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India’s Online Gaming Rules

• Calls for Deregulation: Experts and the Economic Survey 2024-25 emphasize deregulation to unlock the online gaming sector’s potential.

• Challenges of Excessive Regulation: Heavy taxation (28% GST), retrospective tax demands (Rs 1.12 lakh crore), and legal uncertainties hinder growth.

• Industry Self-Regulation: India’s RMG industry has collectively signed a code of ethics to establish ethical and transparent business practices.

• Market Growth: India is the world’s largest gaming market (568 million gamers), projected to reach USD 8.6 billion by 2028.

• Drivers of Growth: Young population, smartphone penetration, internet accessibility, localized content, booming IT sector, and digital payment adoption.

• Negative Impacts: Gaming addiction, emotional and physical symptoms.

• Legal and Regulatory Framework: State legislatures have power over gaming laws; IT Rules 2023 define online gaming; Prize Competitions Act 1955 regulates prize-based competitions; PGA exempts skill-based games; FDI restrictions.

• Judicial Stance: Supreme Court recognizes horse race betting as skill-based.

• Need for Relaxation: To foster economic growth (2-3 lakh jobs), enhance competitiveness, ensure regulatory clarity, prevent capital flight to offshore platforms, and encourage innovation.

• Way Forward: Rationalizing taxation (tiered system), categorizing platforms by user base, uniform co-regulatory framework, responsible gaming awareness, and stricter data protection.

• Tax Implications: The Union government’s effort to wring the online gaming sector dry is a black warrant for online gaming, as smaller startups will go bankrupt or simply shut shop and growth of illegal gambling and betting sites, which are already flourishing, typically operating offshore beyond the reach of our regulators.

PM Internship

• Focus: Prime Minister Internship Scheme launched with a dedicated mobile app.

• Target Audience: Young individuals aged 21-24 from low-income families.

• Eligibility: Completion of at least 10th grade, with ITI certificates, diplomas, or graduation, and family income ≤ ₹8 lakh in 2023-24, no family member in government job. Indian citizens aged 21-24, not engaged in full-time employment or education.

• Exclusion: Students from premier institutions (IITs, IIMs, etc.) and those with professional degrees (CA, MBA, MBBS, etc.).

• Objective: To provide 12-month internships in top 500 companies across 24 sectors, including oil, gas, energy, travel, hospitality, automotive, banking and financial services.

• Scale: Pilot phase targets 1.25 lakh youth with a five-year goal of reaching one crore internships.

• Impact: It is meant to bridge the gap between academic learning and industry exposure to enhance skill development and create employment opportunities for underprivileged youth.

Wheat Harvest

• India’s wheat production estimated at a record 115.3 million metric tonnes in 2024-25, up 2% from 2023-24.
• Wheat is the second largest crop by area, behind paddy. Uttar Pradesh is the top producer, followed by Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, etc.
• Wheat is India’s second most important staple food after rice and the world’s second-largest producer after China.
• Average yield is around 3.5 tonnes per hectare, lower than global averages due to factors like small landholdings and irrigation.
• Wheat is a rabi crop, sown in winter (October-December), harvested in spring (March-April).
• Ideal temperature for wheat is 10-15°C during sowing and 21-26°C during harvesting.
• Requires 50-75 cm of well-distributed rainfall.
• Grows best in well-drained loamy and clayey soils with a pH of 6.0-7.5.
• Government wheat procurement in 2024-25 is 26.6 million tonnes, lower than the 30-32 million tonne target.
• Central wheat stock is high at 14.41 million tonnes, exceeding the April 1 buffer norm.
• MSP for wheat in 2025-26 is Rs 2,425 per quintal, a 6.59% increase.
• Rapeseed and mustard production estimated lower at 12.9 million tonnes in 2024-25 compared to 13.26 million tonnes in 2023-24.
• Wheat prices have risen sharply in recent years. Retail inflation for wheat reached 8.8% in January 2025.

Ambedkar’s Philosophy

• Renewed Attention: Dr. Ambedkar’s philosophy on social justice, equality, and freedom, particularly regarding caste and gender inequality, is gaining renewed focus.

• Pragmatism: Influenced by John Dewey, Ambedkar used pragmatism to address real-world problems like the caste system, social injustice, and economic inequality, emphasizing action-oriented solutions. He used “force and energy” as secular terms to summate the principled and organic idea of Ambedkar. Prof. Scott R. Stroud’s work ‘The Evolution of Pragmatism in India: Ambedkar, Dewey, and the Rhetoric of Reconstruction’ is also essential for understanding the dialectics of the philosophy of pragmatism and Ambedkar.

• Critique of Caste: Ambedkar strongly criticized the caste system as oppressive and unjust, advocating for a society based on reason and equality. “Annihilation of Caste” argues caste perpetuates social and economic inequality.

• Legal and Constitutional Philosophy: As the architect of the Indian Constitution, Ambedkar emphasized liberty, equality, and fraternity, drawing inspiration from the French Revolution. Advocated constitutional morality, rule of law, fundamental rights, and affirmative action.

• Political Philosophy: He viewed democracy as a way of life, emphasizing liberty, equality, and fraternity.

• Economic Philosophy: Ambedkar advocated a middle path between capitalism and socialism, with the state playing a role in economic planning, land reforms, and labor rights.

• Gender Justice: A strong advocate for gender equality, Ambedkar helped draft the Hindu Code Bill and emphasized women’s education and empowerment.

• Views on Gandhism: Ambedkar was critical of Gandhism’s caste reforms, advocating legal abolition of caste.

• Contemporary Relevance: His ideas continue to be relevant in social justice (reservation policies), constitutional democracy (addressing majoritarianism), education for empowerment, gender equality, and economic equality (labor rights).

• Navayana Buddhism: Ambedkar reconstructed Buddhism as Navayana Buddhism, focusing on social equality and ethical living over rituals, as seen in “The Buddha and His Dhamma.”

Intelligence Summit IV

• 4th Conference of Global Intelligence & Security Chiefs: Hosted by India’s NSA, Ajit Doval, and organized by R&AW and NSCS.
• International Participation: Included intelligence officials from over 20 countries, including chiefs from the Five Eyes Alliance.
• Timing: Held a day before the Raisina Dialogue (March 17-19, 2025).
• Context: Taking place amidst global uncertainties attributed to U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies.
• Key Discussion Topics: Counterterrorism, Indo-Pacific cooperation, global challenges, global security, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, immigration and extradition, transnational crimes, narcotics, and terror financing. Intelligence sharing on transnational crimes and counterterrorism were key for India.
• Modeled After: Munich Security Conference and Shangri-La Dialogue.
• U.S. Presence: U.S. Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, attended and held talks with Doval, also scheduled to speak at the Raisina Dialogue.
• Canadian Participation: The visit of Canadian spy chief Daniel Rogers has come as India looks to reset its with Ottawa.
• Raisina Dialogue Link: High-level annual security dialogue organized as part of the Raisina Dialogue.
• Strategic Platform: A strategic platform for intelligence and security officials to discuss emerging threats, collaborative security frameworks, and contemporary geopolitics and geo-strategies.

Uniyala Keralensis

• New Plant Species Discovered: Uniyala keralensis, a new plant species belonging to the Asteraceae family, has been confirmed in the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve in Kerala. This confirmation came 27 years after the initial specimen was collected.

• Endemic to Southwest India: The species is endemic to southwest India, specifically found within the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve.

• Distinct Features: Uniyala keralensis is a dense shrub with light purple flowers, growing 1-3m tall. It distinguishes itself from other Uniyala species by having larger leaves, longer petioles, and fewer lateral veins.

• Discovery Timeline: A specimen was first collected in 1998 and was initially thought to be Vernonia multibracteata. Later taxonomic work separated Uniyala from Vernonia, and further comparison revealed the specimen to be a unique species within Uniyala.

• Habitat and Population: Found on western mountain slopes of the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve at elevations of 700-1,400m. The population is estimated at approximately 5,000 individuals across four subpopulations spread over 250 km².

• IUCN Status: The species is currently classified as Data Deficient (DD) under IUCN Red List Criteria.

• Named After Kerala: The species name, Uniyala keralensis, honors the state of Kerala. The genus Uniyala is named after plant taxonomist B.P. Uniyal.

Pi Day

• Pi Day Celebration: Celebrated annually on March 14th (3/14) as International Day of Mathematics, honoring the mathematical constant Pi.

• Significance of the Date: The date reflects the approximate value of Pi, 3.14.

• Pi Explained: Pi (π) is a constant representing the ratio of a circle’s circumference to its diameter. It’s an irrational number with infinite, non-repeating digits, roughly equal to 3.14.

• Worldwide Celebrations: Events like Pi recital competitions and themed activities are held to promote interest in mathematics, theme for Pi Day 2025 is ‘Mathematics, Art, and Creativity’.

• Historical Context: Pi has been known for nearly 4,000 years, with its symbol (π) developed in 1706.

• Pi’s Uses: Essential in geometry, trigonometry, calculus, physics, engineering, architecture, and other areas.

• Recent Achievement: 10-year-old Alberto Davila Aragon from Bristol, UK, set a new world record on Pi Day, recalling 280 decimal places of Pi in one minute.

Etiquette Squad

• What: Delhi Police is launching “Shishtachar Squads” to combat sexual harassment against women in public places.
• Why: The initiative aims to enhance women’s safety, a promise made by the BJP during the Delhi Assembly elections. It draws inspiration from Uttar Pradesh’s Anti-Romeo Squads.
• Structure: 30 squads will be deployed across Delhi, each comprising 12 members: an Inspector, Sub-Inspector, four female constables, five male constables, and a constable from the Anti-Auto Theft Squad.
• Operation:
  • Teams will patrol “high-risk” areas daily, including at least two vulnerable spots each day.
  • Women officers in plain clothes will be involved to identify and deter offenders.
  • Surprise checks will be conducted on buses, and interaction with staff and passengers will take place.
  • Interaction with market and residents’ welfare associations (MWAs and RWAs) to identify high-risk spots.
• Supervision: Each district will have at least two squads supervised by the Additional Commissioner of Police in the respective district’s Crime Against Women Cell (ACP-CAW). Weekly reports will be submitted to monitor performance.
• Legal Action: The squads will be empowered to take swift legal action under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Indian penal code).
• Evaluation: Monthly evaluations will be conducted based on feedback from schools, colleges, RWAs, MWAs, and Police Control Rooms.

Karabakh Resolution

• Peace Agreement Finalized: Armenia and Azerbaijan have finalized the text of a peace agreement, aiming to end the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. This marks a potential end to decades of hostility.

• Historical Context: Nagorno-Karabakh, an autonomous region within Azerbaijan with a majority Armenian population, sought unification with Armenia during the Soviet Union’s collapse. This led to the First Nagorno-Karabakh War (1988-1994).

• Shift in Control: The First Nagorno-Karabakh War resulted in Armenian-backed control of the region. However, the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War (2020) saw Azerbaijan regain significant territory.

• Azerbaijan’s Full Control: A 2023 offensive led to Azerbaijan regaining full control of Nagorno-Karabakh, resulting in the enclave’s dissolution and mass displacement of the Armenian population. Over 100,000 people, nearly the entire population, fled to Armenia.

• India’s Stance: India supports a diplomatic resolution through the OSCE Minsk Group, remaining neutral in the conflict.

• INSTC Implications: Both Armenia and Azerbaijan are part of the International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), crucial for India’s trade routes, giving India a vested interest in regional stability.

Fuji: Sacred Peak

• Climbing Fees Introduced: Japan will implement a 4,000 yen (approx. $27) climbing fee on all four main trails of Mount Fuji this summer.
• Reason for Fees: To manage overcrowding and enhance safety for tourists, addressing concerns about environmental damage and the influx of foreign tourists.
• Background: Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain and a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its cultural significance and popularity.
• Location: Situated on Honshu Island, about 100km southwest of Tokyo, within the Yamanashi and Shizuoka prefectures.
• Climber Numbers: While climber numbers declined to 204,316 last year, from 221,322 in 2023, high numbers still warrant safety measures.
• Historical Context: A once-peaceful pilgrimage site, Mount Fuji has become a major attraction, particularly during the summer climbing season (July-September).
• Volcanic Activity: Mount Fuji is an active stratovolcano, though its last eruption was in 1707.
• Additional measures:Officials brought a cap on daily entries and online reservations on one of its popular trails due to safety and environmental damage.
• Cultural Significance: The symmetrical mountain has been immortalized in countless artworks, including Hokusai’s “Great Wave”

India’s Space Dock

• India enters elite club: Becomes the 4th nation (after US, Russia, China) to demonstrate space docking and undocking capabilities.
• Successful SpaDex mission: ISRO autonomously undocked two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), launched on December 30, 2024.
• Docking Process: Satellites were brought together from 20km apart using ISRO’s own docking system (similar to ISS but with fewer motors) and locked using an extended locking mechanism. Demonstrated power sharing after docking and were commanded as a single structure.
• Undocking Importance: Crucial for India’s future space ambitions, including Bhartiya Antriksh Station (by 2035), human mission to the Moon (by 2040), and Chandrayaan-4 (lunar sample return).
• Why it Matters: Enables assembly of heavy spacecraft in orbit (weight limitations restrict single-launch missions). Essential for transporting astronauts and supplies to space stations.
• Historical Context: NASA’s Gemini VIII (Neil Armstrong) completed the first manual space docking in 1966. The USSR achieved the first autonomous docking in 1967.

Kanger Valley Park

• UNESCO Tentative List Inclusion: Kanger Valley National Park (KVNP) in Chhattisgarh has been added to UNESCO’s tentative list of World Heritage Sites under the ‘Natural’ category. This is a significant recognition.

• Location: Located in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh.

• Significance: It’s the first site in Chhattisgarh to be included in this prestigious list, promising a boost to tourism both nationally and internationally. This will carve its name as attractive tourist destination.

• Key Features:

  • Features lush green valleys, deep ravines and waterfalls, like Tirathgarh Falls.
  • Features low flatlands, gentle slopes, steep inclines, plateaus, deep gorges, valleys , and winding stream courses.
  • More than 15 limestone caves, including Kotumsar, Kailash, and Dandak caves.
  • Home to mixed moist deciduous forests with Sal, teak, and bamboo.
  • Wildlife includes tigers, leopards, mouse deer, and various bird species.

• Historical Context: Previously affected by Maoist activity; now reportedly free from it, and under a secure environment and is going to see a major boost in carving itself as an attractive tourist destination.

• Importance to Locals: The park is culturally significant for the local tribes.

• River: The Kanger River flows through the park, contributing to its unique landscape and attractions.

Japan’s Major Islands

• Japan’s 6,852 islands are dominated by five major ones: Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku, and Okinawa. These islands are vital for Japan’s geography, economy, and security.
• Honshu, the largest and most populous, is considered mainland Japan, housing major cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Mount Fuji is located here.
• Hokkaido, the northernmost, is known for its cold climate, skiing, and winter tourism, with Sapporo as its main city.
• Kyushu, the third-largest, has significant volcanic activity (Mount Aso) and important cities like Fukuoka (industrial/trade) and Nagasaki (historical atomic bombing site).
• Shikoku, the smallest major island, is noted for agriculture (citrus), pilgrimages, and scenic beauty, connected to Honshu by bridges.
• Okinawa, strategically located near Taiwan and China, hosts crucial US military bases, vital for Indo-Pacific security.
• Japan plans to deploy long-range missiles on Kyushu, potentially targeting North Korea and China. This is due to concerns over US security stance and regional tensions. The missiles would bolster defenses and enhance counterstrike capabilities.

Water Cycles

• Why in News: A CSE study highlights the need for water circularity to address water scarcity and environmental degradation in India.

• India’s Water Scarcity: India is water-stressed, with rapidly declining freshwater resources and a low global ranking in per capita availability. Per capita surface water availability has declined by 73% since 1950.

• Wastewater Crisis: Urban India generates vast amounts of sewage, but most remains untreated, polluting water bodies and land. Wastewater generation is projected to increase substantially.

• Water Governance Issues: Cities rely on distant water sources, leading to shortages and unequal access. States show poor water management. Reuse mandates are poorly enforced.

• Water Circularity Defined: Recycling, reusing, and recovering resources within the water cycle to maximize value and minimize waste.

• Benefits of Water Circularity: Reduces industrial water costs, supports irrigation, saves water in power plants, recovers valuable nutrients for fertilizer, enables groundwater recharge, and produces biogas and biofuels.

