflict zones.
• Cyber collaboration: Integrating public and private sector actors to
boost sharing of data flows on cybersecurity threats.
2.8. NEWS IN SHORTS

2.8.1. ANGOLA WITHDRAWS FROM OPEC • How does OPEC regulate the Crude oil Prices?
o Oil prices are mainly determined by demand and
• Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries supply.
(OPEC) is an intergovernmental Organization. o It mainly uses a spot or future sale mechanism.
o Established at the Baghdad Conference in 1960, by ✓ Oil spot prices represent the cost of buying or
Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, and Venezuela. selling oil immediately.
✓ Its other members are Algeria, Equatorial ✓ Oil futures are contracts in which one agrees
Guinea, Gabon, Libya, Nigeria, the Republic of to exchange an amount of oil at a set price on
the Congo, and the United Arab Emirates. a set date.
o Key Objective: Co-ordinate and unify petroleum o OPEC uses Brent Crude as a benchmark for quality.
policies among Member Countries, to secure fair ✓ WTI (West Texas Intermediate) is another
and stable prices for petroleum producers. major benchmark.
✓ And, ensure efficient, economic, and regular
supply of petroleum to consuming nations. 2.8.2. UNITED NATIONS STATISTICAL
o HQ: Vienna, Austria. COMMISSION (UNSC)
• Significance of OPEC: It possess more than 80% of the
world’s total crude oil (mixture of hydrocarbons that • India started a four-year term as a member of the
exists in liquid phase) reserves. UNSC.
o Also, OPEC+ represents around 40% of world oil ○ UNSC, established in 1946 is the highest body of
production. global statistical system.
✓ OPEC+ is a coalition of OPEC and 10 other • Members: Consists of 24 member countries of UN
major oil-exporting nations, including Russia. elected by ECOSOC.

✓ INSTC is a land- and sea-based multi-modal
transport network that will connect the Indian
Ocean and the Persian Gulf with the Caspian
Sea.
✓ India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor
spans India to Europe via West Asia.
✓ Chabahar port is vital for India for transporting
cargo to Europe.
○ Energy security:
✓ More than 80% of India's oil and over 50% of
gas are imported.
✓ Iraq and Saudi Arabia serve as major oil
suppliers, while Qatar is a significant supplier
of LNG.
2.8.3. HAGUE APOSTILLE CONVENTION,

1961
• Allahabad High Court mandates that India, a member
of the Apostille Convention, must accept foreign
apostille-authenticated documents.
• Hague Apostille Convention, 1961
○ It simplified the global circulation of public
documents.
✓ These public documents include certificates of
birth, marriage, and death, and educational
documents among others.
○ Contracting parties issue an Apostille certificate to
authenticate a document's origin, allowing it to be
presented abroad to another Contracting Party.
○ Non-member countries require extra certification
from the State of origin for document acceptance.
2.8.4. IRAN'S RETALIATION AND INDIA’S 2.8.5. UAE-INDIA CEPA COUNCIL (UICC)
INTEREST IN WEST ASIA
• UAE-India Comprehensive Economic Partnership
• Iran's retaliatory strikes in Syria, Iraq, and Pakistan Agreement (CEPA) Council (UICC) was launched at
were prompted by a terrorist attack in its Kerman India- United Arab Emirates (UAE) Business Summit.
province (refer to the map). • UICC will encourage close partnerships and tangible
• India's Interests in West Asia cooperation across all levels of UAE and Indian
○ Neighbourhood first policy: West Asia is a part of business communities.
India’s extended neighbourhood and Look West o UICC emphasises on start-ups, women
Policy, and maintaining peace and stability in the entrepreneurs, Micro, Small, and Medium-Sized
region aligns with India's strategic interests. Enterprises (MSMEs), and services sectors.
○ Diaspora: Indians constitute more than 30% of • India- UAE CEPA came into force in 2022. It is the first
total expatriate workers in the in the Gulf full free trade Agreement to be signed by India with any
Cooperation Council (GCC). country in past decade.
○ Remittance: 18% of India's total remittances come o It covers Trade in Goods and services, Rules of
only from the UAE, 5.1% from Saudi Arabia, while Origin, customs cooperation, Dispute Settlement
Kuwait, Oman and Qatar also have significant etc.
contributions. o Bilateral trade has increased by approximately
○ Connectivity and Infrastructure: 15% since CEPA came into force.
• Significance of CEPA 2.8.6. HENLEY PASSPORT INDEX 2024
o Enhanced access for cross-border trade in (HPI)
services and provide thrust to pharmaceutical
sector. • HPI was released by Henley & Partners, a global leader
o Raise bilateral merchandise trade to $100 billion in residence and citizenship planning.
in five years from about $43 billion in FY21. • HPI ranks different passports according to number of
o Special safeguard measures provide protection destinations their holders can visit without a prior
against imports surge from UAE due to tariff visa.
concessions. o It covers 227 destinations and 199 passports.
o UAE can act as gateway to West Asian countries o Rankings are based on data provided by
and Africa for Indian exporters. International Air Transport Association.
• Key findings
India- UAE Relations
• UAE is India’s third largest trading partner (2022-23) after
o India stands at 80th rank in list of most powerful
China and US and second-largest export destination. passports. Its passport has visa-free access to 62
• Both countries have maritime cooperation to maintain nations.
peace and security in the region through regular military o France, Germany, Italy and Spain, Japan and
exercises like Desert Eagle. Singapore are sharing number one spot.

3. ECONOMY
3.1. NATIONAL MULTIDIMENSIONAL POVERTY INDEX
Why in the news?
NITI Aayog released a discussion paper titled ‘Multidimensional
Poverty in India since 2005-06’.
About Multidimensional poverty
• It refers to a measure that considers various factors or
dimensions beyond income to assess and understand poverty.
• Multidimensional poverty encompasses the various
deprivations experienced by poor people in their daily lives –
such as poor health, lack of education, inadequate living
standards, poor quality of work, the threat of violence, among
others.
o Ending poverty in all its forms everywhere, the aim of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, entails viewing
poverty not solely in relation to income and consumption, but as relating to other multiple capabilities.
Measurement of multidimensional poverty:
• The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) assesses poverty at the individual level. Alkire-Foster Method is most
often used to compute MPIs.
• Global MPI (GMPI): It is a globally recognized comprehensive measure that captures poverty in multiple dimensions
beyond monetary aspects.
o GMPI Report was first released by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI) and the United
Nations Development Programme (UNDP) since 2010.
o It covers 100 developing countries and captures the acute deprivations in health, education, and living standards
that a person faces simultaneously.
o If a person is deprived in a 1/3rd or more of ten (weighted) indicators, the GMPI identifies them as ‘MPI poor.
• National MPI (NMPI): It retains the 10 original indicators of the global MPI model and has added two indicators, viz.,
Maternal Health and Bank Account, in line with India’s national priorities.
o MPI value is arrived at by multiplying the headcount ratio (H) and the intensity of poverty (A), reflecting both the
share of people in poverty and the degree to which they are deprived.
✓ Headcount ratio (H): It indicates proportion of multidimensionally poor in the population.
✓ Intensity of poverty (A): It indicates average proportion of deprivations which is experienced by
multidimensionally poor individuals.
o Under the government’s Global Indices for Reforms and Growth (GIRG) initiative, NITI Aayog is the nodal agency
for MPI.
✓ GIRG monitors India’s performance on various important social and economic parameters.
o NITI Aayog uses National Family Health Survey (NFHS) to measure the NMPI.
✓ The latest NMPI, ‘National Multidimensional poverty: A Progress Review -2023’ is based on the data of NFHS 4
and 5.
Key finding of the recent discussion paper
• Decline in MPI: Headcount Ratio decreased from 29.17% in 2013-14 to 11.28% in 2022-23.
o 24.82 crore Indians escaped multidimensional poverty in last 9 years.
o Intensity of Poverty is also declining which shows that extent of deprivation among the deprived population is
falling.
o The pace of decline in poverty headcount ratio was much faster between 2015-16 to 2019-21 compared to
2005-06 to 2015-16.

• Poverty declining across indicators: All 12 indicators of MPI have recorded significant improvement.
o Cooking Fuel and Housing have the highest deprivation level of deprivation.
o Child & Adolescent Mortality, Electricity, and Bank Account have the lowest deprivation levels.
• Regional decline in MPI: Poorer states record faster decline in poverty indicating reduction in disparities.
o Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Rajasthan saw fastest reduction in the proportion of
multidimensional poor.
• Attainment of SDG: India on track to achieve SDG Target 1.2 (reducing multi-dimensional poverty by at least half)
much ahead of 2030.
• Factors responsible for decline in MPI: Various government programs including PM Ujjwala Yojana, Saubhagya, and
transformative campaigns
like Swachh Bharat Mission
and Jal Jeevan Mission have
collectively elevated living
conditions and overall well-
being of people.
Significance of NMPI
• Provides for more nuanced
perspective as it delves into
deprivations up to the
district level unlike
conventional monetary
poverty assessments that is
based on consumption
surveys.
• Facilitates targeted
interventions to address
acute poverty and uphold the
principle of inclusivity.
• Determination of overlapping
deprivations that directly
influence individuals’ quality
of life and overall well-being.
• Helps in more inclusive policy
formulation.
Issues associated with NMPI
• Less sensitive: To be
considered
multidimensionally
poor, households must be
deprived in at least 1/3rd of
indicators. This requirement
makes the MPI less sensitive
to minor inaccuracies.
• Impact of COVID-19: Some
economists have argued that
loss of livelihood due to
reverse migration and deaths
due to disrupted healthcare in
2020-21 are not covered in the Index.
• Stagnant wages: Real wages were stagnant for six years which had serious implications for consumption demands
and this cannot be consistent with a decline in poverty levels.
• Issues in reliability of Data:
Way forward
• Include new dimensions in calculating MPI: Like learning outcomes, social discrimination, unorganized workers,
environmental degradation etc.
• New measurement: National MPI should incorporate 75th round of National Sample Survey (NSS) data along with
NFHS.
• Effective monitoring: Comprehensive measures should be taken to monitor the progress across indicators on real
time basis.
o Also, social audit of the programmes, awareness generation about development programme, etc. is critical for
eliminating multidimensional poverty.
3.2. UNIFIED PAYMENTS INTERFACE (UPI)

Why in the news?
Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced new rules and regulations to enhance the scope of Unified
Payments Interface (UPI) payments.
About National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
More on news • NPCI is an umbrella organization for operating retail
• About new rules payments and settlement systems in India.
o Enhancing UPI transaction limit: • It is an initiative of RBI and Indian Banks’ Association (IBA)
under provisions of Payment and Settlement Systems Act,
✓ The transaction limit for UPI payments made
2007.
to hospitals and educational institutions has
• It has been incorporated as a “Not for Profit” Company
been hiked to Rs 5 lakh from Rs 1 lakh earlier. under provisions Section 8 of Companies Act 2013.
✓ Transaction limit for UPI is capped at Rs. 1 • It has launched payment products such as RuPay card, IMPS,
lakh, except in a few categories like Capital UPI, BHIM, BHIM Aadhaar, Bharat BillPay etc.
Markets (Broking, Mutual Funds, etc.),
Collections (Credit card payments, Loan re-payments, EMI), Insurance etc. where transaction limit is Rs. 2
lakhs.
o Increased e-Mandates for Recurring Online Transactions: Limits for execution of e-mandates without Additional
Factor of Authentication (AFA) increased from Rs 15,000 to Rs 1 lakh for credit card bill payments, mutual fund
subscriptions and insurance premiums.
About Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and its Features
• UPI powers multiple bank accounts into a single mobile application (of any participating bank), merging several
banking features e.g., transfer of funds, etc.
o It was developed by NPCI in 2016 and built over Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) infrastructure.
o It is the most successful real-time payment system globally, providing
simplicity, safety, and security in person-to-person (P2P) and person-
to-merchant (P2M) transactions in India.
New Features of UPI
• Credit Line on UPI: It enables pre-sanctioned credit lines from banks via
UPI. Earlier, only the deposited amount could be transacted through the
UPI System.
• UPI Lite X: Users can both send and receive money offline through any
compatible device that supports Near Field Communication (NFC).
• UPI Tap & Pay: It allows NFC-enabled QR codes at merchants to complete payments, with a single tap without
entering the PIN.

• Conversational Payments:
o Hello! UPI: Users can simply give voice commands to transfer funds and input a UPI PIN to complete the
transaction.
o BillPay Connect: Customers can fetch and pay their bills by sending a simple ‘Hi’ message or by giving a missed
call.
Initiatives to promote UPI
• Other Proposed Changes for UPI Payments
• UPI for secondary market: Introduced by NPCI to
o Deactivate UPI IDs: National Payments Corporation of enhance the ease of equity trading in country.
India (NPCI) has asked banks and mobile payment • UPI Chalega Campaign: Launched by NPCI to promote
applications. UPI as an easy, safe, and instant mode of payment. It
like Google Pay etc. to deactivate UPI IDs and numbers also educates users about various features such as
of accounts that have been inactive for one year. UPI LITE that enables swift low value transaction.
o The four-hour time limit for users initiating first • MoU between Google India Digital Services and NPCI
payments over Rs 2,000 to new recipients to make UPI International Payments: To broaden use of UPI
transactions safe. payments, enabling travellers to make transactions
✓ This has added a layer of control and security as it abroad and ease remittances process between
allows users to reverse or modify transactions countries.
• India’s UPI in overseas markets: Various countries like
within that window.
Oman, UAE, France, Nepal, Bhutan etc. are using UPI
o Introduction of UPI ATMs, allowing cash withdrawal by
system for payment.
scanning a QR code. • UPI 123PAY: It is an instant payment system for
Challenges associated with UPI feature phone users who can use UPI payment service
in a safe and secure manner.
• Regulation: Expanding UPI to accommodate a global user
base will require adhering to data protection, financial laws and regulations of different countries posing regulatory
and compliance challenges.
o Also, significant scalability in terms of software, network and partner banks is required.
• Dominance of Foreign-owned UPI Apps: Parliamentary panel’s report, ‘Digital Payment and Online Security Measures
for Data Protection’ recently highlights that foreign entities like PhonePe and Google Pay dominate Indian fintech
sector.
o Market share of PhonePe is 46.91% and Google Pay is 36.39% in terms of the transaction volume in October-
November 2023, whereas for BHIM UPI it is 0.22%.
• Security and Fraud: Cybercriminals may exploit vulnerabilities in the system or use social engineering techniques to
gain access to sensitive information leading to financial losses.
• Exchange Rates: Managing
currency conversion and
exchange rates while
facilitating payments and
loading money to the wallet
poses a significant challenge
for cross-border transactions.
• Lack of awareness: UPI
remains a barrier to its
widespread adoption
especially among individuals
with a lack of familiarity with
digital payments, leading to
financial fraud.
• Privacy and Surveillance: The
UPI system ensures end-to-
end cryptography, but the
regulator i.e. NPCI have
access to details of each

transaction Aadhaar number, device fingerprint, IP address, bank account numbers etc. This potentially compromises
privacy rights.
Way ahead
• Regulation: A collaborative approach among nations, partnership among financial institutions, service providers
etc. is required to develop a uniform compliance and regulatory framework among the partner nations.
• Infrastructure: Banks and Payment service providers need to expand their infrastructure in terms of software,
network etc. to process higher transactions per second and accommodate a global user base.
• Fraud Protection: A collaborative effort between UPI service providers, banks, and users is required to identify and
respond to UPI frauds.
• Transaction limits: Striking a balance between security and transaction flexibility is crucial to drive wider adoption of
UPI across various sectors.
• Education and awareness: Training programs and easy-to-understand guides should be designed to educate the
masses about the UPI ecosystem and mitigate associated concerns.
3.3. NON- PERFORMING ASSETS (NPA)

Why in the news? Steps taken to reduce NPA
RBI’s annual Trend and Progress of Banking in India • Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and
report for the financial year 2022-23, showed that the Enforcement of Security Interest Act, 2002 (SARFAESI Act): It
gross non-performing assets (GNPA) ratio fell to 3.9 allows secured creditors to take possession of collateral, against
which a loan had been provided, upon a default in repayment.
per cent in 2022-23.
• Debt Recovery Tribunals: Established under the Recovery of
About Non- Performing Assets (NPA) Debts and Bankruptcy Act, 1993 provide for the establishment of
Tribunals for expeditious adjudication and recovery of debts.
• A NPA refers to a classification for loans or • Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016: For reorganisation
advances of a bank that are in default or arrears. and insolvency resolution of corporate persons, partnership firms
o A loan is in arrears when principal or interest and individuals in a time-bound manner i.e. within 180 days or
payments are late or missed and becomes an the extended period of 90 days.
NPA when the interest and/ or instalment of • National Asset Reconstruction Company (NARCL): It aims to
principal remain overdue for more than 90 reduce NPAs of banks, improving financial system stability and
days. efficiency.
o GNPAs are the sum of all loan assets that are o It is incorporated under the Companies Act 2013 with PSBs
classified as NPAs. holding a majority stake.
• Indradhanush plan for revamping PSBs, envisaging infusion of
Reasons for Non-Performing Assets capital in PSBs.
• Defective Lending Process: Improper selection and lack of
periodic review of the credit profile of borrowers ensuring their
repayment capabilities can create NPAs in PSBs.
o Due to a lack of cooperation with financial institutions,
borrowers default in more than one bank.
• Willful Defaults: Rising cases of borrower who have access to
funds to repay their loans but still choose not to, and default on
the repayment of the loan.
Industrial sickness: Ineffective management, lack of adequate
resources and technological changes, and changing government
policies produce industrial sickness. Therefore, banks financing
these industries ultimately end up with a low recovery rate of
loans reducing their profit and liquidity.
• Regulatory: Flouting of RBI guidelines and non-compliance with
regulatory directions regarding banking operations by Public
Sector Banks (PSBs), can lead to frauds and rise in NPAs.

• Frauds by banker and borrower: The size of frauds in the public sector banking system has been increasing, though
still small relative to the overall volume of NPAs.
o In the first half of the 2023-24 financial year (April- September), there is an increase in reporting of fraud cases
in the banking sector to 14,483 from 5,396 cases in the same period a year ago (2022-23).
Impact associated with Non- Performing Assets
• Economic growth: Rising NPAs prevent banks from lending for other productive activities leading to a
slowdown in economic activity. It can further lead to a decrease in employment opportunities and inflation.
• Higher interest rates: Increasing NPAs can lead to an increase in interest rates, to cover the losses, which can lead to
an increase in borrowing costs for individuals and companies.
• Public trust: Rising NPAs led to reputational, operational and business risk for banks and undermined customers’
trust with financial stability implications.
• Pendency: The courts are facing the problem of increasing pendency of cases, as the current set up of courts made
to deal with the problem of debt recovery is not efficient and does not have enough manpower available to deal
with the high influx of debt recovery cases.
• Capital adequacy issues: NPAs erode the capital base of banks. When NPAs increase, banks may struggle to meet
capital adequacy norms.
Other Highlights of Report on Trend and Progress of Banking in India 2022-23
• The consolidated balance sheet of SCBs grew by 12.2% in 2022-23, the highest in nine years.
• In 2022-23, the combined balance sheets of Urban Co-operative Banks (UCBs) expanded by 2.3% while that of Non-Banking
Financial Companies (NBFCs) expanded by 14.8%.
• The rate of growth of the unsecured retail segment has outpaced total bank credit growth.
o NBFCs’ double-digit credit growth was driven by the growth of unsecured loans which grew more than twice as fast as
secured loans.
• During 2022-23, the total amount of fraud reported by banks declined to a six-year low, while the average amount involved
in fraud was the lowest in a decade.
• The capital-to-risk-weighted assets ratio (CRAR) of SCBs reached 16.8% at the end of September 2023.
Concerns raised by the eport
• Long tenure of directors, absence of comprehensive risk management policy and deficient compliance culture in UCBs.
• Concentration risks of corporate credit in NBFCs and significant exposure of banks to NBFCs.
• The top 50 exposures of Government-owned NBFCs constituted about 40 per cent of total corporate credit within the NBFC
sector.
• Also, all these 50 exposures were to the power sector, which faces multiple inherent issues.
Way forward
• Government support: Adopting a comprehensive 4R strategy consisting of the Recognition of NPAs
transparently, Resolution and recovery value from stressed accounts, Recapitalising Public Sector Banks (PSBs), and
Reforms in PSBs and the financial ecosystem can reduce NPAs and strengthen PSBs.
• Strengthen credit monitoring: Develop an early warning mechanism and comprehensive MIS (Management
Information System) to enable timely detection of problem accounts, flag early signs of delinquencies and facilitate
timely information to management on these aspects.
• Approval process: Banks should have an established credit approval process, for new credits as well as re-financing
of existing credits.
o A comprehensive assessment and periodic review of the borrower’s financial health and repayment capacity
should be carried out.
• Institutional mechanism: To cater to large industrial and infrastructure projects and the need for long-term funding,
new Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) can be developed.
• Risk Management: The banks can mitigate their potential concentration risk to a specific borrower group, sector,
geography, maturity duration etc. which was not initially envisaged at the time of loan origination.
o Encourage banks to diversify their loan portfolios to reduce concentration risk. Overreliance on a specific sector
or type of borrower can lead to higher NPAs during economic downturns in that sector.

3.4. G-SECURITIES
Why in the news?
Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has permitted the lending and
borrowing of G-Securities (G-Secs) by issuing directions called RBI
(Government Securities Lending) Directions, 2023.
More on news
• Government Securities Lending (GSL) refers to lending of eligible
G-Secs, for a fee, by the owner (lender) to a borrower, on collateral
of other G-Secs, for a specified period.
o Under GSL transaction, G-Secs issued by the Central
government excluding Treasury Bills (T-Bills) shall be eligible for
lending/borrowing.
o Also, G-sec issued by the Central Government including T-Bills
and State Governments bonds shall be eligible for placing as
collateral under GSL transaction.
• Other directions include
o Eligible Participants in GSL transactions as lenders of
securities: Entities eligible to undertake Repo transactions and
those approved by RBI.
o Tenure of GSL transaction: Minimum one day and maximum
period prescribed to cover short sales.
• Permitting lending and borrowing of G-Secs will-
o Add depth and liquidity to the G-sec market, aiding efficient
price discovery.
o Facilitate wider participation in the securities lending market
by providing investors an avenue to deploy idle securities and enhance portfolio returns.
o Enhance operational efficiency of government bonds by insurers.
About G-Securities (G-Secs)
• G-Sec is a tradeable instrument issued by Central or State Governments.
It acknowledges the government’s debt obligation.
o Such securities are short-term terms usually called Treasury bills (T-
Bills) with maturities of less than one year (91 days, 182 days, or 364
days) or long-term called Government bonds or dated securities
with maturity of one year or more (between 5 years and 40 years).
o In India, Central Government issues both T bills and bonds or dated
securities while State Governments issue only bonds or dated securities, which are called State Development
Loans (SDLs).
o G-Secs carry practically no risk of default and, hence, are called risk-free gilt-edged instruments.
• Other G-Sec includes Cash Management Bills (CMBs), introduced in 2010, a new short-term instrument to meet
temporary cash flow mismatches of the Government.
o CMBs have the generic character of T-bills but are issued for maturities of less than 91 days.
• G-Secs are issued through auctions conducted by RBI. Auctions are conducted on the electronic platform called the
E-Kuber, the Core Banking Solution (CBS) platform of RBI.
Initiatives taken for Government -Securities (G-Secs)
• G-sec Acquisition Programme (G-SAP): Under it, RBI conducts open market operations to purchase G-Secs from the market.
o It helps the central bank in controlling excessive volatility faced by market participants in G-Secs market.
• RBI Retail Direct Scheme: Under this, retail investors will have the facility to open and maintain ‘Retail Direct Gilt Account’
(RDG Account) with RBI to access its G-Sec platform.
• Draft RBI (Bond Forwards) Directions, 2023: It aims to introduce bond forwards in G-Secs, a move that will enable market
participants, particularly long-term investors, to manage cash flows and interest rate risk.
o Bond forwards mean derivative contracts in which one counterparty (buyer) agrees to buy a specific debt instrument
from another counterparty (seller) on a specified future date and at a price determined at the time of the contract.
• Scheme for Non-competitive Bidding Facility in Auctions of G-Secs: Introduced by RBI to encourage retail participation in
primary market for G-Secs and SDLs.
What are the concerns associated with government securities?
• Captive investor base: A diversified investor base for fixed-income securities is important for ensuring high liquidity
and stable demand in the market. However, currently, a large portion of G-Secs are held by captive investors such
as banks, and insurance companies. What are the techniques for mitigating G-Secs risks?
• Operational challenges: RBI’s Negotiated Dealing • Holding securities till maturity could be a strategy
System Order Matching (NDS-OM) platform was not able through which one could avoid market risk.
to boost retail participation as it resulted in an artificial • Market risk and Reinvestment risk could also be
segmentation of investors in different securities. managed through Asset Liability Management (ALM) by
• Exchange rate management: Inflows of foreign funds via matching the cash flows with liabilities.
government bonds can lead to rupee appreciation. • Rebalancing the portfolio wherein the securities are sold
• Liquidity: The G-sec market lacks liquidity due to the once they become short term and new securities of
longer tenor are bought could be followed to manage
non-availability of buyers for the security in the
the portfolio risk.
secondary market. It can lead to distressed sales (selling • Advanced risk management techniques involve the use
at a lower price than its holding cost) causing loss to of derivatives like Interest Rate Swaps (IRS) through
sellers. which the nature of cash flows could be altered.
• Major risks associated with holding G-Secs:
o Market risk: Market risk arises out of adverse movement of prices of the securities due to changes in interest
rates. This could lead to loss if securities are sold at adverse prices.
o Reinvestment risk: Cash flows on a G-Sec include a coupon every half year and repayment of principal at maturity,
which needs to be reinvested. However, it poses a risk for investors as they may not be able to reinvest due to a
decrease in prevailing interest rates.
o Interest rate risk: Dated securities have a long-term maturity of 5-40 years, and thus are exposed to interest
rate risk, reducing their relevance over longer tenure.
Way forward
• Unified market: Unifying the G-Sec and corporate bond markets would enable the seamless transmission of pricing
information from G-Secs to corporate bonds. Having the same regulatory regime for trade, clearance, and settlement
of corporate bonds and G-Secs will result in economies of scale and scope, leading to greater competition, efficiency,
and liquidity in markets.
• Trading: To facilitate greater investor participation and achieve ease of doing business, G-Secs should be issued and
traded through the stock exchange mechanism.
• Investment: The government should issue G-Secs in demat so that demat holders (currently, more than 120 million
and expanding) can easily invest in G-Secs. G-Sec-based exchange-traded funds should also be developed to increase
retail participation.
• Transparent fiscal framework: Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) legislation should highlight a
fiscal path to investors highlighting the steps to reducing government debt in a transparent and accountable manner
to boost investors’ confidence.
• Tax Incentives: Providing tax incentives in the form of no tax to be paid on interest income generated from the G-Sec
can boost the demand for the G-sec in the market.
Related News
State Government Guarantees (SGGs)
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) released the Report of the Working Group on State Government Guarantees (SGGs).
• In 2022, 32nd Conference of State Finance Secretaries discussed problem of inadequate monitoring and reporting of
guarantees issued by State Governments.
o As a response, a Working Group was formed to address this issue.
• About SGGs
o A guarantee is a form of contingent liability designed to shield investors or lenders from the potential default risk of a
borrower.
o State governments often authorize and issue guarantees on behalf of state enterprises, cooperative institutions, urban
local bodies, and other state-owned entities.
✓ These guarantees are typically extended to lenders, commonly commercial banks or other financial institutions.
• Concerns with SGGs
o Fiscal risks: Guarantees can pose fiscal risks, straining state finances with unanticipated cash outflows and increased
debt.
✓ Prudential level of debt-GSDP for a state is 20%, but non-disclosure of a high guarantee level understates a state’s
debt-GSDP.
o Moral hazards: Guarantees could create moral hazard, leading to the guaranteed entity to be sub-optimal in performing
its obligation.
✓ Similarly, investors and lenders may be less motivated to thoroughly assess project compared to traditional non-
recourse project financing.
Recommendations by RBI Report
• Clearly define purpose for which government guarantees are issued.
• Charge a minimum fee for guarantees extended.
• Fix a ceiling for incremental guarantees issued during a year at 5% of Revenue Receipts or 0.5% of GSDP (whichever is less).
• States should continue to build up the Guarantee Redemption Fund or GRF (established to cushion liabilities due to invocation
of guarantees).
o Participation from the states in GRF is voluntary, 19 states have already established GRF.
3.5. PETROLEUM EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION

Why in the News?
Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) has started first crude oil
production from its Cluster-2 deep-sea project in the Krishna-Godavari
(KG) basin in the Bay of Bengal.
Petroleum basin in India
• A petroleum basin includes a diverse collection of rocks and
sediments, but most importantly it contains source rocks.
o Source rocks are specific shale formations in a basin where oil
and gas are born.
• There are 26 sedimentary basins in India, covering a total area of 3.4 million square kilometer.
• Of the total sedimentary area,
o 49% of total area is located on land,
o 12% in shallow water (up to 400 meter water depth) and
o 39% in the deepwater area (farther up to Exclusive Economic Zone or EEZ).
✓ The jurisdiction of the EEZ extends 200 nautical miles from the coastline, thereby conferring on the coastal
state the right to manage, explore, exploit, and conserve all resources within its purview, be they living or
non-living.
• These basins are also divided into three categories based on maturity of hydrocarbon resources as under:
o Category-I: Commercially established & producing basins. Total 7 basins (refer to the map)
o Category-II: Prospectivity identified. Total 5 basins (Kutch, Mahanadi- North East Coast (NEC) region & Andaman-
Nicobar, Vindhyan, Saurashtra)
o Category-III: Prospective. Total 14 basins (Himalayan Foreland, Ganga, Kerala-Konkan-Lakshadweep, Bengal,
Karewa, Spiti-Zanskar, Satpura-South RewaDamodar, Narmada, DecanSyneclise, Bhima-Kaladgi,Cuddapah,
Pranhita-Godavari, Bastar, Chhattisgarh)
• Methods of Extracting Crude Oil:
o Offshore drilling: In marine environments, offshore basins like Arabian Sea or Bay of Bengal.
o Onshore drilling: On land, covering various sedimentary basins across the country.
• ONGC is India’s largest oil
and gas producer
contributing 72% of the
country’s hydrocarbon
production.
Steps taken for enhancing
Petroleum E&P
• Directorate General of
Hydrocarbons (DGH) was
formed to promote sound
management of the oil and
natural gas resources.
• Approval processes have
been streamlined by
digitization and
standardization of
contractual submissions
on the e-platform.
• National Data Repository
(NDR), launched for public
in 2017, serves as a
government data bank
promoting E&P activities.
• Upgrade of the NDR to a
cloud-based, state-of-the-
art facility with virtual data
rooms is in progress for
investors for 24x7 access
to E&P data.
• As per India Hydrocarbon
Vision 2025, lays the broad
contours/targets for the
development of
Hydrocarbons.
• 100% FDI through
automatic route for
exploration activities of oil
and natural gas fields,
infrastructure related to marketing of petroleum products
and natural gas, etc.
• National Seismic Programme (NSP) aims to undertake a
fresh appraisal in all sedimentary basins across India.
Challenges in Petroleum E&P
• Capital: Oil production units are capital intensive in
nature. It requires expensive equipment and highly
skilled labours.
• Technological: Extracting petroleum from challenging
geological formations requires advanced drilling
technologies.
• Accidents: E&P activities involve the risk of spills, leaks, and other accidents. For e.g., recent event of Ennore oil spill
in Tamil Nadu.
• Environmental: Loss of habitats and wildlife due to drilling, pipelines, and other infrastructure.
• Community displacement: Displacement of local communities,
leading to social and cultural challenges.
Way forward
• Investment: Explore opportunities for joint E&P of oil and gas
assets with Global companies.
o Also, stable tax regime and tax break would help attracting
more private investment.
• Industry-academia collaboration: It provides access to the latest
research and technologies, bridges the divide between theory and
practice.
o For e.g., MoU signed between DGH and Wadia Institute of
Himalayan Geology for application of AI/ML in Amguri and
adjoining areas of Upper Assam.
• Sustainable E&P: For example, Oil India Limited has taken steps
for sustainable oil production by partnering with the Assam State
Biodiversity Board and the IUCN.
o They signed an agreement to study the impact of oil
production on Dibru Saikhowa National Park (of Assam) and
develop an oil production plan in response to the findings.
• Control Oil spills: by using latest technologies like oil-zappers.
Provide comprehensive training for industry personnel on spill
prevention and response protocols.
• Mitigating impact on community: Project planning should involves
carrying out an impact assessment to understand the potential
effects on local communities, including people’s health, livelihood
etc.
About HELP
• HELP introduced in 2016, replaced New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP).
• Provides for a Single license for E&P for all types of hydrocarbons viz. conventional oil and gas, CBM, shale oil, gas hydrates,
etc.
• Shifted from the previous profit-sharing model to a Revenue Sharing Contract model (i.e., revenue is shared between the
government and the contractor).
o In profit-sharing model, the profit was shared after cost recovery.
• OALP was introduced enables investors to select blocks of their choice by evaluating data in the NDR and expressing interest.
• Reduced royalty rates, marketing and pricing freedom, round-the-year bidding, etc.
Unconventional Petroleum Resources