• Strengthening Wastewater Reuse:

  • Water credit system for incentivizing industries to adopt water-efficient practices.
  • Decentralized wastewater treatment systems for local reuse.
  • Mandatory treated wastewater use for industries and power plants near STPs.
  • Converting unused canal networks into wastewater supply channels.
  • Tax and financial incentives for wastewater recycling investments.
  • Enforcement of discharge standards with regular audits and IoT-based monitoring.

BCI

• Strict Warning Against Unethical Advertising: The Bar Council of India (BCI) has issued a warning against misleading legal advertising and social media promotions. This is significant because it highlights the BCI’s role in maintaining ethical standards within the legal profession.

• Statutory Body & Regulatory Authority: BCI is a statutory body created by the Parliament. It regulates and represents the Indian bar under the Advocates Act, 1961. Its regulatory function is crucial for maintaining the integrity and credibility of the legal profession.

• Safeguarding Advocate Rights: A core objective of the BCI is to protect the rights, interests, and privileges of advocates across India.

• Professional Conduct & Discipline: The BCI prescribes standards of professional conduct and etiquette, and it has disciplinary jurisdiction over the bar. This function is vital for ensuring lawyers adhere to professional ethics.

• Legal Education Standards: The BCI sets standards for legal education and grants recognition to law schools, which ensures the quality of legal training.

• All India Bar Examination (AIBE): The BCI conducts the AIBE, a certification exam for law graduates wanting to practice, ensuring a minimum standard of competency.

• Welfare Schemes: The BCI funds welfare schemes for economically weaker and physically handicapped advocates. This is important for supporting disadvantaged members of the profession.

• Membership: The BCI includes members elected from State Bar Councils, the Attorney General, and the Solicitor General.

Addiction Brain

• Addiction as a Brain Disorder: Neuroscience emphasizes addiction as a chronic brain condition, not a moral failing, affecting neural circuits related to craving, emotional regulation, and decision-making.

• Key Brain Regions: A study highlights the interconnected roles of the basal ganglia (reward), extended amygdala (withdrawal), and prefrontal cortex (decision-making) in the addiction cycle.

• Basal Ganglia & Reward: This region, particularly the nucleus accumbens (NAc), teaches the brain to repeat pleasurable activities, reinforced by neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.

• Extended Amygdala & Withdrawal: Triggers negative emotional states (anxiety, irritability) during substance withdrawal, driving continued use.

• Prefrontal Cortex & Decision-Making: Impairment explains continued substance use despite awareness of harm, a hallmark of addiction.

• Adolescent Vulnerability: Adolescents are at higher risk due to the late maturation of the prefrontal cortex (impulse control).

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• Multifactorial Causes: Addiction results from a combination of genetic predisposition, psychological factors (trauma, stress), environmental influences (peer pressure), and age of first use.

• Neuroplasticity & Recovery: The brain’s ability to adapt offers hope for recovery; research focuses on understanding and supporting long-term recovery processes.

• Reducing Stigma: Neurobiological research helps reduce stigma by framing addiction as a treatable health condition, promoting integration into mainstream healthcare.

• Brain Awareness Week Focus: Brain Awareness Week highlights the importance of understanding brain science for preventing diseases and improving healthcare.

India Votes: Reform Roadmap

• ECI Meeting on Electoral Reforms: The Election Commission of India (ECI) has invited political parties to discuss strengthening the election process, addressing concerns about electoral roll manipulation and duplicate EPIC numbers.

• Legal Framework: Article 324 of the Constitution grants ECI authority over elections. The Representation of the People Act (RPA), 1950 and 1951, and Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, govern electoral rolls and pre-election processes.

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• Voting & Counting Issues:

  • Concerns over EVM tampering persist, with some advocating for a return to paper ballots.
  • Demands for 100% VVPAT verification exist, but the Supreme Court has directed verification of microcontrollers in 5% of EVMs if tampering is suspected.
  • Allegations of manipulated electoral rolls and duplicate EPIC numbers raise concerns about voter integrity.

• Campaign Process Concerns:

  • Violations of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) by star campaigners are common.
  • Election expenditure limits are often exceeded by candidates, and there are no limits on party spending.
  • Criminalization of politics is increasing, with a significant percentage of MPs facing criminal charges.

• Needed Reforms:

  • Voting/Counting: Scientific VVPAT matching, totaliser machines to protect voter anonymity, and Aadhaar-EPIC linking to prevent fake voters.
  • Campaign: Stricter MCC enforcement, revoking ‘Star Campaigner’ status for violations, and capping party expenditure.
  • Criminalization: Enforce SC directives on declaring criminal records and fast-tracking MP/MLA trials.

• Committee Recommendations: Vohra Committee (criminal-politician nexus), Law Commission (disqualify politicians upon charge framing), 2nd ARC (state funding to curb illegitimate money).

• Way Forward: Strengthen ECI powers, address criminalization of politics, ensure electoral transparency (RTI for political parties), and promote voter awareness.

Caracal

• Recent Sighting: A rare caracal has been spotted in Rajasthan’s Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, generating excitement among wildlife enthusiasts. This marks the first photographic record of the caracal in the reserve, captured via a camera trap.

• Critically Endangered Status: The caracal is classified as critically endangered in India, with a population of fewer than 50 individuals, primarily found in Rajasthan, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh.

• Conservation Threats: Key threats to the caracal population include habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching.

• Physical Characteristics: The caracal is a medium-sized wild cat with a slender body, long legs, and a short tail. They have tawny or reddish-brown fur with black markings on the face, ears, and tail. They are known for their ability to leap high to catch birds.

• Habitat and Distribution: Caracals inhabit grasslands, savannas, scrublands, and forests in the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, and India.

Sarthi & Pravaah

• RBI Wins Digital Transformation Award: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) was awarded the UK’s Digital Transformation Award 2025, showcasing its successful tech initiatives.

• Sarthi Initiative: Launched in January 2023, Sarthi digitized RBI’s internal workflows. This improved record management, data analysis, and secure document sharing. The initiative included online training (Sarthi Pathshala) and support from “Sarthi mitras”.

• Pravaah Initiative: Introduced in May 2024, Pravaah enables external users to submit regulatory applications digitally. It seamlessly integrates with Sarthi for efficient processing.

• Benefits of Pravaah: Pravaah provides real-time tracking and analytics for applicants and RBI managers, replacing slow paper-based systems. It has led to an 80% increase in monthly applications.

• Impact: The digital transformation, supported by robust cybersecurity, has significantly enhanced transparency and efficiency within the RBI.

HKU1 Coronavirus

• What it is: Human coronavirus HKU1 (HCoV-HKU1) is a common cold-causing coronavirus, also known as Betacoronavirus hongkonense, that can affect humans and animals. It is not the same as COVID-19.
• Origin: First identified in 2004 by researchers at Hong Kong University, likely originating from rodents.
• Symptoms: Similar to a common cold or flu, including runny nose, cough, headache, sore throat, fever, fatigue, and nasal congestion. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia or bronchitis.
• Transmission: Spreads through respiratory droplets (coughing or sneezing) and by touching contaminated surfaces then touching the face, mouth, or nose.
• Severity: Usually mild and self-limiting, meaning the body clears the infection on its own.
• Vulnerable Groups: Elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with weakened immune systems or other health conditions should be vigilant for severe symptoms.
• Treatment: No specific vaccine or antiviral treatment exists. Supportive care and symptomatic relief are recommended.
• Prevention: Follow COVID-19 protocols: hand hygiene (washing hands frequently), mask-wearing in crowded areas, covering coughs and sneezes, staying hydrated, and getting rest.

Bodo Accord

• Bodo Accord Implementation: Union Home Minister Amit Shah stated 82% of the 2020 Bodo Accord’s conditions have been met, with the remainder to be fulfilled in two years.

• Background: The Bodo issue in Assam involves ethnic and political aspirations for a separate state of Bodoland, leading to insurgency and multiple peace accords.

• Bodo Community: The Bodos are Assam’s largest tribal community (5-6% of the population), historically dominant in parts of the region.

• Timeline of the Bodo Movement: A series of accords and attempts to resolve the Bodo issue. Early demands for a separate state, armed conflicts, and two previous accords led to the formation of autonomous councils.

• 2020 Accord: This accord brought peace with four NDFB factions, increasing the BTC’s powers and resolving cases against militants.

• Financial Aid: Rs 287 crore has been spent on rehabilitating 4,881 NDFB members (90% funded by the Centre).

• Recognition and Tribute: A Delhi road will be renamed after Bodofa Upendra Nath Brahma. His bust will also be unveiled in Delhi.

• Political Context: The Congress party initially criticized the accord, but Shah highlighted its positive impact on peace and development.

• Upcoming Elections: Elections for the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) are scheduled this year.

• Status: A unified front of BJP and United People’s Party Liberal is in power.

Betwa River

• Critical Condition: The River Betwa, once a life source, is now “gasping, groaning, almost gone” due to neglect and human actions.

• Historical and Cultural Significance: The Betwa, known as Vetravati in ancient texts, holds deep religious and historical importance, mentioned in the Vedas and revered in the Mahabharata. It is considered the “Ganga of Madhya Pradesh.”

• Geographic Information: The river originates in Jhiri village, Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, flows through Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, and empties into the Yamuna River.

• Cause of Decline: The river’s decline is attributed to multiple factors including drying of origin, illegal borings, deforestation, sand mining, unchecked construction, and the dumping of pollutants.

• Impact: The river’s demise impacts farmers, communities, and the region’s heritage, threatening centuries of history and life. The catchment areas that once stored water have been consumed by concrete and the forests that protected it has been cut.

• Government Response: Official responses include promises of action, but concerns exist regarding the lack of immediate and effective measures.

• Ken-Betwa Link Project: The project aims to transfer water from the Ken River to the Betwa for irrigation and drinking purposes, highlighting the recognition of the river’s water scarcity and significance.

CAG of India

• The Supreme Court will examine a petition challenging the President’s sole power to appoint the CAG.
• The petitioner, Centre for Public Interest Litigation, alleges deviations in CAG work, including paused Maharashtra audits, reduced Union government audits, shelved debt sustainability audits, and recruitment corruption allegations.
• The CAG is India’s supreme audit authority, safeguarding public finances and ensuring transparency.
• The CAG is an independent constitutional authority (Article 148).
• Appointment is by the President for 6 years or until age 65.
• Removal is similar to a Supreme Court judge (proven misbehavior/incapacity, special majority).
• CAG audits Union, state governments, PSUs, and autonomous bodies.
• Audits include financial, compliance, performance, and propriety audits.
• Reports go to the President and Governors, then Parliament and State Legislatures.
• The CAG’s independence is crucial, ensured by salary/expenses charged to the Consolidated Fund of India, and the impeachment process.
• The petitioner argues for a non-partisan selection committee involving the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition, and Chief Justice for CAG appointments.
• The petition cites similarities between CAG and Supreme Court judge appointment processes, with the constitution being silent on CAG appointment procedures.
• The petitioner contends that the executive’s exclusive control over CAG appointment compromises independence, referencing precedents where courts intervened to ensure the independence of institutions like Election Commission, Central Vigilance Commission, and Information Commissioners.
• The court questioned if judicial intervention would rewrite Article 148, noting similar appointment processes for Governors and Attorney Generals.

Ancient Stones

• Mudumal Menhirs: Ancient standing stones (megaliths) in Telangana, India, are likely to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Age: Dated to roughly 3,500-4,000 years old, these are among the oldest menhirs in India. European menhirs can be as old as 7,000 years.
• Menhir Definition: A large, upright, man-made stone, often tapered at the top. They are sometimes part of larger megalithic complexes.
• Purpose: While debated, menhirs likely served ceremonial functions, possibly marking graves or having astronomical significance (e.g., aligning with solstices).
• UNESCO Significance: Menhirs offer insights into the ingenuity of early humans and their understanding of astronomy, physics, and their view of the world.
• Mudumal as Observatory: UNESCO dossier suggests the Mudumal site was a megalithic astronomical observatory, with menhirs aligned with solstices.
• Local Beliefs: Mudumal menhirs are associated with local legends, with one worshipped as Goddess Yellamma.
• India’s Second UNESCO Site: The Mudumal site will be Telangana’s second UNESCO World Heritage Site, following its addition to the tentative list.
• Early Human Ingenuity: The effort and precision in creating and placing the massive stones reveal sophisticated knowledge.

Bhadra River

• Accidental Drowning: Two youths from Rajasthan drowned in the Bhadra River in the Chikkamagaluru district of Karnataka. This is the immediate, and most important, news.

  • Why: This is a recent incident involving loss of life, making it a newsworthy event.

• Location and Details: The incident occurred near the hanging bridge in Kalasa. The victims, employees of a jewellery shop in Bengaluru, were on vacation.

  • Why: Provides context to the event, including location and the victims’ activities before the drowning.

• River’s Path: The Bhadra River originates in the Western Ghats and flows east across the Deccan Plateau.

  • Why: This describes the river’s geographic location and course, providing context for where the incident took place.

• River’s Course & Connection: The Bhadra flows through the Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary and joins the Tunga River at Koodli, eventually becoming the Tungabhadra which is a tributary of Krishna River.

  • Why: This provides an understanding of its importance in the regional water system.

• Bhadra Dam: A dam is built across the Bhadra River near Lakkavalli village.

  • Why: Provides information about the river’s usage for infrastructure.

• Length: The total length of the Bhadra River is 178 km.

  • Why: Offers a measurement of the river’s size.

Yemen Crisis

• US Airstrikes: The US launched significant airstrikes against Houthi-controlled areas in Yemen, targeting Houthi leaders, bases, and missile defenses.
• Reason for Strikes: These strikes are a response to Houthi attacks on international shipping in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, impacting global trade and maritime security. The US aims to halt these attacks and protect its assets.
• Houthi Response: The Houthis have vowed to escalate their actions in response to the US strikes, increasing concerns about further disruptions to shipping.
• Strategic Location: Yemen’s control of the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait is crucial, as it’s a vital passage for oil and shipping between the Indian Ocean and the Red Sea.
• Casualties: The strikes have resulted in numerous casualties, including civilians, according to Houthi sources.
• US Stance: The US Defense Secretary vowed “unrelenting” strikes until the Houthis cease attacks. Secretary of State Rubio indicated strikes will continue until Houthis lack the ability to attack shipping.
• Iran’s Role: The US accuses Iran of supporting the Houthis. Iran denies aiding the Houthis but is warned by the US to stop its support.
• Iran’s Response: Iran condemns the US strikes as a violation of international law and denies dictating Houthi decisions, asserting the Houthis act independently.
• International Reaction: Russia urges the US to halt strikes and engage in dialogue. Hezbollah condemns the strikes.
• Houthi Threat to Shipping: The Houthis claim the attacks on Yemen pose a threat to international shipping on the Red Sea.
• Trump’s Warning: President Trump warns Iran will be held “fully accountable.” Iran Guards threaten retaliation against any attacks.

Potti Sriramulu

• Statue Announcement: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister announced a 58-foot statue of Potti Sriramulu in Amaravati to commemorate his 58-day hunger strike.
• Memorial and Museum: A memorial will be built in Amaravati, and Potti Sriramulu’s house in Nellore district will be converted into a museum.
• Birth Anniversary Commemoration: Floral tributes paid on his birth anniversary. The government will organize year-long events to mark his 125th birth anniversary.
• Sacrifice Remembered: CM Naidu recalled Potti Sriramulu’s sacrifice that led to the formation of linguistic states in India.
• Historical Context: Emphasized Potti Sriramulu’s belief in Telugu people’s right to be governed in their own language, leading to his hunger strike and death.
• Martyrdom Day: December 15 to be commemorated as Potti Sriramulu’s martyrdom day.
• Future Aspirations: Andhra Pradesh aims to become the number one state by 2047.
• Focus on Social Progress: Commitment to poverty eradication and uplifting the underprivileged, including economically weaker sections in wealthy communities.
• Legacy of Linguistic States: Potti Sriramulu’s sacrifice laid the foundation for the reorganization of states based on linguistic lines. His actions directly led to the formation of Andhra State after his death sparked mass protests.
• Role in Freedom Movement: Participated in Salt Satyagraha and Quit India Movement.
• Fight for Dalit Rights: Undertook a hunger strike to allow Dalits entry into a temple, which was later granted.

INA’s Enduring Legacy

• Lieutenant Rangaswamy Madhavan Pillai, a veteran of the INA, celebrated his 99th birthday by laying wreaths at war memorials.
• Pillai joined the INA on November 1, 1943, at 17.
• He joined the Indian Independence League in 1942.
• He served as a recruitment and fundraising officer for the INA in Burma.
• He was imprisoned in Rangoon Jail for 8 months in 1945.
• Later served in the INA headquarters in Rangoon.
• Officially recognized as a freedom fighter in 1980.
• Felicitated by Prime Minister Modi in 2024.
• Awarded a silver medal in 2021 for his role in the INA and India’s Independence.
• The INA aimed for India’s complete independence from British rule, uniting volunteers and soldiers.
• The wreath-laying ceremony honors INA sacrifices and the nation’s ongoing journey to break free from colonial legacies.

Permian Extinction

• The End-Permian Mass Extinction, approximately 252 million years ago, was the Earth’s most severe extinction event.
• It marks the boundary between the Permian and Triassic periods.
• It led to the elimination of about 95% of marine species and 70% of terrestrial species.
• More than half of all taxonomic families disappeared.
• The supercontinent Pangea was breaking up during this period.
• Massive volcanic eruptions from the Siberian Traps are believed to be the primary cause.
• The eruptions released extreme amounts of carbon dioxide, causing global warming of over 10°C on land and 8°C in the ocean.
• Eruptions caused acid aerosols and dust clouds.
• This led to ocean acidification and collapse of the food chain.
• New fossil evidence suggests the extinction’s impact on plants might not have been as severe as previously thought.
• The Cretaceous-Paleogene (K-Pg) mass extinction killed the dinosaurs.
• The oldest mass extinction is the Ordovician-Silurian (O-S) extinction.

Mudumal Menhirs

• Telangana’s Mudumal Megalithic Menhirs added to UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List in 2025, a mandatory step for full inscription.
• Site is potentially South India’s largest megalithic-era burial site, dating back 3,500-4,000 years.
• Features approximately 80 tall menhirs (10-14 feet) and 3,000 alignment stones across 80 acres, used for funerary rites.
• Menhirs may have served as an ancient astronomical observatory, aligning with solar events (equinoxes, solstices).
• One menhir shows earliest South Asian depiction of Ursa Major constellation, indicating advanced astronomical knowledge.
• Local communities revere menhirs as “Niluralla Thimmappa” and Goddess Yellamma, showcasing living cultural traditions.
• Reflects advanced understanding of mathematics and astronomy, making it a rare archaeo-astronomical site.
• Mudumal is one of six Indian sites recently added to the Tentative List.
• Addition to the Tentative List is mandatory step for properties being nominated to the World Heritage List.
• Alignment of stones with sun used to calculate dates and calendrical events, change of seasons.

Bongosagar 2025

• Bongosagar 2025 Naval Exercise: Indian Navy’s INS Ranvir and Bangladesh Navy’s BNS Abu Ubaidah conducted joint naval exercises in the Bay of Bengal.
• Enhanced Cooperation: The exercise aimed to improve operational coordination and maritime security.
• Regional Stability: The exercise contributes to regional stability under India’s SAGAR initiative.
• INS Ranvir: A Rajput-class Guided Missile Destroyer, commissioned in 1986, participated.
• Sagar Initiative: India’s SAGAR policy, introduced in 2015, promotes cooperation, security, and economic growth in the Indian Ocean region.
• Mahasagar Initiative: India’s 2025 MAHASAGAR policy builds on SAGAR, focusing on security, trade, and development across the Global South.
• India-Bangladesh Cooperation: The exercise is part of a larger strategic partnership between India and Bangladesh, including joint military exercises like Sampriti (Army) and CORPAT (coordinated patrols).

Carbon Credit Trading

• Carbon Credit Trading Scheme (CCTS) 2023: Replaces Perform, Achieve, and Trade (PAT) to create the Indian Carbon Market (ICM), aligning with India’s Paris Agreement commitments.
• Focus: Decarbonizing the Indian economy by pricing GHG emissions and facilitating carbon trading. Shifts from energy intensity to GHG emission intensity.
• Mechanism: Issues Carbon Credit Certificates (CCC) representing one tonne CO2 equivalent (tCO2e) reduction. Includes a compliance mechanism for energy-intensive industries (e.g., steel, cement) meeting GHG reduction targets, and an offset mechanism for voluntary participation.
• Sectors Initially Covered: Energy-intensive industries (iron & steel, aluminum, cement, fertilizers, etc.). Power sector may be included later.
• Regulatory Oversight: Managed by multiple government bodies (Bureau of Energy Efficiency, National Steering Committee for Indian Carbon Market).
• India’s Climate Goal: Aiming to reduce emission intensity by 45% by 2030. CCTS encourages clean technologies, renewables and carbon capture.
• Challenges in Implementation:
  • Balancing emission reduction targets (lenient targets lower prices, stringent targets increase costs).
  • Compliance and enforcement issues (lack of penalties in PAT).
  • Delays in credit issuance reducing market confidence.
  • Transparency issues regarding industry emissions data.
• Strengthening CCTS:
  • Align with international best practices (e.g., EU ETS).
  • Build Monitoring, Reporting, and Verification (MRV) capacity.
  • Develop a robust trading platform with digital registries and cross-border compatibility.
  • Encourage industry participation with incentives for green technologies.

Kyushu: Land of the South

• Potential Missile Deployment: The Japanese government is considering deploying long-range missiles on Kyushu Island. This is significant due to its strategic location and potential implications for regional security.

• Strategic Location: Kyushu is the southernmost and third-largest of Japan’s main islands, bordered by the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean. The Tsushima Strait separates it from the Korean Peninsula. This proximity to the Korean Peninsula and China makes it a crucial location for defense.

• Volcanic Activity: Kyushu is known for its volcanic ranges, including Mount Aso, the world’s largest active volcanic crater. This unique geographical feature can impact military infrastructure and planning.

• Subtropical Climate: Kyushu has a subtropical climate with heavy rainfall. This affects terrain and operational considerations for military deployments.

• Economic Significance: Northern Kyushu has industrial centers like Kita-Kyūshū and Fukuoka, known for iron, steel, and chemicals. Any military buildup could affect these industries and local economies. Nagasaki is also a major city, adding to Kyushu’s importance.

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• Agricultural Production: Kyushu produces rice, tea, tobacco, sweet potatoes, and citrus fruit. A military presence could potentially impact agricultural land use.

• Cultural Significance: Saga prefecture is famous for porcelain and pottery, indicating the island’s rich cultural heritage that should be taken into consideration during military planning.

SSPE

Here are the key points about Subacute Sclerosing Panencephalitis (SSPE):

• Serious Health Concern in UP, India: SSPE remains a significant problem in Lucknow and Uttar Pradesh due to low measles vaccination rates, despite being rare globally.
• Fatal Brain Disorder: SSPE is a progressive and ultimately fatal brain disorder linked to a prior measles infection.
• Delayed Onset: It develops years after a person contracts measles, even if they seemed to have fully recovered.
• Measles Virus Persists: The measles virus remains in the brain, slowly damaging nerve cells.
• Alarmingly High Cases: KGMU sees 2-3 cases of SSPE per month which is alarmingly high for a disease considered rare
• Symptoms: Initial signs include poor school performance, forgetfulness, temper outbursts, and hallucinations. Later, seizures, muscle jerks, cognitive decline, motor impairment, and loss of consciousness occur.
• 100% Mortality Rate: The disease has almost a 100% mortality rate, making prevention crucial.
• No Cure: There is no cure for SSPE, and treatment focuses on symptom management.
• Vaccination is Key: Measles vaccination is crucial for prevention, as SSPE is entirely preventable with timely vaccination.
• Urgent Call to Action: Health experts urge increased awareness and stricter implementation of vaccination programs.

Saffron Sunrise: NE India

• Northeast India identified as next saffron cultivation hub, following Jammu & Kashmir’s Pampore.
• Mission Saffron, a centrally-funded project, expanded to Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya.
• Large-scale saffron cultivation underway in Menchukha (Arunachal Pradesh) and Yuksom (Sikkim).
• Plans to expand to Nagaland and Manipur.
• Saffron thrives at altitudes above 2000m, in specific soil types and climates.
• NECTAR (North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach) leading the initiative.
• NECTAR aims to improve agricultural potential without disrupting existing crops.
• NECTAR’s new permanent campus in Shillong will boost innovation.
• NECTAR established in 2014, focuses on technology-driven solutions for Northeast development.
• NECTAR will promote saffron cultivation similar to lavender in Kashmir.
• NECTAR also working on drone technology for land mapping.
• The Northeast is strategically important for India’s future growth as a nation.
• Government committed to developing robust infrastructure, connectivity, and empowering the region.
• Union Minister emphasized the region’s potential to add value to India’s economic growth.

Byrnihat

• Byrnihat, located near Guwahati and Shillong, is the most polluted city globally according to the 2024 World Air Quality Report. Its annual average PM2.5 concentration is alarmingly high at 128.2 µg/m3, far exceeding the WHO guideline of 5 µg/m3.
• Rapid industrialization, including coke production, cement, ferroalloys, steel, distilleries, and brick kilns, is a major contributor to pollution. Coal reserves and proximity to Guwahati attract industries.
• Many industrial units operate without proper pollution control measures, leading to uncontrolled emissions.
• Significant vehicular pollution from heavy diesel vehicles, often not adhering to norms, further exacerbates the problem.
• The bowl-like topography traps air pollutants, hindering dispersion and increasing pollution levels.
• Byrnihat is a regional industrial hub with industrial units in both Meghalaya and Assam, which compounds the pollution issue.
• The residential town and surrounding industries are located within a confined area near the hills, making the pollution more problematic.

CAR T-Cell Therapy

• India’s first CAR T-cell therapy trial: Published in The Lancet, showing efficacy in nearly 73% of patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and large B-cell lymphomas.
• Phase I and II results: Assessed safety and effectiveness of the therapy.
• First Indian CAR T-cell therapy published internationally: Demonstrates a significant advancement in Indian medical technology.
• Comparable to global therapies: The treatment’s efficacy is similar to those approved worldwide, but at a significantly lower cost (approximately US$30,000).
• Improved access and affordability: The lower cost could expand access to this life-saving treatment.
• High haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) incidence: A serious complication occurred in 12% of patients, resulting in at least one death. Other treatment-related deaths included lung bleeding and multi-organ failure.
• Common side effects: Anaemia (61%), thrombocytopenia (65%), neutropenia (96%), and febrile neutropenia (47%) were common.
• Limited Phase III trial: India’s drug regulator waived a full Phase III trial due to the novel nature of the therapy and its intention for patients with limited other options.
• 15-year follow-up required: The company must monitor all patients for 15 years post-treatment.
• Targeted blood cancers: The therapy targets blood cancers affecting B cells.
• Treatment mechanism: Immune T-cells are collected, engineered to target cancer cells, multiplied, and infused back into the patient.
• Global access limitations: CAR T-cell therapy is currently restricted to a select few countries due to high costs and technological challenges.

Reportable Diseases

• Notifiable Diseases: Diseases legally required to be reported to public health authorities. Purpose is for monitoring, prevention, and control of outbreaks.
• Examples: Includes infectious diseases like cholera, tuberculosis, AIDS, dengue, hepatitis, leprosy, meningitis, plague, and measles, and recently snakebites.
• Legal Mandate: Healthcare providers and sometimes the public are legally obligated to report. Failure to report can result in legal consequences.
• Cancer as Notifiable: There’s ongoing debate in India about making cancer a notifiable disease.
• Arguments For: Could enhance early detection and resource allocation for cancer treatment.
• Arguments Against: Cancer is a diverse group of diseases, not a single condition. Notification is more suitable for outbreak-prone diseases. Legal mandates might burden physicians without necessarily improving patient care. Privacy concerns and stigma associated with cancer diagnosis could deter patients from seeking timely treatment.
• Existing Cancer Data System: India’s National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) is the primary cancer data collection system. Its objectives are to collect data on cancer incidence, trends, and survival rates.
• Proposed Solution: Strengthening and expanding the NCRP, including hospital and population-based registries. Improving cancer screening initiatives is a more effective alternative to legally mandating notification. Voluntary reporting and enhanced data collection without legal compulsion are preferred to mandatory notification.

Jalanatheswarar Temple

• Jalanatheswarar Temple in Thakkolam, Ranipet district, is in a dilapidated state. A collapsed wall and overgrown tank are visible signs of neglect.
• The temple, built in 876 AD by Pallava King Aparajita Varman, features a 3-tiered Rajagopuram added in 1543 AD by Vijayanagara King.
• It showcases Dravidian architecture, similar to major temples in Thanjavur and Madurai.
• The temple is situated on the banks of the Kosasthalai river and is one of 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams.
• The temple holds inscriptions detailing land, gold, and goat grants from Pallava and Chola kings.
• The last kumbabishekam (consecration) was over 15 years ago. Restoration efforts are underway.
• The CISF renamed its Recruits Training Centre in Arakkonam to Rajaditya Chola RTC in memory of Chola prince Rajaditya, killed in battle in Thakkolam.
• Thakkolam’s historical significance is highlighted by the presence of numerous inscriptions. Inscriptions provide critical historical details of the region, especially regarding the Chola dynasty.
• The town’s ancient name, Thiruvural, is mentioned in Saiva hymns. The name Thakkolam is associated with the marriage of Chalukya King Vimaladitya and Kundavai.

Great Dying

• End-Permian Mass Extinction: The most severe extinction event, wiping out 90% of species, 95% marine, and 70% terrestrial species, around 252 million years ago. The Permian-Triassic extinction boundary.

• Causes debated, but likely multiple factors: Siberian Traps Volcanism (massive eruptions, greenhouse gases), Climate Change (global warming, 8-10°C increase), Ocean Anoxia (oxygen depletion), Methane Hydrate Release (further warming), and Ozone Depletion.

• Greenhouse Gases a Key Driver: Like modern climate change, the extreme greenhouse gas release was a key factor. Polar ice caps melted, causing massive sea level rise.

• Plant Refuge Found: Fossils suggest a refuge in China where plant life weathered the extinction.

• Slow Recovery: Ecosystems took 5-10 million years to recover. Survivors (dinosaurs, mammals, reptiles) diversified, forming new Triassic ecosystems.

Sentinels of the Northeast

• Assam Rifles, one of six Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), is relocating from Aizawl to Zokhawsang, Mizoram.
• The relocation involves a land transfer: 106.853 acres from Assam Rifles to Mizoram government, and 1305.15 acres leased by Mizoram government to Assam Rifles.
• The move aims to decongest Aizawl and improve city development.
• The Assam Rifles has a dual control structure: administrative control with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), operational control with the Indian Army (Ministry of Defence).
• This dual structure means salaries/infrastructure from MHA, while deployment/personnel matters are handled by the Army.
• Senior ranks (DG to IG, sector headquarters) are Army officers.
• The force is commanded by a Lieutenant General from the Army.
• Assam Rifles headquarters is in Shillong, unlike other CAPFs headquartered in Delhi.
• Recruitment, perks, promotions, and retirement follow MHA rules for CAPFs.
• The Assam Rifles traces its history back to 1835, initially as the Cachar Levy.
• It has played crucial roles in various conflicts, including World Wars and the Sino-India War.
• The Assam Rifles has a significant record of gallantry awards.

Indian ASHA Workers

• ASHA Workers Protest in Kerala: Kerala ASHA workers are protesting for higher wages (Rs 21,000), retirement benefits (Rs 5 lakh), and pending dues. They want to be classified as government employees.

• ASHA Worker Role: Community health volunteers under the National Health Mission (NHM), working alongside Anganwadi workers in rural and urban areas. They perform vital tasks like antenatal/postnatal care, immunization, and disease prevention.

• Financial Concerns: ASHAs receive low and irregular payments (Rs 5,000-15,000), task-based incentives (varying by state), and often delayed payments. This is despite their crucial role during the pandemic. They are not considered government employees, therefore not eligible for benefits like pensions.

• Centre-State Dispute: Kerala’s government alleges the Centre has not released due health funds. The Centre says Kerala has not submitted required documentation.

• State Actions: Some states, like Andhra Pradesh, have begun to provide benefits like gratuity, while others (like Kerala) are still pushing for greater financial support and employee status.

• Formalization Needed: The 2020 Parliamentary Standing Committee recommended formalizing ASHA roles, but no action has been taken. Formalization would grant them essential labor rights.

Indian Mangroves

• Tamil Nadu’s mangrove cover has doubled from 4,500 hectares in 2021 to 9,039 hectares in 2024, largely due to new plantations and preservation efforts.
• Tiruvarur and Thanjavur districts account for nearly half of the increase, with significant new plantings.
• Other districts like Cuddalore and Nagapattinam also contributed to the expansion.
• The increase in mangrove cover correlates with an increased carbon storage capacity in these areas, beneficial for climate change mitigation.
• However, invasive species like Prosopis juliflora pose a threat in several districts.
• The report emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices like eco-tourism and carbon credit programs to ensure the long-term success of mangrove conservation efforts.
• District-specific planning and tailored conservation strategies are crucial for preserving and expanding these ecosystems.