• Oil and natural gas trapped in less permeable rocks is referred to as an unconventional resource because it cannot be
explored, developed and produced by conventional processes.
o “Conventional resources” is a term referring to oil and natural gas trapped in rock that is porous and permeable.
✓ The natural pressure of the underground rock formation allows oil and natural gas to flow freely up a petroleum well.
• These include deposits like:
o Coalbed Methane (CBM) or Coal Seam Gas (CSG): Refers to methane rich gas naturally in coal seams typically comprising
80% to 90% methane with lower proportions of ethane, propane, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
o Shale gas/oil: It is a form of natural gas/oil that remain unexpelled, unmigrated, and entrapped within the pore space
and fractures of a source rock (commonly, shale).
✓ The shale gas/oil is produced commercially when sufficient fracture conductivity is induced by hydraulic fracturing.
o Gas hydrates: These are naturally occurring ice-like solids (clathrates) in which water molecules trap gas molecules in
deep-sea sediments and in and below the permafrost soils of the polar regions.
3.6. FOOD PROCESSING INDUSTRY
Why in the news?
India’s processed food exports have grown by 150% in the last
nine years making agricultural exports touch a value of about $53
billion.
What is Food processing?
• Food processing is the set of methods and techniques which
are used to transform raw ingredients into finished and semi-
finished products.
• According to Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI),
if any raw product of agriculture, animal husbandry or fisheries is transformed in such a way that
o its original physical properties undergo a change,
o the transformed product is edible and
o has commercial value, then it comes within the domain of Food processing Industry (FPI) .
Benefits of food processing exports
• Reduction in waste as processing helps in extension of shelf life.
• Nutritional benefits include addition of particular vitamins through fortification methods tailored to specific dietary
needs.
o It can address the malnutrition, under nutrition among children as well as overall population.
• Enhanced Employment: by generation of additional job in various segments of logistics, trading etc.
• Rural development: Increased export and demand of processed food worldwide can benefit farmers by improving
their incomes leading to rural development, poverty reduction etc.
• Adoption of new and emerging technologies for processing improves efficiency in this sunrise sector
• Exports can lead to Foreign exchange earnings improving India's trade balance and economic growth.
Challenges persisting in Food Processing Industry
• Lack of cutting-edge infrastructure. Many businesses operate in the small and medium enterprises sector, which
often lacks the resources to upgrade to the latest technology.
• Logistical challenges such as inadequate storage and transport facility, inefficient global supply chains also leads to
wastage and inadequate processing of food materials. Institutional Measures
• Lack of access to credit and financing creates entry • Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export
barriers make it difficult for small businesses to enter the Development Authority (APEDA) has been established as
market and compete with larger and better established per APEDA Act, 1985 for development of export by
companies. providing financial assistance, fixing of standards,
• Inadequate quality control & testing infrastructure improving packaging etc
leads to issues such as pest infestations, presence of • The Marine Products Export Development Authority
(MPEDA) is a statutory body entrusted with the primary
chemical residues.
task of promotion of export of marine products.
• Global Standards are often not met due to which our • Indian Institute of Packaging (IIP) develops standards for
products are banned by the importing country affecting export packaging fruits & vegetables.
India’s export leading to loss of income for exporters, • The Export Inspection Council (EIC) is the official export
farmers and processors. certification body having global acceptance which
ensures quality and safety of products exported.
Way forward
• Agriculture Export Policy (2018) has been introduced
• Changing the trend from sustenance to market- with the objectives of doubling India’s share in world agri
oriented by increasing focus on large-scale food exports by integrating with global value chains.
processing rather than exporting only raw materials.
• Promoting better Interaction between farmers and processors and the market demand like buying directly from
farmer producer organisations (FPOs).
• Strengthening institutional framework to develop manpower and bringing improvement in R&D capabilities.
• Enhance export competitiveness by developing Efficient Quality control, and Food safety Assurance of processed
food products
o facilities to move up the value chain and meet international standards like sanitary and phyto sanitary measures.
o Evolving the supply chain model by adoption of cooperative model, diversification of agricultural exports, timely
delivery of goods etc.
Initiatives taken by Government
• Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY): It is an Central sector scheme for development of Mega Food Parks,
Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure etc
• Pradhan Mantri Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises Scheme (PMFME Scheme) aims at upgradation of micro
Food processing units, providing seed capital to SHGs, branding and marketing support
o One District One Product (ODOP) component of PMFME aims to create specific product clusters.
• Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Food Processing Industry (PLISFPI) is a central sector scheme to support creation of
global food manufacturing champions and support Indian brands in the international markets.
• Liberalised FDI regime: 100% FDI through automatic route for FPIs and 100% FDI through government-approval route for retail
trading, including through e-commerce.
• Krishi Udan and Krishi Rail schemes have been launched to ease out freight rates enabling smooth movement of perishables.
3.7. PRADHAN MANTRI GRAM SADAK YOJANA

Why in the news?
A parliamentary panel has asked the Union Rural Development Ministry to tighten the supervision of road construction
in rural areas under the PMGSY, indicating the use of poor-quality materials.
About Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
• It started as a 100 % centrally sponsored scheme launched in the year 2000 to provide all-weather rural road
connectivity to eligible rural habitations.
• Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development
• Eligibility: Population size >500 in plain areas and >250 in hills and other difficult areas.
• Funding Pattern:
The funding pattern was revised to a 60:40 ratio between Centre and State in 2015-16, and a 90:10 ratio for
Northeastern States and Himalayan States.
• The scheme has four verticals, (i) PMGSY I, (ii) PMGSY II, (iii) Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism
Areas (RCPLWEA), and (iv) PMGSY III.
o PMGSY I (2000): It was launched to provide rural connectivity, by way of a single all-weather road, to the eligible
habitations as per Census 2001.
o PMGSY-II (2013): It was launched with a target to upgrade 50,000 Km in various States and Union Territories.
o Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas (RCPLWEA) (2016): It was launched for
construction and upgradation of strategically important roads; mainly to improve the road connectivity in left
wing extremism affected districts and adjoining areas.
o PMGSY-III (2019): It was launched for consolidation of 1,25,000 Km to connect major rural links connecting
habitations, inter-alia, to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals.
Benefits of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
• Boosts rural incomes with new and alternative non-farm livelihood opportunities with increased mobility.
• Easier and increased access to markets: Ease of access to newer markets has helped boost family incomes.
• Rural roads lead to path of prosperity: Villagers are travelling to other towns and big cities for newer livelihood
opportunities.
• Better access to health and education: rural roads have enabled school buses to reach far-flung villages, making it
easier for children to get to school.
• Village roads bring women freedom and choice: More women and girls in villages are going to schools, accessing
various facilities and becoming financially independent.
Challenges in achieving desired outcomes of PMGSY
Challenges in PMGSY Committee Recommendations
• Non-timely fund release by states: 41% of the total roads are • Consistent flow of funds should be ensured with proper
in a poor state due to non-provisioning of adequate funds by supervision of states and coordination with ministry of
the State. finance for the timely release of funds.
• Poor Quality of Roads: Due to non-existence or non- • Stricter compliance Quality Control Labs on the ground
functioning of the mandatory provision of quality control labs should be ensured for thorough evaluation of sites and
at the ground level. maintenance of road quality.
• Issues with Tendering and Contractors: Contractors use a • Measures for proper bidding process should be taken
practice called "low-tendering," submitting very low bids to win to prevent low-tendering along with implementing a
the projects which compromises the quality of materials. rigorous monitoring system.
• Post-Construction Maintenance: As per scheme, a road should • Post construction road maintenance for 10 years as per
have a design life of 10 years. However, contractors do not provisions of scheme should be ensured. The
adhere to this which results in degraded road quality. contractors not abiding by this should be blacklisted.
• Use of old census: Habitations under PMGSY are based on the • Inclusion of 2011 census figures: A new vertical should
2001 Census which has led to many eligible habitations being be introduced for the inclusion of habitations as per the
left out. 2011 census.
3.8. NEWS IN SHORTS

3.8.1. INDIA BECOMES FOURTH-LARGEST • Issues with Indian Stock markets: High volatility,
STOCK MARKET limited issuer and investor base adversely affects
liquidity, sub-optimal corporate debt market due
• India overtakes Hong Kong to become the world’s dominance of government bonds, etc.
fourth-largest stock market. Regulation of Stock markets in India
• According to data compiled by Bloomberg, the • Securities and Exchange of Board of India (SEBI):
combined value of shares listed on Indian exchanges Regulates different market intermediaries like stock
reached USD 4.33 trillion, versus USD 4.29 trillion for brokers, stock exchanges, etc.
Hong Kong, on Jan 22, 2024. o SEBI is a statutory body under SEBI Act, 1992.
o Top three stock markets are the US, China, and • Reserve Bank of India (RBI): Regulates Government
Japan. Securities market, etc.
• Stock market is where investors, both individual and 3.8.2. DIRECT LISTING OF PUBLIC INDIAN
institutional, trade a wide range of securities such as COMPANIES
stocks, bonds, Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs),
derivatives, etc. • Centre allowed direct listing of public Indian
o Two types of stock market: companies on international exchanges of GIFT
✓ Primary Market: New shares, bonds, etc., are International Financial Services Centre (GIFT-IFSC).
offered for the first time. This was enabled by:
✓ Secondary Market: Existing securities ○ Companies (Listing of Equity Shares in Permissible
(equities, bonds, etc.) are traded. e.g., Stock Jurisdictions) Rules, 2024 and
exchanges like Bombay Stock Exchange. ○ Amendment to Foreign Exchange Management
• Significance of stock market (Non-debt Instruments) Rules, 2019.
o For Businesses: Access to capital, risk ✓ Direct Listing Scheme of FEMA rules 2019
diversification, business expansion, etc. provides framework for issuing and listing of
o For Investors: Better returns compared to equity shares of public Indian companies on
traditional savings instruments, tax benefits, international exchanges.
capital growth, etc. ▪ Prior to this, Indian companies were not
o For Society: Social Impact bonds, Sustainable allowed to issue or list equity shares
investment though Green bonds, etc. abroad.
o For Economy: Mobilization of idle savings, boost to • Expected benefits: Give Indian companies access to
entrepreneurship through venture capital funds, cheaper foreign capital, boost foreign investment, etc.
etc.

3.8.3. AADHAAR-BASED PAY More than 1100 government schemes and programs run by
Center and States have been notified to use Aadhaar. Some
MANDATORY FOR MGNREGA of them are
• Recently, Aadhaar-based payment system (ABPS) • Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
• Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojna
became mandatory for MGNREGS workers.
• Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
• Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment
• Atal Pension Yojana
Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) gives a legal
guarantee of a hundred days of wage employment in 3.8.4. 16TH FINANCE COMMISSION
a year to adult members of a rural household willing for
unskilled manual work. • It was constituted with the approval of the President of
• MGNREGS has utilized APBS since 2017 and is made India in pursuance of Article 280(1) of the
mandatory now (from 1st January). Constitution.
o Government may consider exemption on a case- • The government appointed Arvind Panagariya (former
to-case basis if any Gram Panchayat has either a vice-chairman of NITI Aayog) as the chairman and
technical problem or an Aadhaar-related problem. members would be notified separately.
• ABPS working • The Commission’s work involves redressing the vertical
○ ABPS uses the worker’s unique 12-digit Aadhaar imbalances between the taxation powers and
number as their financial address. expenditure responsibilities of the center and the
○ To be paid under ABPS, States respectively and equalization of all public
✓ A worker’s Aadhaar details must be seeded to services across the States.
her job card; • The commission shall make recommendations on the
✓ Her Aadhaar details must be seeded to her following
bank account; ○ Distribution between the Union and States of the
✓ Her Aadhaar must be mapped with the net proceeds of taxes and allocation between the
National Payments Corporation of India States of such proceeds.
(NCPI) database. ○ Principles for governing the grants-in-aid and
• Significance of the move revenues of the state under Article 275 of the
○ Curbing corruption by weeding out fake Constitution.
beneficiaries. ○ Measures needed to augment the Consolidated
○ Will ensure speedy payments and reduce Fund of a State to supplement the resources of the
rejection (due to change of bank account of Panchayats and Municipalities based on state
beneficiaries). finance commission recommendation.
○ The commission may review present arrangements
for financing Disaster Management initiatives,
concerning the funds constituted under Disaster
Management Act, 2005.
• The 16th FC recommendations, upon acceptance by
the government, would cover the period of five years
commencing April 1, 2026.

○ Phasing out of exemptions and incentives for the
corporate sector.
○ Vivad se Vishwas Scheme for reducing litigations
in the direct tax payments.
○ Finance Act of 2020 allows individual taxpayers to
pay income tax at lower slab rates by forgoing
specified exemptions.
○ Other reforms: Aadhaar – PAN linkage, digital
technology (Faceless Assessment, Faceless Appeal)
to improve tax administration, Taxpayers Charter,
etc.
About direct tax
• In India, the primary direct taxes at the central level are
personal and corporate income taxes, governed by the
Income Tax Act of 1961.
• However, India's tax-to-GDP ratio is comparatively low,
ranking much lower than other countries.
○ For instance, OECD countries typically have an
average tax-to-GDP ratio exceeding 30%.
• The dominance of the informal sector, tax evasion,
exemptions and incentives, etc. are key reasons for low
ration in India.
3.8.5. DIRECT TAX TO GDP RATIO ROSE 3.8.6. REVERSE FLIP

TO 15-YEAR HIGH
• Many Startups are reverse flipping i.e. moving their
• Direct Tax to GDP ratio rose to 15-year high in FY23 overseas holding entities to India.
Central Board of Direct Taxes data shows. • ‘Reverse flipping’: It is a term used to describe the
• Key highlight: trend of overseas start-ups shifting their domicile to
○ Direct Tax to GDP ratio reached a 15-year high at India and listing on Indian stock exchanges.
6.11% of GDP in FY23. • Reasons for Reverse Flipping:
✓ Direct Tax to GDP ratio gives an estimate of a ○ Capitalise on India’s large and growing economy
country’s ability to mobilise resources to fuel ○ Access to deeper pools of venture capital
its development. • The Economic Survey 2022-23 recognized the concept
○ Tax Buoyancy, however, declined from 2.52 to of reverse flipping and proposed ways to accelerate
1.18 compared to the previous year. the process, such as simplifying corporate laws and
✓ Tax buoyancy indicates the measure of capital movements, simplification of taxation, etc.
efficiency or responsiveness in tax collection
in response to the growth in GDP. 3.8.7. MOMENTUM INVESTING
▪ Tax revenues are considered as buoyant • Many academic studies have shown that momentum
when they increase more than investing can generate high returns.
proportionately in response to the • About Momentum Investing
increase in GDP even when the rates of o It refers to a style of investing wherein investors
taxes remain unchanged. purchase assets such as stocks or bonds that are
✓ The recent decline indicates that the current consistently rising in price, while selling assets
economic growth did not lead to as much of whose prices are falling.
an increase in direct tax collections for FY 23 o Momentum investor hope that the upward price
as seen in FY22. momentum of these assets would continue, thus
○ Gross direct tax collections increased by over allowing them to sell these assets at higher prices
173% to Rs 19.72 trillion in FY23 from Rs 7.22 in the future to make profits.
trillion in FY14. o The buy high, sell higher philosophy of momentum
• Initiatives prompting rise in Direct Tax to GDP investing is in stark contrast to the traditional
○ Corporate tax rate has gradually decreased since approach of buy low, sell high.
the Finance Act of 2016.

3.8.8. MODEL BASED LENDING • Key Recommendation:
○ Discourage export: Iron ore is a non-renewable
• RBI governor has cautioned banks and NBFC against national resource and crucial to various industries.
model-based algorithmic lending. ✓ Prioritise the export of higher value-added
o It is a remote and automated lending process. products such as finished steel to promote
o It uses digital technologies for customer Atmanirbhar Bharat.
acquisition, credit assessment, loan approval, ○ Upgrade quality: Use cutting-edge technologies
disbursement, recovery, and associated customer to upgrade low-grade iron ore to higher grades.
service. ○ Sustainable mining: Promote clean technology
• Benefits: financial inclusion, quick processing, adoption and transformation of production
increased collaboration with fintechs, facilitation of processes into sustainable mineral production
innovative products. modes.
• Concerns: accuracy and information asymmetries,
algorithmic biases, exclusion of various sections
3.8.9. MODERN MONETARY THEORY
(MMT)
• MMT argues that countries that issue their own
currencies can never “run out of money” the way
people or businesses can.
○ As long as there is unemployment, it calls for
government spending without being concerned
about fiscal deficit.
○ At full employment, MMT prescribes taxes and
government borrowing to counter inflation.
• The monetization of fiscal deficit aligns with this
theory.
○ It involves central bank printing currency for
emergency spending by government.
○ India ceased this practice in 1996 via an MOU
between the RBI and the government.
3.8.10. INDIAN IRON ORE MARKET
• Competition Commission of India (CCI) published a
study examining competition in the iron ore market.
• Iron ore is predominantly composed of iron oxides
called magnetite and hematite and yields metallic iron
(Fe) when heated with a reductant.
• CCI study shows India's self-sufficiency in iron ore
production, contributing 7% globally and ranking as the
4th largest producer.
• Concerns raised by CCI
3.8.11. AUDIT QUALITY DEFICIENCIES
○ Recent years have seen increase in iron ore exports
(iron ore has low value as compared to finished • National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) found
products like Steel). deficiencies in audit quality of big four audit firms.
○ Allocation of captive mines (owned by companies • NFRA as a regulator oversees accounting standards and
for self -use) to some players creates entry auditing profession in India.
barriers. o NFRA is a statutory body constituted in 2018
✓ Mines and Minerals (Development and under Section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013.
Regulation) Amendment Act, 2021 allows the o Act mandates NFRA to monitor compliance with
captive mines to sell up to 50% of surplus iron Auditing Standards and to oversee the quality of
ore in the open market. service of the professions associated.
○ Differential pricing of iron ore for different end- o Under this mandate, NFRA initiated audit quality
users is likely to create competition concerns. inspections in big four audit firms.
✓ Namely Deloitte, Haskins & Sells LLP; BSR & Co o Lack of accident response infrastructure.
LLP; SRBC & Co LLP; and Price Waterhouse
Chartered Accountants LLP.
• Key Issues Highlighted
o Independence Issues: Firms are not in full
compliance with the independence related
requirements of the Code of Ethics.
o Quality of Audit Documentation: Deficiencies in
documentation can lead to challenges in justifying
audit conclusions and procedures.
o Inadequate Risk Assessment: Concerns raised
about effectiveness of internal risk management
processes within organization.
o Regulatory Compliance Issues: Violations of
Companies Act 2013 seen in policies of SRBC & Co.
✓ It did not fully recognize the relationships
between SRBC and its network members.
3.8.12. BHARATMALA PHASE 1

EXTENDED
• Bharatmala Phase 1 deadline extended by Six years to
2027-28.
• Bharatmala Pariyojana, launched under Ministry of
Road Transport & Highways, is an umbrella program
for highways sector.
o Phase I was approved in 2017 to focus on bridging
critical infrastructure gaps through development
of 34,800 km of National Highways by 2022.
o Till November-2023, 42% of project has been
completed.
• Objectives of Bharatmala Pariyojana
o Optimize efficiency of freight and passenger
movement across country by bridging critical
infrastructure gaps.
o Improving connectivity in North East. 3.8.13. 2023 LIST OF D-SIBS
o Improving efficiency of existing corridors through
development of Multimodal Logistics Park. • Reserve Bank of India (RBI) releases 2023 list of
• Features of Bharatmala Pariyojana Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs).
o Satellite mapping of corridors to identify • D-SIBs are systemically important due to their size,
upgradation requirement. cross-jurisdictional activities, complexity and lack of
o Technology-based automated traffic surveys of substitute and interconnection.
over more than 1,500 points. o It also means that the bank is too big to fail.
o Origin-Destination study of freight movement ✓ If DSBs fail, there would be significant
across 600 districts. disruption to the essential services to the
• What are the gaps in highway infrastructure? banking system and the overall economy.
o Inadequacy in optimization of National Highway • Declaration/Regulation of D-SIBs:
network & Road network due to resource o It is based on the D-SIBs Framework of RBI which
constraints and absence of a national plan. was released in 2014.
o Lack of integrated planning in connectivity of ✓ This Framework is based on Basel Committee
major corridors and ports with hinterland. on Banking Supervision’s (BCBS’s) framework
o Presence of Congestion Points, with multiple for dealing with D-SIBs.
points of local congestion present even on already
developed corridors.
o Banks are placed in 5 buckets.
✓ As per latest list, India’s D-SIB’s are State Bank
of India (bucket 4) and HDFC Bank (bucket 2),
ICICI Bank (bucket 1).
o D-SIBs have to maintain Additional Common
Equity Tier 1 (CET1) requirement as a percentage
of Risk Weighted Assets (RWAs).
o Bucket 1 banks have to maintain lowest CET1 i.e.
0.20% and Bucket 5 have to maintain highest CET
i.e. 1%.
• In case a foreign bank having branch presence in India
is a Global Systemically Important Bank (G-SIB), it has
to maintain additional CET1 capital surcharge.
o Financial Stability Board (FSB) releases the list of
G-SIBs.
3.8.14. PAYMENTS INFRASTRUCTURE

DEVELOPMENT FUND (PIDF) SCHEME
• RBI extends Payments Infrastructure Development
Fund (PIDF) Scheme till 2025.
• About PIDF Scheme
o It was first operationalized in 2021 for three years.
o Aims to encourage deployment of payment
acceptance infrastructure such as physical Point of
Sale (PoS) terminals, Quick Response (QR) codes, in
tier-3 to tier-6 centres, North eastern states and
UTs of J & K and Ladakh.
✓ It was extended to street vendors covered
under PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi
(PM SVANidhi Scheme) in Tier-1 and Tier-2 3.8.15. NATIONAL TRANSIT PASS SYSTEM
centres.
(NTPS)
o PIDF is governed through an Advisory Council and
managed and administered by RBI. • Union Minister launches National Transit Pass System
o Types of Acceptance Devices Covered: Physical (NTPS)-‘One Nation-One Pass’.
PoS, mPoS (mobile PoS), GPRS (General Packet • It is under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Radio Service), PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Climate Change to facilitate the seamless transit of
Network) etc. timber, bamboo, and other Minor Forest Produce
• To widen the scope of beneficiaries and acceptance (MFP) across the country.
infrastructure, following enhancements are being ○ Currently, transit permits are issued for the
made under the scheme: transport of timber and forest produce based on
o Beneficiaries of PM Vishwakarma Scheme in all state-specific transit rules.
centres included as merchants under PIDF Scheme. • NTPS enables managing records for both inter-state
o Sound Box devices and Aadhaar-enabled and intra-state transportation of timber, bamboo, and
biometric devices are eligible for claim of subsidy MFP from private lands/government/private depots.
under Scheme. ○ States have exempted some species grown on
o Subsidy for special focus areas has been made private land from the purview of transit permits,
uniform at 90% of the cost of device, irrespective to transport these species No Objection Certificate
of the type of device. is provided.

• Benefits of NTPS: 3.8.16. ATAL SETU NHAVA SHEVA SEA
○ Will contribute to ease of doing business by LINK
streamlining the issuance of transit permits by
providing a unified, online mode across the • Inaugurated by PM, it is the country’s longest Sea
country. bridge, also referred to as Mumbai Trans Harbour Link.
○ Provide a significant impetus to the agroforestry • It is a 21.8 Kms long bridge of which 16.5 km is built
sector. completely over the Sea.
○ Saving transportation costs and time, and • It connects Sewri in Mumbai with Nhava Sheva in
Seamless movement across state borders. Raigad district, thereby easing travel between
• Under the Forest Rights Act (FRA) of 2006, MFP Mumbai-Navi Mumbai.
includes all non-timber forest produce of plant origin
including bamboo, brushwood, stumps, etc. 3.8.17. STANDARDISATION IN INDIA
• The forest dwellers are legally empowered with the • India should be a Pioneer of Standards says Union
ownership and governance of the MFP through the Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public
Panchayat Extension to Scheduled Areas Act, 1996, Distribution.
and FRA, 2006. • Speaking at 77th Foundation day of Bureau of Indian
Standards (BIS), Minister also highlighted recent
progress related to standards in India stating:
o Mandatory jewellery hallmarking covers 343
districts and 90% jewellery that people are buying
is hallmarked.
o About 156 Quality Control Orders (QCOs) of 672
products are being processed.
• Standards Development is the process of creating and
establishing agreed-upon guidelines or criteria to
ensure quality and operability of various products or
services.
• Significance of standardization:
o Supports economic growth and enhances
competitiveness.
o Fosters technological development and supports
innovation.
o Addresses health, safety and environmental
concerns.
• Standards Development process in India is largely
government led with BIS acting as National Standard
Body.
o Established under BIS Act 2016.
o Involved in harmonious development of activities
of standardization, marking and quality
certification.
o Administered by Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
Food and Public Distribution with its Minister
being President of BIS.

• Initiatives for EFFs in India:
• Other initiatives for standards development: o PM PRANAM (Programme for Restoration,
o Standards National Action Plan (SNAP) Awareness, Nourishment, and Amelioration of
o Indian National Strategy for Standardization (INSS) Mother Earth) Scheme.
o Quality Council of India (QCI) and its Scheme for o Development of Nano Urea and Neem Coated
Accreditation of Standards Developing Urea.
Organizations (SDOs) ✓ Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samruddhi Kendras
o One Nation One Standard Scheme of BIS. (PMKSK) will facilitate these fertilizers.
o GOBARdhan (Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro
Resources Dhan), helps in preparing organic
manure.
3.8.18. UREA GOLD

• Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) 3.8.19. PROTECTION OF PLANT
approved launch of Urea Gold.
VARIETIES AND FARMERS’ RIGHTS ACT
• Urea gold will support the other initiative of
government in the sphere of Environmentally Friendly • Delhi High Court permits PepsiCo to claim patent for
Fertilizers (EFFs). potato variety grown for its potato chips.
• Urea gold is a Sulphur-Coated Urea (SCU). • Judgement came on PepsiCo’s appeal under Protection
o It is a non-organic slow-release fertilizer and is of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Act,
generally prepared by coating preheated urea 2001 against order of PPVFR Authority.
granules with molten sulphur. o PPVFR Authority had revoked PepsiCo’s
o Sulphur coating ensures a more gradual release of registration with respect to plant variety - FL 2027.
nitrogen. o FL 2027 is chipping potato variety with low
✓ It prolongs the urea action, thus helping plants external defects which is grown exclusively for
to stay greener for longer time. PepsiCo by some farmers.
✓ It will increase efficiency and reduce frequent ✓ It has high dry matter/high solids content and
application of fertilizer, thus enhancing soil stable sugars, making it highly suitable for
health. manufacture of chips.
o As per Indian Council of Agricultural Research • Under WTO’s TRIPS (Agreement on Trade-Related
(ICAR) study, use of SCU leads to reduction in urea Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights), it is obligatory
consumption by 25%. for a member to provide protection to new plant
• EFFs are fertilizers that can reduce environmental varieties.
pollution from nutrient loss by retarding, or even o Under this, India enacted PPVFR Act.
controlling, the release of nutrients into soil. o A plant variety which conforms to criteria of
o EFFs also include organic fertilizers such as Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) is
Biocompost, Vermicompost, etc. eligible for registration under PPVFR Act.