India’s Q-Commerce Boom

• Quick commerce (Q-commerce) is a rapidly growing segment of e-commerce, delivering goods within minutes.
• Q-commerce relies on “dark stores” (warehouses for online orders) strategically located in high-demand areas.
• It uses AI for demand forecasting, inventory optimization, and personalized recommendations.
• Q-commerce is popular for impulse purchases, particularly food and beverages.
• The Indian Q-commerce market is valued at $3.34 billion (FY 2024), projected to reach $9.95 billion by 2029, growing at 76% YoY.
• Major players like Flipkart, Ola, Blinkit, BigBasket, and Zepto are aggressively expanding.
• Q-commerce now contributes 35% of total e-commerce sales for large FMCG brands.
• Concerns include predatory pricing to eliminate competitors and differential pricing based on data.
• Traditional retailers, especially small kirana stores, are struggling to compete.
• Concerns exist about data exploitation and impact on employment.
• Q-commerce’s growth raises environmental concerns, increasing single-use plastic waste and pollution from deliveries.
• Delivery agents face low wages, lack of protective gear, and high-pressure targets.
• Q-commerce primarily thrives in Tier-1 cities (especially metropolitan areas) but faces hurdles in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.
• Regulatory oversight, fair labor practices, and hybrid retail models are needed for sustainable growth.

Maritime Security 2025

• Joint Naval Drills: China, Iran, and Russia conducted “Maritime Security Belt 2025” naval drills in the Gulf of Oman. This is the fifth year of these exercises.

• Strategic Location: Drills took place near the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane for global oil trade (about a fifth of the world’s oil).

• Tensions: The drills occurred amid heightened tensions over Iran’s nuclear program and its relationship with the U.S. Yemen’s Houthi rebels also pose a threat to shipping in the region.

• Show of Force: The drills are a show of force by the participating nations, particularly given the region’s geopolitical sensitivities.

• GPS Interference: British military reported GPS interference in the Strait of Hormuz, likely related to the drills and designed to disrupt drone and missile targeting.

• Participating Nations: China and Russia sent vessels. Observers included Azerbaijan, Iraq, Kazakhstan, Oman, Pakistan, Qatar, South Africa, Sri Lanka, and the UAE, with the US Navy likely monitoring.

• Iran’s Nuclear Program: Iran’s nuclear program and recent Israeli attacks on Iranian targets add to regional instability.

• Regional Instability: Ongoing conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, Yemen’s Houthi rebels, and Israel’s conflict with Hamas, contribute to the unstable environment.

• Iran’s Drone Support: Russia relies on Iran for drone support in the war in Ukraine and China continues to purchase Iranian crude oil.

Phansad Sanctuary

Here’s a summary of key points regarding Phansad Wildlife Sanctuary, based on the provided information:

• First Honey Harvest: A successful honey harvest near the sanctuary signifies positive conservation outcomes and collaboration with tribal communities.

• Location: Situated in the Murud region of Raigad district, Maharashtra.

• Purpose: Established to conserve the coastal woodland ecosystem of the Western Ghats.

• Area: Covers 17,250 acres, encompassing forests, grasslands, and wetlands.

• Historical Significance: Formerly part of the hunting reserves of the princely state of Murud-Janjira.

• “Mals”: Features pockets of open grasslands known as “mals.”

• Flora: Diverse plant life including Ain, Kinjal, Teak, Hirda, Jamba, Mango, and Ficus species.

• Fauna: Home to leopards, hyenas, sambar, mouse deer, and various bird species like Malabar Pied Hornbill and Black Eagle. It is also a habitat for the critically endangered White-rumped vulture.

• Ecological Importance: Woodlands, like those in Phansad, act as transition zones between ecosystems.

• Nearby Landmark: Murud-Janjira fort is a notable site in the Raigad district.

India-NZ Trade Deal

• FTA Negotiations Launched: India and New Zealand have initiated negotiations for a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA).
  • Why: To boost economic ties and increase market access for both nations.
• What an FTA Does: An FTA reduces or removes trade barriers like tariffs, import/export restrictions, and other trade hurdles between the involved countries.
  • Why: Makes it easier and cheaper for businesses to trade with each other, leading to increased trade volume.
• Scope of the Agreement: The FTA will encompass trade in goods (agriculture & industry) and services (banking, IT, construction, etc.), potentially including investments, intellectual property rights, government procurement, and competition policies.
  • Why: This broad scope would foster economic growth by providing a framework for trade in different sectors.
• India’s Oceania Strategy: This is India’s second bilateral trade agreement in Oceania.
  • Why: Demonstrates India’s commitment to expanding its trade partnerships and presence in the region.
• Trade Growth Indicators: Bilateral trade is growing; exports from India grew, and imports from New Zealand also saw substantial growth.
  • Why: Indicates potential for increased trade volume and mutual benefit if the FTA is finalized.

Summer Scorcher

• Heatwave conditions are likely in Odisha (March 13-17), Jharkhand (March 14-17), and Gangetic West Bengal (March 15-17).
• A heatwave is a period of unusually high temperatures, thresholds vary by location.
• IMD defines heatwaves based on absolute temperature and departure from normal.
• Plains: ≥ 40°C (heatwave), ≥ 47°C (severe heatwave), 4.5-6.4°C above normal (heatwave), ≥6.5°C above normal (severe heatwave).
• Hilly areas: ≥ 30°C (heatwave), 4.5-6.4°C above normal (heatwave), ≥6.5°C above normal (severe heatwave).
• Coastal regions: ≥ 37°C, 4.5°C or more above normal.
• Duration requirement: Conditions must persist for at least two consecutive days.
• Heatwaves typically occur March-June, sometimes July.
• Warnings issued for Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra on March 16.
• Jharkhand temperatures crossed 40°C in seven districts.
• Karnataka health minister urged people to stay indoors during peak heat.
• Heatwave declaration needs to be met at a minimum of two stations in a meteorological subdivision.
• IMD uses a network of observatories to measure temperature, humidity, pressure, and wind.
• IMD uses historical data (1991-2020) to determine normal temperatures.

Forex Reserves

Here are the key points and why in news for “Foreign Exchange Reserve”:

• Significant Increase: India’s foreign exchange reserves surged by $15.267 billion to reach $653.966 billion in the week ending March 7, 2025, marking the largest increase in over two years. This is news because it reverses a recent declining trend and reflects a strengthening financial position.

• Drivers of Increase: The sharp rise is primarily attributed to a $10 billion forex swap by the RBI, where dollars were bought to inject liquidity. This intervention influences the rupee’s exchange rate.

• Components of Reserves:

  • Foreign currency assets (FCAs) increased by $13.993 billion to $557.282 billion. FCAs are held in currencies like the US dollar, euro, pound sterling, and yen.
  • Gold reserves decreased by $1.053 billion to $74.325 billion.
  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) rose by $212 million to $18.21 billion.
  • Reserve position with the IMF decreased by $69 million to $4.148 billion.

• Importance of Forex Reserves: They provide liquidity for foreign exchange transactions, help manage balance of payments deficits, and allow the central bank (RBI) to intervene in Forex markets to influence the rupee’s exchange rate. A strong reserve level also enhances India’s international image, assuring trading partners of payment capabilities.

• Historical Context: The reserves had previously declined due to revaluation and RBI interventions. They reached an all-time high of $704.885 billion at the end of September 2024.

• Custodian and Global Ranking: The RBI is the custodian of India’s forex reserves. China currently holds the world’s largest foreign exchange reserves.

CAR T-Cell Therapy

• Breakthrough in India: India’s first CAR T-cell therapy shows promising results, with a 73% success rate in clinical trials published in The Lancet. This is a world-class innovation done within the country.

• How it Works: CAR T-cell therapy modifies a patient’s own T-cells to target and destroy cancer cells. T-cells are collected, engineered with receptors to bind to cancer cells, multiplied, and then infused back into the patient.

• Target Cancers: This therapy is designed for specific blood cancers, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia and large B cell lymphomas, when other treatments have failed.

• Affordability: The Indian-developed therapy is significantly cheaper (approximately $30,000) compared to globally approved CAR T-cell treatments (US$373,000–475,000), potentially improving access.

• Availability: The therapy is now available at several hospitals across India, including Apollo, Fortis, Amrita and Max, among others.

• Side Effects: Serious side effects, including hyperinflammation and organ damage (hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis), were observed in 12% of participants, resulting in at least one death. Other common side effects include low blood cell counts (red blood cells, platelets, neutrophils) and fever.

• Why it Matters: CAR T-cell therapy offers a new option for patients with limited treatment alternatives. The Indian therapy’s affordability expands access to this advanced cancer treatment.

• Regulatory Approval: India’s drug regulator granted approval based on unpublished results, forgoing a large Phase III trial but requiring a 15-year patient follow-up.

• Ongoing Controversy: There are still concerns about potential long-term risks, such as secondary cancers due to genetic mutations.

Melioidosis

• Melioidosis Seasonality: A study in Odisha, India, shows melioidosis infections peak during and after the monsoon season.

• Causative Agent: The disease is caused by the bacterium Burkholderia pseudomallei, found in soil and water in tropical/subtropical areas.

• Global Impact: The Lancet estimates 165,000 global melioidosis cases annually, with South Asia (including India) contributing 44%.

• Diagnostic Challenges: B. pseudomallei requires specific lab conditions, potentially leading to misdiagnosis.

• Treatment: Requires lengthy antibiotic treatment; incorrect diagnosis and inadequate treatment could lead to recurrence.

• Environmental Factors: Rainfall, temperature, humidity, and solar radiation influence disease occurrence.

• High-Risk Areas: Cuttack, Balasore, Khordha, and Jajpur districts in Odisha show high potential for melioidosis.

• Climate Change Implications: Altered rainfall and extreme weather may increase disease spread and shift it to new areas.

• Vulnerable Populations: Adults aged 40 to 60 with underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes) are more commonly affected.

• Transmission: Spread through contact with contaminated soil, air, or water; not from animals to humans.

• No Vaccine: There is currently no approved vaccine for melioidosis.

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YUVA 3.0

• PM-YUVA 3.0 Launched: The Ministry of Education launched PM-YUVA 3.0 (Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors).
• Aim: To train young, budding authors (under 30) to promote reading, writing, and book culture. Builds on the success of previous PM-YUVA schemes.
• Themes: Focuses on perspectives of the young generation of writers on themes like Contribution of Indian Diaspora in Nation Building, Indian Knowledge System, and Makers of Modern India (1950-2025).
• Selection Process: 50 authors will be selected through an All India Contest conducted via MyGov portal. Proposals accepted until April 10, 2025. Selected authors announced May-June 2025.
• Mentorship: Selected authors receive training from established authors/mentors from June 30, 2025, to December 30, 2025.
• Financial Support: Authors receive a consolidated scholarship of Rs. 50,000 per month for six months (totaling Rs. 3 Lakh).
• Publication & Promotion: National Book Trust (NBT) publishes the completed books and translates them into other Indian languages, promoting ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.’ Authors receive a 10% royalty.
• National Book Trust (NBT): NBT, under the Ministry of Education, is the implementing agency.
• Opportunities: Selected authors engage with writers, participate in literary festivals, and promote their books and reading/writing culture nationally.
• Book Proposal: Contestants submit a 10,000-word book proposal, including a synopsis, chapter plan, sample chapters, bibliography, and references.

NECTAR

• Foundation Stone Laid: Union Minister of Science & Technology Jitendra Singh laid the foundation stone for NECTAR’s permanent campus in Mawdiangdiang, Shillong.
• Autonomous Institute: NECTAR is an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), focusing on socio-economic development in the Northeast.
• Expansion: Established in 2014, NECTAR has expanded its reach across all eight northeastern states.
• Mission Saffron: NECTAR’s initiatives include Mission Saffron (launched in 2021), aiming to introduce saffron cultivation in the Northeast, potentially making the region a saffron hub.
• STEM Education Lab: A STEM Education Lab has been established in Shillong (developed in collaboration with IISER Pune and Smart Village Movement) to empower students with technologies like electronics, robotics, and 3D printing.
• Drone Technology & Flood Mitigation: NECTAR is involved in drone technology and using GIS and remote sensing for flood vulnerability assessments in Assam (Morigaon, Dhubri, and Majuli).
• Beekeeping & Honey Mission: NECTAR is working on Beekeeping and Honey Mission, diversifying its impact across sectors from bamboo to beekeeping.
• Focus & Identity: NECTAR is encouraged to focus on specific sectors to maximize resources and contribute to “Atmanirbhar Northeast” and “Viksit Bharat.”
• Purpose: NECTAR aims to apply appropriate technologies for development in the Northeast, focusing on biodiversity, watershed management, telemedicine, horticulture, infrastructure, and employment using local resources.
• Functions: NECTAR acts as a solution designer, provides technology assistance to state governments, offers technology-assisted decision support systems, and has a focus on technology reach.

Uniyala Keralensis

Here are the key points about “Uniyala keralensis”:

• New Species Discovery: A previously unidentified shrub, Uniyala keralensis, has been confirmed as a new species of the Uniyala genus, belonging to the Asteraceae family.
• Long Discovery Process: The first specimen was collected in 1998 but only recently confirmed as a distinct species after comparisons and reclassification of the Uniyala genus from Vernonia.
• Endemic Location: Uniyala keralensis is endemic to southwest India, specifically the Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (ABR) in Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram district.
• Physical Characteristics: It’s a “small to large shrub” (1-3m) with light purple florets, larger leaves, longer petioles, and fewer lateral veins compared to related species like Uniyala comorinensis and Uniyala salviifolia.
• Habitat and Population: Found in open areas on western mountain slopes of the ABR, between 700-1400 meters elevation. The current population is estimated at 5,000 individuals in four subpopulations across 250 km².
• Flowering and Fruiting: Occurs from August to April.
• Conservation Status: Classified as Data Deficient (DD) by the IUCN (2024) due to limited data and population information.
• Naming Significance: The species is named keralensis after the State of Kerala. The genus Uniyala is named after plant taxonomist B.P. Uniyal.
• Publication: The findings were published in the journal Phytotaxa. The genus Uniyala comprises 11 species in southern India and Sri Lanka.

Pobitora Sanctuary

• Drying of Tamulidoba Beel: A major wetland within Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is drying up, highlighting the need for habitat management. This is important as it impacts the ecosystem and wildlife dependent on it.

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• Location and Area: Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, established in 1998, is located in Assam near Guwahati, covering 48.81 square kilometers.

• Flora and Fauna: Dominated by wet savannah grasslands, the sanctuary faces challenges from water hyacinth. It’s renowned for its high density of Great Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros, along with other animals and over 2000 migratory birds.

• Historical Significance: Designated as a reserved area in 1971, Pobitora was included in the Indian Rhino Vision 2020 program. This emphasizes its role in rhino conservation.

• Rhino Density: Pobitora holds the highest density of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceros in India, making it a crucial habitat for the species.

• Tamulidoba Beel Importance: As a key wetland, Tamulidoba supports rhinos, buffaloes, and various water birds. Its degradation affects these species and the overall ecosystem. It attracts tourists and birdwatchers.

Raisina Dialogue

• What: India’s flagship conference on geopolitics and geo-economics.

• Why Important: Addresses critical international challenges and fosters discussions on global issues.

• Who Attends: New Zealand PM, Foreign Ministers from 18+ countries, global executives, and foreign policy experts.

• Format: Multi-stakeholder, cross-sectoral discussions involving government heads, ministers, private sector leaders, media, and academics.

• Modeled After: Munich Security Conference and Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue.

• Since When: Held annually in New Delhi since 2016.

• Organizers: Hosted by the Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in partnership with the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

• Raisina Dialogue 2025 theme: Kalachakra: People. Peace. Planet.