• PPVFR Act recognizes following rights: o Implemented as combination of:
o Farmers’ rights: Registration and protection of ✓ Centrally Sponsored Schemes in partnership
new variety, farmers' variety, and extant variety, with State Governments/ UT Administrations
rewards for conservation of plant genetic and
resources etc. ✓ Central Sector Schemes through line
o Researchers’ rights: Use of any registered variety Ministries/Departments.
for experiments.
o Breeders’ rights: Exclusive rights to produce, sell,
import or export etc.
PPVFR Authority
• It is a statutory body under PPVFR Act, established in 2005.
• Comes under Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
• Functions include registration of new plant varieties,
rewarding farmers engaged in conservation and
preservation of plant genetic resources, maintenance of
national register of plant varieties and national gene bank.
3.8.20. SOLAR POWER SCHEME FOR

PVTGS HABITATIONS
• President has sanctioned implementation of the
scheme under new solar power Scheme for Particularly
Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) Habitations/ Villages.
o The scheme was launched under Pradhan Mantri
Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM
JANMAN).
• Key features of scheme
o Two components: 3.8.21. ELECTRICITY (AMENDMENT)
✓ Electrification of 1 Lakh PVTG households RULES, 2024 NOTIFIED
(HHs) through Off-grid solar power
▪ Solar Home Lighting System (SHLS) for • Ministry of Power notified Electricity (Amendment)
scattered un-electrified HHs in PVTG Rules, 2024 to amend Electricity Rules, 2005.
areas. • In exercise of powers conferred by Section 176 of
▪ Solar Mini-grids for cluster of HHs in a Electricity Act 2003, government has prescribed new
PVTG habitation/ hamlet. rules for-
✓ Solarization of multi-purpose centers (MPCs) o promoting ease of doing business by industries
by installation of Off-grid Solar power pack like Green Hydrogen manufacturers, facilitate
with battery bank. energy transition and energy security.
o Implementing agency: Respective DISCOMs in • Key highlights of rules
PVTG area.
Parameters Rules Significance
o Timeline: 2023-24 to 2025-26. Transmission • Consumers having • New bulk
o Monitoring: By Ministry of New and Renewable Lines more than specified consumers will
Energy (MNRE) and Ministry of Tribal Affairs load and Energy benefit with
(MoTA). Storage Systems are affordable
o Grievance Redress mechanism: Vendors shall allowed to electricity and
operationalize helpline number in local language/ establish, operate improved grid
language of PVTG area. and maintain reliability.
• PM JANMAN dedicated • Faster industrial
o Aim: To saturate PVTG HHs and habitations with transmission lines growth and more
themselves without job creation.
basic facilities such as safe housing, clean drinking
the requirement of
water and sanitation, improved access to licence.
education, etc. Open Access • Provide • Rationalisation of
o Comprises 11 critical interventions through 9 (OA) methodologies for OA charges will
ministries, including MoTA, over 3 years. determining lead to faster
various OA charges adoption of
like wheeling renewable only a single registration for NPS, instead of
charges, state energy by multiple registrations earlier.
transmission industry, thus o The timeline for disposing of applications has also
charges and reducing been reduced from 60 days to 30 days.
additional emission.
• The simplification is in line with the Union Budget 2023-
surcharge. • Facilitate
24 announcement to review regulations to reduce the
• Additional industries in
surcharge on OA getting electricity
cost of compliance and enhance the ease of doing
shall be linearly through OA at business.
reduced and get competitive • About National Pension System (NPS):
eliminated within rates. o Introduced by the Central Government in 2004 to
four years. help the individuals have income in the form of
Power Tariff • Tariff shall be cost • Ensure financial pension.
reflective and there sustainability of o Any citizen of India, whether resident or NRI, can
shall not be any power sector. join NPS.
revenue gap o It is mandatory to all employees joining services of
between approved
the Central Government (except Armed Forces)
Annual Revenue
and Central Autonomous Bodies on or after 1st
Requirement and
estimated annual January 2004.
revenue from o PFRDA regulates NPS under the PFRDA Act, 2013.
approved tariff
except under
natural calamity
conditions.
3.8.22. GLOBAL HYDROGEN TRADING

MECHANISM (GHTM)
• Indian Gas Exchange or IGX (India's only gas exchange)
and Gujarat State Petroleum Corporation (GSPC)
signed a MoU to establish a GHTM in collaboration with
IFSC-GIFT City in Gandhinagar (Gujarat).
○ They will develop a global hydrogen price index, a
benchmark for price discovery and market
information on India's growing green hydrogen
market. 3.8.24. FUTURE OF GROWTH REPORT
• Benefits: Enhance transparency, boost investor 2024
confidence, and facilitate the growth of the green • The report, published by the World Economic Forum
hydrogen market on a global scale. (WEF). introduces a multidimensional framework to
assess the quality of economic growth across 107
3.8.23. POINT OF PRESENCE (POP) countries globally.
REGULATIONS FOR NPS SUBSCRIBERS • It characterizes nations’ economic growth across four
• Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority dimensions: Innovativeness; Inclusiveness;
(PFRDA) notifies new point of presence regulations for Sustainability; and Resilience.
NPS subscribers. o Framework produces an aggregate result for each
• PFRDA has notified the Point of Presence (PoP) pillar on a 0-100 scale, where 100 is an ideal and
Regulations 2023, requiring only one registration for country is perfect in every pillars.
the National Pension System (NPS). Pillar Description
o POPs are the first points of interaction of the NPS Innovative- • Extent to which an economy’s trajectory
subscriber with the NPS architecture. ness can absorb and evolve in response to new
✓ The authorized branches of a POP, called Point technological, social, institutional and
of Presence Service Providers (POPSPs), will organizational developments to improve
act as collection points. the longer-term quality of growth.
o Banks and non-banks can now act as PoPs to • Global average of innovation is 45.2. India
onboard NPS subscribers, and they will require scored 40.2

Inclusiveness • Extent to which an economy’s trajectory vague definitions etc. are impacting development
includes all stakeholders in the benefits of safe generative AI.
and opportunities it creates. o AI Governance: Global landscape for AI
• Global average of Inclusiveness is 55.9. governance is complex and rapidly evolving, AIGA
India scored 41.7. recommended for,
o Over 75% of people in India lack basic
✓ International coordination: A multi-
social protection.
o Share of wealth owned by top 10
stakeholder approach involving government,
percentile population of India has civil society, academia, industry for legitimate
increased from 0.55 (1995) to 0.65 governance of AI.
(2021). ✓ Compatible standards: To avoid significant
Sustainability • Extent to which an economy’s trajectory differences in standards, national bodies
can keep its ecological footprint within should work together and align their efforts.
finite environmental boundaries. ✓ Flexible regulatory mechanisms: To match
• Global average of Sustainability is 46.8. AI's rapid advancements, investment in
India scored 56.0. innovation and governance frameworks must
o On current trajectories, the world is set be agile and adaptable.
to miss its Paris Agreement targets for
✓ Role of Global South: Include Global South at
global warming.
all AI stages for innovation, ensuring everyone
Resilience • Extent to which an economy’s trajectory
can withstand and bounce back from benefits and minimizing global harms.
shocks.
• Global average of Resilience is 52.8. India
scored 51.2.
o Most countries need better preparation
and proactive investment for
demographic change.
• The report also classifies clusters of countries with

similar growth characteristics into 7 groups based on
inclusion, innovation, and sustainability.
o India is grouped among countries with
traditionally efficiency-driven growth pathways,
building up innovativeness, inclusiveness and
resilience from a low base, with comparatively low
environmental footprint.
3.8.25. INCLUSIVE ACCESS TO ADVANCED
AI
• World Economic Forum’s AI Governance Alliance
(AIGA) Calls for Global Efforts for Inclusive Access to
Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI).
• AIGA (launched in 2023) aims to accelerate the
development of ethical guidelines and governance 3.8.26. LABOUR RULES FOR WORKERS
frameworks for Generative AI. ABROAD
o Generative AI is a type of AI technology that can • Trade Unions have opposed UP and Haryana
produce various types of content, including text, governments’ recruitment of workers to work in Israel,
imagery, audio and synthetic data. primarily for construction activities.
o World Economic Forum (WEF) is an international o They have cited that it is against Indian ethos of
non-profit organization based in Geneva bringing back citizens from conflict zones.
(Switzerland) committed to improving state of the • Issues faced by migrant labourers
world. o Vulnerability to regional conflicts: Risk of conflict
• At recent WEF Annual Meeting 2024, AIGA released and violence due to volatile political landscape.
new reports on advanced AI focusing on generative AI e.g., Ongoing Israel – Hamas conflict.
governance. Key highlights are below, o Exploitation and unfair labour practices: Wage
o Challenges: Absence of a standardized theft, poor working conditions, etc., due to limited
perspective on the generative AI model lifecycle, legal knowledge and language skills.
o Denial of social security: Due to lack portability, o Granted by: State governments through
etc. competitive bidding.
o Other issues: Lack of proper accommodation, o Tenure: 5 years from date of execution of EL.
poor standard of living, etc. o Central government through rules can prescribe
• Measures taken by India for protection of migrant the details such as manner of auction, bidding
labourers parameters, etc.
o Bilateral and multilateral arrangements: India has • MMDR Act 1957 is the principal legislation regulating
signed Labour Manpower Agreements (LMAs) with mines and mineral sector in India.
six West Asian countries including Kuwait, Oman, o It classifies mining related activities into-
etc. ✓ Reconnaissance (preliminary survey to
o Welfare programmes: National Pension scheme determine mineral resources),
for NRIs, Indian community welfare fund, etc. ✓ Prospecting (exploring, locating, or proving
o India has signed Global Compact for Safe, Orderly mineral deposits), and
and Regular Migration (2018). ✓ Mining (commercial extraction).
o Other measures: e-Migrate Application system,
MADAD portal for grievance redressal, etc.
3.8.28. COAL/LIGNITE GASIFICATION
PROJECTS
ILO conventions for protection of migrant workers
• Migration for Employment Convention (Revised), 1949 • Cabinet approves Viability Gap Funding of Rs 8500
(No. 97): To maintain an adequate and free service to crore for promotion of Coal/Lignite Gasification
assist migrants for employment. Projects.
• Migrant Workers (Supplementary Provisions) • Key highlights of the scheme
Convention, 1975 (No. 143): For illegally employed ○ Incentive for coal gasification projects is provided
migrant workers. to Government PSUs and Private Sector under
Note: India has not ratified both conventions. three categories.
✓ Category I: For Government PSUs, upto 3
3.8.27. RULES EXPLORATION LICENSE projects will be supported.
FOR MINING ✓ Category II: For Private Sector and
• Ministry of Mines notified four rules to implement the Government PSUs.
Exploration License (EL) regime. ✓ Category III: For demonstration Projects
• Notified under the Mines and Minerals (Development (indigenous technology) and/or small-scale
and Regulation) (MMDR) Act, 1957, these rules product-based Gasification Plants.
include: ○ Selection of entities under category II and III shall
o Mineral (Auction) Amendment Rules, 2024 be carried out through a competitive bidding
o Mineral Conservation and Development process.
(Amendment) Rules, 2024 ○ Grant will be paid to the selected entity in two
o Minerals (Evidence of Mineral Contents) equal instalments.
Amendment Rules, 2024 ○ Empowered Group of Secretaries (EGoS), chaired
o Minerals (Other than Atomic and Hydro Carbons by the Secretary Coal, is fully empowered to
Energy Minerals) Concession Amendment Rules, modify the scheme's modalities except total
2024 outlay.
• Exploration License (EL) • Coal gasification
o EL means a licence granted for undertaking ○ Underground Coal gasification is a process by
reconnaissance operations or prospecting which coal is converted to useful gases without
operations or both. the need for mining.
✓ It was introduced through MMDR ✓ Gases can subsequently be used to produce
Amendment Act, 2023. heat, generate power or synthesize a variety
✓ Issued in respect of 29 minerals specified in of chemical products.
Seventh Schedule of MMRD Act including ✓ It helps in harnessing the coal reserves that are
Cobalt, Lithium, Nickel, Gold, etc. deep, scattered and covered by forests.
○ India has a target to gasify 100 million tonnes of
coal by 2030.

Related News
Cabinet approved two joint venture projects for coal
gasification
• Joint venture of Coal India and GAIL for Coal-to-SNG
(Synthetic Natural Gas) Project in Burdwan (West Bengal).
○ SNG is equivalent to natural gas which is mostly
methane. It can be produced from coal, biomass,
petroleum coke and solid waste.
• Joint venture of Coal India and BHEL for the Coal-to-
Ammonium Nitrate Project in Jharsuguda (Odisha).
3.8.29. STEEL MAKING

• Government is aiming to increase share of scrap in steel
making process to 50 % by 2047 says Union Minister of
Steel.
• Steel Scrap in Steel making
o Steel is a material most conducive for circular
economy as it can be used, reused and recycled
infinitely.
o While iron ore remains the primary source of steel
making, used or re-used steel in form of Scrap is
secondary raw material for steel industry.
• Benefits of Steel scrap
o Resource Conservation: Use of every ton of steel
scrap shall save 1.1 ton of iron ore, 630 kg of coking
coal and 55 kg of limestone. 3.8.30. DECLINE IN INDIVIDUAL INCOME
o Reduced carbon footprints: Use of scrap cuts INEQUALITY: SBI RESEARCH
emission by 25 % in comparison to primary route • SBI Research report reveals decline in individual
of steelmaking. income inequality in the country in past 8 years.
✓ India’s steel sector accounts for 12% of India’s • Key highlights of the report: From 2013-2014 to 2021-
CO2 emissions. 2022:
o Energy Savings: Production of steel from recycled ○ In terms of Gini coefficient, income inequality of
steel requires less energy. taxable income group has declined from 0.472 to
Recent Steps Taken 0.402.
• National Steel Policy, 2017: Aspires to achieve 300MT ○ 36.3% of taxpayers have moved from lower
of steel-making capacity by 2030 with a contribution of income to higher income tax bucket.
35-40% from EAF route. ○ Top 2.5%of taxpayer’s contribution in income has
o Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF) route produce steel declined from 2.81% to 2.28%
mostly from scrap collected for recycling. ○ Female labour force participation is rising.
o EAF and Blast Furnace-Basic Oxygen Furnace (BF- ○ Micro firms are transitioning towards small,
BOF) route are methods of steelmaking. medium and large size firms.
• Steel Scrap Recycling Policy, 2019: Enhances • These findings dispel the notion of 'K '-shaped growth
availability of domestically generated scrap to reduce or recovery.
consumption of coal in steel making. ○ K-shaped recovery happens when different
sections of an economy recover at starkly
different rates.
✓ Many experts have suggested that post the
COVID-19 pandemic, India is experiencing a 'K-
shaped' recovery, where the rich thrive while
the less privileged face challenges.

• About Gini coefficient
○ Gini coefficient is a statistical measure of income
or wealth inequality, ranging from 0 (perfect
equality) to 1 (perfect inequality).
✓ Theoretically, values over 1 are possible due
to negative income or wealth.
○ Gini coefficient larger than 0.40 is considered high.

4. SECURITY
4.1. POLICING POWER TO CENTRAL ARMED POLICE FORCES (CAPFS)
Why in the News? Notification Empowering BSF Operations
• Authority to Prevent Offenses under Multiple Acts: The
Punjab has filed a suit against the Union government
notification grants the BSF the power to conduct search, seizure,
under Article 131 of the Constitution, challenging the and arrest operations, specifically targeting offenses falling
decision of increasing the operational jurisdiction of under various acts.
the Border Security Force (BSF) in Punjab. o These include the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), Passport
(Entry into India) Act of 1920, and the Passport Act of 1967.
More about News
• Limited Jurisdiction Expansion: It does not extend to the Arms
• Punjab has challenged the constitutional validity Act 1959, Customs Act 1962, and Narcotics Drugs and
of a notification issued by the Ministry of Home Psychotropic Substances Act 1985.
Affairs in October 2021 under Section 139 (1) of • No Investigative Powers: Despite the increased operational
the BSF Act, 1968. authority, the notification does not confer investigative powers
o Section 139 (1) of the BSF Act 1968, upon the BSF.
o Suspects and accused individuals must still be handed over
empowers Centre to publish orders
for further investigation and legal proceedings.
regarding the jurisdiction of BSF in areas
adjoining the borders of India. Article 131 in Constitution of India
• The Notification extended BSF's jurisdiction in Punjab, West Bengal, • It refers to the Original jurisdiction of the
and Assam from 15 Km to 50 Km while reducing it in Gujarat from Supreme Court in disputes:
80 km to 50 km. o Between the Government of India and
o The 50-Km limit was already in place in Rajasthan. one or more States.
o Involving the Government of India and
• The Supreme Court will assess whether the increased jurisdiction
any State(s) against one or more other
surpasses the 'local limits of the area adjoining the borders of States.
India' under Section 139. o Among two or more States.
• It will also consider the factors that should influence the
demarcation of the BSF's jurisdiction in a border area within a state.
Policing power of CAPF Importance of border states
• Strategic Importance: Acting as the first line
• The initial delegation of police powers to the Border Security of defence against external threats.
Force (BSF) occurred in 1969 under the provisions of the BSF Act of o They play a crucial role in shaping the
1968, with subsequent adjustments being officially notified in 1973 nation's security landscape.
and 2014. • Economic Significance: They contribute
• The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), entrusted with guarding the Indo- significantly to cross-border trade and
Nepal border, has also been endowed with the authority of police economic activities
and other investigating agencies under the Criminal Procedure • Cultural and Social Connectivity: Border
Code (CrPC). states often share cultural and social ties,
people-to-people relations and cultural
Rationale behind extension exchanges.
• Law Enforcement Imperative: Stringent law
• Uniformed jurisdictions: Ensuring uniformity in BSF operations
enforcement is imperative in border states.
across states, therefore enhancing security along the borders. • Diplomatic Relations: Diplomatic relations
• Operational Necessity and Policing Efficiencies: Emphasis on the with neighbouring countries are significantly
necessity to combat specific crimes like illegal entry and offenses influenced by the stability and cooperation
under the Passport Act. exhibited by border states.
• Addressing Evolving Challenges and Changing Dynamics:
Response to emerging challenges near border areas, including instances of drones dropping weapons and drugs.
o Proactive measure to strengthen control and response capabilities against trans-border crimes.
• Information Gathering and Proactive Action: BSF often receives information about crime scenes beyond previous
jurisdiction, prompting the need for an extended reach.

Challenges Arising from the Delegation of Police Powers to CAPFs
• Federalism Concerns: Poses a challenge to the federal structure as states argue that law and order, being a state
subject, is compromised by the expansion of BSF's jurisdiction.
• Accountability and Sensitivity Issues to local populations: As national accountability mechanisms under the Ministry
of Home Affairs (MHA) are inherently less accessible compared to regional accountability mechanisms offered by
state police forces.
• Impact on BSF's Core Function: Highlights the potential adverse effects on the core function of the BSF, as the troops
deployed on Border Out Posts (BOPs) might have to be withdrawn for operations in depth, impacting border security.
• Risk of Turf Wars: Expresses concerns about the lack of coordination with state police, potentially leading to conflicts
due to the concurrent jurisdiction of two forces controlled by different governments.
• Human Rights Violation Apprehensions: Raises apprehensions about increased human rights violations due to the
expanded jurisdiction of BSF without adequate safeguards, potentially resulting in the arbitrary use of powers.
Way Forward
• Inclusive Decision-Making: Given India's extensive borders and geopolitical significance, decisions concerning border
security must prioritize inclusive decision-making.
• Joint Initiatives for Enhanced Security: This involves enhancing the capacity of police forces and fostering greater
cooperation between Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) and state police.
• Rejuvenation of Federal Communication Channels: Institutional channels of federal communication, such as the
Inter-State Council, need to be revitalized to ensure that decisions align with diverse state perspectives.
About Border Security Force (BSF)
• Established in 1965, BSF is called “First Line of Defence for Indian Territories”.
• Its primary mission is to safeguard India's borders with neighbouring nations.
• It possesses the authority to apprehend, conduct searches, and seize individuals under various laws, including the Criminal
Procedure Code, the Passport Act, the Passport (Entry into India) Act, and the NDPS Act, 1985, among others.
• It is part of Seven Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs)
• The seven-Armed Police Organisations, collectively known as Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), operate under the
administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• While the Assam Rifles functions administratively under the MHA, its operational control lies with the Ministry of Defence.
Specific Roles and Functions of CAPFs
• Border Guarding Forces: Among the CAPFs, the Assam Rifles
(AR), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo Tibetan Border Police
(ITBP), and Sahastra Seema Bal (SSB) serve as Border Guarding
Forces, each deployed in distinct border regions.
o The AR are deployed in the North Eastern region to tackle
insurgency and guard the India Myanmar border while the
BSF is deployed on the India-Bangladesh and India-
Pakistan borders.
o The ITBP is deployed on the India-China border; and the
SSB is deployed on the India-Nepal and India-Bhutan
borders.
• Special Task force: National Security Guard (NSG) is designated
as a commando-trained force organization in India, specializes
in executing special operations.
• Internal security:
o Central Industrial Security Force (CISF): It is entrusted with
the responsibility of providing security and protection to
industrial undertakings and vital installations.
o Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF): Primarily deployed in
aid of civil power, the CRPF handles matters related to the maintenance of law and order, internal security, and
counterinsurgency.

4.2. GEOSPATIAL INTELLIGENCE
Why in the news?
ISRO is planning to launch 50 satellites for intelligence gathering in the next
5 years.
More on news
• This will involve creating a layer of satellites in different orbits with a
capacity to track the movement of troops and image thousands of
kilometres of area.
• It will improve the ability of satellites to detect changes, and will bring
in more of AI-related and data-driven approach to analyze geospatial
data.
Geospatial intelligence
• Geospatial intelligence is an intelligence discipline that analyzes
geospatial data to better understand and visually depict human activity
at specific geographic location.
• It uses imagery to survey and assess human activity and
physical geography anywhere on Earth.
• Geospatial intelligence usually collects and integrate data
from a network of technologies, including satellites,
mobile sensors, ground-control stations and aerial
images
o This data will be used to produce real-time maps and
simulations to help identify when, where and to what
extent a threat is likely to emerge. E.g., Disaster, Wild
fire, Hybrid warfare etc.
Significance of geospatial technology enabled Intelligence
gathering
• Strengthening India’s intelligence architecture:
Geospatial data overlying on high-resolution satellite
images substantially enhances the precision and reliability
of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities.
• Advancing situational awareness: With its unique ability
of real-time monitoring, geospatial data can provide
actionable insights for quick and secure decision-making to
handle critical insurgencies.
o Strengthening Border Security and Coastal
Surveillance System, e.g., Mapping of terrain and
hotspots of border crossing.
o Preventing and/or disrupting potential internal and
external security threats, e.g., tracking infiltration and
monitoring camps of terrorists, left wing extremists
etc.
o Targeting & Battle Damage Assessment: It can help
analyze enemy vulnerability, determine how best to
achieve adequate military results (e.g., avoiding
civilian casualties), and plan future targeting action.

• Tackling new and emerging threats: Geospatial analytics can help to predict and counter new threats like cyber-
attacks, hybrid warfare, stealth weaponry etc. which endanger critical infrastructure of the nation.
• Disaster Management: Geospatial data can play significant role in risk reduction, Preparedness, Response and rescue,
and recovery phase of disaster.
• Military and civilian logistics: By using geospatial intelligence, Medical and health service support can be provided in
short time. It will also improve
the movement of troops, India’s steps towards strengthening Geospatial Intelligence
supplies, arms, and • Earth Observation Satellites: India has one of the largest constellations of remote
ammunition across the nation. sensing satellites in operation e.g. EOS-07 launched in February 2023.
• Establishment of dedicated institutions: Like Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, a
• Operations Support:
constituent unit of the ISRO, National Center of Geo-Informatics (NCG), etc.
Geospatial intelligence will
• National Spatial Data Infrastructure: Implemented as a network of spatial data nodes
help in obtaining the last established in various data-providing agencies in central and state governments
equipment activity situation, towards improving access to geospatial data.
and finally helping in • NavIC (Navigation with Indian Constellation): India’s indigenous navigation system to
maintaining decision provide accurate position information service.
superiority. • Bhuvan portal: National Geo-portal developed and hosted by ISRO for providing
• Maritime Domain Awareness visualization of Satellite Imagery and Maps.
(MDA): Expanding regional • National Geospatial policy: Policy enables legal framework supporting geospatial
coverage of geospatial sector and democratization data for enhanced commercialization.
intelligence to monitor the maritime domain more comprehensively leads to securing the Indian Ocean region.
Conclusion
In the context of India, fast-evolving situation across multiple active theatres and a large diverse border (15k km Land
borders and 7.5k km coastline) create an ideal case for use of geospatial intelligence most effectively to support the solider
on the ground.
4.3. DRONES AND SECURITY

Why in the news?
Adani Defence and Aerospace recently introduced the Drishti 10
Starliner Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for the Indian Navy.
More on the News
• The UAV embarked on its journey from Hyderabad to Porbandar,
marking its induction into naval maritime operations.
• It is Indian Navy’s first indigenously manufactured UAV, with over
60% indigenous content.
o It would promote the navy’s Maritime Domain Awareness
(MDA) and augment their anti-piracy and seaborne missions.

• Key features:
o Advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) Platform
o Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV
o 450 kg payload capacity
o Received STANAG 4671 certification (NATO standardization agreement)
• The step highlights the significance of drone technology for security purposes.
Role of Drones in National Security
• Surveillance and Intelligence: Drones can be used in remote surveillance, reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering
operations by security agencies.
• Offensive military operations: Drones can be used to strike the enemy or its infrastructure in deep, inhospitable
locations.
• Replacing manned aircrafts: It helps in achieving military goals without the risk posed to pilots’ life during security
operations.
• Military logistics: Indian army has planned to replace mules and choppers with drones for supplies at forward posts
along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Ladakh, Leh, and Northeastern India.
• Serve as force multiplier: AI enabled drones are capable with communicating with each other, Automatic Target
Recognition (ATR) and coordinating with ground based conventional military operations.
• Use for maintaining law and order: Police drones can be used to monitor large crowds, surveillance of illegal activities,
search and rescue operations etc.
Concerns associated with Drone technology
• Threat to national security: Drones falling in hands of rouge elements can pose a threat to national security.
o E.g., Cross border infiltration of drones along the international border with Pakistan for dropping improvised
explosives, weapons and drugs.
o Rogue drones also pose a threat to civilian aerospace and critical infrastructure, like, Nuclear Installations.
• Shortage of skills in Drone ecosystem: There is overall shortage of skilled drone operators, drone engineers, service
engineers, quality inspectors etc.
• Global positioning system (GPS) denied environments: Imported drones using GPS navigation devices may find
operational issues in GPS-denied environments.
o E.g., Heron Mk II MALE UAV purchased from Israel.
• Shortage of drone batteries: Due to weight concerns, advanced Lithium-ion battery technologies are now being used
for drone development instead of traditional Nickel- Drone regulations in India
Cadmium and Silver-Zinc batteries. • National Counter Rogue Drone Guidelines: In 2019,
o DRDO and ISRO are working on Lithium-Ion cell Ministry of Civil Aviation released the document to
development, but the activity is still in infant stage. lay out guidelines assessing drone threat.
• Ethical and Moral Concerns: Since the usage of long-range • Drone Rules 2021: It divides the Indian airspace into
drone attacks by American -forces, they have been criticized three zones Green, Yellow and Red based on
for their disproportionate impact on civilian communities. acceptability of flying drones.
o Red zones are no go zones where no drones can
India’s Initiatives for use of Drone Technology in defense sector be operated except for a permission given by
Central Government.
• Acquisition of foreign drones: India has imported drone
technology from various countries like the US and Israel.
o Heron Mark-II drones: A Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV, inducted by Indian Air Force to carry
out surveillance along Northern borders with Pakistan and China.
o Searcher Mk II drones: Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, it is a reconnaissance drone used by Indian
army and navy.

• Drone, Detect, Deter and Destroy (D4 System): DRDO developed indigenous anti-drone system, inducted into the
Indian Armed Forces.
• Border Security: BSF has deployed hand-held static and vehicle-mounted anti-drone systems to counter rising drone
threat along Indo-Pak Border.
• Indigenous UAV systems: DRDO has been developing UAV systems which are at varying stages of development.
Indigenous drones of DRDO
DRDO Lakshya • Target drone used for discreet aerial reconnaissance and target acquisition.
• Launched by a solid propellant rocket motor and sustained by a turbojet engine in flight.
DRDO Nishant • Multi-mission UAV launched using a Mobile Hydro pneumatic Launcher with Day/Night capability.
• Used for battlefield surveillance and reconnaissance, target tracking & localization, and artillery fire
correction.
• Inducted in Indian Army.
RUSTOM-1 • It is an all composite, 800 kg class Short Range Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (SR-RPAS).
• Capabilities of Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, Target Acquisition/Tracking and Image
Exploitation.
TAPAS/ • Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle.
Rustom-2 • Developed for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) application, is in
advance stage of developmental trials.
Archer • Short Range-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle-Weaponised (SR-UAV-W)
• Being developed for Reconnaissance, Surveillance and low intensity conflict.
Way forward
• Research and Development: To facilitate faster development and deployment of indigenous UAV and counter UAV
technology.
• Involvement of private sector: To upgrade private sector’s capability to manufacture key components used in drones
in order to substitute their imports.
o Further, defence startups must be encouraged to develop military grade drones under initiatives like Innovations
for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative.
• Tri services joint doctrinal framework on drone deployment: This would bring synergy in drone operations and
address ethical issues by fixing accountability framework for military usage of drones.
4.4. ILLEGAL MIGRATION

Why in the news?
Gujarat Crime Investigation Department (CID) is probing the case of possible illegal immigration related to the Nicaragua-
bound plane carrying Indians, which was grounded in France.
About Illegal Migration
• Illegal migration refers to trans-boundary migration of people from one country to another without valid documents,
using illegal means.
• In Indian context, as per Citizenship Act, 1955, an illegal migrant is defined as, a foreigner who enters India,
o without a valid passport or other prescribed travel documents, or
o with a valid passport or other prescribed travel documents but remains in India beyond the permitted time
period.
Reasons for illegal migration
• Economic Factors: These include poverty, lack of economic opportunities, stagnation of income, etc., that may force
an individual or a group to look beyond their home country for better Economic opportunities.
• Better standard of living: Real or Perceived promise of better opportunities in destination countries.
o E.g., the promise of ‘The American Dream’ still attracts lot of migrants both legal and illegal towards U.S.A.

• Human Trafficking networks: Smuggling of migrants is a highly profitable illicit activity with a relatively low risk of
detection.
o As of October 2023, 2925 illegal agents have been notified in India through the e-Migrate portal.
• Political and religious persecution: This has led to refugees and illegal immigrants from Tibet, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka,
Myanmar, Pakistan, and Bangladesh finding shelter in India.
• Overpopulation: This may lead to crisis of living space. E.g. In countries like Bangladesh where high population
density has led to illegal migration in North eastern States of India.
• Natural Disasters: This may force people to migrate for survival and better living conditions.
o E.g., Illegal migration from Sahel region of Africa due to frequent droughts.
o Frequent floods and cyclone in Bangladesh force migration of people to India.
• Existing Social Networks: Social networks established by previous migrants attract more migrants from similar
communities, often resulting in migration through illegal routes in absence of other options.
Impacts of Illegal Migration
• Economic Exploitation: Illegal and undocumented migrants lack legal safeguard and thus are prone to informal,
temporary or unprotected jobs and even forced labour.
• Violation of Human Rights: Illegal Migrants are vulnerable to multiple inhumane conditions and criminal offences
like assault, rape or extortion during their arduous journeys or at the destination region.
• Risk of Detention and deportation: Illegal migrants face constant fear of being deported by the authorities and may
also be mistreated during detention.
o E.g., Detention centers of US for illegal migrants, are often alleged to have poor living conditions impacting
physical, mental, social health of detainees including children.
• Social Tensions: Large scale illegal migration may distort existing demography and pose a threat to existing socio-
cultural identity.
o E.g. Threat to Assamese identity due to illegal migration from Bangladesh has given rise to various socio-political
tensions in Assam.
• Facilitates Organized Crimes: Often organized criminal groups are involved in smuggling migrants across borders (e.g.
US-Mexico Border).
Initiatives Taken to counter illegal migration
• 'Surakshit Jayen Prashikshit Jayen' campaign: Initiative of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) to raise awareness of using safe
and legal channels while traveling for employment abroad.
• Migration and mobility partnership agreements: Such agreement with countries e.g., France, seek to encourage legal and
orderly migration, assure the return of identified illegal migrants to their country and combat irregular migration.
• Border management: To restrict infiltration of illegal immigrants. Initiatives include,
o Physical infrastructure in the form of border fencing, floodlighting etc.
o Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS), a technological solution to improve situational
awareness along border areas.
o Regular patrolling and anti-tunneling exercise by Border Security Force, Assam Rifles etc. to stop illegal infiltration.
Global Initiatives
• Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration: Global agreement under International Organization for Migration
(IOM) on a common approach to international migration in all its dimensions.
o One of its objectives is to, ’Prevent, combat and eradicate trafficking in persons in the context of international migration’.
• Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air, under the United Nations Convention against Transnational
Organized Crime (UNTOC).
• Organizations such as the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL) support the efforts of national police
authorities in breaking up the criminal networks behind the smuggling of migrants.
Challenges in Tackling Illegal Migration
• Lack of data: Centre in an affidavit filed in SC held that ‘clandestine and surreptitious’ manner of entry of illegal
migrants makes it difficult to have an accurate data collection.
• Porous Borders: It facilitates the flow of illegal migrants across multiple countries using Donkey routes/flights.