Sentinels of the Northeast

• Relocation of Battalions: Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced the relocation of Assam Rifles battalions to Mizoram.
• Central Armed Police Force: Assam Rifles is one of the six Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Why: Highlights its central government affiliation.
• Counterinsurgency Operations: It conducts counterinsurgency operations in North-eastern India. Why: Outlines a primary function.
• Operational Control: Operational control lies with the Indian Army, commanded by a Lieutenant General. Why: Emphasizes the unique dual control structure.
• Headquarters Location: Headquarters are in Shillong, unlike other central paramilitary forces based in New Delhi. Why: Points to a distinctive characteristic.
• Historical Origins: Originated in 1835 as the ‘Cachar Levy’ to protect British tea estates. Why: Gives historical context.
• Evolution: Evolved through various names and roles, including the ‘Frontier Force’ and participation in WWI. Why: Shows its transformation.
• Post-Independence Roles: Post-Independence, it participated in the Sino-India War (1962) and the IPKF in Sri Lanka (1987). Why: Demonstrates its diverse operational history.
• Growth: Grew from 17 battalions in 1960 to 46 battalions. Why: Illustrates expansion and increasing importance.

UNCTAD

• UNCTAD warns of economic fragmentation, urging global cooperation to prevent trade disruption and ensure long-term growth.
• UNCTAD highlights protectionism and shifting policies in major economies as key risks.
• 2025 challenges include preventing global fragmentation and managing policy shifts without harming growth.
• 2024 saw record world trade expansion ($33 trillion), driven by developing economies and strong services trade.
• New risks include trade imbalances, evolving policies, and geopolitical tensions.
• Governments are using tariffs, subsidies, and industrial policies to reshape trade flows, tying trade measures to economic security and climate goals.
• Rising protectionism is creating retaliatory measures and trade barriers.
• Shipping trends indicate a slowdown, suggesting weaker industrial activity.

Air Quality 2024

• India’s air quality: Ranked 5th most polluted globally in 2024, slightly improving from 2023’s 3rd place. A 7% decrease in PM2.5 levels, but still 10 times the WHO safe limit.

• Polluted cities: Delhi remains the world’s most polluted capital. 13 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities are in India, led by Byrnihat. Other highly polluted Indian cities include Mullanpur, Gurugram, Faridabad, Bhiwadi, and Noida.

• PM2.5 levels: India’s average PM2.5 level is 50.6 µg/m³, down from 54.4 µg/m³ in 2023. 35% of Indian cities exceed the WHO safe limit.

• Pollution sources: Vehicle emissions, industrial pollution, and biomass burning (especially crop stubble burning in northern India, contributing to 60% of PM2.5) are major contributors.

• Global context: Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Congo are among the most polluted countries. Only 12 countries meet WHO’s PM2.5 limit.

• Health impact: Air pollution significantly impacts health, reducing life expectancy by an estimated 5.2 years. Studies link it to 1.5 million deaths annually in India between 2009 and 2019.

• Solutions: Dr. Swaminathan emphasized the need for stricter emission regulations, replacing biomass with LPG (with higher subsidies for lower income families), expanding public transport, and fining high-emission vehicles. She highlighted that data exists, and concrete action is needed.

Pilibhit’s Tigers

• Rhino Sanctuary in the Making: Pilibhit Tiger Reserve (PTR) is planned to become a new habitat for rhinos, primarily from Nepal.
• 54 sq km Designated Area: A 54 sq km area within the Mala and Mahof forest ranges is being considered for rhino settlement.
• Expert Assessment: A team led by B.S. Bonal assessed the feasibility of rhino relocation and habitat development in March.
• Lagga Bagga Focus: Lagga Bagga, a 1,905-hectare forested region bordering Nepal’s Shuklaphanta National Park, is a prime location due to its grasslands, water bodies, and wildlife corridors.
• Project Rhino Initiative: The “Project Rhino” aims to relocate rhinos from Assam and Nepal, and to establish a permanent population of rhinos from Nepal in PTR, and is planned for 10 years.
• Habitat Needs: The assessment includes evaluating marshy areas, suitable vegetation, and protection from threats like tigers and poachers.
• Fencing Crucial: Due to PTR’s narrow width, fencing is necessary to prevent rhinos from straying into agricultural areas.
• PTR Location and Geography: Situated in Pilibhit district, Uttar Pradesh, part of the Terai Arc Landscape, upper Gangetic Plain Biogeographic Province, along the India-Nepal border.
• River Gomti: The river Gomti originates from PTR, and is the catchment for Sharda, Chuka, and Mala Khannot rivers.
• Other Potential Sites: Apart from PTR, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary, Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Suhelwa Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary are also considered for Project Rhino.

UNCTAD

• UNCTAD warns of economic fragmentation risks amid growing trade uncertainty. Global cooperation and balanced policies are crucial for long-term growth.

• World trade reached a record $33 trillion in 2024, rising 3.7% from 2023, primarily driven by developing economies and services trade.

• Protectionism, shifting trade strategies in major economies (like the US, EU, and China), and geopolitical tensions pose new risks.

• Governments are increasingly tying trade to economic security and climate goals, fueling uncertainty and potential retaliatory measures.

• Slowing shipping trends, indicated by falling freight indices, suggest weaker industrial activity and supply chain disruptions.

• China’s stimulus and lower inflation in some regions support trade, but protectionism remains a significant risk.

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• UNCTAD’s focus is on preventing global fragmentation and managing policy shifts without harming long-term growth.

• UNCTAD was established in 1964 and is part of the UN, focusing on trade and development issues and assisting developing nations.

Artsakh

• Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous region in the South Caucasus, is internationally recognized as part of Azerbaijan. Armenia claims the region, historically populated by Armenians.
• Tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh date back to the collapse of the Russian Empire in 1917.
• Following the Soviet collapse, the region declared independence, leading to the First Karabakh War (1992-1994), with significant casualties.
• Azerbaijan later regained territory around Karabakh in the Second Karabakh War (2020).
• Recent clashes and a peace agreement led to Azerbaijan’s full control of Nagorno-Karabakh.
• The region’s population was predominantly Armenian historically, though the area has a complex multi-ethnic history.
• The region’s recent status has been dissolved, becoming fully part of Azerbaijan.

PM-ABHIM: Healthcare Focus

• Centralized Scheme: PM-ABHIM is a centrally sponsored scheme similar to other CSS schemes, aiming to enhance health service delivery and public health.

• Strengthening Health Systems: The scheme aims to improve health systems at primary, secondary, and tertiary levels, making them more resilient to pandemics and disasters.

• Infrastructure Development: It involves establishing 3382 Block Public Health Units (BPHUs), 730 District Integrated Public Health Labs (IPHLs), and 602 Critical Care Hospital Blocks (CCBs) in designated districts.

• State Implementation: While a central scheme, PM-ABHIM is implemented by state governments, receiving technical and financial support from the MoHFW.

• Mohalla Clinic Upgradation: The scheme includes upgrading 553 existing mohalla clinics to U-AAMs and opening 413 new U-AAMs.

• Delhi Implementation Issues: Delhi, under previous AAP governance, did not implement the scheme. The current BJP government is implementing the scheme, but faced a legal challenge concerning the implementation in Delhi hospitals. Supreme Court intervention has temporarily halted the compulsory MoU signing process.

• Pilot Implementation: AIIMS reports indicate that only diagnostic labs at Indira Gandhi Hospital are being piloted under PM-ABHIM.

APAAR ID

• APAAR ID aims to standardize student records: A 12-digit ID linking academic records to DigiLocker and Academic Bank of Credits. It’s part of the National Education Policy 2020 and National Credit Framework, promoting a “One Nation, One Student ID” system.

• Implementation concerns and data privacy: Concerns exist about the system’s implementation and data privacy. Aadhaar linkage issues (spelling mismatches) require updates, and the voluntary nature of APAAR is questioned by mandatory enrolment drives from the CBSE.

• Data Protection Act 2023 concerns: The Data Protection Act, though not yet enforced, mandates free, informed, and unambiguous consent. Activists argue that the APAAR ID process violates this principle by making enrollment seem mandatory.

• Supreme Court ruling implications: The APAAR ID system contradicts the Supreme Court’s ruling that Aadhaar cannot be mandatory for basic education.

• Coercive measures at state level: States like Uttar Pradesh are using APAAR to scrutinize school enrollment, with threats of derecognition for non-compliance. This pressure on parents undermines voluntary consent.

• Parents’ pushback and lack of alternatives: Parents are pushing back against APAAR’s perceived mandatory nature. Options for opting out are insufficient, creating pressure to enroll.

Bond Varieties

• Sovereign Green Bonds (SGrBs): Issued by the government to fund green projects (energy efficiency, reduced emissions, etc.). India’s recent auctions saw muted response, despite relaxed NRI/FPI participation rules. Weak demand impacts government’s fiscal constraints.

• Bonds in general: Instruments for raising money, issued by governments (G-secs, Treasury, Gilts) or companies. Government bonds are considered safe, with lower yields. Yields change with bond prices. Example: A Rs 100 bond with Rs 5 coupon pays Rs 5 annually for 10 years, then returns Rs 100, for a 5% yield.

• Masala Bonds: Rupee-denominated bonds issued by Indian entities (companies, banks) in overseas markets. Offers lower borrowing costs and diversifies funding sources, boosts rupee internationalization, but foreign investors face currency risk.

• Social Impact Bonds (SIBs): Innovative financial instruments funding social programs. Returns are tied to achieving predefined social outcomes (e.g., reducing unemployment). Pay-for-success model, shifting risk from public sector, encouraging innovation.

• Blue Bonds: A proposed bond type for sustainable use of ocean resources, to support the blue economy. This concept was proposed by SEBI, highlighting India’s potential.

• Sustainability-linked bonds: Bonds whose features depend on achieving pre-defined sustainability/ESG goals, showcasing forward-looking, performance-based instruments.

• SDG alignment: All these bond types (SGrBs, blue bonds, SIBs, etc.) contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly relating to energy, climate, and ocean conservation.

PM-YUVA 3.0

• PM-YUVA 3.0 Launched: Ministry of Education launched PM-YUVA 3.0, a mentorship program for young authors (under 30) to promote reading, writing, and book culture.
• Focus Areas: The program focuses on the contribution of the Indian diaspora, the Indian knowledge system, and the makers of modern India (1950-2025).
• Implementing Agency: National Book Trust (NBT) is the implementing agency.
• Language Promotion: Books will be published by NBT and translated into multiple Indian languages under “Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat”.
• NEP 2020 Alignment: The program aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, focusing on youth empowerment.
• Mentorship Program: Young authors will be mentored by esteemed writers.
• Selection Process: 50 authors will be selected through an online contest (MyGov) from March 11th to April 10th, 2025, with specific quotas for each theme.
• Training Schedule: Training for selected authors will happen from June 30th to December 30th, 2025, including a national camp at the New Delhi World Book Fair 2026.
• Nation Building Focus: The program emphasizes showcasing India’s rich heritage, culture, and knowledge system globally, particularly highlighting the contribution of Indian diaspora.

Coronal Mass Ejections

• Aditya-L1 mission: India’s first dedicated solar science mission.
• Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC): Instrument onboard Aditya-L1 observing solar corona. VELC can observe closer to the solar surface and at shorter intervals than other coronagraphs.
• Flareless CME observation: VELC observed a CME eruption on July 5, 2024, without a preceding solar flare.
• Magnetic instability: Data helps differentiate magnetic instabilities causing flares vs. CMEs.
• CMEs: Massive bursts of solar plasma and magnetic fields ejected from the Sun. Associated with solar flares and impacting Earth’s magnetosphere.
• CME causes: Intense solar magnetic field activity and magnetic field line reconnection.
• Solar cycle 25: Sun approaching peak activity (solar maximum), expected CME frequency increase.
• VELC’s role: Uninterrupted monitoring for CMEs during solar maximum, providing valuable data for studying CME-flare associations.
• CME impact on Earth: Geomagnetic storms, auroras, power grid disruptions, communication issues (radio, satellite), satellite damage, and astronaut health risks.
• Flares: Explosive solar events releasing energy as electromagnetic radiation, often associated with CMEs.
• Flare-CME association: The connection between flares and CMEs is still not fully understood.

Amrit Sarovar Mission

• Mission Amrit Sarovar: Aims to address water scarcity by constructing or rejuvenating 75 ponds (Amrit Sarovars) in each district, totaling 50,000 across India. Launched in April 2022.
• Progress: Over 68,000 ponds completed by October 2024, improving surface and groundwater availability.
• Phase 2 Focus: Emphasis on community participation (Jan Bhagidaari) to strengthen climate resilience and ensure lasting benefits.
• Railway Involvement: Indian Railways to dig ponds, desilt, or excavate existing water bodies near railway lines. Excavated soil used for suitable railway embankments.
• Coordination: Railways to work closely with the Rural Development Ministry and district authorities.
• Timeline: A substantial number of ponds to be completed by August 15, 2025.
• Technical Partner: Bhaskar Acharya National Institute for Space Application and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N) develops tracking tools (portal/app).
• Funding: No separate financial allocation. Utilizes existing schemes.
• Community Role: Gram Sabhas approve pond sites, and Panchayat Partinidhi supervise development.
• Conservation & Infrastructure: Focuses on water conservation, community participation, and utilization of excavated soil for infrastructure.

Ashwini Radar

• Contract Signed: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a ₹2,906 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of Low-Level Transportable Radar (LLTR) Ashwini.

• Radar Name: LLTR is also known as Ashwini.

• Technology: Ashwini is an active electronically scanned phased array radar using solid-state technology.

• Target Tracking: It can track both fast (fighter jets) and slow-moving aerial targets (UAVs, helicopters).

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• Indigenous Design: The radar is indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), specifically the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment. BEL is the manufacturer.

• IFF System: Features an integrated Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system for 4D surveillance.

• Mobility and ECCM: Designed for mobility across terrains and has Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) capabilities.

• Automatic Detection: Automatically detects and tracks aerial targets.

• Enhanced Preparedness: Acquisition will significantly enhance the operational preparedness of the Indian Air Force.

• Key Personnel: The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

Gold Import Laws

• Gold smuggling in India is governed by the Customs Act, 1962, and CBIC guidelines.
• The Gold (Control) Act, 1968, was repealed in 1990, replaced by import duties.
• Baggage Rules, 2016, determine duty-free allowances based on duration abroad and passenger gender.
• Customs duty varies based on gold quantity and time spent abroad.
• Smuggling is a criminal offense under the Customs Act (Sections 111, 112, 135) and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (Section 111).
• The UAPA also criminalizes smuggling if it harms India’s monetary stability.
• Ranya Rao, a Kannada actor, was arrested for smuggling 14.2 kg of gold from Dubai.
• DRI found gold concealed on her person and seized jewellery and cash.
• Rao allegedly travelled to Dubai frequently (27 times in six months) using VIP channels.
• Local police escorted her home, bypassing security checks.
• Rao’s stepfather, a senior IPS officer, was linked to a previous gold robbery.
• Investigations are underway into potential police involvement and misuse of privileges.

Railways & Amrit Sarovar

• Indian Railways is collaborating with the Mission Amrit Sarovar initiative to conserve water.
• The initiative aims to construct or rejuvenate ponds across the country, particularly near railway lines.
• Railways will desilt, excavate, or create water bodies in coordination with district authorities and the Rural Development Ministry.
• Mission Amrit Sarovar, launched in April 2022, aims to create/renovate 75 ponds per district.
• Over 68,000 ponds have been completed as of October 2024, enhancing water availability.
• Phase two emphasizes community participation (Jan Bhagidaari) and climate resilience for long-term water security.
• Railway excavated material will be used in railway embankments where suitable.
• Letters have been sent to Chief Secretaries of states/UTs outlining the Railways’ role in this mission.
• A significant number of ponds are expected to be completed by August 15, 2025.

Mycelium Bricks

• Mycelium bricks are a promising low-carbon alternative to traditional fired clay bricks, created from fungal spores, husk, and sawdust.
• They are lightweight, biodegradable, fire-resistant, and good heat insulators, suitable for various applications like interior panelling and filters.
• Production of fired clay bricks emits nearly 300 million tonnes of CO2 annually, a concern exacerbated by urbanization.
• Mycelium bricks have drawbacks: low load-bearing capacity, high moisture absorption, short lifespan, and vulnerability to termites.
• Tropical weather, high humidity, and lack of infrastructure in India hinder large-scale production.
• Solutions include flame retardants, UV coatings, R&D, and policy support to improve durability and competitiveness.
• Mycelium’s strength-to-weight ratio is much lower than concrete.
• Cost of growing and treating fungi for construction is currently high due to infrastructure limitations.
• Higher moisture absorption compared to synthetic materials makes them unsuitable for damp environments.
• Consumer awareness and investment in research and development are crucial for wider adoption.
• Growing interest in sustainable materials, including high-performance buildings, is driving demand for mycelium bricks.

Brahmani River

• Bridge Construction Stalled: Construction of the Brahmani River bridge near Brahmabarada has been stalled for two years, despite 70% completion. Construction began in 2016 under the Biju Setu scheme.