• Poor regulation of travel agencies: It has led to cropping up of unscrupulous travel and placement agents running
illegal operations, particularly in regions where demand for moving abroad is high.
• Coordination issues: Cross country dimension of international human trafficking networks requires extensive
International cooperation of law enforcement agencies.
• Involvement of organized criminal groups: Organized criminals have established professional networks that
transcend borders and encompass all regions.
• Legal shortcomings: Absence or inadequacy of national legislation to address the smuggling of migrants in many parts
of the world.
Way Forward
• International Cooperation: Transnational nature of illegal migration mandates an institutional mechanism for
cooperation, data exchange, safeguarding human rights etc. in
context of Illegal migration.
• Combat human trafficking: Better coordination of law
enforcement agencies under ambit of INTERPOL, to dismantle
criminal networks behind human trafficking and migrant
smuggling.
• Capacity development of local law enforcement: To detect
and prevent illegal migration and safeguard migrants in
vulnerable situations.
• Countering Organized crime: UNTOC can help in addressing
the involvement of organized groups.
• Demarcate between Refugees and Illegal migrant: India, since
ages has been a host to refugees fleeing politico-religious
persecution.
o However, there is need to have a dedicated refugee policy
to deal with them in a non-arbitrary manner.
4.5. NEWS IN SHORTS

4.5.1. OPERATION SARVASHAKTI o Shift in Militant Focus: Post-2019, militants focus
on Pir Panjal, retreating into its forests amid
• The Army initiates Operation Sarvashakti in Jammu and reduced local support.
Kashmir's Rajouri-Poonch sector, targeting terrorists • About Pir Panjal Range
amid repeated attacks on troops. o Natural Border: Pir Panjal delineates Kashmir and
• About Operation Sarvashakti: Jammu, influencing landscapes and cultural
o Indian Army plans “Operation Sarvashakti” on the nuances.
lines of “Operation Sarpvinash” launched in 2003. o Peaks: Deo Tibba (6,001m) and Indrasan (6,221m)
o It is to target resurgence of militants on both sides are highest peaks of the range.
of Pir Panjal in Jammu and Kashmir. o Passes: Banihal Pass and Peer Ki Gali connect
o Operation aims at combined counter-militancy Kashmir and Jammu, enhancing regional
efforts with Chinar Corps and White Knight Corps connectivity.
coordinating in Collaboration with Jammu and o Rivers: It spans between Jhelum to Chenab,
Kashmir Police, CRPF, Special Operations Group, encompassing Rajouri, Budhal, and Poonch on the
and intelligence agencies is crucial. Indian side.
• Importance of this region
o Strategic Terrain for Militants: Pir Panjal provides
dense forest hideouts, facilitating hit-and-run
operations and rest for militants.
o Natural Division and Key Entry Points: It acts as a
natural division between Kashmir Valley and
Jammu, controlling key entry points to the Valley.

• It has a high level of indigenization (about 75%),
highlighting efforts towards Atmanirbhara Bharat in
the defence sector.
• Need for Defence Indigenization:
o Autonomy: Decision-making autonomy in Geo-
strategic issues.
o Reducing dependence on import: World’s largest
arms importer between 2018-22 (as per SIPRI
Report).
✓ Also, it aims to reach US$5 billion in defence
exports by 2025.
o Prevention from disruption of supply–chain: Like
the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
o Other: Tackling neighbours like China, supporting
friendly nations etc.
• Challenges: Lack of private participation, less
allocation of funds for R&D (less than 1%; far less than
the US, China) etc.
4.5.2. AKASH-NG (NEW GENERATION)

MISSILE
• Defence Research and Development Organisation
conducted successful flight-test of Akash NG missile.
• Akash-NG is a Surface to Air Missile capable of
intercepting high-speed, agile aerial threats.
o It has range of around 80 km.
• Its active electronically scanned array (AESA) multi-
function radar features all three functions - search,
track and fire control in one platform.
• Akash Weapon System is Short Range Surface to Air
Missile (SRSAM) Air Defence System, indigenously
designed and developed by DRDO.
4.5.3. INDIAN NAVY COMMISSIONED INS

IMPHAL
• INS Imphal is the third of four indigenous
Visakhapatnam class stealth-guided missile
destroyers under project 15B.
o Project 15B is the latest in the lineage of Project
15A (Kolkata class) and Project 15 (Delhi class)
indigenous destroyers with upgraded capabilities
and greater indigenous content.
o The other two destroyers of this Project are INS
Visakhapatnam and INS Mormugao.
• Key Features:
o It is designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design
Bureau and constructed by Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai.
o It is armed with medium-range surface-to-air
missiles, Brahmos surface-to-surface missiles,
Indigenous torpedo launchers etc.
4.5.4. EXERCISES IN NEWS Navy and participating navies from US, Australia,
South Korea and Japan.
• Exercise Khanjar: India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces • MILAN 24 Exercise: It is a biennial multi-national naval
Exercise Khanjar has held in Himachal Pradesh. exercise.
• Exercise Cyclone: 2nd edition of the India-Egypt o It was first conceived by Indian Navy in 1995 at
exercise 'Cyclone' held in Egypt. Andaman and Nicobar Command with
• Exercise Desert Knight: Indian Air Force conducted participation of four countries (Indonesia,
Exercise Desert Knight along with French Air and Space Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand).
Force and UAE Air Force. • Ex-Ayutthaya: The maiden Bilateral Maritime Exercise
• Ex-Desert Cyclone: It is a joint military exercise between the Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Thai Navy
between India and UAE. (RTN) was conducted in December 2023.
• Exercise Sea Dragon: It is a multinational maritime o Along with this bilateral exercise, the 36th edition
exercise to enhance interoperability between Indian of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai
CORPAT) was also conducted.

Answer Writing for
Civil Services
Mains Examination
Answer writing holds paramount importance in the UPSC Mains exam as it serves as the primary means for candidates to
demonstrate their knowledge, understanding, analytical ability, and time management skills. Effective answer writing is
pivotal in showcasing one's ability to synthesize information, critically evaluate diverse perspectives, and present balanced
arguments concisely. Proficient answer writing is instrumental in securing high scores and distinguishing candidates in a
competitive environment, ultimately determining their success in the rigorous selection process for the UPSC Mains exam-
ination.
Components of an Impactful Answer

Identification of Context: Understanding the Content Competence: Demonstrating a
specific theme or topic of the question, and comprehensive grasp of the subject matter,
situating the response within its relevant supported by accurate facts, relevant examples,
context. and insightful analysis.
Structure and Presentation: Organizing the

An impactful Introduction: Engagingly setting
answer coherently with clear headings,
the stage for the answer, capturing the examin-
subheadings, or bullet points, and presenting
er's attention while providing a brief overview of
information logically and aesthetically for easy
the discussion to follow.
comprehension.
Balanced Conclusion: Summarizing key points Language: Employing precise, formal language
concisely, offering insights or recommendations appropriate to the context, avoiding jargon,
if applicable, and providing a satisfying closure colloquialisms, or ambiguity, and demonstrating
to the argument or discussion. fluency and clarity in expression.
Master the art and understand the science behind impactful answer writing with VisionIAS All India GS
Mains Test Series and Mentoring Program, comprising:
Master Classes on Answer

Detailed Evaluation Personalized Mentoring
Writing
Flexible Testing Schedule Comprehensive Feedback Post-Test Discussions
Keep in mind, the Mains exam isn't just a stage within the UPSC CSE journey but rather a direct gateway to coveted
position in the Indian Civil Services, turning your aspirations into reality.
Scan QR code to Register & download Scan QR code to know Toppers

brochure “All India GS Mains Test Series Approach & Preparation
and Mentoring Program” strategies
5. ENVIRONMENT
5.1. 50 YEARS OF PROJECT TIGER
Why in the News?
The Indian government officially marked 2023 as the 50th year
of ‘Project Tiger’.
About Project Tiger
• A Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Ministry of
Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC),
launched in 1973.
o Initially launched in 9 Tiger reserves (TRs) in different
states of India.
o Provides central assistance to tiger range States for in-
situ conservation of tigers in designated tiger reserves.
• Objective: To ensure the maintenance of a viable
population of tigers in India for scientific, economic,
aesthetic, cultural and ecological values.
o Project Tiger has a holistic ecosystem approach. Though
the main focus is on the flagship species tiger, the
project strives to maintain the stability of ecosystems by
also supporting abundant prey populations.
• Implementing Agency: National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
o NTCA was launched in 2005, following the recommendations of the Tiger Task Force. It was given statutory status
by 2006 amendment of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Funding pattern: 60% Central Assistance is being made available to States for expenditure on all non-recurring items.
o For recurring items, Central Assistance is restricted to 50% of the expenditure, while a matching grant is provided
by the Project States.
o North Eastern and Himalayan States are provided 90% central assistance in both cases.
• Project Tiger and Project Elephant were merged as Project Tiger & Elephant.
• Activities undertaken under Project Tiger
o Establishment and development of Tiger Reserves: 55 tiger reserves. (Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve and
Dholpur – Karauli Tiger Reserve were declared in 2023)
o Core-buffer strategy to manage tigers: Core areas have the legal status of a national park or a sanctuary.
✓ Whereas buffer or peripheral areas are a mix of forest and non-forest land, managed as a multiple-use area.
o Technological advancements: The e-Bird project uses Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) for Surveillance and
Monitoring.
✓ NTCA conducts assessment using the application M-STrIPES (Monitoring System for Tigers Intensive
Protection & Ecological Status).
o Special Tiger Protection Force (STPF): Deployed in several TRs for focused anti-poaching operations.
The conservation of tigers in India can be divided into two phases.
• The first phase starting in the 1970s, involved the enactment of the Wildlife Protection Act and the establishment of
protected areas that helped conserve tigers and tropical forest ecosystems.
• The second phase began in 2005-06, with the government adopting a landscape-level approach and implementing strict
monitoring for tiger conservation.
Challenges in Tiger Conservation
• Habitat Loss and Fragmentation: Out of the approximately four lakh square kilometres of forests in tiger states, only
one-third are in relatively healthier condition (Status Tiger Report 2022).

• Human-Wildlife Conflict: As human populations expand and encroach upon tiger habitats, conflicts arise.
• Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: Poachers target tigers for their skins, bones, and other body parts.
• Climate change: Shifting temperatures are altering the habitats of tigers in the Himalayan States, Sundarbans and
Western Ghats.
o Climate change accelerates, and wildfires are becoming more frequent in ecosystems that do not typically
experience a fire season.
• Monitoring: TR such as Mukundra, Ranthambore, Nagarhole, etc. are situated along the boundaries of the state,
which creates an issue of monitoring as the animal moves from one generation to another.
• Other: Tigers reserves are also threatened by invasive plant species such as Lantana camara.
Way ahead
• Habitat Protection and Restoration: Strengthen efforts to protect
and expand tiger habitats.
o Establish and maintain wildlife corridors to connect
fragmented habitats.
• Community Involvement and Awareness: Engage local
communities in conservation efforts through education and awareness programs.
o Promote sustainable livelihoods for communities living near tiger habitats to reduce dependence on natural
resources.
• Anti-Poaching Measures: Enhance law enforcement and anti-poaching efforts with better training, equipment, and
technology.
o Collaborate with local communities to gather intelligence and report illegal activities.
o Impose severe penalties and consequences for wildlife crimes to act as a deterrent.
• Climate Change Mitigation: Support research on the impacts of climate change on tiger habitats and populations.
• Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage private sector involvement in tiger conservation through corporate social
responsibility (CSR) initiatives.
About Tiger
• A flagship species of India was declared a National Animal of India.
• Habitat: The largest population is in India, with smaller groups in
Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, China and Myanmar.
o India harbours almost 75% of the world’s wild tiger population.
• Distribution of Tiger population in India: Habitats ranging from the high
mountains, mangrove swamps, and tall grasslands, to dry and moist
deciduous forests, as well as evergreen and shola forest systems.
• Significance of Tiger:
o Ecological: Tigers are both a Flagship and Umbrella species.
✓ As a Flagship species they are important for conservation and
as an Umbrella species, conservation of tigers leads to
conservation of other species.
o Economic: Ecotourism and related industries.
o Cultural and spiritual: Symbols of power, strength.
• Characteristics:
o Solitary and territorial animals and an adult male’s territory may encompass territories of two to seven females.
o Stripes are individually as unique as human fingerprints.
o Tigers are excellent swimmers.
5.2. SEWAGE MANAGEMENT IN INDIA

Why in the news?
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, issued a notification to amend the River
Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Authorities Order, 2016.

More about the news
• The amendment allows NMCG to discharge the treated effluent with prescribed standards into the river Ganga after
exploring the options for its direct reuse.
o Earlier the provision was against the discharge of untreated or treated sewage into the river by anyone.
• The move is aimed at ensuring more water flow into the river thereby improving its biodiversity.
To know more about the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), kindly refer to Article 5.1. Namami Gange
Programme (NGP) in September 2023 edition of VisionIAS Current Affairs Magazine.
Sewage generation in India and STPs
• The estimated sewage generation from Class I cities and Class II towns in India is more than 33,000 Million Litres per
Day (MLD) and the current treatment capacity of STPs is just 18.6%.
• STPs are facilities that treat wastewater from domestic, commercial, and industrial sources to remove pollutants
and contaminants before releasing them into the environment.
Institutional arrangement and initiatives for Sewage Treatment in India

• As Water is a ‘State Subject’ under the Seventh Schedule (Article 246), it is the responsibility of the States/UTs to
ensure the cleanliness and development of rivers.
o National Urban Sanitation Policy (2008) made local governments responsible for behavioural change, total
sanitation, and 100% safe waste disposal.
• The 74th Constitutional Amendment (1993) decentralized the water supply and sanitation services from the state
government to the Urban Local Bodies (ULB)
• As per the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and the Water (Prevention & Control of Pollution),
Act 1974,
o Industrial units and local bodies are required to install STPs and Effluent treatment plants (ETPs to treat their
sewage before discharging into the river.
o However, there is no specific act dedicated to the management of wastewater in India.
• Other initiatives include components of the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation & Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart
Cities Mission, Namami Gange program and National River Conservation Plan.
Challenges associated with STPs
• Lack of Capacity in ULBs: To plan and implement sewage treatment projects within their administrative jurisdictions.
o CAG audit (2016) in Jharkhand found that none of the sampled ULBs had a sewage network, which led to 175
MLD of untreated wastewater being discharged into open drains.

• Lopsided implementation by the states: 5 states (Maharashtra, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, NCT of Delhi and Karnataka)
account for 60% of the total installed treatment capacity.
• Lack of specific framework: There is no specific policy at either the Central or State level that incorporates treatment
of polluted water or its ecological restoration.
• Differences in discharge standards: For instance, Surface water body is regulated by 35 parameters while
wastewater for land application is regulated by only 10 parameters.
• Low Compliance rate: It is found that only 23 % of treatment capacity is meeting the consented parameters of State
Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs).
• Low economic viability: STPs are highly capital-intensive and usually take around three to eight years to break even
thereby hindering private investments.
Way forward
• Establishing multiple monitoring points: Including sources, environmental systems, exposure pathways, and the
recipients for better control of pollution loads.
• Utilization in Irrigation: The Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Karnal,
has researched sewage farming and recommended an irrigation method
for sewage-fed tree plantations, which can be widely adopted.
• Focus on alternative usage: Local bodies can focus on the utilization of
treated sewage for non-potable purposes like horticulture, irrigation, fire
fighting, industrial cooling etc.
o Government of Karnataka has issued a directive to utilise tertiary
treated sewage for non-potable purposes, like all gardening, including
parks, resorts, and golf courses.
• Defining better and uniform water quality standards: This along with
monitoring will detect pollution levels, trace them back to the source and
estimate the impacts.
• Setting up of underground STPs in land-scarce cities: This will help to
eliminate negative environmental impacts like noise, odour, and aesthetics
in a crowded city
o For example, underground STPs are set up in most heavily populated
Chinese cities.
• Implementing Nature-based Solutions (NbS): like artificial wetlands,
planted soil filters, vegetated submerged beds etc.
5.3. SWACHH SURVEKSHAN AWARDS 2023

Why in the news?
Recently, the President of India conferred the Swachh Survekshan
Awards for 2023.
More about the News
• The Swachh Survekshan 2023 dashboard was also launched
at the event.
• The President also emphasised on the theme for the year i.e.,
“Waste to Wealth” as a means to achieve cleaner cities.

About Swachh Survekshan Awards
• About: Swachh Survekshan is a survey of cleanliness, hygiene and sanitation in cities and towns across India.
• Launch: In 2016 under the ambit of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban).
• Institutions involved: The survey is conducted annually by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).
• Objective: To encourage large-scale citizen participation and create awareness about the importance of making
towns and cities a better place to live.
• 2023 assessment: It was conducted in 4 phases for the first time in 4477 cities and the total marks increased to 9500
from 7500 (2022’s survey).
Key Highlights of the 2023 Awards
• Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and Surat (Gujarat) were declared as the Cleanest Cities in India (Rank 1) followed by Navi
Mumbai (Maharastra) (Rank 3).
o Indore has been declared as the cleanest city for the 7th consecutive time.
• In cities with less than 1 Lakh population, Sasvad (Maharastra), Patan (Gujarat) and Lonavala (Maharastra) secured
the top three spots.
• Maharashtra was named the cleanest state in the country, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.
• Mhow (Madhya Pradesh) was selected as the cleanest cantonment board followed by Deolali (Maharashtra) and
Ahmedabad (Gujarat).
• Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) was declared the cleanest Ganga town followed by Prayagraj (Uttar Pradesh)
• Chandigarh was declared as the Best Safaimitra Surakshit Sheher.
5.4. INDIA METEOROLOGICAL DEPARTMENT (IMD)

Why in the News?
India Meteorological Department (IMD) celebrated the 150th Year of its
establishment and service to India.
Recent Initiatives launched by IMD
• National Framework of Climate Services (NFCS): It is premised on
the concept of the Global Framework for Climate Services (GFCS)
launched by the World Meteorological Organization (WMO).
o NFCS aims to set up a platform that will provide climate
information and services helpful for agriculture, energy,
disaster management, health and water sectors.
o NFCS would enable every individual and organisation to be
climate-smart and hence improve the economy of the country.
• Indigenously Developed Decision Support System
o About: A Web-GIS-based integrated Decision Support System
(DSS) known as Weather Analysis and Forecast Enabling System
(WAFES).
o Working: The WAFES serves as a visualization platform to
analyse meteorological observations and prediction models,
aiding decision-making for severe weather phenomena and their
socio-economic impact.
o Components: DSS includes the Meteorological Information
Communication System (MICS), Data Information Processing
System (DIPS), Synthesized Integrated Visualization System
(SIVS), and Public Weather Information System (PWIS).

o Target Areas: It provides real-time information for various sectors such as Urban, Power, Hydrology, Health,
Energy, Agriculture, Transport and Tourism under the "UPHHEATT" initiative (for the cause of welfare).
• Other initiatives Launched
o Panchayat Mausam Sewa Portal: To help farmers in planning their agricultural activities.
o IMD’s Mobile App: IMD launched an integrated GIS-based interactive mobile app MAUSAM for all weather-
related services.
Achievements of IMD
Observations
• In 2023, WMO recognised three IMD observatories, viz., Dwarka & Veraval (Gujarat) and Cuttack (Odisha) as long-term
observing stations for more than 100 years of hydrological observations.
• 39 Doppler Weather Radars (DWRs) well distributed across the country to monitor severe weather events (till 2023).
• To support the Gati Shakti and Udaan Scheme, IMD has contributed significantly by ensuring safe aviation through Aviation
Weather monitoring and forecasting for all 117 Airports.
Improvement in Forecast Accuracy
• Significant improvement in forecast accuracy of severe weather events by 40-50% during the last 5 years.
• A very high-resolution (400 metre) Air Quality Early Warning System (AQEWS) integrated with a Decision Support System
(DSS) for air quality has been developed, showing an accuracy of 88% for predicting extreme pollution events.
• A new Multimodal ensemble technique for the forecast of tropical cyclones was introduced.
Communication System Networks
• Website released for alerts on block-level weather forecasts and advisories for farmers, fisherfolk and livestock rearers.
Appreciation
• Appreciations from the United Nations for early warning services provided by IMD during Super Cyclone Amphan in 2020 and
Cyclone MOCHA in 2023.
Challenges Faced by IMD in Accurate Weather Prediction
• Limited Weather Models: The IMD relies on weather models to make predictions. However, these models
have limited capacity and are gradually being improved.
• Data Interpretation: Forecasters need to analyze multiple satellite images, radar data, and hints from models to
enhance accuracy.
o Sometimes, misinterpretation occurs leading to forecast errors.
• Localized Extreme Weather Events: The IMD faces challenges in predicting cloudbursts, lightning events, and other
localized extreme weather phenomena.
• Tropical Climate: India's tropical climate makes it difficult to predict weather accurately.
o A complex monsoon season can make it difficult to predict weather.
• Human Resource and Training: Recruitment, training, and retention of qualified personnel in meteorology can be a
challenge, impacting the overall forecasting capabilities.
Way Ahead
• Enhanced Data Collection: Invest in advanced technologies and infrastructure to improve the accuracy and
availability of climate data, including satellite observations, ground-based measurements, and ocean monitoring.
• Global Collaboration: Foster international cooperation and collaboration in sharing data, technologies, and expertise
to address regional variations and global climate challenges collectively.
• Predictive Analytics and Artificial Intelligence: Leverage advanced predictive analytics and artificial intelligence tools
to enhance the precision of climate predictions and identify patterns in complex climate systems.
• Early Warning Systems: Develop and implement robust early warning systems to effectively communicate and
mitigate the impact of extreme weather events, especially in vulnerable regions.
• Capacity Building: Strengthen the capacity of meteorological agencies and institutions through training programs,
knowledge sharing, and skill development to enhance their ability to monitor and predict climate trends.

5.5. INDIAN LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY MAP
Why in the News?
IIT Delhi created the first hi-resolution Indian Landslide Susceptibility Map (ILSM).
About Indian Landslide Susceptibility Map (ILSM)
• A landslide susceptibility map divides the terrain into zones based on the likelihood of landslide occurrence.
Key Feature of ILSM
• Innovative Framework for High-Resolution Landslide Mapping: Embracing big data and use of multiple machine
learning models with different underlying principles.
o The map model incorporates 16 landslide conditioning factors such as height, slope, soil composition, road
distance, river proximity, vegetation cover, precipitation, etc.
• High Spatial Resolution Mapping: Map has a spatial resolution of 100 metres with over 95% accuracy.
• Multi-Class Vulnerability Classification: Divides
India into Five Vulnerability Classes (refer to
map).
Key Findings of ILSM
• Overall Landscape Susceptibility to Landslides
in India: Map classifies 13.17% of India's
geographical area as susceptible to landslides.
o 4.75% of the area is categorized as "very
highly susceptible."
o Geological Survey of India estimates a
slightly lower figure at 12.6%.
• Regional Variation in Susceptibility:
o Sikkim has the highest percentage of land
area (57.6 %) susceptible to landslides.
o Arunachal Pradesh has the highest absolute
area susceptible to landslides.
o Kerala, among the non-Himalayan regions,
exhibits the highest area susceptible to
landslides.
• Identification of New Landslide-Prone Zones:
Eastern Ghats show landslide-prone zones
identified by the map.
o These zones were not reported by previous
models or government records.
Significance of ILSM
• Policy Formulation and Implementation: It
serves as a foundation for the formulation and
implementation of policies related to disaster
risk reduction, providing a data-driven approach for governments and agencies.
• Scientific Understanding of Landslide Dynamics: Helping researchers and scientists study factors contributing to
landslides and refine prediction models.
• Early Warning and Preparedness: The map provides crucial information for identifying areas with high susceptibility
to landslides, enabling early warning systems and preparedness measures.

About Landslide
• Phenomena: Landslides occur when gravity forces pushing
on hill slope material exceed the frictional forces holding the
material in place, causing slope failure.
o Landslide susceptibility represents this potential for
slope failure.
o Due to steep slopes and heavy rainfall most of the
landslides occur in the northwest Himalayas followed by
the northeast Himalayas and the Western Ghats.
• Causes: Landslides are caused by complex interactions of
geological, geomorphological, hydrological, and
meteorological characteristics.
o Geological Factors Influencing Landslides in the
Himalayas: The Himalayas are composed of sedimentary
rocks which are prone to denudation and erosion.
✓ Steep slopes and rapid rivers contribute to toe
erosion making the slope unstable.
✓ Most of the landslides in the Himalayas are rockfalls.
o Geological Dynamics of Landslides in the Western Ghats: The presence of basalt rocks and gentle-sloped rivers
in the Western Ghats resulted in fewer rockfalls. However, weathering due to heavy rainfall has led to the
development of a thick layer of regolith, thereby leading to mudslides.
o Role of Rainfall in Landslide Triggering: Rainfall intensity and duration as critical factors for landslide initiation.
✓ Western Ghats require less rainfall to trigger landslides when compared to the Himalayas due to the high
soil depth in Western Ghats.
✓ High soil depth allows more water retention and an increased porewater pressure ultimately leading to
landslides.
o Anthropogenic Contributions to Landslide Risk: Road development and construction contribute to slope
instability.
Initiatives Taken by India
• National Landslide Risk Management Strategy released by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): The
strategy document brings out the message of the need to strengthen and mainstream landslide disaster
preparedness, mitigation, response and relief mechanisms through
o Landslide Hazard Zonation: It covers aspects of reliability and validation of landslide zoning maps in the Indian
scenario and proposes a plan of activities for landslide zoning.
o Landslide Monitoring and Early Warning System
o Awareness generation and capacity building
o Preparation of Mountain Zone Regulations and Policies
o Stabilization and Mitigation of Landslide and Creation of Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for Landslide
Management
• National Landslide Susceptibility Mapping (NLSM) Programme: Launched in 2014-15, under it Geological Survey of
India has completed landslide susceptibility mapping of 4.3 lakh sq. km. of landslide-prone areas in the country.
• Landslide Atlas of India: The database covers landslide-vulnerable regions in 17 states and 2 UTs of India in the
Himalayas and Western Ghats.
o Prepared by National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) of ISRO.
Conclusion
Adopting area-specific measures is crucial for landslide prevention. Enforce restrictions on construction, roads, and
dams in vulnerable areas. Complement with positive actions like large-scale afforestation, bund construction for water
flow control, and encourage terrace farming in northeastern hill states where Jhumming (Slash and Burn/Shifting
Cultivation) is practised.
5.6. PRITHVI VIGYAN (PRITHVI) SCHEME
Why in the news?
The Union Cabinet has approved the overarching scheme “PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)” of Ministry of Earth Sciences.
About PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)
• Ministry: Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES)
• Tenure: Period from 2021-26
• Overall cost: ₹ 4,797 crore
• It encompasses five ongoing sub-
schemes
o ACROSS (Atmosphere &
Climate Research-Modelling
Observing Systems &
Services)
o O-SMART (Ocean Services,
Modelling Application,
Resources and Technology)
o PACER (Polar Science and
Cryosphere Research)
o SAGE (Seismology and
Geosciences)
o REACHOUT (Research, Education, Training, and Outreach)
About sub-schemes of PRITHvi VIgyan (PRITHVI)
Sub-schemes Objectives Major Components
ACROSS Development of global • Monsoon Convection, Clouds, and Climate Change (MC4): To improve the
advanced weather observational database and climate of monsoonal precipitation changes.
prediction models • High Performance Computing System (HPCS): To develop modern
supercomputers, artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms.
• Monsoon Mission (MM-II): Predicting weather/climate extremes and
development of climatic application.
• Atmospheric Observations Network: Aimed at sustenance of observational
network as per World Meteorological Organization standards.
O-SMART Oceanographic research • Ocean observation and network: Provide vital data for operational
activities with the forecast, scientific research and applications.
objectives for providing • Marine Living Resources (MLR) programme: To develop an ecosystem
forecast and services for model for the management of the living resources in the Indian EEZ.
sustainable harnessing of • Programme on ‘Sea Water Quality Monitoring’: To identify the periodical
our oceanic resources. changes in seawater quality.
• Ocean Observation Systems: Provide vital data for operational forecast,
scientific research and applications.
• ‘Ocean-modelling data assimilation and process specific observations’
programme: To measure water quality parameters in the coastal waters
around India in a sustained manner.
• Deep Ocean Mission (DOM): To explore deep ocean for resources and
develop deep sea technologies for sustainable use of ocean resources.
• Other activities:
o Harnessing ocean energy for generating freshwater
o Seafront Research Facility
o Studies on Gas hydrates

PACER Integrates all scientific • Indian Antarctic Programme: Indian Scientific Expeditions, Maintenance of
programs regarding Research bases at Antarctica etc.
studying polar region • Indian Arctic Programme: Study Fjords, climate change, sea level change in
Arctic
• Indian Scientific Expeditions to the Southern Ocean (ISESO): Study
circumpolar current, their role in carbon sequestration, biogeochemistry
and climate change.
SAGE Strengthening • Seismological monitoring and micro-zonation
earthquake monitoring • Geodynamics and surface processes
and research on the • Seismicity and earthquake precursors
Earth’s solid components • Setting up a facility for geochronology
• Scientific deep drilling in the Koynaintra plate seismic zone
• Indian Ocean: Deep ocean observations and dynamics of lithospheric
evolution
REACHOUT Raise awareness in • Research and Development in Earth System Sciences (RDESS)
general public about • Knowledge Resource Center Network (KRCNet)
various schemes/mission • BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate (BCWC)
of MoES in various • International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography (ITCOocean)
scientific aspects related • Development of skilled manpower in Earth system sciences (DESK)
to Earth system science
Significance of integrated R&D efforts under PRITHVI
• Improve understating of the Earth System Sciences by holistically addressing all the five components of the Earth
system.
• Enable development of integrated multi-disciplinary earth science research and innovative programs across
different MoES institutes.
• Boost research in earth system sciences through increased fund availability and cross disciplinary integrative nature
of scheme.
• Address grand challenges of weather and climate, ocean, cryosphere, seismological science and services.
• Converted research into practical solutions for future disasters arising from Climate change, Pollution, Sea level rise,
etc.
• Understand and predict weather accurately due to increased cross-disciplinary coordination and increased
observation data.
• Explore the living and non-living resources for their sustainable harnessing.
• Nurture a skilled workforce of Earth system scientists for the future.
• Help MoES fulfil its mandate to translate Science to Services for the Society.
About the concept ‘Science to service’ for the Society
• It underscores the importance of bridging the gap between scientific research and real-world applications to create tangible
benefits for individuals, communities, and society as a whole.
• Some key aspects and examples of "Science to Services for the Society":
o Research Translation: Actionable solutions involve identifying relevant findings and using them for practical applications
for economic/environmental/social benefit. E.g. Disaster Early Warning Systems,
o Technology Transfer: Involves the process of transferring new discoveries from the laboratory to the marketplace or
other sectors where they can be utilized for societal benefits.
E.g. use of CRISPR-Cas9 in treatment of cancer (CAR-T cell therapy), Development of GM crops, etc.
o Collaboration between Scientists and entrepreneurs: To commercialize scientific discoveries and promote innovation in
product designing and marketing.
E.g. Use of digital technology in marketing.
o Education and Training: Involves disseminating scientific knowledge and expertise to the broader society through
education and training programs. E.g. Skilling and training programs run by government.

5.7. NEWS IN SHORTS
5.7.1. REPORT ON ‘TRADE POLICY TOOLS in 2021 and 2022 for ex-post facto clearance for mining
FOR CLIMATE ACTION’ projects.
o Such ex-post facto clearance provides projects to
• Report titled ‘Trade Policy Tools for Climate Action’ carry out operations without getting
released by World Trade Organization (WTO). environmental clearances.
• It covers ten trade policy areas that governments could o Earlier, prior environmental clearance was
consider as part of their strategies to promote mandated under Environmental Impact
sustainability and support UNFCCC-COP28’s climate Assessment (EIA) notification of 2006.
mitigation efforts. o However, in 2017, government provided a six-
month window for alleged violators to apply for
Major Trade Actions post facto clearances. This was stayed by the
Policy Tools Madras HC.
Trade facilitation Speed up customs clearance, reducing o In 2021, ministry issued standard operating
Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions
procedures for processing EIA applications
associated with inefficient customs
procedures, etc.
allowing ex facto environment clearance.
Regulations and Use international standards to avoid • About EIA
certification regulatory fragmentation when o It is defined as a tool used to identify
upgrading energy efficiency regulations. environmental, social and economic impacts of a
Import tariffs Accelerate transition to green economy project prior to decision-making.
by rebalancing tariff policies that may o Under Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, India
inadvertently benefit carbon-intensive notified its first EIA norms in 1994, and subsequent
sectors amendments were made.
Subsidies Unlock additional resources to assist o EIA aimed at imposing certain restrictions and
climate action by reforming
prohibitions on new projects, or on expansion of
environmentally harmful support
existing projects etc. based on their potential
measures.
Sanitary and Protect economies from spread of environmental impacts, unless prior
phytosanitary disease and pests exacerbated by climate environmental clearance has been accorded.
measures change by strengthening sanitary and
phytosanitary systems.
Internal taxation Reduce policy fragmentation and
and carbon compliance costs by improving
pricing coordination of climate-related issues
etc.
• Impact of Trade on Climate

o About 20-30 percent of total CO2 emissions, which
account for most GHG emissions, are estimated to
be associated with international trade.
✓ Sectors including energy and transportation
account for more than 75 percent of GHG
emissions embedded in international trade.
o Accelerate use of natural resources which in turn
can increase pressure on ecosystems.
o Environmental damage e.g. Rise in palm oil
demand led to clearing of rainforest in Indonesia.
5.7.2. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

5.7.3. MEGALOSAURUS
ASSESSMENT (EIA)
• 2024 marks the bicentennial (200th year) of the first
• Supreme Court Stays MoEF&CC's office memorandum
scientific naming of a dinosaur, the megalosaurus
on ex-post facto environmental clearance.
(meaning great lizard).
• Stay is imposed on orders issued by Ministry of
o These carnivorous dinosaur’s fossils were
Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC)
discovered in Oxfordshire, England (UK).
o In 1824, they were named based on scattered collaboration among businesses, government
bones, including vertebrae, and hip. entities, research institutions, etc. from both
• Dinosaurs are a diverse group of reptiles of the clade countries.
Dinosauria. o It is inspired by initiatives like India-Denmark
o They belong to the Mesozoic Era ((252-66 million Energy Partnership, and joint R&D efforts on
years ago) which includes three consecutive Green Fuels, etc.
geologic periods (Triassic, Jurassic, and • Goals and significance
Cretaceous). o Strengthen collaboration in sustainable energy
o They are believed to be ancestors of modern Birds. solutions.
o Advance joint goals towards carbon neutrality.
5.7.4. LATITUDINAL DIVERSITY o Enables renewable energy production in India
GRADIENT (LDG) towards ambition to be global leader in green
energy value chain.
• A recent study examined role of major classes of
o Help in accelerating net zero emissions by 2070.
Mycorrhizal Fungi - arbuscular mycorrhizal and
o Foster innovation, collaboration, and partnerships
ectomycorrhizal in LDG.
among firms, businesses, and government.
• LDG refers to the pattern of having lots of species at
• Green fuels, also called green hydrocarbons, biofuels,
the equator with diversity reducing towards poles.
are fuel produced from biomass sources through
• Study found that:
variety of biological and thermochemical processes.
o Mycorrhizal fungi form mutually beneficial
relationships with majority of plant roots globally.
o Arbuscular fungi, common near equator promote
diversity.
o Ectomycorrhizal fungi, common at higher latitudes
support single tree species, reducing diversity.
5.7.6. 5 YEARS OF NATIONAL CLEAN AIR

PROGRAMME (NCAP)
• Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
(MoEFCC) launched NCAP in 2019 in the backdrop of
5.7.5. GREEN FUELS ALLIANCE INDIA the rising air pollution in the country.
(GFAI) • About NCAP:
o About: Aims to improve air quality in 131 cities
• Denmark announces Green Fuels Alliance India (GFAI) (non-attainment cities (NAC) and Million Plus
initiative. Cities) in 24 States by engaging all stakeholders.
• It is part of Green Strategic Partnership (GSP) signed in ✓ The cities which are exceeding the National
2020 between India and Denmark. Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) for 5
o Its primary objective is to promote sustainable consecutive years are identified as NAC by
energy growth in India by encouraging Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
o Target: To achieve reductions up to 40% of 5.7.8. GLOBAL OCEAN HEAT CONTENT
Particulate Matter (PM10 and PM2.5) (OHC)
concentrations by 2025-26, base year 2017.
o Implementation: CPCB at the national level. • In 2023, Global Ocean Heat Content (OHC) doubled or
✓ Under it, City Action Plan’s (CAPs) are tripled since the late 1980s, shows study.
implemented by state government and its • Key Findings:
agencies at state and city level (Municipal o Amount of heat stored in the upper 2,000 metres
bodies). of the global ocean reached 286 Zetajoules (ZJ) in
o PRANA (Portal for Regulation of Air-pollution in 2023 relative to the 1981–2010 average.
NAC) has been also launched monitor the o 2023 estimate of ocean heat content (OHC)
implementation of NCAP. represents around 4.6 billion Hiroshima nuclear
• NCAP's progress in last 5 years reveals a mixed bombs.
scenario. o As Oceans absorb 90% of heat from global
o As per studies, PM2.5 in 27 cities recorded warming, the Atlantic, North and Western Pacific,
improvements out of 49 cities. and Southern Oceans are warming at a faster rate
o Similarly, for PM10, 24 cities saw an improvement than the global average.
out of 46. • About OHC:
o In terms of cities, Varanasi achieved a significant o It is defined as the total amount of heat absorbed
reduction in PM2.5 and PM10 levels, along with by and stored in the oceans and measurements of
Agra and Jodhpur. water temperature reflect the amount of heat in
the water at a particular time and location.
o It is measured in Joules, the unit of energy.
o Water has a higher heat capacity than air, which
means that it can store much larger amounts of
heat.
• Role of Ocean Heat Content:
o Affects Earth's energy, water, and carbon cycles.
o Important indicator of Climate change.
o When the ocean warms, it releases heat and
moisture into the atmosphere intensifying storms,
causing severe weather events.
o Lowering the level of oxygen in the water.
o Rising ocean temperatures directly affect Corals.
5.7.9. CONJOINED SILVERLINE

(CIGARITIS CONJUNCTA)
• It is a new butterfly species identified in Karnataka’s
5.7.7. GLOBAL RISK REPORT 2024
Kodagu district.
• Report is based on Global Risks Perception Survey and o It is first such find in Western ghats in last 4
annually released by World Economic Forum. decades.
• Key findings • It consists of fused spots and bands on underside of
o India’s top five risks: Misinformation and wings, and shiny silver lines in centre of those bands.
Disinformation (MI); Infectious diseases; Illicit • While males have “dark shining blue” wings, females
economic activity; Inequality (wealth and income); have “dark brown” wings.
and Labour shortage. • Lower tips of their wings have a pattern of orange dots
o Global short-term risks: MI; Extreme Weather that look like “false head” to protect them from
Events (EWS); Societal polarization; Cyber predatory attacks.
insecurity; etc.
o Global long-term risks: EWS; Critical change to 5.7.10. HUMBOLDT’S ENIGMA
Earth systems; Biodiversity loss and ecosystem • It was proposed by Alexander von Humboldt stating
collapse etc. that mountain regions generally display higher
diversity than tropical regions.

• While the conventional belief is that the world’s
tropical areas have greater productivity and diversity.
• The proponents of Humboldt’s enigma hold that many
areas outside the tropics are also highly biodiverse.
i.e., the Mountains
• Supporting this, scientists have also found that the
more heterogeneous the geological composition of
mountains is, the more biodiverse they are.
5.7.11. HIMALAYAN WOLF
• First-ever IUCN assessment of the Himalayan Wolf
published.
• Major Findings:
o Declining Population: IUCN’s assessment has
flagged a ‘continuing decline in area, extent and/or
quality of habitat’ of Himalayan wolves.
o Estimated total population of 2,275–3,792 (227–
378 in India) mature individuals.
o Major threats
✓ Depredation Conflict: Due to Habitat
modification and encroachment and depletion
of wild prey populations. 5.7.12. TIBETAN BROWN BEAR
✓ Hybridization with Dogs: Especially in Ladakh • India has recorded its first-ever confirmed sighting of a
and Spiti where populations of feral dogs are rare Tibetan brown bear (Ursus arctos pruinosus) in
increasing. Sikkim.
✓ Illegal Hunting: For trade in its fur and body • About Tibetan Brown Bear
parts including paws, tongues, heads, etc. o It is also known as the Tibetan blue bear.
• About Himalayan Wolf (Canis lupus ssp. chanco) o It is an omnivore (eat and survive on both plant and
o Habitation: High altitude (above 3,900m) in the animal matter)
Himalayas (Nepal and India) and the Tibetan o Feature: Has a distinctive ‘V’ shaped white chest
Plateau. mark
o Possess genetic adaptations to cope with hypoxic o Habitat: Inhabits alpine forests, meadows, and
conditions. steppe, at elevations from 2,000 to 4,500 metres.
o Characteristics: Thick fur with brown coloration on ✓ Mainly found in Nepal, Bhutan and the
the back and tail with paler yellows on the face, Tibetan plateau.
limbs, and underside. o Status:
o Larger than the Indian and European wolves. ✓ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 (Schedule 1)
o Prefer wild over domestic prey. ✓ CITES (Appendix 1)
o Conservation Status
✓ IUCN’s Red List: Vulnerable 5.7.13. KUMKI ELEPHANTS
✓ Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I
✓ CITES: Appendix I • The Odisha government requested the deployment of
kumki elephants from Tamil Nadu to address
escalating human-elephant conflicts.
• Kumkis, trained captive elephants, excel in trapping,
rescuing, and tranquilizing wild elephants.
o Their strategic deployment aims to mitigate
damage to crops, human settlements, and
minimize the risk to both human and elephant
lives.
o Additionally, kumki elephants prove valuable for
forest patrolling and rescue operations.
o Tamil Nadu has used Kumkis successfully.

5.7.14. VULTURE RESTAURANT
• Vulture restaurant set up in Jharkhand to conserve
Critically Endangered species.
• A ‘Vulture Restaurant’ has been established in
Koderma district, Jharkhand to address adverse
impact of livestock drugs, particularly diclofenac, on
vultures.
o Vulture restaurant is an undisturbed area where
non-toxic, poison-free meat and carcasses are
provided for vultures and other scavengers.
✓ There are other such restaurants in Raigad,
Gadhchiroli and Nashik district in
Maharashtra and Kangra district in Himachal
Pradesh.
o Diclofenac is Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory
drugs, used in veterinary practice that has been
proven toxic to vultures and other birds of prey.
• Vultures are large carrion-eating birds found mainly in
tropics and subtropics.
o 9 species of vultures are found in India. Out of
them, 3 species are migratory (Cinereous vulture,
Griffon vulture and Himalayan vulture).
o They maintain clean environment by acting as
nature's garbage collectors and control spread of
wildlife diseases from rotting corpse.
• Conservation status: Protected under Schedule (1) of
Wildlife Protection Act 1972.
• Threats: Loss of natural habitats due to human 5.7.15. EURASIAN OTTER
activities, Food scarcity, Population decline due to
exposure to drug diclofenac, Electrocution by power • Recently, Eurasian otter was found in the Chinnar
lines etc. Wildlife Sanctuary in Kerala.
• Vulture Conservation Initiatives • About Eurasian otter (Lutra lutra):
o Ban on Veterinary use of Diclofenac (2006), o Features: Shy, nocturnal, good swimmer and fish
Ketoprofen and Aceclofenac (2023). catcher etc.
o Action Plan for Vulture Conservation in India o Habitat: Semi-aquatic, lives in water bodies,
2020-25. marshes, swamp forests, coastal areas etc.
o Vulture Conservation Breeding Centre in Pinjore, o Distribution:
Haryana. ✓ World: Europe, Asia and Africa.
✓ India: Northern, northeast and southern
India.
o Conservation Status:
✓ IUCN List: Nearly Threatened
✓ Wildlife Protection Act: Schedule I
✓ CITES: Appendix I
• Threats: Pollution, poaching, habitat loss, accidental
trapping etc.

5.7.16. BINTURONG (ARCTICTIS • Efforts taken to control Invasive Species
BINTURONG) AND SMALL-CLAWED o Target 6 of Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity
Framework eliminates IAS impacts on biodiversity
OTTER (AONYX CINEREUS)
by 2030.
• These two new mammalian species were added to list o Global Invasive Species Programme, 1997.
of fauna in Assam’s Kaziranga National Park. o Ramsar Convention.
o Both are listed under Schedule I of Wildlife About Gambusia
Protection Act 1972. • Native to U.S, it has been introduced as a form of
• Binturong (Bearcat) largest civet in India. biological mosquito control. It feeds on mosquito larvae.
o Native: South-East Asia. • It lives in Shallow waters and penetrates dense
o Distribution: India (Meghalaya, Sikkim), Indonesia, vegetation growth where larvae and pupae hide.
Thailand, Malaysia, etc. • In 1928, Gambusia was first introduced in India during
British rule.
o Conservation: Vulnerable (IUCN); Appendix III
(CITES). 5.7.18. KURIL ISLANDS
• Small-clawed otter (Asian Small-clawed Otter)
primarily found in freshwater habitats. • Earthquake of magnitude 6.3 on the Richter scale
o Distribution: India (West Bengal, Assam, Arunachal occurred in Kuril Islands.
Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala), • Kuril Islands is an archipelago that extends from
Southeast Asia and Southern China. Kamchatka Peninsula (Russia) to Hokkaido Island
o Conservation: Vulnerable (IUCN); Appendix I (Japan).
(CITES). ○ It separates the Sea of Okhotsk from Pacific
Ocean.
5.7.17. INVASIVE MOSQUITOFISH ○ Many of its islands are geologically active.
SPECIES ○ Russia and Japan both assert sovereignty over
four islands (referred to as the Northern
• These two species of mosquitofish are Gambusia
Territories in Japan and South Kurils in Russia).
affinis and Gambusia holbrooki. Both are detrimental
Invasive Alien Species.
o Mosquitofish was introduced into local water
bodies to address mosquito menace by states like
Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and Punjab.
o Their feeding habits and aggressive behavior in
habitats have led to extinction of endemic species.
• Invasive Alien Species (IAS) are animals, plants or
other organisms that are introduced from outside their
natural range, negatively impacting native
biodiversity, ecosystem services or human well-being.
Example, Water hyacinth, Lantana, etc.
o Globalization through increasing trade, transport,
travel and tourism increases introductions of
invasive species to new areas.
• Impact of Invasive Alien Species 5.7.19. WILLINGDON ISLAND
o Economic Impact: Global economic cost of IAS • The demand has been raised to revive Willingdon
exceeded $423 billion annually in 2019. Island, which took on a deserted appearance following
o Food Security: Invasive species are major cause of the relocation of container terminal operations to
crop loss and degraded soil quality. Vallarpadam (Kerala).
o Ecological Impact: 1 in 10 species on IUCN Red List • Willingdon Island
are threatened by IAS. o It is one of the largest man-made islands in the
o Heath Impact: They can serve as vectors for country, located near Kochi.
infectious diseases. Example, Malaria, West Nile o The island was created in 1933 and named after
Fever etc. the then British Viceroy of India, Lord Willingdon.

o The island was created with soil trench produced 5.7.21. WILDLIFE (PROTECTION)
during the deepening of the famous Vembanad LICENSING (ADDITIONAL MATTERS FOR
Lake for the construction of the modern Kochi
CONSIDERATION) RULES, 2024
Port.
• Ministry of Environment Forest and Climate Change
5.7.20. DEEP-SEA CORAL REEF (MoEFCC) notified Wildlife (Protection) Licensing
• Scientists mapped largest deep-sea coral reef off the (Additional Matters for Consideration) Rules, 2024
US Atlantic coast • These rules aim to replace Wildlife (Protection)
• Underwater mapping technology enables to construct Licensing (Additional Matters for Consideration)
3D images of ocean floor, facilitating the mapping of Rules, 1983.
coral reef at depth 200 meters to 1,000 meters where • 1983 rules prohibited issuing licences to trade in a wild
sunlight doesn't penetrate. animal categorised under Schedule I or Part II of
o More of ocean floor is covered by deep-sea reefs Schedule II under Wildlife Protection Act (WPA) 1972.
than by tropical reefs, which are found at 0-30 o Licences were granted in exceptional cases with
meters depth with light penetration. previous approval of central government.
✓ Great Barrier Reef in Australia is the biggest o This condition has been changed in 2024 rules.
tropical coral reef system in world. • New 2024 rules
• Deep-sea corals are colonies of small animals that o No such licence shall be granted if it relates to any
build a common skeleton, which grows into many wild animal specified in Schedule I to the Act,
shapes and colors. They provide habitat for sharks, except with previous consultation of Central
swordfish, shrimp, fish etc. Government.
• Corals are invertebrate animals belonging to a large • Chief Wildlife Warden or an Authorised Officer issues
group of colourful animals called Cnidaria. the licence based on parameters like existing licences
o Coral reefs are made up of colonies of hundreds to and implications of licence on hunting or trade of wild
thousands of tiny individual corals, called polyps. animals concerned etc.
o These marine animals have hard exoskeletons • Impact of New Rules: Might adversely affect mammals
made of calcium carbonate. and birds enlisted in Schedule II, as some of them are
o In India, Coral reefs are found in Gulf of Kutch, Gulf already endangered. Examples: Bulbuls, Falcons,
of Mannar, Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep Turtles, Geckos, Snakes, Bats etc.
Islands and Malvan (Maharashtra). • Earlier, Wildlife Protection (Amendment) Act, 2022
• Importance of Corals: Protect coastlines from storms has reduced the number of Schedules from 6 (as of
and erosion; Provide jobs for local communities; Offer 1972 act) to 4. (Refer Table)
opportunities for recreation etc. Schedule I Animal species with highest level of protection.
• Threats to Corals: Disturbance from oil and gas drilling, Example: Blackbuck, Sloth Bear, Cheetah, Swamp
Ocean acidification, Unsustainable fishing, Coral Deer etc.
harvesting etc. Schedule Animals with lesser levels of protection.
II Example: Nilgai, Indian Flying fox, Andaman
Difference between Deep Sea Corals and Shallow Water Bulbul etc.
Corals Schedule Protected Plant species.
Specifications Deep Sea Coral Shallow-water corals III Example: Neel Kurinji, Pitcher plant, Tree
Diversity of Rely either by Rely on turmeric etc.
corals feeding on photosynthetic algae Schedule Specimens listed in Appendices under
organic material (tiny single-celled IV Convention on International Trade in
falling from plants, known as Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
surface or by zooxanthellae) that (CITES).
feeding on small live within corals and Example: River Dolphin, Spider Monkeys, etc.
plankton provide their hosts
with nutrition 5.7.22. WADGE BANK ECOSYSTEM
Appearance White in Brown and green • Wadge Bank Ecosystem may be impacted by proposed
coloration colors due to algae
exploration and development of oil and gas blocks.
Structure Groves in form of Rock-like reefs
formed tree, feather,
o These blocks will be explored under the
column, or fan Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy
shapes, etc. (HELP).

• About Wadge Bank Ecosystem 5.7.23. KUNO NATIONAL PARK (KNP)
o It lies south of Cape Comorin in the Kanyakumari
district in Tamil Nadu. • Recently, a Namibian cheetah translocated to KNP
o It is part of Indian continental shelf. under Project Cheetah, gave birth to 4 cubs.
o It is one of the most productive coastal areas in the • About Kuno National Park
world. o Location: In Madhya Pradesh and is a part of
o In this region, seas (Bay of Bengal and Arabian Sea) Central Indian Vindhyan Hills.
meet with a distinct pattern of water currents in o Forest: Dry Deciduous.
different seasons (southwest and northeast o River: Kuno river is main source of water.
monsoon). o Flora: Mainly dominated by Kardhai, Salai, Khair
trees, along with vast grasslands.
o Fauna: Spotted deer, Chousingha, Nilgai, Black
buck, Leopard, Wild dog or Dhole, etc.

6. SOCIAL ISSUES
6.1. SOCIALISM IN INDIA
Why in the News?
Eminent Socialist leader and former Chief Minister of Bihar Karpoori Thakur has been conferred with Bharat Ratna,
posthumously.
Contribution of Karpoori Thakur towards Socialism in India
• Social Justice
o Implemented Mungerilal Lal Commission's recommendations to provide for reservations for backward castes in public
employment and government educational institutions.
✓ Split backward castes in two blocs (sub-categorization) to ensure social justice within backward communities
(popularly known as 'Karpoori Formula').
✓ It set the stage for implementation of Mandal Commission report.
o Implemented 3% reservations for women and another 3% for poor segments of upper castes which was later struck
down by the judiciary.
o Conducted Panchayati Raj elections in 1978, to reconfigure upper caste hegemony in rural power structure. (Next
Panchayati Raj elections in Bihar were held only in 2001.)
• Education
o Abolished English language being compulsory for school students, to enable deprived people to move up.
o Made teaching of Hindi mandatory for Christian missionary schools.
o Did away with fee for children from a weaker economic background.
• Credited with enforcing total prohibition of alcohol in Bihar in 1970.
About Socialism
• Socialism deals with principles which envisage the establishment of a society where all individuals enjoy equality in
different walks of life – economic, political, social, etc.
• Two types of socialism: Revolutionary (Marxian) socialism and Evolutionary socialism.
o Revolutionary: Holds that socialism can be brought about only by violent revolution by abolishing private
property and establishing the dictatorship of the proletariat.
o Evolutionary: Believes social forces wishing to bring socialism should help organs of the state to form policies
which are socialistic and should get them implemented.
• Prominent Indian socialist leaders include Acharya Narendra Dev, Jaya Prakash Narayan, and Ram Manohar Lohia,
among others.
o Acharya Narendra Dev's visit to address a peasant rally at Waini motivated Karpoori Thakur to join the freedom
movement and Socialist politics.
Contributions of Socialist politics in India
• Pre – independence
o Socialist ideals like anti-colonialism, equality, social justice, etc., provided an ideological framework for freedom
struggle.
o Socialist leaders and organizations played a prominent role in grassroots mobilization and organizing workers,
peasants, and marginalized communities in the nationalist movement.
• Post – independence
o Constitutional: Ideals of equality and social justice enshrined in the Constitution are inspired by socialist
principles.
o Strengthening democracy: Socialist leaders, parties, and movements led to the emergence of regional political
parties which played a crucial role in strengthening the Indian democratic system.
✓ Socialist parties and movements consistently critiqued dominant socio-economic structures holding the
state accountable and pushing for reforms.

o Economic policy: Socialist policies emphasized on role of the state in the development of key sectors like steel,
energy, heavy industries, etc.
✓ This led to the development of the Mahalanobis Plan under the Second Five-Year Plan (1956 - 61) and
creation of Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs).
o Social welfare: Socialist principles influenced establishment of different welfare programmes for weaker and
marginalized sections such as Public Distribution System, reservation policies, etc.
✓ Different socialist movements like the Bhoodan movement by Acharya Vinobha Bhave not just directly
benefitted the underprivileged but also affected the country’s policies and schemes such as land reforms.
Contemporary Relevance of Socialism in India
• Economic inequality: Addressing stark economic equality needs emphasis on socialist principles such as wealth
redistribution, guaranteed access to basic necessities, etc.
o e.g., Mandatory Corporate Social Responsibility and Progressive taxation policy are, in essence, a reflection of
socialist ideals in the economic sphere.
• Issues with Capitalism: Market-driven model of growth is associated with different sets of issues such as exploitation
of labour, environmental degradation, etc.
o In such a context, socialism can prove to be an alternative to promote collective well-being over individual
profits.
• Social justice imperative: Persistent social issues such as caste discrimination, disparity in access to basic amenities
like health and education, etc., call for the inclusion of socialist principles in state policies.
Contemporary Challenges for Socialism
• LPG reforms: Economic liberalization under LPG (Liberalization, Privatization, and Globalization) reforms in the early
1990s resulted in a shift socialist policy of the past towards a more market-oriented approach.
o Integration of the Indian economy with the Global economy resulted in greater emphasis on the need to
participate in global trade and attract foreign investment.
• Adverse economic precedents: Stagnant growth rate (around 4% - termed by some scholars as ‘Hindu Rate of
Growth’) during the pre-LPG reforms era.
o Economic and business activities during that era were characterized by License-Quota-Permit Raj which resulted
in rent-seeking activities, and inefficient performance of PSEs, among others.
• Political: Fragmented political ecosystem with the emergence of stronger regional parties and deviation from
ideologies for electoral gains.
• Socio-cultural: Growing middle-class aspirations for material prosperity make individual aspirations as incompatible
with the collective well-being advocated by socialism.
Way Forward
• Balancing socialism with market economy: Strike an effective balance between state intervention and market
mechanisms to achieve inclusive and sustainable development.
o Promote a socially responsive market economy by ensuring effective implementation of concepts like Corporate
Social Responsibility, ESG, etc., in corporate governance.
• Strengthen public sector efficiency: By enhancing transparency, improving accountability, and reducing the
bureaucratic red tape to curb corruption and enhance the effectiveness of service delivery to citizens.
• Encourage democratic socialism: Through participatory decision-making and civic engagement in policymaking to
reflect diverse needs and aspirations in policies of the State.
o Harness technology, such as digital platforms, for efficient governance, citizen engagement, and empowering
marginalized communities.

6.2. PRADHAN MANTRI ADI ADARSH GRAM YOJANA (PMAAGY)
Why in the news?
The Parliamentary panel on Social Justice and Empowerment has highlighted slow pace of implementation of the
Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana (PMAAGY).
About PMAAGY
• Vision: Aims to achieve integrated development of 36,428
villages with more than 500 tribal populations and 50% or
more ST persons in them.
o It is a revamped version of the Special Central Assistance
to Tribal Sub-Scheme (2017), under which funds were
provided to the States with notified STs for the
development and welfare of tribal people.
• Objectives:
o Preparation of Village Development Plans.
o Maximizing the benefit of the schemes of the Centre and
States to the Scheduled Population.
o Improving the infrastructure in vital sectors like health, education, connectivity and livelihood.
• Ministry: Ministry of Tribal Affairs
• Convergence: Converges with 58 schemes of the Centre and the States that have Schedule Tribe Component to
bridge various gaps.
To know more about the scheme, refer Appendix at the end of the document.
Challenges in the implementation of the Scheme
• Delay in allocation of funds: In 2 years of its implementation funds have been released only for less than 40% of the
number of villages approved.
• Lack of a fixed time limit: There is no time limit fixed for the integrated development of each village.
• Low rate of approval of Village development plans: Only 24% of the villages identified under the Integrated Plan
were approved by the Project Appraisal Committee in 2 years.
• Lack of implementation guidelines/Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): The Ministry of Tribal Affairs is yet to come
up with a clear implementation guideline to streamline the process.
• Lack of Specific data: The specific data on the population of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in several
States/UTs is not available.
Way forward
• Lay down guidelines/SOPs: Clear guidelines concerning the integrated development of tribal villages along with a
specified time limit.
o As a corollary, standardise Village Development Plans to reduce the delays in approval and fund allocation.
• Review the criteria for selection of villages: Steps can be taken to include villages that have less than 50% ST
population for a more holistic and inclusive implementation of the scheme.
• Monitoring of the implementation: Necessary support systems need to be created at the District/Division level to
help the Project Monitoring Unit in coordination with the District Level Committee.
• Creation and maintenance of a reliable database: The database related to the status of PVTGs in various states and
implemented development plans can be maintained centrally by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

6.3. NEWS IN SHORTS
6.3.1. GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE 6.3.2. ALLIANCE FOR GLOBAL GOOD-
GENDER EQUITY AND EQUALITY
• National Workshop on Role of Panchayati Raj
Institutions (PRIs) in Addressing Gender-Based • India announced a new alliance for Global Good,
Violence Organised. Gender Equity and Equality at the World Economic
• During workshop “Panchayats Free From Gender- Forum (WEF) Annual Meeting in Davos, Switzerland.
Based Violence (GBV) – A Handbook for Elected o It aims to bring together global best practices,
Representatives” was released. foster knowledge sharing, and attract
• Need to address GBV in rural India investments in key areas such as women’s health,
o Wide prevalence of sensitive issues like Child education, and enterprise.
Marriage, Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence o It builds on commitments of G20 Leaders’
etc. in rural areas. Declaration and India’s dedication to women-led
o Commitments under International Conventions development.
like Convention on Elimination of All forms of o Supported by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation,
Discrimination against Women and Convention and anchored by Confederation of Indian Industry
on Rights of Child. Centre for Women Leadership.
o Promote SDG 5: Gender-based plan addressing o WEF will be a ‘Network Partner’ and Invest India
GBV will promote gender equality. an ‘Institutional Partner’.
o Localization of Sustainable Development Goals
(LSDGs) Theme 9 aims Women Friendly Villages, 6.3.3. PRERANA PROGRAM
ensuring protection, economic & inclusive growth • Ministry of Education (MoE) launched the “Prerana:
etc. of women. An Experiential Learning program” to empower
participants with leadership qualities
• It is a week-long residential program for selected
students of class IX-XII.
○ 20 Students are selected for each batch (10 boys
and 10 girls)
• It is to run from a Vernacular School, established in
1888, in Vadnagar (Gujarat)
• The curriculum was prepared by IIT Gandhi Nagar
based on nine value-based themes.
• It aims to embody the spirit of "Vasudhaiva
Kutumbakam" and foster unity in diversity.
6.3.4. DENOTIFIED, NOMADIC AND SEMI-

NOMADIC TRIBES (DNTS)
• National Human Rights Commission stresses on the
need for implementation of Idate Commission report.
• Idate Commission or the National Commission for
Denotified, Nomadic and Semi-Nomadic Tribes was
constituted in 2014 under Bhiku Ramji Idate.
○ The commission was mandated to compile a
state-wise list of Denotified Nomadic and Semi-
Nomadic Tribes (DNTs), identify DNTs not
included in SCs/STs or OBC lists, recommend
measures for their welfare, etc.
• About DNTs
○ These communities were notified as criminals
under the Criminal Tribes Act 1871 by British to
prevent their future engagement with criminal
activities.
✓ They were forcibly alienated from their
traditional occupations and habitations
through other subsequent legislation.
○ The act was repealed by the Indian Government
in 1952 and they were declared DNTs.
● Challenges faced by DNTS
○ There is no Central list for these communities
neither are they recognised as a separate group
(like SC/STs) under the Constitution.
○ They are mostly outside the purview of
government welfare initiatives.
○ They are mostly uneducated and suffer form lack
of basic infrastructure facilities like drinking
water, shelter, healthcare.
• Welfare initiatives:
○ Development and Welfare Board for DNTs
established in 2021 for a period of 3 years
(extendable up to 5 years).
○ Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs
(SEED) for educational empowerment, health
insurance, livelihoods and housing.