• Inconvenience to Residents: The unfinished bridge inconveniences residents of over 20 villages across five gram panchayats in Rasulpur and Jajpur blocks.

• Increased Travel Distance: Villagers now travel 8 km instead of 1 km to reach the Brahmabarada market due to the incomplete bridge.

• Impact on Students and Elderly: Students and elderly residents in Jhalpada and Rudrapur gram panchayats face difficulties accessing essential services like schools, hospitals, and banks.

• Project Cost: The project was sanctioned with an outlay of Rs 10.42 crore.

• River’s Importance: The Brahmani River is a major river in eastern India, primarily flowing through Odisha.

• River Course: Formed by the Sankh and South Koel rivers near Rourkela, originating from the Chota Nagpur Plateau. Flows through Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

• Delta Formation: Together with the Mahanadi and Baitarani rivers, forms a large delta before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

• Bhitarkanika Sanctuary: The Brahmani delta is the site of the Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary.

• River Length: The total length of the river is about 799 km, with 541 km in Odisha.

• Rengali Dam: The Rengali Dam is located on the Brahmani River.

SpaDeX Mission

• ISRO successfully undock two satellites (SDX01 and SDX02) in the SpaDeX mission on March 13, 2025.
• SpaDeX is a cost-effective technology demonstrator mission for in-space docking.
• Primary objective: Demonstrate rendezvous, docking, and undocking of two small spacecraft in low-Earth orbit.
• Secondary objectives: Power transfer between docked spacecraft, composite spacecraft control, and payload operations post-undocking.
• Two spacecraft (220 kg each) launched by PSLV-C60.
• Undocking took place in a 460 km circular orbit with a 45-degree inclination.
• Satellites are now orbiting independently, functioning normally.
• India becomes the fourth country after USA, Russia, and China to achieve this feat.
• SpaDeX is a stepping stone for future missions like lunar sample return, a space station (Bharatiya Antariksha Station), and human lunar missions.

India-Mauritius Ties

• Enhanced Strategic Partnership: India and Mauritius elevated their ties to an enhanced strategic partnership, focusing on security, trade in local currencies, and development.
• Agreements: Eight agreements were signed covering trade, maritime security, and defense, signifying deepened regional cooperation.
• MAHASAGAR Initiative: India introduced MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) to strengthen engagement with the Global South, leveraging technology sharing, loans, grants, and mutual security cooperation.
• Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): The protocol amending the DTAA was agreed upon to meet international standards.
• Agalega Island: India and Mauritius will enhance the use of Agalega Island’s new runway and jetty, developed by India, for strengthened security cooperation.
• Chagos Archipelago: India reaffirmed support for Mauritius’ sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago.
• Developmental Support: India announced its first rupee-denominated Line of Credit for Mauritius’ water pipeline replacement, along with support for a police academy and maritime information-sharing center.
• Infrastructure Projects: India provided support for various infrastructure projects in Mauritius, including a new parliament building.
• Maritime Security Cooperation: Increased cooperation in white shipping, blue economy, and hydrography will strengthen maritime security.
• Regional and International Forums: India reaffirmed its commitment to working with Mauritius in regional and international forums like the Colombo Security Conclave, IORA, and the Indian Ocean Conference.
• Strategic Importance: Mauritius’ strategic location in the Indian Ocean is vital for India’s SAGAR/MAHASAGAR initiative, supporting maritime security and countering external influences.
• Economic Relations: Mauritius is a crucial trading and investment gateway for India in Africa, and a significant FDI source into India. India is one of Mauritius’ largest trading partners.

Supersolid

Here’s a summary of the key points regarding the “supersolid” news:

• Breakthrough: Researchers have successfully created a “supersolid” using light for the first time.

• Supersolid Definition: A state of matter combining properties of both solids (orderly structure) and superfluids (frictionless flow). Particles condense into an orderly, crystalline solid but also move like a liquid that has no viscosity.

• Novel Approach: This discovery expands the scope of supersolid research beyond traditional Bose-Einstein condensates (BECs) of ultracold atoms by coupling light and matter.

• Quantum Realm: Supersolids exist in the quantum world and, until now, have all been made using atoms.

• Potential Applications: The light-based supersolid could revolutionize quantum computing (enhancing qubit stability), optical circuits, photonic devices, materials science, and energy storage.

• Material Behavior Solids have a fixed structure while supersolids combine crystalline order with frictionless flow

• Significance This is not simply a photonic analogy of atomic systems, but a fundamentally new approach to achieve supersolidity. It also opens the way to the exploration of quantum phases of matter in non-equilibrium systems

• New opportunities:Realising this exotic state of condensed matter in a fluid of light flowing in a semiconductor nanostructure will allow us to investigate its physical properties in a new and controlled way and perhaps to be able to exploit its unique characteristics for possible applications to new light-emitting devices.

UN80 Initiative

• UN80 Initiative: A comprehensive reform program launched by UN Secretary-General António Guterres to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and responsiveness. It’s timed for the UN’s 80th anniversary.

• Concerns: The world faces numerous challenges including escalating conflicts, poverty, human rights violations, and rapid tech advancements (like AI). Shrinking resources and a liquidity crisis are also major factors.

• Objectives: Identify operational inefficiencies, review mandate implementation, and conduct a strategic structural review to realign UN programs.

• Rationale: The UN is struggling with growing demands (increased mandates), funding shortfalls (member state dues), and challenges of managing complex issues.

• Implementation: Led by Under-Secretary-General Guy Ryder, a task force of UN officials from across the system will oversee the initiative encompassing all UN entities.

India’s Path: Progress or Parochialism

• India faces a critical choice between prioritizing cultural nationalism and achieving technological progress. The RSS’s call to reject English and Western influence clashes with the government’s aim for global tech leadership.

• Only 10% of Indians have access to English, the de facto language of higher education and many high-paying jobs, creating a stark educational divide. This disparity is a result of political choices, not accident.

• Countries like China, South Korea, and Vietnam prioritize English proficiency as a crucial economic asset, integrating it into their education systems from a young age. This has significantly boosted their economic growth, particularly in technology.

• English proficiency is vital for participation in AI, data analytics, advanced manufacturing, and other high-growth sectors. A lack of English skills limits employment opportunities for a large portion of the Indian population.

• Kerala’s success in teaching both Malayalam and English demonstrates that linguistic pride and economic pragmatism can coexist. This model leads to higher STEM enrollment and improved employment prospects.

• India’s demographic dividend could turn into a liability without widespread English proficiency. The country needs to view English as an essential tool for economic competitiveness, not a threat to its culture. The choice is between global competitiveness and obsolescence.

APAAR: Education Passport

• APAAR ID, a unique 12-digit identifier for Indian students, is part of the “One Nation, One Student ID” initiative. It aims to create a lifelong academic record, facilitating educational transitions and digital record-keeping.

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• Concerns exist regarding the system’s voluntary nature. While officially voluntary, pressure from CBSE and state governments like Uttar Pradesh suggests de facto mandatory enrollment.

• Data privacy is a major concern. Linking APAAR ID to Aadhaar raises worries about the handling of sensitive student data without sufficient safeguards. The lack of robust data protection measures and potential for coercion violate the Supreme Court’s ruling on Aadhaar’s non-mandatory nature for education.

• Parents and activists are resisting, citing the lack of legal safeguards and the potential for coercion. Several advocacy groups are helping parents challenge mandatory enrollment. Difficulties linking Aadhaar to APAAR due to name mismatches further complicate the process.

• The situation highlights the tension between government initiatives for educational standardization and individual rights, particularly data privacy and informed consent. The potential for de-recognition of schools that don’t comply adds further pressure.

India’s Quantum Leap

• The National Quantum Mission (NQM) is a ₹6,003.65 crore, eight-year initiative (2023-2031) to advance quantum technology in India.

• The NQM aims to develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 qubits) within eight years, utilizing various platforms.

• The mission will establish secure quantum communication networks within India (2000 km range) and internationally.

• Development of high-sensitivity magnetometers, atomic clocks, and quantum materials (superconductors, etc.) is included.

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• Four Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs) have been established at leading Indian institutions (IISc Bengaluru, IIT Mumbai, IIT Delhi, IIT Chennai) to conduct research and development in quantum computing, communication, sensing & metrology, and materials & devices. IIT Kanpur acts as a coordinating center.

• Initial funding has been allocated to the hubs, with a projected ₹1500 crore expenditure in the coming year. Uttar Pradesh received the largest initial state-level allocation for quantum computing development.

• The NQM seeks to create a robust ecosystem for quantum technology research, development, and industry collaborations. This includes human resource development and international collaborations.

• Quantum computers offer the potential for significantly faster computation speeds and exponentially more secure communication compared to current technologies. The project aims to achieve milestones in qubit development over the next several years.

Nicobar Project

• The Great Nicobar Island (GNI) project, launched in 2021 by NITI Aayog, aims to develop a strategic hub for commerce, tourism, and defense.

• Key components include an International Container Transshipment Terminal (ICTT), a large international airport, a new township, and a power plant. It will span 16,610 hectares.

• The project is implemented by ANIIDCO and aligns with India’s Maritime Vision 2030 and Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.

• GNI’s strategic location, equidistant from Colombo, Port Klang, and Singapore, is a major factor. It’s also close to the Malacca Strait.

• The project’s proximity to Indonesia and Myanmar enhances India’s maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. It also strengthens India’s claim to significant ocean space under UNCLOS.

• Development has been slow due to distance, environmental clearance processes, and inter-agency coordination challenges.

• The project faces opposition due to potential ecological damage and the impact on the Shompen and Nicobarese tribal groups, particularly vulnerable tribal groups (PVTGs).

• The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are 836 islands, divided into Andaman and Nicobar groups by the Ten Degree Channel. Great Nicobar, the largest Nicobar island, is a largely untouched rainforest.

• Despite claims of no objections, the project’s environmental impact and the rights of indigenous communities remain significant concerns.

Trump’s Policies

• Import Tariffs: Threatening tariffs on all countries will raise prices for US consumers, increase inflation, and harm US firms due to higher import costs. Retaliatory tariffs from other nations will further damage US producers.

• Territorial Expansion: Trump’s rhetoric about expanding US territory through annexation is viewed as imperialist, damaging international trust and cooperation.

• Security Guarantees: Backtracking on security commitments to allies, particularly regarding NATO and Ukraine, erodes US credibility and weakens alliances.

• Government Spending Cuts: Reducing the federal workforce and cutting government spending risks undermining economic growth, as this spending fueled demand after the 2008 crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Immigration Policies: Deporting illegal immigrants could create labor shortages and raise wages, impacting US producers.

• Tax Cuts and Deregulation: While generally seen as economically positive, tax cuts are fiscally unsustainable without significant spending reductions. Deregulation risks harming consumers and increasing corporate malfeasance.

• Overall Economic Impact: These policies, combined, risk causing a recession or stagflation, as evidenced by stock market declines and downgrades from major investment banks. Global responses, such as increased government spending in the EU and China, further challenge the US economy. Trump’s focus on manufacturing and “real jobs” is seen by critics as a misguided approach.

Seagrass: Protecting the Ocean

• Seagrasses are declining globally at 1-2% annually, with nearly 5% of species endangered. Human activities are the primary cause.

• Seagrasses are vital ecosystems: they sequester carbon 35 times faster than rainforests, support diverse marine life (including endangered species), protect coastlines, and contribute significantly to fisheries.

• Threats include pollution, coastal development, climate change, and weak enforcement of existing laws.

• India has extensive seagrass meadows, but conservation efforts are insufficient. A recent study in Tamil Nadu showed significant seagrass loss.

• Conservation strategies needed: Integrating seagrass conservation into national biodiversity plans, expanding marine protected areas, recognizing seagrass in climate strategies, and promoting global cooperation for assessment and intervention.

• Successful restoration projects exist globally, demonstrating the potential for recovery with improved water quality, establishing marine protected areas, and community involvement. India has also had some success in seagrass restoration projects.

• Urgent action is required to halt seagrass decline and protect this critical ecosystem. Stronger enforcement of existing laws and increased funding for conservation and restoration efforts are vital.

Chagos: A Story

• Chagos Archipelago Dispute: A long-standing territorial dispute between Mauritius and the UK over the Chagos Archipelago, a group of islands in the Indian Ocean, including the strategically important Diego Garcia island.

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• UK’s Actions: The UK retained control of Chagos after granting Mauritius independence in 1968, creating the British Indian Ocean Territory (BIOT). In 1966, a secret agreement with the US led to the construction of a joint military base on Diego Garcia, resulting in the forceful deportation of the native Chagossian population.

• International Pressure: The UN General Assembly and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled against the UK’s continued administration of Chagos, urging its return to Mauritius.

• 2024 Agreement: A deal was reached where the UK recognized Mauritius’ sovereignty over the entire archipelago but retained control of Diego Garcia’s military base for 99 years.

• Controversy: The agreement faces criticism for excluding Chagossians from negotiations, concerns over the management of resettlement funds, and speculation that it indirectly benefits China by ceding influence to Mauritius.

• India’s Support: India publicly supports Mauritius’ claim over Chagos, aligning with its stance on decolonization and strengthening bilateral ties with Mauritius.

• Strategic Importance: Diego Garcia’s location makes it a crucial military base for the US and UK, impacting regional power dynamics in the Indian Ocean.

Nicobar Project Concerns

• Massive environmental concerns: The Rs 80,000 crore project threatens 130 sq km of rainforest, impacting biodiversity and potentially exceeding 10 million trees felled. The Galathea Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, crucial for sea turtle nesting, is threatened. Coral reefs face damage from industrial activities.

• Inadequate compensatory afforestation: Replacing lost Nicobar forests with land in Haryana and Madhya Pradesh fails to replicate biodiversity.

• Legal and ethical violations: The project potentially violates Supreme Court orders on deforestation in tribal reserves and lacks proper tribal consultation, disregarding the Shompen community’s rights. Transparency is lacking, with environmental clearance details withheld.

• Strategic contradiction: The government’s stance is contradictory, with security concerns cited by one ministry while another promotes tourism, raising questions about project rationale and priorities.

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• Cost escalation and unplanned additions: The project’s cost has increased significantly with the addition of cruise terminals and ship-repair facilities, further straining the environment.

• Strategic and economic significance (counterpoint): The project aims to bolster India’s strategic position in the Indo-Pacific, reduce reliance on foreign ports, and boost the economy through tourism and trade. A new airport improves defense deployment.

• High environmental mitigation cost: A ₹9162.22 crore, 30-year plan to mitigate environmental damage is proposed but its efficacy remains uncertain, especially given the irreversible nature of deforestation and habitat loss. Sea turtles might be permanently impacted.

Solar Max Missions

• The Sun’s 11-year magnetic cycle is nearing its solar maximum phase (2022-2024), making it the most active time to study it.
• Solar maximum is characterized by increased sunspots, solar flares, and coronal mass ejections, impacting Earth’s satellites and power grids.
• The current solar cycle’s activity began to rise in May 2022.
• Scientists are launching more solar missions to study the Sun’s behavior during this peak.
• NASA’s PUNCH mission is the latest in a series of recent solar missions, launched in March 2025, focusing on the Sun’s corona.
• Aditya L1 (India) and Proba-3 (European Space Agency) are also notable recent missions (September 2023, December 2024 respectively).
• The next solar maximum is expected between 2035-2036, creating a crucial time window for observation.
• The solar cycle is tracked by counting sunspots. A complete magnetic field flip occurs every 11 years.

MPLADS Funds Dip

• MPLADS Funds Decline: Central government funding for the 17th Lok Sabha (2019-2024) MPLADS scheme decreased by 65.2% compared to the previous Lok Sabha, primarily due to Covid-19 pandemic funding freezes.

• 2019-2024 Funding: ₹4,510 crore was released.

• Past Lok Sabha Funding: ₹14,023 crore (14th Lok Sabha), ₹12,945 crore (16th Lok Sabha).

• High Utilization, Still Unspent: Despite high utilization rates (98% in 17th Lok Sabha), significant unspent funds remained (₹760 crore).

• Funding by State: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and West Bengal received the most funds, while Delhi, Haryana, and Punjab received the least.

• Funding Sectors: Infrastructure (₹1,679 crore), public facilities (₹1,128 crore), and education (₹364 crore) received the largest portions of the funds.

• MP Perspective (DMK MP P Wilson): MPLADS is crucial but insufficient funds exist to address all needs.

• PRS Legislative Research Perspective (Chakshu Roy): Government, not MPs, should handle development. The MPLADS scheme itself is a fundamental issue.