011010
100101
The aspirants preparing for the Civil Services Examination often have diverse backgrounds, age groups, work and
familial engagements. In the hustle and bustle of life, staying updated on current affairs is crucial for preparation of
Civil Services.
Considering this fact, the Current Affairs - Quarterly Revision document seeks to aid the preparation of such aspirants,
who have a busy working schedule, seldom face difficulty to read and revise the Monthly Current Affairs Magazine.
The Quarterly Revision document is a curated document designed to reinforce the learning
and revision process for your Civil Services Examination preparation.
They gather all the insightful articles and Government schemes covered in our most recent
three Monthly Current Affairs magazines, providing with a comprehensive but precise
resource to revisit the pivotal topics.
Scan the QR code,

to read the document
Key Features of the
Current Affairs Quarterly Revision
Test Your Learning: A set of 5

Curated for timely revision: Linking with Essential Material: MCQs and 2 descriptive
Designed to cover three months' Connects current affairs to static questions for each section, to
of current affairs, aiding efficient content, enhancing your assess your understanding and
revision. understanding with basic reading also to aid effective retention.
material like NCERTs.
Brief Background: Each article Analysis and Key Information: Clear and Concise Information:
has a brief background that Critical perspectives and Presents information in a
sets the stage for multifaceted viewpoints and focused manner, ensuring
understanding and analysis. facts. quick and effective revision.
We believe Quarterly Document will be the catalyst for your continuous learning journey. When
complemented with PT 365 and Mains 365, it becomes an unbeatable trio, significantly boosting your
confidence in the preparation journey.
Prepare smarter, not harder. Elevate your Civil Services Examination preparation with
the Quarterly Revision Document – the ultimate guide for efficient, targeted, and impactful revision.
7. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
7.1. X-RAY POLARIMETER SATELLITE (XPOSAT)
Why in news?
ISRO successfully launched the X-ray Polarimeter Satellite (XPoSat) by
Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) -C58.
More on news
• PSLV-C58 was the 60th flight of ISRO’s Polar Satellite launch Vehicle.
o PSLV is a 4-stage launch vehicle propelled by Solid fuel at first and
third stages and Liquid fuel at second and fourth stages.
o It has multiple satellite launch capability and multiple orbit
capability.
• After Placing XPoSAT at orbit of 650 km altitude, Fourth stage of PSLV
was brought to a lower altitude (about 350 km) for conducting the
PSLV Orbital Experimental Module-3 (POEM-3) experiment.
o POEM-3 experiment will be executed to meet the objective of 10 identified payloads, supplied by ISRO and IN-
SPACe.
What is Polarization and X-ray polarimetry?
• Normal light (unpolarized light) consists of electric field and magnetic field vectors which vibrate perpendicularly to
each other. (refer to figure)
• Light waves that travel in a single plane are known as polarized light waves.
• The process of transforming unpolarized light into polarized light is known as polarization and can be achieved
through Scattering, reflection, refraction or use of Polaroid/ polarizing filter.
• Studying/measuring the polarization of X-rays is X-Ray polarimetry.
o X-rays are high-energy electromagnetic waves.
• It involves studying:
o Angle of the polarization i.e the direction of electric field vector with
respect to a reference direction.
o Degree of polarization i.e Portion of an electromagnetic wave from a
light source, which is polarized.
About XPoSat (X-ray Polarimeter Satellite)
• XPoSat is the first dedicated satellite from ISRO to carry out research and
measure X-ray emission from celestial sources like black holes and neutron
stars.
• It is the second satellite in the world to study X-ray polarization, first being
NASA’s Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE), launched in 2021.
• XPoSat payloads:
o POLIX (Polarimeter Instrument in X-rays): To measure polarization of
X-rays in the energy band 8-30keV.
✓ It is expected to observe about 40 bright astronomical sources during the mission’s lifetime of about 5 years.
o XSPECT (X-ray Spectroscopy and Timing): To provide fast timing and good spectroscopic resolution in soft X-rays.
✓ It will carry out long-term spectral and temporal studies of cosmic X-ray sources, e.g. pulsars, black hole
binaries, magnetars, etc.
Significance of the Mission
• Understanding the nature of radiations: Polarization measurements lead to better understanding of the emission
processes from astronomical sources.
• Advanced data collection: Polarization study of celestial sources was done either in the optical or radio bands before.
X-ray polarimetry in medium energy band is being done for the first time.
• Chemical Composition of celestial bodies: X ray polarimetry reveals the physics and elemental composition of
celestial bodies like Pulsars, Magnetars etc. and can provide insights into interaction of matter with magnetic fields.
• Better understanding of Universe: X-ray polarization measurements, especially on celestial objects like black holes,
neutron stars, and active galactic nuclei, hold the potential to significantly improve the understanding of their physics.
Conclusion:
XPoSAT is a crucial step forward in quest to understand the intricate workings of complex universe; mission has
implications for various scientific disciplines and technological developments.
About PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM)
• Orbital Platform Experiments in PSLV (PS4-OP) is a novel idea, which uses
the spent PS4 stage (fourth stage of PSLV) as a 3-axis stabilized microgravity
environment for short duration scientific experiments.
• This is intended to carry out in-orbit scientific experiments for an extended
duration of 4-6 months for small scientific payloads.
• The advantage of the platform is that the stage has standard interfaces &
packages for power generation, telemetry, tele-command, stabilization,
orbit keeping & orbit manoeuvring.
• Earlier POEM experiments: POEM 1 and POEM 2 were launched in June
2022 and April 2023 respectively.
Related News
• India’s space telescope AstroSat has for the first-time measured X-ray polarization from the Cygnus X-1 black hole.
o Cygnus X-1 is one of the first confirmed black hole systems in our galaxy.
• About AstroSat
o Launched by ISRO in 2015 using PSLV-C30 in Low Earth Orbit.
o First dedicated Indian astronomy mission with a multi-wavelength space observatory.
o It has five payloads - Ultraviolet Telescope (UVIT), Cadmium Zinc Telluride Imager (CZTI), Scanning sky motor etc.
o Objectives:
✓ To understand high energy processes in binary star systems containing neutron stars and black holes.
✓ Estimate magnetic fields of neutron stars.
✓ Study star birth regions and high energy processes in star systems lying beyond our galaxy.
✓ Detect new briefly bright X-ray sources in the sky.
✓ Perform a limited deep field survey of the Universe in the Ultraviolet region.
7.2. INTERNATIONAL SPACE STATIONS

Why in news?
Russia has extended its cross-flight programme with NASA transporting
astronauts to the International Space Station (ISS) until 2025.
More on News
• Cross-flights have been extended to maintain the reliability of the ISS
operation and will be carried out on Russian and U.S. spacecraft.
o Cross-flights involve sending one Russian cosmonaut as part of an
American crew to the space station, and vice versa- one American
astronaut to the ISS as part of the crew of a Russian spacecraft.

About the International Space Station (ISS)
• It is a habitable artificial satellite, in low Earth orbit (at an altitude of between 370–460 km).
• Key partners for ISS:
o European countries (represented by European Space Agency)
o United States (National Aeronautics and Space Administration)
o Japan (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency)
o Canada (Canadian Space Agency) and
o Russia (Roscosmos)
• Its first component was launched into orbit in 1998 and new modules were added as recently as 2021.
o It will continue to be a working laboratory and outpost in orbit until at least 2030.
• ISS was taken into space piece-by-piece and gradually built in orbit, with its assembly requiring more than 40
missions.
Significance of ISS
• Research and Science: It provides opportunities to conduct meaningful studies on topics such as DNA sequencing,
robotics, and satellites in microgravity environment which is not possible on Earth.
o Research also includes studying effects of long-term space radiation exposure on the human body.
• International Cooperation: International partnership Other Space stations
of space agencies has led to global collaboration in • Russia: Salyut 1 was world's first space station launched by
developing space facilities; communications the Soviet Union on April 19, 1971. Then Russia launched
networks, and scientific research. various space stations from Salyut 2 to Salyut 7, and Mir.
• Human health: Research is being carried out to study • China: Tiangong 1 launched in 2011, Tiangong -2 launched
disease formation, testing drugs and diagnostic tools, in 2016 were test space labs and Tiangong space station
and examining the inner workings of the human was launched in 2021 (fully operational since late 2022).
• USA: Skylab: USA’s first space station, launched by NASA in
body.
1973.
• Low Earth Orbit Economy: ISS is used by small
• Future missions:
businesses and entrepreneurs to test their technology o NASA’s Artemis Base Camp on the moon’s surface and
in space. the Gateway in lunar orbit.
o It supports development of new and improved o India’s Bharatiya Antariksha Station.
products, and provides growth for commercial
ventures.
• Long duration Spaceflight and human habitation: It serves as a testing ground to study how to keep astronauts safe
and healthy on long-duration missions.
About Bharatiya Antariksha Station: India’s own Space Station
• Prime Minister of India directed that India should now aim for setting up ‘Bharatiya Antariksha Station’ (Indian Space Station)
by 2035.
• ISRO is planning to carry out the first tests of the proposed Bharatiya Space Station next year and talks are on with the industry
to manufacture, test and launch its first module by 2028.
• Challenges regarding Indian space station:
o Station building is costly endeavor: India’s R&D expenditure-GDP ratio is low (0.7%).
o Need of expertise in human spaceflight: India will have to train a team of astronauts and ensure their safety and well-
being in space.
o Upgrade needed in ISRO’s technological infrastructure: For components like life support, radiation protection, structural
integrity and orbital maintenance etc.
• Benefits: Advancing scientific knowledge, enhancing the nation’s prestige, promoting global co-operation & peace etc.
7.2.1. SPACE HABITATION

Why in news?
NASA’s plans to create homes and habitable colonies on the moon by 2040 have opened up the debate about the
habitation of the moon as well as other heavenly bodies.

About space habitation
• Space habitation refers to setting up of habitation for humans
beyond earth such as on Moon, Mars etc.
• It could be done in two ways:
o Habitation of the celestial bodies such as mars which come
in the goldilocks zones.
o Building space habitats in form of capsule modules which
can be located anywhere in the solar system. For example:
International Space Station
• Stanford Torus and O’Neill Cylinder have been proposed as self-
sustaining habitats in space which can support agriculture and
various activities in a microgravity environment.
o Stanford Torus proposed by NASA envisions a toroidal (doughnut-shaped) space station with a central hub and a
rotating outer ring.
✓ The rotation would create artificial gravity on the inner surface of the ring, allowing for human habitation.
✓ O'Neill Cylinder, named after physicist Gerard K. O'Neill, consists of a pair of large cylinders rotating in
opposite directions to create artificial gravity on their inner surfaces.
• Different countries such as USA, China, and India have been taking initiatives to send their astronauts to moon and to
explore the possibilities of space habitation.
• Additionally, private space entrepreneurs such as Elon Musk has expressed his desire of building and supporting a
permanent human settlement on Mars.

Issues associated with the space habitations
• Enormous Costs: The development of essential technology and infrastructure for space exploration incurs significant
costs.
o Additionally, the extended gestation period of such technology adds to the financial burden.
• Execution: Managing oxygen, food, medical supplies, power sources, communications, and transportation to and from
Earth poses technical and operational challenges.
• Health Implications: Cosmic radiation, lack of a breathable atmosphere, reduced gravity, isolation, and psychological
stress pose health risks to inhabitants.
• Environmental Modification: Altering other planets' environments may harm their landscapes and contribute to space
debris, with a possibility of triggering the Kessler syndrome.
o The Kessler syndrome envisions a situation where a single collision between two space objects generates debris,
and this debris, in turn, increases the likelihood of further collisions.
• Legal and Political: It includes issues regarding the ownership of resources, governance, and regulation of space
activities.
• Ethical issues: Potential damage to the intrinsic value of alien planets raises ethical concerns.
Way ahead
• Resource Utilization: Reduce Exploration Costs by relying on space resources rather than launching everything from
Earth.
• Technological development: Develop advanced technologies for mining and processing space resources.
o For example, robots designed to scoop icy soil on the Moon, and machines that are capable of thermally extracting
water from the clay minerals of planets.
• Ownership of Habitable Planets: Global collaboration is needed to devise legal framework to address questions of
territorial claims and private property if a country or company makes a planet habitable.
• Ethical Considerations: Engage in ethical discussions around space habitation, addressing issues of commons rights,
risk burden, and justice.
• Collaborative approach: Global collaboration and sharing of knowledge and best practices among stakeholders is also
critical to expand the reach of humanity in the space.
o This collaboration should align
International treaties under UNCOPUOS for governing Outer Space
with international treaties
• Outer Space Treaty: Deals with principles governing the activities of states in the
established by the United
exploration and use of outer space, including the Moon and other celestial
Nations Committee on the bodies.
Peaceful Uses of Outer Space • Rescue Agreement: Deals with the agreement on the rescue and return of
(UNCOPUOS). astronauts, and the return of objects launched into outer space.
Conclusion • Moon Agreement: It is also known as Agreement Governing the Activities of
States on the Moon and Other Celestial Bodies. It governs the activities of states
For space habitation, humans should on the Moon and other celestial bodies.
adhere to the trusteeship principle, • Liability Convention: Deals with the liability for damage caused by space objects.
taking responsibility for the well-being • Registration Convention: Deals with the registration of objects launched into
of non-human animals and the outer space.
environment, both on Earth and beyond, including in space.
7.3. NATIONAL QUANTUM MISSION (NQM)

Why in News?
The 1st meeting of Mission Governing Board (MGB) of National Quantum Mission (NQM) discussed implementation
strategy and timelines of NQM as well as the formation of Mission Coordination Cell (MCC).
About Mission Coordination Cell (MCC)
• The MCC will be set up as a coordinating agency for the NQM and will work in coordination with the Mission
Secretariat, Department of Science of Technology (DST).
• The MCC will be set up in an institution identified by DST, based on merit and existing infrastructure.
• It will function under the overall supervision and guidance of Mission Technology Research Council (MTRC).
o MTRC is responsible for providing guidance and oversight to the NQM, and for selecting the proposals that will
be funded under the mission.
Quantum Technology
About National Quantum Mission (NQM) • It is a novel technology that exploit the principles of quantum
• NQM is a flagship initiative launched by the mechanics (the physics of sub-atomic particles).
Government of India for period of 2023-2031 with • It includes quantum entanglement and quantum superposition.
o Entanglement: A physical phenomenon where two (or
an aim to make India a global leader in quantum
more) quantum systems share a special correlation such
technologies.
that measuring one system instantly determines the state
• Aim: To seed, nurture and scale up scientific and of the other, even if they are separated by vast distances.
industrial R&D and create a vibrant & innovative o Superposition: A fundamental property of quantum
ecosystem in Quantum Technology (QT). systems where a particle exists in multiple states
• Mission objectives: The mission focuses on simultaneously instead of just one definite state.
achieving specific milestones within its eight-year timeframe:
o Quantum Communication Network: Establishing a secure and high-bandwidth communication infrastructure
spanning 2,000 kilometres.
o Quantum Computing Power: Developing quantum computers with a processing capacity of 1,000
qubits, unlocking immense computational capabilities.
o Magnetometry and Atomic Clocks: Advancing the
development of highly sensitive magnetometers for precision
measurements and reliable atomic clocks.
o Quantum Materials Design: Synthesizing and characterizing
novel quantum materials with tailored properties for cutting-
edge device fabrication.
• Mission also plans to establish four thematic hubs (T-Hubs)
Significance of the Mission
• Global Leadership: Positions India as a major player in the burgeoning quantum technology landscape.
• R&D Boost: Accelerates research and development in quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.
• Secure Communication: Develops quantum networks for unbreakable, high-bandwidth communication.
• Powerful Computing: Creates 1,000-qubit quantum computers to tackle complex problems beyond classical reach.
• Precision Measurement: Advances magnetometers and atomic clocks for groundbreaking scientific applications.
• Innovation Ecosystem: Establishes thematic hubs fostering collaboration and expertise across diverse sectors.
Challenges in NQM
• Poor Expenditure on Research: While government provides fund for NQM but spending on R&D in India remained
about 0.64 % of GDP which is very low. Most of the developed countries spent more than 2% of their GDP on R&D.
• Lack of Private Investment: India's private sector lags behind advanced nations in R&D investment, contributing less
than 40% compared to over 70% in developed countries. This funding gap hinders access to crucial resources and
slows down progress in the National Quantum Mission.
• Lack of Skilled Workforce: NQM requires a critical mass of trained professionals across various disciplines, including
quantum physics, computer science, and engineering. However, India currently faces a significant skill gap due to
inadequate training programs and Industry-academia disconnect.
• Availability of Infrastructure: Building and maintaining sophisticated labs, specialized equipment, and high-
performance computing facilities require significant resources and continuous upgradation.
• Intellectual Property Rights: Establishing clear ownership and licensing frameworks for quantum-related intellectual
property remains a work in progress, creating uncertainty for commercialization and innovation.
• Regulatory Landscape: Adapting existing regulations and developing new frameworks to govern quantum
technologies, considering ethical and security implications, requires careful consideration and timely action.
• Cybersecurity Threats: Ensuring the development and adoption of quantum-resistant cryptography is crucial to
mitigate potential threats to existing encryption methods.
Way Forward
• Attract private investment: Implement tax breaks, grants, and public-private partnerships to incentivize private
companies to invest in quantum research and development.
• Create specialized training programs: Partner with universities, research institutions, and industry to design and
implement curriculum focused on quantum science, engineering, and technology.
• Promote regional infrastructure development: Allocate resources to develop quantum research infrastructure in
various regions across India, fostering broader participation and talent distribution.
• Develop clear IP guidelines: Establish transparent and efficient frameworks for ownership, licensing, and technology
transfer of quantum-related intellectual property.
• Establish a dedicated regulatory body: Create a central regulatory body focused on quantum technologies,
responsible for drafting and implementing relevant regulations.
• Facilitate technology transfer: Develop mechanisms to bridge the gap between academic research and
commercialization, allowing private companies to access and utilize cutting-edge quantum technologies.
• Invest in quantum-resistant cryptography research: Fund research and development of quantum-resistant
encryption algorithms to safeguard sensitive data against potential threats from quantum computers.
7.4. FOURTH INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION

Why in news?
Telangana signs agreement with World Economic Forum for setting up Centre for Industrial Revolution (C4IR) in
Hyderabad.
Fourth Industrial revolution (4IR)
• The term was coined by Klaus Schwab, founder of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in 2016.
• 4IR means the digital transformation of the manufacturing industry by new technologies such as artificial
intelligence, additive manufacturing, augmented/virtual reality, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
• It is also used to refer to
concept of “smart
factories”–which are
fully connected cyber-
physical systems that
merge the physical and
digital aspects.
Benefits of 4IR for India
• Better digital
infrastructure and
massive Productivity
boom due to:
o Digital
communication:
connecting billions of
people and things
opening new ways of
interaction
o Digital energy: combining smart power grids dynamically matching energy generation and demand.
o Digital health: remotely enabling connected health care from anywhere.
• Global manufacturing hub India can develop itself as a global manufacturing hub by harnessing factors like
demography, demand and decisive governance in the field of 3D printing, machine learning, data analytics and IoT.
• Creation of Future Workforce India can use advanced technologies and processes for skilling, re-skilling and up-
skilling and emerge as largest providers of skilled workforce in the world
• Resilient and efficient supply chain: successfully scaling 4IR technology makes supply chains more efficient reduction
in factory waste and increased productivity.
• Spill-over effects: acceleration in the digitalization of industries will create opportunities across nearly every segment
of the economy, from health care to transport, energy etc.
• Easier accessibility
of products and
services for
businesses,
consumers, and
stakeholders all
along the value
chain.
Challenges for India in
harnessing advantages
of Fourth Industrial
revolution
• Economic
Challenges:
o Exacerbating
Inequality with low-skill low-pay and high-skill high-pay giving rise to social tensions.
o Fear of mass unemployment: Increased deployment of capital-intensive equipment in manufacturing activities
may disrupt labour markets.
✓ It may harm economies like India by cutting their cheap labour advantage.
✓ Further, the net displacement of workers by machines might exacerbate the gap between returns to capital
and returns to labour.
• Environmental Impacts due to increased digital environment footprint.
• Cyber challenges include loss of privacy, fast spread of fake news. Fear of corporate takeover as it may be difficult
to regulate big tech companies.
• Lack of Skilled Workforce for future Industry demand which requires specialized skilling based on Internet of things,
artificial intelligence, 3D printing.
• Ethical issues: Discontent can also be fueled by the pervasiveness of digital technologies.
o It can create and propagate unrealistic expectations as to what constitutes success for an individual or a group.
o It may also offer opportunities for extreme ideas and ideologies to spread.
• Privacy Concerns: Tracking and sharing of information is likely to intensify the debates about fundamental issues
such as loss of control over one’s data.
Measures India has taken
• The Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (India) is collaboration between the WEF and the Government of
Maharashtra, coordinated by the National Institute for Transforming India (NITI) Ayog.
• Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture Innovation (AI4AI) initiative is supporting India’s agricultural transformation.
o Lives of small landholders and women farmers can be improved by using AI.
o ~7,000 chilli growing farmers in Khammam district (Telangana) are using digital solutions to transform value
chains.
• Urban transformation: India Hub for Urban Transformation in partnership with Smart City Mission is using emerging
technologies for future sustainable cities.
• Education 4.0 in partnership with UNICEF, is creating roadmap for foundation literacy and numeracy, school to work
transition etc.
• FIRST Cancer Care on the lines of FIRST Healthcare (Fourth Industrial Revolution for Sustainable Transformation of
Healthcare) has been developed in Meghalaya.
o >700,000 residents of East Khasi Hills in Meghalaya will be impacted through the initiative.
• Smart Advanced Manufacturing and Rapid Transformation Hub (SAMARTH) - Udyog Bharat 4.0 is an initiative of
Ministry of Heavy Industry to enhance competitiveness in capital goods sector by raising awareness about Industry
4.0 through demonstration centres.
Conclusion
The Fourth Industrial Revolution is about more than technology-driven change. It is an opportunity to help everyone
create an inclusive, human-centered future. However exponential and disruptive nature of technology demands long-
term decision making to ensure that they are governed in a way that maximizes societal benefit whilst minimizing
potential misuse or harm.
7.5. LITHIUM
Why in the News? Other Important initiatives for supply of Lithium in India
Recently, India and Argentina signed agreement for • KABIL, established in 2019, is Joint Venture Company of the
National Aluminium Company Ltd. (NALCO), Hindustan Copper
Lithium exploration & mining Project in Argentina.
Ltd. (HCL) and Mineral Exploration and Consultancy Ltd.
More in News o It identifies, acquire, develop, process and make
commercial use of strategic minerals including Lithium in
• The agreement was signed between Khanij Bidesh overseas locations for supply in India.
India Ltd (KABIL) and CAMYEN, a state-owned • Australia - India Critical Minerals Investment Partnership
mining and energy company in the Argentina. identified five target projects (two lithium and three cobalt) to
• The deal will be bringing in technical and further explore in Australia.
operational experience for brine (or concentrated • Geological Survey of India (GSI) is exploring Lithium reserves
solution of saltwater) type lithium exploration for in various parts of the country.
India.
About Lithium
• Often called ‘white gold’, lithium is a soft, silvery-white alkali metal and has the lowest density of all metals. It reacts
vigorously with water.
• Lithium metal is made into alloys with aluminium and magnesium, improving their strength and making them lighter.
Harnessing Lithium (Instead of india’s map, Lithium sites can be shown)
• Lithium does not occur as the metal in nature, but is found combined in small amounts in nearly all igneous rocks
and in the waters of many mineral springs.
o Spodumene, petalite, lepidolite,
and amblygonite are important
minerals containing lithium.
• The metal is produced by the
electrolysis of molten lithium
chloride and potassium chloride.
• Most lithium is currently produced in
Chile, Bolivia, Argentina (Lithium
Triangle), Australia and the USA.
• More detail about global distribution
of lithium could be provided, I have
added a map for it below article.
• Lithium in India
o Lithium have been identified as
critical and strategic minerals
under Mines and Mineral
(Development and Regulation)
(Amendment) Act 2023.
✓ Critical Minerals are elements that are building blocks of
essential modern-day technologies, and are at risk of supply
chain disruptions.
o Currently, India meets the lithium demand through 100% import
mostly from (China and Hong Kong).
o Government is exploring reserves of Lithium for Indigenous
production.
Challenges in harnessing Lithium reserves
• Long gestation period: Most of the lithium reserves being explored can
take 6-8 years to bring the mines to full capacity commercial
production.
• Extraction Challenge: Extraction of Lithium require specialized mining
techniques.
• Environment pollution: Open-pit-mining, refining, and waste disposal
can further pollute water and soil, affecting local inhabitants,
agriculture, and biodiversity.
• Human rights issues: Displacement of indigenous community due to
mining projects.
• Technical challenges: India has yet to gain experience
• Social challenges in Indian mining: e.g. Radicalism in Jammu and
Kashmir
Way forward
• Diversify International collaboration: Collaborate with the
US, Japan, Indonesia, and South Korea, Indo-Pacific Economic
Framework, etc. to enhance the management of the global
lithium supply chain and mitigate strategic vulnerabilities.
• Public-Private partnership: To speed up process of
commercial production, need more involvement of private
sector. Recent decision of allowing the auction of lithium
mines is right step in this direction.
• Technology: Environment-friendly technology transfers from
Australia regarding hard rock mineral extraction could be
utilized in earthquake-prone regions like J&K and
Uttarakhand.
• Involvement of local communities: Prioritize transparent
communication and engagement with local communities to
address concerns, providing jobs for locals etc.
• Capacity Building: skill, state of the art technology
7.6. GRAPHENE
Why in News?
MeitY Secretary launched a Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Intelligent Internet of Things (IIoT) Sensors and India’s first
graphene centre - India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG) in Kerala.
More on News
• IICG is India’s first Graphene Centre.
• IICG is a joint venture of the Digital University of Kerala, Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET)
and Tata Steel Limited funded by MeitY.
• IICG aims to foster Research and development, product innovation and capacity building in the area of Graphene and
two-dimensional materials (2DM).
o It will also support the Graphene-Aurora program of the MeitY.
✓ This programme aims to fill the gap between R&D and commercialization by providing a complete facility to
startup and industry.
About Graphene:
• Graphene is derived from graphite, the material found in pencil lead.
o 1mm of graphite contains some 3 million layers of graphene
• It is a one-atom-thick layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice like a honeycomb.
• It is a two-dimensional form (allotrope) of carbon.
• Graphene is prepared by heating either Intercalated Graphite, Coal tar or Shellac or a mixture of these three in inert
atmosphere
• Properties of Graphene:
o Strongest material: 200 times stronger than steel, yet six times lighter.
o High Thermal Conductivity: Graphene has a thermal conductivity of up to 5000 W/m/K at room temperature,
which is much higher than most other materials.
o High Electrical conductivity: Graphene exhibits incredibly high electrical conductivity surpassing even copper.
o High Surface Area: Graphene has an exceptionally high surface area due to its two-dimensional structure.
o Impermeable: It impermeable to gases, even those as light as hydrogen or helium,
o Transparent: Almost perfectly transparent since it only absorbs 2% of light. Even more transparent than glass and
plastic.
o Flexible: This wonder material is incredibly flexible Ideal for wearable electronics.
o Large surface area: Enables efficient chemical reactions and sensors.
o Chemical Stability: Graphene is chemically stable and inert. It does not easily react with other chemicals.
o Biocompatibility: This property makes Graphene suitable for biomedical applications.
Applications of Graphene
Graphene has been hailed as the Wonder Material of the 21st century, owing to its vast potential to revolutionize various
industries. Noteworthy applications include
• Electronics: Graphene-based transistors, circuits, and conductive elements for faster and more efficient electronic
devices.
• Energy Storage: Graphene-based batteries and supercapacitors with high energy density and rapid charging
capabilities.
• Conductive Films: Transparent conductive films for applications in touchscreens, flexible displays, and solar cells.
• Materials Reinforcement: Reinforcement of composites and materials to enhance mechanical strength and reduce
weight in aerospace and automotive industries.
• Thermal Management: Heat sinks and thermal interface materials for efficient heat dissipation in electronic devices.
• Sensors: High-sensitivity sensors for detecting gases, chemicals, and biological molecules.
• Biomedical Devices: Drug delivery systems, biosensors, and imaging devices due to graphene's biocompatibility and
unique properties.
• Water Filtration: Graphene-based membranes for water filtration, desalination, and purification processes.
• Coatings and Films: Anti-corrosion coatings, anti-fogging films, and protective layers for various surfaces.
• Lightweight Materials: Lightweight and strong materials for use in sports equipment, automotive parts, and structural
components.
Ongoing graphene research promises continual breakthroughs. The India Innovation Centre for Graphene (IICG) will
position India as a global leader in Graphene research, showcasing a commitment to innovation and the strategic
utilization of graphene's transformative potential across diverse applications.
Related News
• Along with IICG, Centre of Excellence in Intelligent Internet of Things Sensors was also launched.
o It aims at creating incubation facilities, build capacity in intelligent IoT sensors, promote research and innovation.
o IoT is the interconnection of computing devices in everyday lives with the internet.
7.7. ADVANCED DRIVER ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS
Why in news? Equipment used in ADAS
As per various reports there has been a surge in demand of • Radar- Uses radio waves to detect objects &
measure their distance, speed, and direction.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) from India and India is
• Lidar- Uses laser light to create a 3D map of the
becoming a growing market for the same.
vehicle’s surroundings
What is ADAS? • Camera -Uses inbuilt optical sensors to capture
images and provides information about lane
• ADAS are a set of electronic systems which are integrated into markings, traffic signs
vehicles to enhance driver safety, improve vehicle • Ultrasonic- uses high-frequency sound waves to
performance, and provide convenience. detect objects and measure their distance.
• This is made possible with use of sensors, cameras, radar, and • Infrared- uses heat-sensitive sensors to detect
other advanced technologies to monitor the vehicle's objects in low-light situations
surroundings and detect potential hazards. • GPS- determines location, speed and informs
• There are different levels of ADAS in the market as per the about traffic management.
customers’ demand.
Types of ADAS
There are two types of ADAS:
• Active ADAS: These systems actively intervene and assist in critical driving situations and can even perform automatic
corrective actions
o E.g. collision avoidance
systems, lane keep assist
systems, and automatic
emergency braking.
• Passive ADAS: These systems
are mainly limited to provide
information and alerts to the
driver without directly
intervening in the driving
process.
o E.g. blind spot monitoring
systems, lane departure
warning and traffic sign
recognition.
Benefits of ADAS
• Improve Overall Road Safety:
ADAS can reduce the number
of fatalities by providing assistance in emergency braking, and Different levels of Autonomous Driving
avoiding collisions in events of fog etc. • Level 0(No Automation) The driver has full
control of the driving tasks.
• Improved Traffic Management: It can optimise traffic flow,
• Level 1 (Driver Assistance) The vehicle features a
minimise congestion, and enhance the overall efficiency of
single automated system.
road networks. • Level 2(Partial Automation) The vehicle can
• Increased Comfort and Convenience: Features such as perform steering and acceleration.
adaptive cruise control and automated parking can make • Level 3(Conditional Automation) The vehicle can
drivers less stressful. control most driving tasks.
• Environmental Impact: ADAS can help in reducing fuel • Level 4 (High Automation) The vehicle performs
consumption and greenhouse gas emissions through all driving tasks under certain conditions.
optimization in driving patterns. • Level 5 (Full Automation) The vehicle performs
all driving tasks under all conditions.
Reasons behind increasing demand of ADAS in India
• Progressive democratisation of autonomous driving tools with car manufacturers offering advanced driver assistance
systems in their mid-segment range.
• Increasing demand for safer vehicles among Indian consumers as people are increasingly becoming safety-conscious
and are willing to stretch their budget to buy safer cars.
• Government’s push for increased road safety through Education, Engineering (both of roads and vehicles),
Enforcement and Emergency Care
• Availability of more affordable ADAS technology with time.
Challenges in adoption of ADAS
• Non-Standardised Road Infrastructure India's diverse road conditions, from good highways to poorly constructed
rural roads, pose challenges due to inconsistent road markings.
o Indian roads have a mix of pedestrians, cyclists, and other non-motorized vehicles making ADAS systems
adaptation more complex.
• Affordability issues: ADAS is prevalent in premium and luxury cars due to its high cost. Making these features
affordable for the majority of Indian consumers remains a challenge.
• Connectivity and Data: ADAS systems require real-time data updates and reliable connectivity, which might be an
issue in remote or poorly networked areas of India.
• Cyber Threats It includes flaws in hardware and software which may lead to attempt of hacking, malware, and
unauthorized system access.
o These attacks may deceive or undermine the functionality of systems and pose risks to passengers and drivers’
safety.
• Error and Malfunctions may be caused due to hardware or software faults, sensor failures, calibration mistakes, or
improper data processing or outside influences like bad weather.
o These flaws could result in the ADAS system making poor decisions or failing to recognize dangers, which could
cause accidents
• Human Factors may present obstacles for the safe and efficient use of the system, including attention, overreliance,
complacency, and incorrect interpretation of ADAS.
o Too heavy reliance on ADAS may lead to complacency or distraction and raise the possibility of accidents.
• Supply Chain Security Issues related to non-proper safeguarding of the components and processes may create
vulnerabilities and threaten the system's operation and safety.
• Consumer Trust is essential for successful adoption of the technology. If consumers believe them to be risky, they
might be reluctant to trust them.
Steps to be taken
• Government Regulations , focussed at establishing clear regulations and standards for ADAS implementation,
incentivizing manufacturers to produce vehicles with ADAS features, and providing financial support.
• Building of Consumer Trust by persistent investment in research and development and open and consistent
communication from manufacturers and authorities about the technology’s potential and constraints.
• Defence against ADAS attacks are essential to ensure the safety and security of the people inside the vehicle
o Software updates and patches, secure coding techniques, encryption of critical data, and network segmentation
are a few defence mechanisms.
• Driver Behavior: The success of ADAS systems depends on responsible driving behavior, which may require significant
efforts in driver education and awareness campaigns.
7.8. INDUCTION CHARGING

Why in news?
In a bid to boost e-mobility, India plans to transform the Golden Quadrilateral into a network of electric vehicles (EV)
ready highways using induction charging technology.

What is Induction/Wireless charging?
Induction Charging (IC) also known as wireless charging is method of charging in which electromagnetic fields are used
to transfer energy between two coils without the need of a physical connection.
Processes Involved/Working
• The transmission of electricity generally takes place by either of the two methods:
o By electric fields using capacitive coupling between metal electrodes (capacitive charging) or
o By magnetic fields using inductive coupling between
coils of wire (inductive charging).
• The most extensively utilised wireless technology is
inductive charging.
• The operating principle is similar to that of a transformer
and is based on the laws of magnetic induction.
• One coil is in the charging station and the other is in in the
EV and the energy is transferred from transmitting coils to
the receiving coils.
• A primary circuit, called a transmitter, generates a time-
varying magnetic field.
• A secondary circuit receives this field, called the receiver,
which is connected to the device to be powered.
• To start charging, drivers only need to park their EV above the charging pad.
Types of Inductive charging
IC is mainly classified into three types:
• Static or stationary charging (used at homes, office)
o In this method of charging, the EV does not move while being charged. It is used when EV is parked for a long
time.
o Used at homes, workplaces, public parking, garages etc.
• Quasi-dynamic or opportunistic charging
o This process permits an EV to get charged while traveling at low speeds and during momentary pauses.
o Used at intersections, traffic signals, bus stops etc.
• Dynamic EV Charging (Roads and Highways)
o In this method, owners can charge their EVs continuously as they go. It allows owners to drive long distances
without having to stop for charging or risk running out of power
o Used for long distances, inter-city trips, highways, expressways with restricted accessibility to stops etc.
Benefits of Induction charging
• Reduces time and efforts: The technology enables EV owners to simply park their vehicles over a charging pad,
reducing the time and effort required to plug in and charge.
• Convenience: It eliminates the need to handle charging cables, making the process more user-friendly and less time-
consuming.
• Reduced Maintenance: With no physical connectors, there’s less wear and tear on charging equipment, leading to
lower maintenance costs in the long run.
• All-Weather Charging: As there are no exposed electrical connections, wireless charging is suitable for all weather
conditions, ensuring uninterrupted charging experiences.
• Help in meeting CO2 emission reduction targets by accelerating the adoption of e-mobility and supporting the
deployment of e-buses.
• Supports the development of autonomous driving technology: Wireless charging is well suited for autonomous
electric vehicles, as it allows for seamless charging without human intervention

Challenges in adoption of the technology
Although, wireless EV charging offers various benefits, there are some challenges which need to be overcome before its
widespread adoption and implementation. These are:
• High costs: Wireless charging systems are currently more expensive than conventional charging stations.
• Efficiency: Wireless charging systems typically experience lower efficiency than traditional wired charging due to
energy losses during induction. This could lead to longer charging times and higher energy consumption.
• Interoperability issues: Additional efforts are needed to bring in fully scale interoperable operation among various
kinds of transmitter and receiver pad designs with the roads
o In addition, the method of pad integration with both the vehicle and road is an open question that requires
extensive engineering effort.
• Durability: As these charging systems will be implemented outdoor for general use, so they need to be robust to
withstand the harsh environmental and extreme operating conditions.
• Safety Concerns associated with shielding designs, heat produced in metallic objects next to the system.
o Also, living object detection method is required to prevent pets and animals accessing the hot region during
operation.
• Technologies concerns: It is necessary to achieve the development of the sensor systems and controllers that are
used to detect EVs on the highways to charge batteries without errors to increase total system efficiency.
Way Forward
• Proper research is required to assess impacts on health caused due to long-term exposure to weak electric and
magnetic fields,
• Mechanisms to detect living and foreign objects in the proximity of induction charging systems needs to be built.
• Collaboration between government agencies, automakers, and tech companies will be crucial to drive innovation,
reduce costs, and improve efficiency, making wireless charging a viable solution for India’s EV landscape.
7.9. ANTIMICROBIAL RESISTANCE

Why in news?
The First Multicentric Point Prevalence Survey of Antibiotic Use was
released recently by the National Centre for Disease Control under the
Union Health Ministry.
About the survey
• The survey has mapped the patients treated across 15 States and two
Union Territories between November 2021 and April 2022.
• Key Findings:
o Empirical prescriptions: 94% of patients surveyed were given
antibiotics before medical diagnosis of cause of infection.
o Preventive usage: 55% of patients were prescribed antibiotics for
preventive indications, while 45% for therapeutic indications.
o High prevalence of antibiotic usage: At 71.9%.
o Classification of prescriptions based on AWaRe groups: 57%
from watch groups, 38% from access group and 2% from reserve
group.
✓ 3% of the prescription from not recommended group.
o Only 8 out of 20 institutes surveyed have an antibiotic policy in
place.
• The high use of watch group antibiotics raises concern as these
antibiotics have a higher potential to develop antibiotic resistance.

About Antimicrobial resistance (AMR)
• AMR happens when germs like bacteria and fungi develop the
ability to defeat the drugs designed to kill them.
o While some microorganisms are naturally resistant to a certain
type of antimicrobials, they can also acquire resistance genes,
whether by spontaneous mutation or through genetic
exchange.
• Reasons behind increasing incidence of Antimicrobial resistance
o Overuse and misuse of antimicrobials among humans and in
poultry and farm animals.
o Poor infection prevention and control practices in healthcare
settings
o Effluents discharge from hospitals, industries, and urban
settlements
✓ Over 75% of administered antibiotics are excreted
unmetabolized in urine and faeces and enter into sewage
systems and water bodies.
o Confusion over treatment guidelines.
✓ E.g., the optimal duration of antibiotic therapy for
common infections like pneumonia was not established for
decades.
Implications of the Spread of Antimicrobial Resistance
• Healthcare Impact: Increased mortality and morbidity, and
prolonged illness because infections caused by resistant
microorganisms are often more difficult to treat.
• Increased Healthcare Costs: Longer hospital stays, additional
diagnostic tests, and more expensive second-line or third-line
antibiotics leads to increased expenditure.
• Economic impact: Working hours lost due to prolonged illness and
increase in out-of-pocket expenditure.
o If not controlled, antimicrobial resistance will result in US$ 1
trillion to 3.4 trillion annual losses to gross domestic product
(GDP) by 2030. (World Bank)
• Increased risk of outbreaks: As current medicines become ineffective,
infections persist in the body, increasing the risk of spreading to others.
• Limited new options for treatment: There are limited new antibiotics
in the research and development pipeline.
Measures taken to address AMR

National
• National Program on AMR containment: Launched during 12th FYP in 2012-17 to carry out surveillance of antimicrobial usage
in healthcare settings.
o It is coordinated by National Centre for Disease Control.
• National Action Plan on AMR (NAP – AMR), 2017: Focuses on One Health approach and involving various stakeholder
ministries/departments.
• National AMR surveillance network of state medical college labs (NARS-Net): To generate quality data on AMR for priority
bacterial pathogens of public health importance.
• Red Line awareness campaign: Urging people not to use medicines marked with a red vertical line, including antibiotics,
without a doctor’s prescription.
• Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945: Antibiotics included in Schedule H1 of the rules are required to be sold by retail only under
the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
• Ban on inappropriate fixed dose combinations (FDCs).
• Operation AMRITH (AMR Intervention For Total Health) launched by Kerala to detect the over-the-counter sales of antibiotics
without a doctor’s prescription.
o In 2018, Kerala became the first state in India to come up with the Kerala Anti- Microbial Resistance Strategic Action Plan
(KARSAP), which is aligned with India’s NAP – AMR.
Global
• Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS): Launched in 2015, it is a comprehensive global system
designed to monitor antimicrobial resistance and support appropriate use of antibiotics worldwide.
• World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW): A global campaign to raise awareness, understanding and best practices with
the public, One Health stakeholders, and other policymakers.
Way forward
• Promote the judicious use of drugs: For instance, Union Health Ministry has called on doctors in medical colleges and
medical associations to make it mandatory to mention the indication and reason for prescribing antibiotics.
• Strict implementations of Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945: Recently, the Director General of Health Services
(DGHS) has urged all pharmacist associations to adhere to the rules and sell antibiotics only with valid prescriptions.
• Adherence to standard treatment guidelines and infection control practices: To mitigate antibiotic resistance.
• Defined Antibiotic Use Policy in medical institutes: It should encourage use of access group antibiotics and keep the
consumption of reserve group antibiotics at low levels.
• Surveillance and Monitoring of Pathogens: For early detection of resistant strains.
• Robust Immunisation Programmes: The incidence of bacterial and viral infections can be reduced by the adoption of
strategies and programmes on the prevention and control of infectious diseases.
• Curbing the Production and Sale of Poor Quality and Sub-standard Antimicrobials: Continuous exposure of bacteria
to a sub-therapeutic level of drugs, which is achieved with the use of substandard antimicrobials, always triggers the
development of resistance.
• Promote use of alternatives to Antibiotics: In the animal feed industry.
• Educational and Awareness Programme: Strengthen information and resources by involving all stakeholders i.e.,
policymakers, pharmaceutical industries, medical and veterinary professionals, producers and consumers.
7.10. FIXED-DOSE COMBINATIONS (FDCS) DRUGS

Why in news?
The Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) has
allowed companies to manufacture and market five fixed dose
combinations (FDCs) that were banned last year.
More on News
• These five drugs are allowed to manufacture and sale with
certain conditions which include
o Providing safety and efficacy data on three drugs
within one year.
o Two need their dosage and information labels
adjusted.
• Earlier, in a similar move, Central government banned 344
combinations in 2016, citing public interest.

About Fixed Dose Combinations (FDCs) Drugs
• As per Rule 122-E of Drugs & Cosmetics Rule 1945, FDCs refer to products containing two or more active ingredients
used for a particular indication(s).
• An FDC is a new drug when it meets two conditions
o It combines two or more drugs already approved for individual use in a fixed ratio.
o It alters the ratio of drugs in an already approved FDC, along with making changes to its claims
• Mostly FDCs are in combinations of cough, cold, and fever preparations; antimicrobials; vitamins and minerals etc.
• In 2015, out of 376 entities, 24 entities were FDCs in National List of Essential Medicine.
Rationale for Usage of FDCs:
• Enhanced efficacy: In some cases, combining specific drugs in a fixed ratio can achieve better therapeutic outcomes
than using them individually.
• Cost-effectiveness: FDCs can sometimes be more affordable than purchasing individual medications separately,
particularly in developing countries.
• Reduced pill burden: Taking fewer pills can improve convenience and patient compliance, especially for those with
multiple chronic conditions.
• Improved adherence: Combining multiple medications into one pill can simplify treatment regimens, leading to
improved medication adherence, especially for chronic conditions.
• Improved patient convenience: Taking fewer pills can improve convenience and quality of life for patients, especially
those with multiple chronic conditions who might otherwise struggle with complex medication regimens.
Issues associated with FDCs:
• Lack of individual dose flexibility: FDCs offer a fixed dose of each component, which may not be suitable for all
patients, especially those requiring different dosages due to age, weight, or other factors.
• Unapproved and Banned FDCs: The easy access to untested and unlicensed FDCs in countries like India creates a
potentially hazardous situation for public health.
o For example, a study conducted in Ahmedabad, revealed that FDCs containing banned or controversial
ingredients are prescribed widely.
• Increased risk of Anti-microbial
Resistance (AMR): Combining
medications in FDCs raises the risk
of adverse events and AMR due to
potential interactions and overuse.
• Reduced transparency and
affordability concerns: In some
cases, FDCs may be priced higher
than their individual components,
raising concerns in resource-limited
settings.
• Ethical concern: India imposed ban
on certain FDCs, however, there is
no ban on same drugs being
exported to African or SAARC
countries. Their export is deemed
legal if the importing country has no
objections.
• Limited choice for patients: The
fixed combination may not always
be the most suitable for individual
patient needs, limiting treatment
options.
Way Forward
• Regulatory Stringency: CDSCO should enforce stringent guidelines for FDC approval to protect public health and
ensure the efficacy and safety of drugs.
• Evidence-Driven Authorization: Require robust scientific evidence of FDC efficacy and safety to prevent unjustifiable
combinations and enhance regulatory scrutiny.
• Therapeutic Justification: Grant approval for FDCs only when individual components offer clear therapeutic benefits,
avoiding unnecessary amalgamations.
• Surveillance Systems: Establish vigilant post-market monitoring mechanisms for prompt detection and resolution of
FDC-related adverse effects, prioritizing public safety.
• Export Control Stringency: Harmonize export policies with domestic regulations to prohibit the overseas export of
domestically banned or restricted FDCs.
• Advocate Transparency and Affordability: Promote openness and cost transparency, facilitating generic availability
of FDCs to enhance affordability, particularly in resource-constrained regions.
• Public Awareness: Educate healthcare professionals and the public on the judicious use of FDCs, promoting
responsible medication practices.
7.11. NEWS IN SHORTS

7.11.1. SQUARE KILOMETRE ARRAY to data and software, including areas like artificial
intelligence.
OBSERVATORY (SKAO) PROJECT
Steps taken in India
• Union Cabinet approves Rs 1,250 cr for India's • Sin Tax on demerit goods: It is placed on goods and
participation in Square Kilometre Array Observatory services that are seen to be socially detrimental. Thus,
(SKAO) Project. Tobacco, gambling ventures, alcohol, cigarettes, and
• SKAO is an intergovernmental organisation dedicated other things are examples of products that are subject to
to radio astronomy, headquartered in United a sin tax.
Kingdom. o Presently, the aerated beverages in India,
o SKAO will consist of one global observatory, irrespective of the quantum of “added sugar” in
operating two telescopes, across three sites. them, are taxed at the highest tax bracket of 28%
GST.
✓ Two SKA telescopes will be at radio-quiet sites
o High-Fat Sugar Salt (HFSS) foods in India attract 12%
in South Africa and Australia. tax rate.
✓ They will operate as one large unit. • Fat Tax of Kerala: Kerala had also introduced a fat tax way
o They are expected to be operational by 2029. back in 2016, which later got incorporated into Goods
• Objectives of SKAO: and Services Tax in 2017.
o Understand about the birth of Universe.
o Detect Gravitational Waves. 7.11.2. OSIRIS-APEX
✓ A gravitational wave is an invisible ripple in
• OSIRIS REx (Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource
space.
o Understand the evolution of Galaxies, Dark matter
Identification and Security-Regolith Explorer) is
and Cosmic Magnetism. embarking on a new mission as OSIRIS-APEX (Apophis
Explorer)
• India joined SKAO in 2012 as an Associate Member
o Recently, OSIRIS REx delivered a sample from
and has actively participated in the pre-construction
asteroid Bennu.
phase of the SKA telescopes.
• OSIRIS-APEX
o In 2022, the National Centre for Radio Astronomy,
o It will study Apophis when it will be closest to
Pune and SKAO signed cooperation agreement.
o Giant Metre wave Radio Telescope (GMRT) is
Planet Earth i.e. 20000 miles.
playing role in SKAO. ✓ Apophis is an S-type asteroid made of silicate
• Significance for India: Will allow Indian astronomers materials and nickel-iron.
o The mission aims to observe the physical changes
direct access to the best radio astronomy facility in the
world in the future. in asteroid Apophis induced by Earth’s
gravitational pull.
o Also, it will drive growth of technologies several
o Space Agency: NASA
key areas, ranging from antennas and electronics

7.11.3. PEREGRINE MISSION 1 o GSAT-20 will be the second “demand driven”
(PEREGRINE LUNAR LANDER) satellite launch enabled by NSIL.
✓ Previously, NSIL successfully undertook its 1st
• NASA launched Peregrine Lunar Lander to explore Demand-driven satellite mission, GSAT-24,
Moon’s Bay of Stickness. with TataPlay purchasing its capacity for
• Mission is part of Nasa's Commercial Lunar Payload Direct-To-Home broadcasting.
Services initiative, which partners with commercial • According to India's 2020 space sector reforms, NSIL is
entities to deliver payloads to Moon. required to build, launch, own, and operate satellites in
• Scientific goals of mission include: a "Demand-driven mode."
o To analyze lunar exosphere. o In the "Demand-driven" mode, when a satellite is
o Assess thermal properties and hydrogen content launched, it is known in advance who the end
of lunar regolith. customers will be.
o Study magnetic fields etc. o Previously, the mode was more "supply-driven,"
• Bay of Stickiness (also known as Sinus Viscositatis where capacity was leased after the satellite
region), an area on moon, lies adjacent to Gruitheisen launch.
Domes near Oceanus Procellarum, or Ocean of Storms.
NewSpace India Limited (NSIL)
7.11.4. SMART LANDER FOR • NSIL (incorporated in March 2019) is commercial arm
INVESTIGATING MOON (SLIM) of ISRO.
• It is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under the
• Japanese spacecraft SLIM landed on the moon, making
Department of Space.
Japan the fifth country to reach the lunar surface.
o The other four countries are India, United States,
• Presently, NSIL owns and operates 11 communication
Russia, and China. satellites in orbit.
• About SLIM
o It successfully demonstrated pinpoint technology
for landing.
✓ This technology enables landing within 100 m
of a target.
✓ Because of achieving this feat, it is also
referred as Moon Sniper.
o Objective: Acceleration of the study of the Moon
and planets using lighter exploration systems.
o Agency: Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency
(JAXA)
7.11.5. GSAT-20
• India to use SpaceX Falcon-9 Rocket to Launch
Communications Satellite GSAT-20 in 2024
• For the first time, NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) will
launch a communication satellite on a SpaceX rocket.
• About GSAT -20 (Renamed as GSAT-N2)
o GSAT-20 is a high- throughput Ka-band Satellite
which will be fully owned, operated and funded by 7.11.6. FEAST (FINITE ELEMENT
NSIL. ANALYSIS OF STRUCTURES)
o The satellite, weighing 4700 kg, has been
specifically designed to meet the demanding • Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC), ISRO developed
service needs of remote and unconnected FEAST, a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) software.
regions. ○ FEA is a computerized method for predicting how
✓ It is much heavier than launch capacity a product reacts to real-world forces.
of ISRO’s most powerful rocket; LVM-3 (which • FEAST will be used to perform FEA of various types of
can launch spacecraft weighing up to 4000 kg structures including rockets, aircraft, satellites,
into Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit). buildings, etc.

○ So far, users have mostly depended on expensive 7.11.10. REVISED PHARMA
software versions from foreign firms for this MANUFACTURING RULES
function.
• VSSC, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala), is the lead centre • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW)
of ISRO responsible for the design and development of notified revised pharma manufacturing rules.
launch vehicle technology. • Rules will ensure good manufacturing practices (GMP)
and requirements of premises, plant, and equipment
7.11.7. KILONOVA EXPLOSION for pharmaceutical products.
• A team of researchers have developed a method to o Revised rules are notified under Schedule M of the
model the kilonova explosion. Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945 and will be called
• About Kilonova Explosion: Drugs (Amendment) Rules, 2023.
o A kilonova is a bright blast of electromagnetic o Schedule M prescribes GMP for pharmaceutical
radiation that happens when two neutron stars or products and includes requirements of facilities
a neutron star and a stellar-mass black hole collide and their maintenance, personnel, manufacture,
and merge. control and safety testing, storage and transport
o A neutron star is formed when a star having a mass of material, written procedures and records,
more than 1.44 times that of the Sun (as per traceability, etc
Chandrasekhar limit) blows off its gaseous • Key highlights of the revised rules
envelope in a supernova explosion. o Include new categories of drugs: pharmaceutical
✓ They are among the densest objects in the products containing hazardous substances such as
cosmos. sex hormones, steroids, cytotoxic substances;
biological products; radiopharmaceuticals;
7.11.8. CHAMELEON TROJAN phytopharmaceuticals; and investigational
pharmaceutical products for clinical trials for
• Cyber security researchers have issued a warning about humans.
this new malware. o Implementation: 6 and 12 months for large
• Chameleon Trojan attaches itself to legitimate manufacturers (over Rs 250 crore turnover) and
Android apps to avoid detection and runs code in the MSMEs (less than Rs 250 crore turnover)
background. respectively.
o It uses 'Accessibility service' on Android devices to o Provision for informing the licensing authority
disable biometric authentication methods like about drug recall (presently no such mechanism
fingerprint and face unlock to steal the phone’s for informing).
PIN. o Other changes introduced: A pharmaceutical
o It uses stolen PIN to unlock the device and steal quality system, quality risk management, a
more sensitive information like credit card computerised storage system for all drug products
passwords, login credentials, etc. etc.
7.11.9. DIRECT-TO-CELL About GMP
• SpaceX, an American company, launched the first • GMP ensures that products are consistently produced
batch of Starlink satellites with “Direct-to-Cell” and controlled according to set quality standards.
capabilities. • WHO has established detailed guidelines for GMP.
• Direct-to-Cell satellites have an advanced eNodeB • In India, GMP system was first incorporated in 1988 in
modem onboard that acts like a cellphone tower in Schedule M of Drugs and Cosmetics Rules, 1945, and
space. were revised in 2018, bringing them on par with WHO
o Current communication system is based on the standards.
land based tower for transferring signals.
• It allows Starlink to deliver direct satellite broadband 7.11.11. HAVISURE: INDIGENOUSLY
connectivity on smartphones anywhere on Earth. DEVELOPED HEPATITIS A VACCINE
• It will also connect Internet of Things (IoT) devices with
• Havisure-India’s first indigenously developed Hepatitis
common LTE (Long-Term Evolution) standards.
A vaccine launched.
o IoT refers to a network of physical devices
• Havisure was developed by Indian Immunologicals Ltd
embedded with sensors, software and network
(IIL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of National Dairy
connectivity that allows them to collect and share
Development Board (NDDB).
data.
• Havisure is a two-dose vaccine wherein first dose is • Initiatives taken to prevent Hepatitis
administered at above 12 months of age and second o National Viral Hepatitis Control Program 2019 to
dose is given at least after 6 months of the first dose. eliminate Hepatitis C in India by 2030.
o It is also recommended for individuals who are at o Mission Indradhanush 2014 provides vaccination
risk of exposure or travel to the regions with high against Hepatitis B along with 7 other infections.
hepatitis A prevalence. o World Hepatitis Day (28 July every year).
• Hepatitis is an inflammation of liver that is caused by
a variety of infectious viruses and non-infectious 7.11.12. ‘SMART 2.0’ FOR AYURVEDA
agents. TEACHING PROFESSIONALS
o There are five main strains of hepatitis virus i.e. A,
• Two prominent institutions under Ministry of Ayush
B, C, D and E.
namely National Commission for Indian System of
Medicine (NCISM) and Central Council for Research in
Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) have launched 'SMART
2.0'.
• SMART 2.0 (Scope for Mainstreaming Ayurveda
Research in Teaching Professionals) Program
○ It aimed to promote robust clinical studies in
priority areas of Ayurveda with Ayurveda
academic institutions/ hospitals across the country
through mutual collaboration.
• Earlier launched SMART 1.0 aimed to boost scientific
research in priority healthcare research areas through
Ayurveda colleges and hospitals.
7.11.13. WHO’S INTERNATIONAL

CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASES 11 (ICD-
11)
• WHO’s International Classification of Diseases 11 (ICD-
11) now introduced Module 2 (ICD 11 TM 2).
• Module 2 of the supplementary chapter on traditional
medicine conditions under ICD 11 is dedicated to
Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani (ASU) data and
terminology.
○ It encompasses more than 500 codes. Infectious
diseases like Malaria and lifestyle diseases like
chronic insomnia are also included.
• ICD is the international standard for systematic
recording, reporting, analysis, interpretation, and
comparison of mortality and morbidity data.
○ It also includes a dedicated chapter on traditional
medicine.
○ Previously, ICD-11 included Module-1 which
covers traditional medicine conditions originating
in ancient China, which is now commonly used in
Japan, Korea etc.
○ ICD-11 came into effect in January 2022.
• Significance of ICD-11
○ Provides a list of diagnostics categories to collect
and report on traditional medicine conditions in an
internationally comparable manner.

○ Link traditional medicine practices with global • Key findings of report
conventional medicine’s norms and standard o Decline in tobacco use with about 1 in 5 adults
development. worldwide consuming tobacco in 2022 compared
○ Enable integration of traditional medicine into to 1 in 3 in 2000.
insurance coverage and reimbursement systems, o At least 37 million adolescents aged 13–15 years
in line with WHO objectives relating to universal are current users of some form of tobacco – 25
health coverage. million boys and 12 million girls.
• Impact of Tobacco use
o Kills more than 8 million people each year due to
risk of heart disease, lung disorders, cancer etc.,
including an estimated 1.3 million non-smokers
who are exposed to second-hand smoke.
o As per WHO, smoking costs world's economies
more than US$ 1 trillion annually in healthcare
expenditure and lost productivity.
o Deforestation due to its cultivation.
• India’s initiatives to control Tobacco use: National
Tobacco Control Programme, Prohibition of Electronic
Cigarettes Act, 2019, Cigarette and Other Tobacco
Products Act 2003, National Tobacco Quit Line Services
etc.
Global Initiatives to control tobacco use
• WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)
adopted in 2003.
o India ratified it in 2004.
• MPOWER measures introduced by WHO.
7.11.14. WHO REPORT ON PREVALENCE

OF TOBACCO USE
• World Health Organization (WHO) Global report on
Trends in prevalence of Tobacco use 2000–2030
released.
• India is world's second biggest tobacco producer after
China.
o Globally, there are 1.25 billion adult tobacco
users.
o Nearly 267 million adults (15 years and above) in
India are users of tobacco.
o Major tobacco producing states: Gujarat, Andhra
Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal,
Telangana, and Bihar.
o Tobacco is a drought-tolerant, hardy and short-
duration crop which can be grown on soils where
other crops cannot be cultivated profitably.

7.11.15. DISEASE X • About new treatment regimen announced
o Ministry has decided to introduce a three-drug
• World Economic Forum is set to begin session on novel regimen for Pauci-Bacillary (PB) cases of leprosy in
‘Disease X’. place of a two-drug regimen for six months.
• About ‘Disease X’ o Multi-drug therapy (MDT), as recommended by
o It is a theoretical term and "X" refers to WHO, consists of three drugs - dapsone, rifampicin
"unexpected”. and clofazimine.
o WHO introduced Disease X in 2018 to represent an • Recent Steps Taken
unknown pathogen that could cause a serious o National Strategic Plan (NSP) & Roadmap for
international epidemic. Leprosy (2023-27) to achieve zero transmission of
o WHO has placed Disease X alongside other high- leprosy by 2027.
priority diseases such as Ebola and Zika virus in its o National Leprosy Eradication Programme a
awareness campaigns. centrally sponsored scheme under National Health
Mission.
7.11.16. BIO-IMAGING BANK (BIB) ✓ Nikusth 2.0 Portal, an integrated portal for
• Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital (TMH), has leprosy case management.
established a ‘Bio-Imaging Bank’ for cancer. Status of leprosy in India
o Through it, the hospital is utilizing deep learning
• India has achieved elimination of leprosy as a public
and artificial intelligence (AI) to craft a cancer-
health problem as per WHO criteria of less than 1 case
specific tailored algorithm that aids in early-stage
per 10,000 population at National level in 2005.
cancer detection.
• Prevalence Rate at national level has decreased to
• BIB aims at creating a robust repository encompassing
0.45 per 10,000 population in 2021-22 as compared to
radiology and pathology images.
0.69 per 10,000 population in 2014-15.
o It will be linked with clinical information,
treatment specifics date etc. 7.11.18. BUBBLE BABY SYNDROME (BBS)
o This will be also used for training, validation, and
rigorous testing of AI algorithms for early • A two-month old girl, diagnosed with BBS, became the
detection of cancer. youngest to receive bone marrow transplant from a
voluntary donor.
7.11.17. NEW TREATMENT REGIMEN FOR • BBS, also known medically as Severe Combined
LEPROSY Immunodeficiency (SCID), is a rare genetic disorder
affecting the immune system.
• Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced new
o A baby with SCID completely lacks a functional
treatment regimen for Leprosy.
immune system and is extremely vulnerable to
• About Leprosy (Hansen’s disease)
severe and life-threatening infections.
o Cause: It is a chronic infectious disease which is
o Babies born with SCID lack white blood cells,
caused by a type of bacteria
including lymphocytes (T-cells and B-cells), which
called Mycobacterium leprae.
fight infections.
o Affects: Skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of upper
o Most common treatment is a stem cell transplant
respiratory tract, and eyes.
(bone marrow transplant).
o Transmission mode: Droplets, from the nose and
mouth, due to close contact with untreated cases. 7.11.19. STEEL SLAG ROAD TECHNOLOGY
o Treatment: Curable with multidrug therapy. (SSRT)
o Classification: into two types for treatment
purposes, • JSW Steel has constructed 1 km long four lane steel
✓ Pauci-Bacillary (PB) cases have fewer bacteria slag road section on NH-66 (Mumbai-Goa).
visible and show no signs of advanced disease o Earlier, Border Roads Organization has also
in biopsies. constructed a steel slag road in Arunachal
✓ Multibacillary (MB) patients have visible Pradesh.
bacteria and may show signs of more • This project falls under the initiative of the Waste to
advanced disease in biopsies Wealth and Clean India Campaign

• Steel Slag Road Technology o Temperature Resilience: With a melting point
o The slag is generated from a steel furnace burning over 200 degrees Celsius, steel slag is resistant to
in the form of molten flux material as an temperature variations, suitable for diverse
impurity. climates.
o Steel slag is a non-metallic, glassy material
consisting of calcium, magnesium, manganese,
and aluminium silicates and oxides in various
combinations.
o During the road construction, steel slag is
processed to remove impurities and metal
content.
o These processed steel slag aggregates exhibit
superior mechanical properties compared to
natural aggregates.
o The road includes bituminous and cement
concrete steel slag sections on both the right-
hand and left-hand carriageways.
• Benefits
o Cost Efficiency: Steel slag roads offer
approximately 30% cost savings compared to
traditional road construction.
o Durability: Steel slag's robust properties ensure 7.11.20. ANEEL (ADVANCED NUCLEAR
roads built with it surpass the lifespan of
ENERGY FOR ENRICHED LIFE)
conventional roads.
o Abundant Availability: India, as the world's • An American company has developed a fuel ANEEL
second-largest steel producer, has abundant (named after India’s scientist, Dr Anil Kakodkar).
access to steel slag, facilitating widespread use in • ANEEL is a mix Thorium and Uranium of a certain level
infrastructure projects. of enrichment, called HALEU (High Assay Low Enriched
o Environmental Friendliness: The innovative Uranium).
process significantly reduces greenhouse gas ○ HALEU has an enrichment level of 5-20%,
emissions, contributing to a greener approach in whereas most current reactors are enriched up to
road construction. 5%.
o SDG 9 Contribution: Embracing steel slag roads • Potential Benefits
contributes to achieving Sustainable ○ ANEEL can be used in the existing Pressurized
Development Goal 9, promoting resilient Heavy-Water Reactors (PHWRs) of India’s nuclear
infrastructure and sustainable industrialization. fleet.
○ Reduction in nuclear waste etc.