Cassava: The Root of Life

• Cassava, a starchy root vegetable, is a crucial food source for nearly a billion people, often called the “bread of the tropics.”
• It’s widely cultivated in tropical regions due to its resilience to drought and poor soils.
• Traditionally grown via stem cuttings, resulting in genetically similar plants and potentially reduced disease resistance.
• A study found remarkably diverse cassava genetics, despite its clonal reproduction.
• Indigenous farming practices, particularly the Kukurro tradition in Brazil, are key to maintaining genetic diversity through seed-based reproduction and special planting areas.
• This unique method is found in diverse regions like the Amazon and the Caribbean, a surprising result.
• Cultural exchange, like marriage customs involving cassava cuttings, plays a role in distributing diverse cassava varieties across regions.
• The study highlights the importance of indigenous farming for global food security.

Lunar Ice: Beyond Poles

• Chandrayaan-3’s ChaSTE instrument suggests water ice may exist beyond the lunar poles, particularly in high-latitude areas with shaded slopes.
• ChaSTE, a thermometer, measured temperature differences between the Moon’s surface and subsurface, revealing surprising variability, especially on slopes.
• A significant temperature difference (nearly 60°C) between the surface and 10cm below was observed, offering insights into lunar composition and future habitat creation.
• Analysis of ChaSTE data by a research team led by K Durga Prasad suggests that areas outside the poles, with slopes facing away from the sun, could hold subsurface water ice.
• The study found substantial temperature variations over short distances (meters) depending on slope and sun exposure.
• The Moon’s south pole is not a definitive ‘polar region’ but similar conditions exist in high-latitude slopes, and these may support water ice.
• These findings, published in Communications Earth and Environment, highlight the potential for water ice exploration in areas easier to access than lunar polar craters.
• Water ice beyond the poles would be beneficial for future lunar missions, providing drinking water, oxygen, and fuel.

Economic Downturn

• Recession is a significant decline in economic activity spread across the economy, lasting from a few months to over a year.

• It’s the opposite of an expansionary phase, where GDP increases. A recession occurs when GDP contracts for a sustained period.

• There’s no universally agreed-upon definition of recession duration.

• The National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) considers factors beyond GDP, such as employment and consumption, to determine a recession. It assesses the depth, diffusion, and duration of the decline.

• A “technical recession” is commonly defined as two consecutive quarters of GDP contraction.

• Recent US economic indicators—stock market plunges, tariff uncertainty, and pessimistic consumer sentiment—have fueled recession concerns, though some dispute the likelihood.

• The NBER’s approach to defining a recession is more nuanced than simply looking at two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth. It involves a broader analysis of economic activity.

OCI Status

• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards, introduced in 2005, grant certain privileges to foreign nationals of Indian origin without conferring full citizenship.

• Eligibility criteria include being a citizen of India at or after 26 January 1950, or descendants of such citizens, subject to exclusions for those with Pakistani, Bangladeshi, or other specified country citizenship lineage. Spouses of Indian citizens or OCI cardholders are also eligible under certain conditions.

• Benefits include a lifelong multiple-entry visa, the right to live and work in India indefinitely, and economic parity with NRIs in many areas (excluding agricultural land ownership). Exemption from FRRO registration is also a benefit.

• Restrictions include no voting rights, ineligibility for most government positions, and prohibition on purchasing agricultural or plantation land.

• OCI is not dual citizenship; cardholders retain their foreign citizenship. The card can be revoked for violating Indian laws or acting against India’s interests.

• The recent gifting of an OCI card to the Mauritian Prime Minister highlights its use as a symbol of diplomatic relations.

Venture Capital

• India’s venture capital (VC) market saw a significant surge in 2024, with funding reaching $13.7 billion—a 1.4x increase from 2023.

• This resurgence is attributed to several regulatory changes: removal of angel tax, reduced long-term capital gains (LTCG) tax rates, streamlined NCLT processes, and simplified FVCI registrations.

• Venture capital is private equity financing for high-growth startups and small businesses. It’s crucial for innovation and economic development.

• VC investments are inherently high-risk, high-reward propositions, offering substantial returns if the startup thrives.

• VCs gain an equity stake in the company and often provide mentorship and strategic guidance beyond funding.

• Funding occurs at various stages: seed, early-stage, and expansion.

• SEBI regulates VC funds in India under the AIF Regulations, 2012.

• The news highlights the positive impact of regulatory reforms on attracting VC investments in India’s startup ecosystem. This signifies increased confidence in the Indian market and its potential for growth.

Waste to Fertilizer

• Scientists developed an electrochemical technique to extract urea from urine, converting it into percarbamide fertilizer.
• The process achieves nearly 100% purity in extracting percarbamide from human and animal urine.
• Percarbamide, a crystalline peroxide derivative, gradually releases nitrogen, boosting crop growth.
• Urine is rich in nitrogen (urea), phosphorus, and potassium, making it a valuable fertilizer source.
• An adult produces enough urine annually to potentially grow a year’s worth of wheat.
• This method addresses urine treatment challenges in wastewater and reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
• The technique uses graphitic carbon-based catalysts to convert urea into percarbamide.
• Optimal conditions for percarbamide production include urea concentration between 15% and 38% and temperatures just above freezing with a slightly acidic pH.
• The extracted percarbamide combines the nitrogen benefits of urea with the oxidative power of hydrogen peroxide.
• This process addresses a critical gap in the nitrogen cycle and offers a sustainable alternative for fertilizer production.

Wildlife Board

• Prime Minister Modi chaired his first NBWL meeting after more than a decade, highlighting the board’s recent inactivity.

• The NBWL, established in 2003, is India’s apex body for wildlife policy, conservation, and establishing protected areas. It’s a statutory body with 47 members, chaired by the Prime Minister.

• A standing committee handles project appraisals near protected areas; its decisions are recommendatory, subject to the environment ministry’s override.

• The NBWL has faced criticism for clearing controversial projects impacting wildlife habitats, including the Ken Betwa river linking project and Vedanta’s oil exploration project. The denotification of Galathea Bay Sanctuary also drew flak.

• Reconstitution of the NBWL after the BJP’s 2014 win was criticized for alleged power dilution, reducing non-governmental representation on the board and its standing committee.

• The long gap between full board meetings (last one in 2012) and the reduced non-governmental representation in the standing committee raises concerns about the effectiveness of wildlife conservation efforts.

Plasti-Ice

• Scientists confirmed the existence of Plastic Ice VII, a fourth form of water.
• It’s a unique phase where water molecules rotate freely within a rigid crystalline structure.
• This phase was predicted in 2008 and confirmed using neutron scattering experiments.
• It forms under extreme conditions: pressures exceeding 30,000 times Earth’s atmospheric pressure and temperatures above 177°C.
• The discovery uses quasi-elastic neutron scattering (QENS) and diamond-anvil cells.
• Plastic Ice VII’s molecules rotate in specific directions.
• This discovery has implications for planetary science, particularly in understanding icy moons (e.g., Callisto, Ganymede, Titan).
• It could help scientists explore whether extreme planetary conditions support life and how water affects celestial body structures.
• The discovery could also have applications in materials science and futuristic technologies.

India Pharma

• India’s Pharma Industry in the News: The Indian Pharmaceutical Alliance (IPA) proposed zero customs duty on US medicine imports to counter potential US tariffs and maintain market share.

• US Market Importance: The US is a crucial market, importing $9 billion worth of Indian pharmaceutical formulations annually. Zero import duty is seen as crucial for maintaining this trade.

• Industry Status: India is a major global pharmaceutical player, ranking 3rd in production volume and 14th in value. It’s a leading supplier of generics and vaccines. The market is valued at $50 billion and projected to grow significantly.

• Key Strengths: Affordable pricing, government support (PLI scheme), strong R&D base (6th globally in patent applications), and high global demand drive growth.

• Challenges: Quality concerns (Gambia cough syrup incident), regulatory hurdles, API import dependence (70% from China), price controls impacting profitability, global competition, and skill shortages.

• Way Forward: Increase domestic API manufacturing, expand into high-value drug markets (gene therapy, personalized medicine), enhance R&D, improve regulatory compliance, and expand global market penetration.

• Government Initiatives: Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks Scheme, National Medical Device Policy 2023 aim to support the industry.

Kyrgyz-Tajik Border

• Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan have finalized a land swap agreement to resolve their long-standing border dispute. This ends decades of conflict stemming from poorly defined borders inherited from the Soviet era.

• The agreement involves Kyrgyzstan gaining roughly 25 square kilometers of land from Tajikistan in exchange for other territories. This exchange improves access to water resources and farmland for both countries.

• Several previously contested roads will become jointly accessible, and access to oil wells will be eased.

• The deal includes provisions for relocating residents from villages affected by the land swap, with some villages being rebuilt. Access to a vital agricultural canal will also be improved.

• The agreement follows a period of heightened tensions, including deadly clashes in autumn 2022. A meeting between the Kyrgyz and Tajik presidents in 2023 at a UN summit fostered optimism for a resolution.

• The deal signifies an improvement in relations between the two countries and contributes to a broader trend of warming relations among the five Central Asian ex-Soviet republics. The final agreement will be signed by both presidents after parliamentary review and ratification.

eSHRAM

• Over 3.06 crore unorganized workers registered on the e-Shram portal, with over 53% being women.

• Launched August 26, 2021, to create a National Database of Unorganized Workers (NDUW).

• Aims to improve access to social security schemes and employment benefits for unorganized workers, including migrant laborers and gig workers.

• Key objectives include establishing a centralized database, enhancing access to social security, facilitating job matching and skill development, strengthening labor market resilience, and promoting financial inclusion.

• Eligibility criteria: 16-59 years old, working in the unorganized sector, possessing Aadhaar, a linked mobile number, and a bank account; not a member of EPFO or ESIC.

• Key features: Universal Account Number (UAN) linked to Aadhaar, streamlined single registration process, integration with employment and skill opportunities, family details capture for migrant workers, data sharing with BOCW Welfare Boards and State/UT governments via a Data Sharing Portal (DSP).

• 13 central government schemes are integrated with e-Shram, including PM-SVANidhi, PM Suraksha Bima Yojana, PM Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana, PM Awas Yojana (Gramin), and Ayushman Bharat.

• The significant number of registrations highlights the portal’s increasing reach and potential impact on social security coverage for India’s vast unorganized workforce. The integration with various schemes streamlines benefit delivery.

Early Toolkit

• Recent discoveries push back the timeline of bone tool use to 1.5 million years ago, a million years earlier than previously thought.
• This challenges the long-held belief that toolmaking was uniquely human.
• Earliest stone tools date back 3.3 million years, further indicating tool use predates the Homo genus.
• The ability to make tools was once considered evidence of superior human intellect (“Man, the tool-maker”).
• Chimpanzees and other primates have been observed using and modifying tools in the wild, challenging the human-exceptionalism narrative.
• Lucy, a 3.2-million-year-old hominin, may have possessed the hand dexterity for tool use, despite stone tools being discovered later.
• Archaeological evidence shows stone tool use for meat processing and bone marrow extraction by hominins before 3.39 million years ago.
• The study of primate hand morphology suggests that precision dexterity and tool use might have been present in the last common ancestor of all great apes 13 million years ago.
• The timeline of tool technology remains imprecise, but evidence points to its origins much earlier than previously believed, predating the Homo genus and challenging the notion of human uniqueness in this regard.

Foreigners Bill

• Purpose: Streamline immigration laws, enhance national security, and impose stricter penalties. Replace outdated colonial-era laws with a modern framework.

• National Security: Prioritizes national security, denying entry/stay to foreigners deemed a threat.

• Immigration Officer Powers: Arrest without warrant, restrict movement, and demand name changes if suspecting violation.

• Registration & Reporting: Foreigners must register upon arrival, report changes in status, and institutions (hospitals, schools) must report foreigners under their care.

• Entry & Stay Regulations: Requires valid passports and visas. Carriers are liable for passengers’ documentation, facing fines and seizure.

• Penalties for Violations:

  • No valid documents: Up to 5 years jail, ₹5 lakh fine.
  • Forged documents: 2-7 years jail, ₹1-10 lakh fine.
  • Overstaying: Up to 3 years jail, ₹3 lakh fine.
  • Transporting without papers: ₹5 lakh fine, vehicle seizure.

• Dual Citizenship Handling: Foreigners with dual citizenship will be treated as citizens of the country whose passport was used for entry.

Hydrogen Peroxide

• Researchers developed a new, eco-friendly method for synthesizing hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) using a hydrazone-linked Covalent Organic Framework (COF).

• This method is more efficient and energy-saving than conventional methods.

• The COF enables H₂O₂ production under visible light, eliminating the need for external reagents.

• H₂O₂ is a versatile chemical with uses as an antiseptic, disinfectant, bleaching agent, rocket propellant, and in food processing.

• Current industrial production of H₂O₂ is energy-intensive and produces hazardous byproducts.

• The new method uses sunlight, making it a sustainable alternative.

• The hydrazone-linked COF shows exceptional photocatalytic H₂O₂ production, outperforming most organic photocatalysts under similar conditions.

• A significant amount of H₂O₂ was produced under sunlight irradiation (550 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹).

• Using a water-benzyl alcohol solution further enhances H₂O₂ production (up to 21641 μmol g⁻¹ h⁻¹), paving the way for continuous flow reactors.

• This breakthrough offers a cleaner and more sustainable pathway for H₂O₂ production, potentially revolutionizing industrial processes.

• The research was conducted at the S. N. Bose National Centre for Basic Sciences, Kolkata.

LHDCP Animal Health Centers

• Launch of Pashu Aushadhi Kendras: India will launch veterinary medicine stores, modeled after PMBJKs, to provide affordable generic and ethnoveterinary medicines.

• Affordable Veterinary Care: Aims to reduce farmers’ expenses on livestock healthcare, a significant portion of their out-of-pocket expenditure.

• Improved Livestock Health: Will help prevent and treat diseases like Foot and Mouth Disease, Brucellosis, and Lumpy Skin Disease, improving livestock productivity and milk/meat yield.

• Part of LHDCP: Falls under the Livestock Health and Disease Control Programme (LHDCP), a centrally sponsored scheme with a ₹3,880 crore outlay (2024-26). Pashu Aushadhi receives ₹75 crore for medicines and sales incentives.

• Operational Model: Stores will be run by cooperative societies and Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samriddhi Kendras (PMKSKs).

• Generic and Ethnoveterinary Medicines: Will offer both generic veterinary drugs and traditional, indigenous remedies.

• Addressing a Large Livestock Population: India has a vast livestock population (536 million in 2019), making accessible and affordable healthcare crucial.

• Significance: Combats high medicine costs burdening farmers and complements existing vaccination drives to reduce disease prevalence and improve farmer income.

• Why in News: The launch was recently approved by the Union Cabinet, signifying a major step towards affordable and accessible livestock healthcare in India.

Imphal INS

• INS Imphal, the third of four Project 15B Visakhapatnam-class destroyers, made its maiden port call at Port Louis, Mauritius.
• Commissioned in December 2023, it’s named after Imphal, Manipur, the first warship in the class to be so named.
• The ship is the first naval warship to accommodate women officers and sailors.
• INS Imphal is one of India’s largest destroyers, measuring 164 meters long and displacing over 7,500 tonnes, capable of reaching 56 km/hr.
• It’s equipped with a variety of weaponry and systems, including anti-submarine warfare capabilities, a 76mm gun, BrahMos missiles, and modern surveillance radar.
• Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Ltd., the ship boasts a 75% indigenous content.
• It features a Total Atmospheric Control System (TACS) for protection from chemical, biological, and nuclear threats.
• The ship’s crest features the Kangla Palace and Kangla-Sa, significant historical and symbolic elements of Manipur.

Delhi’s Foul Air

• Delhi ranked world’s most polluted national capital for the sixth consecutive year by IQAir’s World Air Quality Report 2024.
• Annual average PM2.5 concentration in Delhi was 91.6 µg/m3 in 2024, slightly lower than 2023 but still extremely high. This is far above the WHO recommended limit of 5 µg/m3.
• India has 13 of the world’s 20 most polluted cities. India’s average PM2.5 concentration was 50.6 µg/m3, a 7% decrease from 2023 but still significantly high.
• Crop stubble burning accounted for 60% of Delhi’s pollution during peak periods. Other sources include vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, and construction dust.
• The report highlights the severe health risks associated with PM2.5 pollution, including respiratory problems, cancer, and cardiovascular disease.