8. CULTURE
8.1. MITAKSHARA LAW
Why in the News?
Supreme Court ruled that children born from void or voidable marriages are legitimate for property inheritance under
the Hindu Succession Act (HSA), 1956 which recognizes Mitakshara Law.
More on News
• The court held that such children be treated as an extended family of a common ancestor to decide a valid share in
the property of the common ancestor.
Mitakshara Law
• It is one of the two major Hindu law schools (the other being Dayabhaga) that governs the succession of property in
Hindu families.
• It is based on the commentary on the Yajnavalkya Smriti, written by Vijnaneswara in the 12th century.
• It recognizes the concept of coparcenary, which means that ancestral property is jointly held by all male members
of the family, and they have equal rights in the property.
• Coparcener has no absolute right to transfer his share because his share is not definite or ascertainable as their
shares fluctuate with the births and deaths of the coparceners.
• According to this school, a woman could never become a coparcener.
o However, the Hindu Succession (Amendment) Act, of 2005 empowered women to become a coparcener like
males in ancestral property.
• It is prevalent throughout India, except in some eastern parts where Dayabhaga School is followed.
• There are 4 sub-schools of Mitakshara Law:
o Dravidian/Madras school of thought,
o Maharashtra school of thought,
o Banaras school of thought,
o Mithila school of thought.
o Punjab School
Dayabhaga School of Thought
• It is based mainly on the Yagnavalkya Smriti commented by Jimutuvahana.
• Inheritance is based on the principle of spiritual benefit. It arises by pinda offering, i.e., rice ball offering to deceased
ancestors.
• Followed in Bengal and some parts of Assam only.
• It has no sub-school.
Mitakshara vs. Dayabhaga schools in coparcenary rights
Mitakshara Schools Dayabhaga School
Mitakshara is an orthodox School Dayabhaga is Reformist School
Right of a son by birth in the ancestral property equals to the Son is entitled to his ancestral property only on the death of his
interest of his father. father.
Son becomes coparcener right after his birth. Son becomes coparcener by death of his father.
Coparcenary right is applicable to the property of grandfather Father is the absolute owner of his property in his lifetime.
and great-grandfather.
One cannot transfer his share to the third party as their share is One can transfer his share as they are defined.
not definite or ascertainable.

Related News
Sapinda Marriages
• Delhi High Court upheld the constitutional validity of the prohibition of marriage between ‘Sapindas’ under the Hindu Marriage
Act (HMA), 1955.
• The court also said that if the choice of a partner in a marriage is left unregulated, an incestuous relationship may gain
legitimacy.
• Section 5(v) of the HMA, 1955 prohibits marriages between Sapindas, unless custom or usage governing each of them permits
a marriage between the two.
• Sapindas
o Under the HMA, 1955, Sapinda relationship with any person extends as far as
✓ 3rd generation (inclusive) in the line of ascent through the mother, and
✓ 5th generation (inclusive) in the line of ascent through the father.
✓ The line is traced upwards in each case from the person concerned, who is to be counted as the first generation.
o Two persons are said to be sapindas of each other if –
✓ one is a lineal ascendant of the other within the limits of the sapinda relationship, or
✓ they have a common lineal ascendant who is within the limits of the sapinda relationship with reference to each of
them.
8.2. NEWS IN SHORTS

8.2.1. GEOGRAPHICAL INDICATIONS (GI) o Placed in UNESCO’s tentative World Heritage Sites
TAG list.
• 17 products from different states bagged the 8.2.3. GURUVAYUR TEMPLE

Geographical Indications (GI) tag • Guruvayur Temple also known as the Dwarka of the
States/UTs GI tagged Products South, and is dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Odisha Lanjia Saura paintings, Dongaria Kondh o The presiding deity is depicted in a standing
shawl, Khajuri Guda, Dhenkanal Magji, posture with four hands holding Shankh,
Similipal Kai Chutney, Nayagarh Kanteimundi Sudarshana Chakra, Lotus and Mace. It is carved
Brinjal, Koraput Kalajeera Rice out of stone named Patala Anjana.
Arunachal Handmade Carpets, Wancho Wooden Craft,
o Temple is erected in such a way that first rays of
Pradesh Adi Kekir (Ginger)
Sun descend directly at the feet of Vishnu.
West Bengal Tangail Saree, Garad Saree, Korial Saree,
Kalonunia Rice, Sundarban Honey
o In 1931-32, Sathyagraha was launched under
Jammu and Ramban Anardana Kelappan (Kerala Gandhi) to secure entry of
Kashmir untouchables into the temple.
Gujarat Kachchhi Kharek ✓ It led to Travancore Temple Entry
proclamation in 1936.
8.2.2. SRI VEERABHADRA TEMPLE (OR o Temple is also known for Elephant festival.
LEPAKSHI TEMPLE)
8.2.4. SHREE KALARAM MANDIR
• About Lepakshi temple
o Located in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh • Prime Minister visited the Kalaram Mandir on the
and built-in 16th century during Vijayanagar banks of the Godavari, Nashik (Maharashtra).
empire. • About the Temple:
o Built in trikutastyle with three shrines - o It was built in 1782 by Sardar Rangrao Odhekar on
Veerabhadra (Lord Shiva Presiding deity), the site of an old wooden temple.
Papanaseswara and Raghunatha. ✓ It is supposed to stand on the spot where Lord
o Noted for largest monolithic Nandi (bull) statue Ram lived during his exile.
and Naga-siva-linga with seven-hooded snake. o It derives its name from a black statue of the Lord
o Fresco paintings (painting in lime on plaster) on Ram.
walls and ceilings of mandapas and • The temple is also the site of a landmark agitation led
pradakshinapada depict illustrations from by Babasaheb Ambedkar demanding temple entry
Ramayana and Mahabharata, gods and legendary rights for Dalits more than 90 years ago.
stories like Parvathi's marriage, etc.

8.2.5. SRI RANGANATHASWAMY TEMPLE o Cultural significance: Many temples of Andhra
Pradesh, including the Tirupati Thirumala Temple,
• About Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple use its milk for Ksheeraabhishekam (milk offering
o Also known as Thiruvaranga Tirupati, is dedicated to the deity)
to Ranganatha (reclining form of Lord Vishnu).
o It is constructed in Dravidian style and temple
Complex has 21 sculpted Gopurams, 50 sub-
shrines, and 9 sacred pools (tanks).
o It is not just a temple but a temple-town, unique in
its Sapta-Prakaram formation and one of 108
Divya Desams dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
o Situated on island of Srirangam bounded by
Cauvery and Kollidam (tributary of Cauvery)
Rivers.
8.2.6. VADNAGAR
• A joint study by Indian Institute of Technology
(Kharagpur) discovered evidence of human settlement
in Vadnagar (Gujarat) dating back to 800 BCE.
o This aligns with late-Vedic/pre-Buddhist
Mahajanapadas or oligarchic republics era,
shedding light on the town's ancient origins.
• About Vadnagar
o Included in the tentative list of UNCESO World
Heritage Sites.
o It was a multicultural and multi religious
(Buddhist, Hindu, Jain and Islamic) settlement.
o It is in proximity to Modhera, which is famous for
Sun Temple.
o Historical sites
✓ Hatkeshwar Temple
✓ Sharmishtha Lake
8.2.7. PUNGANUR COWS

• Punganur Cows are a rare breed of cattle native to
Punganur village in Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh. 8.2.8. WARLI TRIBE
• Due to their declining numbers, in 2020, Andhra
• Warli Tribe has set up an example of peaceful
Pradesh government launched ‘Mission Punganur’.
coexistence with leopards near Sanjay Gandhi
o Indian Council of Agricultural Research
National Park in Maharashtra.
(ICAR,National Bureau of Animal Genetic
o They worship the leopard (or Waghoba) as a deity.
Resources has cryo-preserved their semen doses in
• About Warli Tribes
the gene bank.
o The Warli tribe is among the largest tribes of
• Key characteristics
Maharashtra region.
o One of the world’s smallest humped cattle
✓ They live on the outskirts of Mumbai, in the
breeds: Mere 70-90 cm tall and weigh around 115-
North Sahyadri region.
200 kg.
o They are renowned for Warli wall paintings.
o Ideal for small-scale dairy farming and organic
✓ This art form can be traced back to 10th
farming.
century AD.
o Known for high-quality milk which is rich in fat:
✓ Generally takes inspiration from normal life
Their milk may contain up to 8% fat content
routine and surroundings.
(Normal cow milk has a fat content of 3%-3.5%).
✓ Natural materials and colors are used in
o Adaptable and Drought-resistant: Can survive on
paintings with bamboo brushes
dry fodder such as grass, straw, etc.
8.2.9. BRU TRIBE 8.2.12. STATUE OF SOCIAL JUSTICE
• Last batch of Mizoram Bru refugees permanently • Statue of Social justice was unveiled in Vijayawada,
settled in Tripura as per an agreement signed between Andhra Pradesh.
Ministry of Home Affairs, Tripura, and Mizoram in o It is a 206 foot Bronze Statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar
2020. and is currently the world’s tallest Ambedkar
• About Bru Tribe (also known as Reang) statue.
o Indigenous to Northeast India, living mostly in • Other important Statues
Tripura (recognized as Particularly Vulnerable o Statue of Unity (Kevadia, Gujarat): Sardar Patel.
Tribal Group), Mizoram, and Assam. o Statue of Equality (Hyderabad's Shamshabad,
o Belongs to Tibeto-Burman family and speak Telangana): Ramanuja.
Kaubru language. o Statue of belief (Nathdwara, Rajasthan): Lord
o Practice Jhum cultivation and engage in food- Shiva.
gathering activities.
o Perform Hozagiri dance. 8.2.13. 'RASHTRIYA VIGYAN PURASKAR
(RVP)’
8.2.10. MADHIKA LANGUAGE
• Ministry of Science and Technology called for
• Currently, it has only 2 speakers and is on the brink of nominations of the first-ever National Science Award,
extinction. known as "Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar”.
• About Madhika o It will replace over 300 previously existing awards.
o Spoken by Chakaliya Community and has no script. • It recognizes outstanding and inspiring scientific,
o It is largely influenced by Havyaka Kannada (old technological and innovation contributions of
form of Kannada). researchers, technologist and innovators.
o It is a blend of Telugu, Tulu, Kannada, and • Awards will be given across four categories:
Malayalam. o These awards include Vigyan Ratna, Vigyan Shri,
Vigyan Yuva: Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar and
Vigyan Team.
o Posthumous awards will be given only in
exceptional cases.
• Award will be conferred on August 23rd (National
Space Day- Chandrayaan-3 mission's soft landing).
8.2.14. NATIONAL SPORTS AWARDS

(NSA) 2023
• President of India conferred NSA 2023.
• Administered by: Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.
• It includes following six core awards:
o Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna (Highest sporting
8.2.11. WEST BENGAL NOTIFIED STATE honour).
DAY & STATE SONG o Arjuna Award (For consistent performance over 4
years).
• West Bengal government notified Poila Boisakh as o Dronacharya Award (Highest sports honour for
State Day and Banglar Mati Banglar Jal as State Song. coaches).
• Poila Boisakh is the first day of the month of Boisakh o Major Dhyan Chand Award (For lifetime
of the Bengali calendar year and is named as Bangala achievement).
Divas. o Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy (Top
o Poila Boisakh is an important festival celebrated by performance in inter-university tournaments).
Bengali communities across West Bengal, Tripura, o Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar (sports
Jharkhand, and Assam. promotion by organisations or corporates).
o In 2023 it was celebrated on April 15th.
• Banglar Mati Banglar Jal song is written by
Rabindranath Tagore.

8.2.15. PRADHAN MANTRI RASHTRIYA 8.2.16. SUBHASH CHANDRA BOSE AAPDA
BAL PURASKAR (PMRBP) PRABANDHAN PURASKAR (SCBAPP)-
2024
• The President conferred PMRBP to 19 children.
• The PMRBP awarded annually by the Ministry of • 60 Parachute Field Hospital in Uttar Pradesh has been
Women and Child Development. selected for SCBAPP - 2024.
○ It honors children aged 5–18 for excellence in • About Award:
Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Innovation, o Announced every year on 23rd January (Parakram
Science & Technology, Social Service, and Sports Diwas) - birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash
that deserve national recognition. Chandra Bose.
○ Awards include a medal, certificate, and citation o Recognises and honors invaluable contributions
booklet, presented the week before Republic Day. and selfless services rendered by individuals and
○ Awardees must receive the accolades personally, organizations in Disaster Management.
with posthumous exceptions for bravery in Bal o Only Indian nationals and Indian institutions are
Shakti Puraskar. eligible to apply for the award.
○ Eligibility: Limited to Indian citizens residing in o Any individual/institution can nominate an
India individual or institution for the award.

9. ETHICS
9.1. BUDDHA'S TEACHINGS
Why in the news?
Recently, the Vice President of India stressed the importance of Buddha’s teachings while addressing the 12th General
Assembly of the Asian Buddhist Conference for Peace (ABCP).
Important Teachings of Buddha
• In the 6th century BC, Buddha preached that life brings sorrow. To find freedom, one must overcome desire.
• His teachings encompass 'Four Noble Truths' and 'Eight-Fold Path’ or Ashtangika Marg.
• Four Noble Truths:
o There is suffering and the entire world is inflicted by it
o There is a cause for suffering, which is not one entity, but a cycle of twelve links, with ignorance being the root cause.
o There is end of suffering if the root cause of suffering, i.e., ignorance is dispelled.
o There is a path that leads to the end of suffering, known as the eight-fold path.
• 'Eight-Fold Path’ (Path to the end of suffering): Right- Views, Aspiration, Speech, Action, Livelihood, Effort, Mindfulness and
Concentration.
• He advocated a ‘Middle Path’, a simple, virtuous life between extreme austerity and luxury.
• Further, Buddhist ethics, the expansion of the fourth noble truth, prescribes three gems (Triratna)-Knowledge, conduct and
meditation as the means of liberation.
• The five conducts that are very important for a Buddhist monk include: Non-violence, Non-stealing, Celibacy, Truthfulness
and not taking any intoxicating things like liquor.
Contemporary Relevance of Buddha’s Teachings
• Addresses Consumerism and Materialistic Greed: Buddha acknowledged the relationship between attachment and
sorrow and inspired to follow the pursuit of inner contentment.
o This can address mindless consumerism and promote sustainable consumption as envisioned in India’s Mission
LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment).
• Promoting Scientific temper: Encouraging mindfulness, concentration, and right understanding can facilitate a spirit
of inquiry.
• Citizen-centric governance: Right Speech, conduct, and livelihood can help make administration more responsive
and service-driven, prioritizing citizen welfare and inclusivity.
o Also, the incorporation of ‘Right conduct’ among public servants can help address concerns related to corruption.
• Forest Conservation: Buddhist monastic rules prohibit the cutting of plants and trees which recognizes sufferings
associated with deforestation to habitat and indigenous communities.
o Such recognition can help address contemporary forest degradation through Community based forest
management.
• Sustainable development: Pursuit of the 'Middle Path' can offer a path of sustainability, simplicity and moderation
and be a solution to climate change, over-exploitation of resources, etc.
o Pursuance of just and egalitarian society: Buddha preached non-discrimination by opening the institution of Sangha
to all persons (including courtesans like Amrapali) above fifteen years of age.
o His teachings can help eliminate discrimination against vulnerable sections like sex workers, women, transgender,
etc.
• Peace, harmony, and coexistence: Spirit of love towards all living and emphasis on the law of karma can curb wars,
terrorism, extremism and violence.
• Inter-faith harmony: Buddha neither accepted nor rejected the existence of God. He was more concerned about the
individual and his actions.
• Ethical guide: There is rise of frontier technology like Artificial Intelligence, biotechnology etc.
o Buddha’s teachings of simplicity, moderation, middle path and reverence for all life, guide us to deal with
ethical ambiguity associated with these advances.
• Peaceful resolution of conflict: Buddha rejected violence and taught dialogue as best way to resolve conflicts. In his
lifetime, Buddha resolved tensions between rulers of neighboring kingdoms.
Conclusion
Buddha’s teachings have a non- anthropocentric approach which focuses not only on human liberation by practicing
moral disciplines but also on wellbeing of all creatures and the natural world.
9.2. GOOD SAMARITANS

Introduction
In a case related to Good Samaritan, the Delhi High Court observed that a person
who chooses to help a person in distress should not be harassed for showing
kindness. Further, HC said that helping an injured on a public road/highway is
the prime duty of everyone.
Stakeholders and their Interests

Stakeholder Interests
Good Samaritan • Responsibility and duty to help living beings in distress.
• Expect that in lieu of helping others they will be not harassed by authorities or bear prolonged legal
formalities
Person in need • Expect that every person shall show the qualities of Good Samaritan showering compassion and
empathy.
Government • Government benefits from the act of Good Samaritans as it leads to saving of life of citizens.
o According to the Law Commission, 50% of the road accident victims could have been saved if they
had received care on time especially during Golden hour. Golden Hour refers to time period of one
hour following an accident.
• It will help government in reducing the road accidents by 50% by 2030.
Police/Other • Collects all the relevant information from the Good Samaritan.
authorities • Also, makes effort that Good Samaritan are not harassed by involving them in investigation, seeing
them as suspect, forcing them to become eyewitness etc.
Issues which hinder acts of Good Samaritan
• Indifference: In times of need, people give priority to their interests in
comparison to the urgency of saving a human life.
o For instance, if an individual is going for an important business deal
and s/he encounters an accident, the indifference can be reflected
here.
• Selfishness/unsympathetic: In modern times, self-centric tendencies
have increased. E.g. In a recent accident, people were taking selfies and
making videos instead of helping them.
• Bystander apathy: leads to diffusion of responsibility that occurs when
multiple people are present believing that someone else will take the action.
• Unfavourable public judgment: Fear of unfavourable public judgement wherein people feel they would be
considered the culprit.
• Legal Issues: Fear of being trapped in legal matters creates resistance among people to come forward and help others.
o In many cases, it has been found that police harass Good Samaritans through different means such as asking them
to take care of injured people, pay hospital bills, become eyewitnesses etc.
Good Samaritan and Legal Provision in India
• A person who comes forward to administer immediate assistance or emergency care to a person injured in an accident, or
crash, or emergency medical condition, or emergency situation. Such act is performed voluntarily without expectation of
payment or reward and without any duty of care or special relationship.

• Based on a PIL filed by Save LIFE Foundation, Supreme Court directed the centre to issue guidelines. Ministry of Road
Transport and Highways accordingly issued guidelines:-
o Good Samaritan may take an injured person to the nearest hospital and should be allowed to leave immediately.
o He/she shall not be liable for any civil and criminal liability.
o Hospitals should publish a charter stating that they shall not detain Samaritan or ask for depositing money for the
treatment.
o Action against public officials who coerce Good Samaritan for revealing personal details.
• In 2016, Supreme Court made these guidelines legally binding for all states and Union Territories.
• Section 134A was inserted in Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 providing protection to Good Samaritans
How we can promote the culture of Good Samaritan in India?
• Reforms in Law: Stringent provisions in Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 can be
added for the protection of the Good Samaritan.
o It will motivate people to come forward and help others.
• Display ‘Charter of Rights’ for Good Samaritans in the hospitals and police
stations, as mandated by the Supreme Court.
• Rewards/Recognition for Good Samaritans: Operant conditioning, also
referred to as instrumental conditioning or Skinnerian conditioning, can be
used in this regard.
o It is a method of learning that uses rewards and punishment to modify behaviour.
• Public Awareness: It will help in promoting values like empathy, kindness, and the importance of helping others from
a young age.
o Familiarise Health Workers and Police about the Good Samaritan Law, court decisions, guidelines and standard
operating procedures
o Different mediums can be adopted for it such as cinema, theatre etc.
• Adoption of Best Practices: Canadian states have provisions of no liability for emergency aid by Samaritans unless
gross negligence is observed.
Check Your Ethical Aptitude
You are aspiring to become an IAS officer and you have cleared various stages of the examination and now you have been called
for the personality test. On the day of the interview, on the way to the venue you saw an accident where a mother and child were
badly injured.
On the basis of the case, answer the following questions:
What would you have done in such a situation? Justify your action.
9.3. BEYOND BITES: ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS IN STRAY DOGS CONTROL

Introduction
India has a nearly 1.5 crore stray dog population (2019 livestock census) and carries the dubious distinction of being the
world’s dog-bite-and-rabies-capital. According to the National Crime Records Bureau, there were 4,146 reported cases
of dog bites leading to human deaths in India in 2019. Thus, there is a growing concern regarding stray dog management.
Stakeholder Interest/Role
Animal welfare • Providing shelter and food to stray dogs and maintaining animal waste.
organizations/ • Rescue, rehabilitation and rehoming efforts.
activists • Advocating for humane treatment and promoting responsible pet ownership.
• Provide healthcare facilities to dogs.
Pet owners • Taking responsibility for their pets and not contributing to stray dog population.
• Timely immunization of their pets.
• Supporting community initiatives and intervening in case of inappropriate pet behaviour.
Local authorities • Control the stray dog population and ensure their well-being.
• Carrying out effective immunization and sterilization of stray dogs.
• Providing adequate healthcare facilities to treat dog bite and rabies cases.
Government • Frame appropriate policies and legislations for animal control.
• Formulation of standard operating procedures for addressing cases of dog bites and tackle rabid dogs.
Ethical aspects surrounding control of stray dogs
• Abandonment: Abandonment of pets is a moral challenge, which is often considered as moral bankruptcy and
irresponsibility.
o Socio-economic changes in human societies have rendered the historical roles of hunters and herders largely
obsolete.
o Thus, theutilitarian component has weakened significantly in the human-dog bond that has evolved over
thousands of years.
• Differential treatment: There are concerns regarding the differential treatment of different categories and breeds of
dogs. Why do some well-bred animals are seen as status symbols, and treated like family members, while others
living on the streets are seen as social outcasts?
• Companionship and responsibility: Dogs have a unique relationship with man’s evolutionary history — one of
companionship. This poses a moral dilemma of being responsible for their welfare but also confronting the vagaries
of their evolution from wolves and their territorial instincts.
• Public Health: The concern is raised for both human health and the health of dogs.
o Also, India has committed to eliminating rabies by 2030, but it is not possible without first addressing threats from
stray dogs.
• Ecological concerns: Carrying capacity of the environment is the population of a species that can be supported by a
particular environment given the limite resources.
o Some believe that humans are directly increasing the capacity of stray dog population by regularly feeding them,
thus aggravating the problem.
• Animal control methods: The use of capture, mass killing and euthanasia methods raises ethical concerns, as it
involves taking the lives of animals. Ethical alternatives, such as trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs, should be
considered.
Present Policy Framework
• Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act (PCA), 1960: Killing of stray dogs is punishable under the PCA, 1960, which
classifies torture and transporting them in a manner which causes them suffering, as cruelty.
• Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI): A statutory advisory body, established in 1962 under PCA 1960, to promote
animal welfare.
• Animal Birth Control (ABC) Program: It aims to control population of stray dogs through sterilization and vaccination.
The program is regulated as per the Animal Birth Control Rules, 2023 under PCA 1960, other provisions of which
include:
o ABC programme is to be carried out by the respective local bodies/municipalities/Municipal Corporations and
Panchayats.
o Incurably ill and mortally wounded dogs shall be euthanized in a humane manner.
o Responsibility of feeding the community animals lies with the Resident Welfare Association or Local Body’s
representative of that area.
• Judicial View: Supreme Court has in various orders specifically mentioned that relocation of dogs cannot be
permitted.
o Supreme Court in AWBI vs Nagaraja case (2014) declared that every species has a right to life and security, subject
to the law of the land, which includes depriving its life out of human necessity.
Different ethical perspectives for building a way forward
• Utilitarianism: Utilitarian views of greater benefit to society would support a pro-human strategy for dog management.
• Deontology: Deontology involves approaches that prioritize fulfilling responsibilities toward animals, such as providing proper
care and respecting the inherent value of life.
• Virtue Ethics: It involves promoting virtues such as empathy, compassion, and encouraging responsible pet ownership.
• Rights-based Ethics: Stray dogs would be considered as having certain rights, and ethical actions would involve respecting and
protecting those rights.
• Libertarian view: Removal of dogs from our surroundings and dumping them in garbage mounds violates their fundamental
right to life and dignity.

Way Forward
• Animal control measures: Government alongside Civil Society needs to formulate and implement policy measures
including proper vaccination and sterilization drives and manage animal waste.
o Effective laws to prevent the abandonment of pets and ensure their welfare can also be enacted.
o A national policy aiming to solve the human-dog conflict with a focus
on block and district levels should be designed with consultation from
all relevant stakeholders.
• Infrastructural support: Creation of dedicated feeding spots, veterinary
healthcare facilities, and support to civil society organizations involved in
animal welfare.
• Training and Education: Potential/present pet owners shall be educated
and trained regarding pet behaviour, their development cycle and
managing their health and hygiene.
• Developing new relationships: Dogs have highly developed cognitive and
social communication abilities, which enable them to perform various
functions in the roles of service dogs, drug-detecting, and bomb-sniffing dogs and so on.
o Also, many studies demonstrate that the company of dogs can lead to reduced stress, anxiety, and symptoms of
depression.
Check your ethical aptitude
Bengaluru, a metropolitan hub, is grappling with the escalating number of stray dogs. Incidents of dog bites, conflicts with residents,
and concerns about safety have become commonplace. The rage amongst the dogs is increasing among some groups of the citizens
and caregivers who feed stray dogs are becoming common target of violence. The administration is under pressure of clearing the
streets of stray dogs.
On the basis of case, answer the following questions:
• How can the administration strike a balance between ensuring public safety, especially in cases of dog bites and conflicts, and
upholding the compassionate treatment of stray dogs?
• What ethical considerations should guide the administration in engaging with the community to address their concerns and
seeking collaborative solutions to the stray dog issue?

10. SCHEMES IN NEWS
10.1. SUKANYA SAMRIDDHI YOJANA (SSY)
Why in the News?
Finance Ministry recently increased the interest rate for the Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme from 8% to 8.2% for
January-March (2024) quarter.
Objectives Salient features
• Aim is to provide a • Ministry: Ministry of Finance
small investment • Background: SSY is a small deposit scheme
for the girl, which for a girl child and was launched in 2015 as
is to be used to a part of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
facilitate payment campaign.
of education and • Account Opening: Account can be opened
marriage expenses in Post Offices and notified branches of
Commercial Banks.
• Account Name: Opened in the name of a
girl child and an account under this Scheme
may be opened for a maximum of two girl
children in one family.
• Account portability: The account can be
transferred anywhere in India from one
post office/Bank to another
• Interest Rate: Interest on balance (at rate
notified by the government from time to
time) will be calculated on yearly
compounded basis and credited to the
account.
• Maturity of scheme: The account shall
mature after 21 years from the date of
opening or on marriage of the girl child
under whose name the account is opened, whichever is earlier.
• Premature closure of account: In the event of death of the account holder or where the Central
Government is satisfied that continuation of the account is causing undue hardship to the account
holder.
• Premature withdrawal: Once the girl child is 18 years old, she can make an early withdrawal of up
to 50% of the balance for higher education.
• Other benefits of Sukanya Samriddhi Account Scheme
o Even girl child can operate the account after she attains the age of 10 years.
o Payment on maturity to girl child.
o Interest payment even after maturity if account is not closed.
o Transferable anywhere in India.
o Deposits may be made in the account till the completion of a period of fifteen years from the
date of opening of the account.
• Documents required for opening an account
o Sukanya Samriddhi Account Opening Form.
o Birth certificate of girl child
o Identity proof (as per RBI KYC guidelines)
o Residence proof (as per RBI KYC guidelines)

APPENDIX

Copyright © by Vision IAS
All rights are reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any
form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without prior permission of Vision
IAS.
News Today is Daily Current Affairs bulletin that simplifies newspaper reading
and keeps you updated with daily events. It helps aspirants in:
Understanding the Developing an eye for Understanding the

development in any news. identifying the kind of news different technical terms,
that should be read in the complex phenomenon
newspapers. appearing in news.
Key Features of Key Features of

News Today Document News Today Video
Sources: It covers multiple sources like the Key Headlines: We encapsulate the six most
Hindu, Indian Express, PIB, News on Air, important news stories of the day, ensuring you
Economic Times, Hindustan Times, the Mint etc. get a quick overview of the key events without
Segments: It covers primary News of the day, overwhelming details.
Also in News and special focus on Personalities Places in News/Personality in News: Every day, we
and places in News in 4 pages. delve deeper by highlighting a significant place or
Primary News of the Day: It covers main news of a notable personality in the news.
the day in less than 180 words. The main focus of Quick Updates: In our "Quick Updates" section, we
this news is to cover the recent development in cover trending topics quickly, keeping you in the
detail i.e. providing primary level of information loop with what's happening around the world.
so that the aspirant can at least get an idea of Test Your Learning: At the end of each News Today
the different things that are going on. Video Bulletin, we test your understanding with an
Also in News and Places in News/Personality in MCQ section. This interactive feature makes
News: It covers in 80 words like important terms learning not just informative but also fun, ensuring
appearing in the news, Protected areas & Species that you retain the knowledge effectively.
in News etc. Resources: You'll find links in the description to
the "News Today" PDF document, which
complements your video experience, and an MCQ
quiz with questions and answers to solidify your
learning.
Scan the QR
Watch News Today Scan the QR
code to download
Video Bulletin every code for News
the News Today
day at 9 PM Today Quiz
document

Monthly Current Affairs January 2024 January 2024

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Monthly Current Affairs January 2024 January 2024

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

Monthly Current Affairs January 2024 January 2024

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Table of Contents

1. POLITY AND GOVERNANCE ________________4 3.8.11. Audit Quality Deficiencies ________________ 43

1 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

Copyright © by Vision IAS

2 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

4 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

5 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

1.3. STREET VENDORS (PROTECTION OF LIVELIHOOD AND REGULATION OF

9 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

10 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

11 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

12 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

Key Features of the Government Scan the QR code,

1. Schemes in News: Stay Updated, Stay Ahead!

2. Flagship Schemes in Focus: Your Path to Exam Success!

3. Test Your Learning: Reinforce, Assess, Retain!

13 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

How does IFC-IOR strengthen India’s foreign relations?

15 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.3. INDIA-NEPAL RELATIONS

2.3.1. INDIA-NEPAL HYDROPOWER COOPERATION

Significance of cooperation for India Significance of cooperation for Nepal

17 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.4. INDIA-RUSSIA RELATIONS

19 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.5. INDIA-ITALY RELATIONS

20 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.6. GENOCIDE CONVENTION

21 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.7. THE GLOBAL COOPERATION BAROMETER 2024 REPORT

22 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

The 5 pillars of Global Cooperation Barometer

23 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.8. NEWS IN SHORTS

24 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

2.8.3. HAGUE APOSTILLE CONVENTION,

26 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

27 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.2. UNIFIED PAYMENTS INTERFACE (UPI)

29 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

30 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.3. NON- PERFORMING ASSETS (NPA)

31 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

32 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.5. PETROLEUM EXPLORATION & PRODUCTION

Unconventional Petroleum Resources

3.7. PRADHAN MANTRI GRAM SADAK YOJANA

3.8. NEWS IN SHORTS

40 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

41 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.8.5. DIRECT TAX TO GDP RATIO ROSE 3.8.6. REVERSE FLIP

42 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.8.12. BHARATMALA PHASE 1

3.8.14. PAYMENTS INFRASTRUCTURE

45 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

46 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.8.18. UREA GOLD

47 www.visionias.in ©Vision IAS

3.8.20. SOLAR POWER SCHEME FOR

3.8.22. GLOBAL HYDROGEN TRADING

1. POLITY AND GOVERNANCE 4 3.8.11. Audit Quality Deficiencies 43