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World Air Quality

• IQAir’s 2024 World Air Quality Report analyzes global air quality.
• 13 of the 20 most polluted cities are in India.
• Byrnihat, on the Assam-Meghalaya border, is the world’s most polluted city.
• India ranks fifth globally in air pollution (after Chad, Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Congo).
• India’s average Air Quality Index (AQI) is 50.6 μg/m³—ten times the WHO’s guideline value.
• Air pollution in India reduces life expectancy by an estimated 5.2 years.
• Only 17% of global cities meet WHO air quality guidelines.
• 126 of 138 countries/regions exceed WHO PM2.5 guidelines.
• Central and South Asia house seven of the world’s most polluted cities.
• India holds six of the nine most polluted cities globally.
• PM2.5 concentrations decreased in Southeast Asia, though haze and El Niño persist.
• Africa faces a severe lack of publicly accessible air quality data.
• Delhi’s pollution levels remain high, with a slight improvement noted.
• India saw a 7% decline in PM2.5 concentrations in 2024 compared to 2023.
• Los Angeles is the most polluted major US city, and Ontario, CA, the most polluted US city.

North Sea

• A cargo ship carrying toxic chemicals (including sodium cyanide) collided with a US military oil tanker in the North Sea.

• The incident occurred 16km off the coast of Hull, UK, on March 10, 2025.

• A large fire resulted, with one crew member missing and another hospitalized. The search for the missing crew member was called off.

• The collision raised concerns about environmental damage due to the release of chemicals and jet fuel.

• Experts noted that while jet fuel evaporates quickly, the sodium cyanide and smoke pose significant risks to marine life and the ecosystem, particularly near a harbor porpoise breeding ground.

• The incident occurred in a busy shipping lane, prompting questions about navigational safety and procedures. Initial investigations suggest no foul play, but this hasn’t been ruled out.

• The Maritime and Coastguard Agency is assessing the situation and coordinating pollution response efforts. The Port of Grimsby expressed concern over the incident.

• The North Sea is a vital trade route and rich in oil and gas resources, highlighting the risks associated with heavy maritime traffic in the region.

North Sea

• Collision in the North Sea: A cargo ship carrying toxic chemicals collided with a US military jet fuel tanker on March 10, 2025, raising environmental concerns.

• Location: The incident occurred 16 km off the coast of Hull, UK, a significant port and fishing area.

• Vessels Involved: The Portuguese-flagged Solong (carrying sodium cyanide and alcohol) and the US-registered Stena Immaculate (carrying jet fuel).

• Casualties: 36 people rescued, one crew member missing (later declared lost).

• Environmental Concerns: Sodium cyanide’s toxicity and potential jet fuel impact on marine life, particularly near a harbor porpoise breeding ground, are major worries. Though jet fuel is considered less environmentally damaging than crude oil, the smoke and any spill poses risks.

• Investigation: Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision, questioning how it could occur in daylight despite modern navigation systems. Foul play hasn’t been ruled out.

• North Sea Significance: The North Sea is a strategically important area with significant oil and gas reserves, offshore wind farms, fisheries, and major shipping routes. It borders several European countries including the UK, Germany, Netherlands, and others.

• Response: The UK’s Maritime and Coastguard Agency is assessing pollution risks and leading the response effort.

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Fuego’s Fury

• Volcán de Fuego eruption: A recent powerful eruption in Guatemala sent pyroclastic flows and incandescent material towards nearby communities.

• Location and type: Volcán de Fuego is a stratovolcano overlooking Antigua, Guatemala, part of the Pacific Ring of Fire.

• Frequent activity: Guatemala experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its location on the Ring of Fire. Fuego is one of Central America’s most active volcanoes.

• History of eruptions: Volcán de Fuego has a long history of violent eruptions, including a deadly 2018 eruption that killed 194 and left 234 missing.

• Eruptive style: Characterized by explosive events, lava flows, and hazardous pyroclastic flows.

• Stratovolcano characteristics: Tall, steep, cone-shaped volcanoes formed by layers of lava and pyroclastic material. They’re typically found above subduction zones and are common in volcanically active regions.

• Composition: Mostly andesite and dacite lavas (cooler, more viscous than basalt), leading to explosive eruptions due to gas pressure buildup.

• Guatemala’s risk: The frequent volcanic activity poses a significant risk to nearby communities.

Sajjangarh Sanctuary

• Sajjangarh Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the outskirts of Udaipur, Rajasthan, is situated in the Aravalli hill range.
• It covers an area of approximately 5.19 sq.km.
• The sanctuary surrounds the Sajjangarh Fort, built in 1874 by Maharana Sajjan Singh of Mewar.
• A recent wildfire engulfed about 50 hectares of the sanctuary.
• The sanctuary features a blend of deciduous and semi-evergreen forests.
• Flora includes teak, mango, neem, jamun, khair, ber trees, and bamboo groves.
• Fauna includes panthers, hyenas, wild boars, jackals, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, and four-horned antelopes.
• Bari Lake, also known as Tiger Lake, is located on the sanctuary’s western slope and was built by Maharana Raj Singh.

POLG Syndrome

• Rare Genetic Disease: POLG is a rare genetic mitochondrial disorder.
• Energy Production: It prevents cells from producing enough energy, leading to organ dysfunction.
• Organ Involvement: Affects multiple organs, primarily brain, nerves, muscles, and liver, potentially impacting vision.
• Mitochondrial Impact: POLG affects mitochondria, the cell’s energy producers. Mutations in POLG and POLG2 genes affect mitochondrial replication.
• Symptoms: Symptoms range from mild to severe, appearing in childhood or adulthood. Common symptoms include muscle weakness, ophthalmoplegia, epilepsy, and liver failure. Neurological function is also affected, impacting balance, speech, and movement.
• No Cure: Currently, there’s no cure for POLG.
• Treatment Focus: Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
• Prince Frederik’s Death: A 22-year-old Luxembourg prince recently died from the disease.

Pratibimb Module

• Pratibimb module, a GIS-based software, launched by I4C, helps map cybercriminals in real-time and track their networks.
• It projects mobile numbers used in cybercrime across the country on a map, showing locations.
• The module facilitates data sharing and analytics on interstate cybercrime linkages.
• It has led to 6,046 arrests, 17,185 linkages, and 36,296 assistance requests.
• Samanvaya, a coordination platform for LEAs, was launched for cybercrime data sharing.
• The I4C’s National Cyber Forensic Laboratory assists state police in cybercrime investigations (11,835 cases).
• I4C aims to coordinate cybercrime efforts across states and provide tech-legal assistance to law enforcement agencies.
• The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) is located in New Delhi.

Dharma Guardian VI

• The 6th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian, a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, concluded successfully in Japan.

• This annual exercise, alternating between India and Japan, focuses on enhancing defense cooperation and interoperability.

• The exercise included counter-terrorism training in urban environments, United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (UNPKO) drills, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercises. These aspects improve combat readiness.

• The exercise is significant because it strengthens the bilateral defense relationship between India and Japan, a key partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. Increased interoperability is crucial for responding to regional security challenges.

• This is one of several multilateral exercises involving India and Japan, including Veer Guardian (air force), SHINYUU Maitri (air force), JIMEX (naval), and Malabar (naval) (with Australia and the US). These joint exercises demonstrate a growing commitment to regional security and cooperation among partner nations.

Oman Gulf

• Iran, Russia, and China are conducting joint naval drills (Marine Security Belt 2025) in the Gulf of Oman for the fifth consecutive year.
• The Gulf of Oman is a vital shipping route for oil from the Persian Gulf, with roughly one-third of global oil exports passing through.
• It’s the only passage from the Arabian Sea to the Persian Gulf via the Strait of Hormuz.
• The drills aim to enhance maritime security, counter piracy, and terrorism in the northern Indian Ocean.
• The Gulf of Oman borders Iran, Pakistan, Oman, and the UAE.
• Significant ports include Ṣuḥār, al-Khābūrah, Muscat, Ṣūr (Oman) and Jāsk, Chāh Bahār (Iran).
• Islands include Sheytan, Al Fahal, Dimaniyat, and Sawadi Islands.
• The Gulf’s importance lies primarily in its role as a shipping lane, not fishing.
• The region’s security is of global importance due to the significant amount of oil transported through it.

Hantavirus

• Hantavirus is a rare but severe virus spread through rodent urine, droppings, and saliva.
• It causes Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS) and Hemorrhagic Fever with Renal Syndrome (HFRS).
• Transmission is primarily via aerosolized rodent waste inhalation, direct contact, or rarely, bites. Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare.
• Initial symptoms mimic the flu (fever, muscle aches, fatigue). HPS progresses to shortness of breath, coughing, and lung fluid buildup.
• High-risk groups include farmers, construction workers, hikers, and those in rodent-infested areas. Children under five, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals are also at higher risk.
• No specific antiviral treatment exists; treatment focuses on supportive care like oxygen therapy and intensive care for severe cases.
• Prevention is key: rodent control (sealing entry points, proper waste disposal), and protective gear when cleaning potentially contaminated areas.
• Recent news mentions the death of Betsy Hackman, highlighting the virus’s severity despite its rarity.

Kuki

• Kuki tribes in Manipur protested against the Centre’s order for free movement, attacking security vehicles with stones and projectiles on the first day of the order.
• A video shows security forces’ armoured vehicle navigating through a blockade of buses, vans, and barricades.
• Protests are due to demands for a separate administration.
• Violence includes clashes between protesters and security forces, injuring civilians and security personnel, with some protesters firing at forces.
• Security forces responded with minimum force.
• Some Kuki leaders and militant groups want a separate administration before allowing free movement.
• The Meitei community questions the safety of IDPs returning home.
• The conflict involves land rights and political representation issues between the Meitei community and Kuki tribes.
• The Kuki tribe, a collection of Northeastern Indian tribes, also reside in parts of Myanmar, Bangladesh, and other regions.
• The term ‘Kuki’ was imposed by colonial authorities.
• The Kukis traditionally practised Jhum cultivation, leading to land disputes with the Nagas and Meiteis.
• The Kuki Rebellion (1917-1919) saw their territory divided by the British.
• Most Kukis are Christian.
• The Kuki tribes are believed to have originated from the Tibeto-Burman group.
• Violence has caused over 250 deaths and 50,000 internal displacements.

District GDP

• Current GDP estimation is flawed: Relies on top-down approach for secondary and tertiary sectors, leading to inaccurate district-level data and overlooking local economic strengths. Bottom-up approach used for primary sector but suffers from outdated and inconsistent data collection.

• Need for District Domestic Product (DDP) estimation: Accurate DDP data crucial for achieving USD 5 trillion economy target by understanding district-level contributions and implementing localized strategies. PM Modi has emphasized this approach.

• Challenges in implementing DDP: High reliance on informal sector, lack of standardized methodology, inconsistent data collection across states, and financial/logistical barriers hinder accurate DDP estimation. Political and administrative hurdles also contribute to delays and inconsistencies.

• Benefits of DDP: Empowers district administrations for better resource allocation, enables accurate economic analysis, promotes equitable growth, and strengthens fiscal federalism. Facilitates effective policy reforms based on granular data.

• Way forward for robust DDP: Pilot projects in economically active districts, strengthening collaboration between states and research institutions, improving local data collection mechanisms, leveraging digital tools and real-time economic indicators, and expanding the role of MoSPI are crucial steps. Investment in data yields high returns in development.

• Why in the news: The need for a shift from national and state-level GDP estimates to district-level (DDP) estimations is gaining traction, driven by the desire for more accurate and granular economic data to inform policymaking and development strategies. The limitations of the current top-down approach are becoming increasingly apparent.

ICC: Justice on Trial

• ICC’s Focus: The International Criminal Court (ICC) investigates and prosecutes individuals for serious crimes: genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and aggression. It intervenes when national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute.

• Duterte’s Case: Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is under ICC investigation for alleged “crimes against humanity” related to his “war on drugs” campaign. This campaign resulted in the deaths of around 6,000 suspects during his six-year term.

• Rome Statute & Membership: The ICC was established by the Rome Statute (1998). As of January 2025, 125 countries are members. The Philippines withdrew in 2019, but the current government has allowed ICC investigators to enter. Key countries like India, China, and the US are not members.

• Jurisdiction & Powers: The ICC can exercise jurisdiction if crimes occur in a member state or are committed by a national of a member state. It relies on other countries for arrests, asset freezes, and sentence enforcement, as it lacks its own police force.

• Duterte’s Actions: Before becoming President, Duterte was the mayor of Davao for 22 years and gained fame for making the city one of the country’s safest from street crimes. He used Davao’s reputation to cast himself as a tough-talking anti-establishment politician and won the 2016 elections by a landslide. He also promised to give himself and his security forces immunity from prosecution and pardon himself.

• Political Context: Duterte’s case has emerged amid strained relations with the current President, Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Duterte remains popular, particularly in Mindanao, the region where he’s from. His daughter is a potential presidential candidate in 2028.

Salt, Freedom, & After

• 95th anniversary of the Dandi Salt March, a pivotal moment in India’s struggle for independence.

• The 24-day march, starting from Sabarmati Ashram, challenged the British salt monopoly, a symbol of colonial oppression.

• Gandhi’s defiance of the Salt Act by making salt at Dandi ignited the Civil Disobedience Movement.

• Widespread civil disobedience followed, with salt marches organized across India (Bengal, Bombay, Tamil Nadu, Orissa, Bihar, etc.).

• Mass arrests (estimated 60,000), declaration of the Indian National Congress illegal, and violent police crackdowns (Dharsana).

• Simultaneous movements included boycotts of foreign goods, anti-chowkidari tax protests, and tribal forest uprisings.

• The Frontier Gandhi (Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan) and his Khudai Khidmatgars actively participated in the NWFP.

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• Revolutionary activity, such as the Chittagong Armoury raid, occurred alongside the non-violent movement.

• Gandhi’s choice of salt was strategic; the British salt monopoly impacted everyone, making it an ideal symbol for mass resistance.

• The Gandhi-Irwin Pact (March 1931), resulting from the movement, led to the release of political prisoners and Congress’s participation in the Round Table Conference. It ended the Civil Disobedience movement temporarily.

KVIC Honey

• KVIC’s Honey Mission distributed 2,050 bee boxes and colonies to 205 beekeepers across six states. This initiative aims to boost honey production and create rural income.

• The mission, launched in 2017, aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s “Sweet Revolution” to promote apiculture. Over 20,000 beneficiaries have received bee boxes and colonies since its inception.

• Beekeeping integrates with agriculture, providing additional income streams for farmers. Apiculture products (honey, beeswax, royal jelly) are used in various industries.

• The recent distribution is part of the “New Khadi for New India” movement. A successful Khadi exhibition at the Prayagraj Mahakumbh generated ₹12.02 crore in sales, highlighting the growth of Khadi and village industries.

• KVIC, under the Ministry of MSME, promotes Khadi and village industries, fostering rural development and employment. Khadi sales have increased fivefold in the last 10 years, with significant job creation.

India’s AI Rise

• IndiaAI Mission: Government-led initiative driving AI transformation, aligning with Viksit Bharat 2047 vision to become a global AI powerhouse.
• AI Infrastructure Boost: Establishing high-end computing centers with massive GPU capacity, an open GPU marketplace for accessibility, and aims for indigenous GPU development within 3-5 years.
• Data & CoEs: IndiaAI Dataset Platform for open, anonymized datasets and AI Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in key sectors (Healthcare, Agriculture, Education) and 5 National AI Skilling Centres.
• Indigenous AI Models: Development of foundational AI models like BharatGen (multimodal LLM) and Sarvam-1 (multilingual LLM), along with language translation platforms like Digital India BHASHINI.
• AI with DPI: Integration of AI with digital infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI, DigiLocker) to improve efficiency and service delivery. AI-driven tools deployed in Mahakumbh 2025.
• AI Talent & Workforce: India ranks 1st in Global AI Skill Penetration, with a substantial rise in AI-skilled workforce.
• AI Adoption & Industry Growth: Growing adoption across industries, with 80% of Indian companies prioritizing AI. Strong growth in GenAI startup funding.
• AI Regulation: Pragmatic approach, balancing innovation with accountability, by focusing on Techno-legal approach which creates a ecosystem of innovation while addressing ethical concerns.
• Challenges:
  • Reliance on foreign AI chips.
  • Shortage of specialized AI researchers.
  • Potential job displacement.
  • Ethical concerns regarding bias and data usage.
  • Environmental impact of AI hardware.
• Steps to Address Challenges:
  • Boost domestic AI chip manufacturing.
  • Expand AI workforce training.
  • Enact a dedicated AI & Quantum Act.
  • Promote inclusive and sustainable AI development.

KHANJAR-XII

• Exercise KHANJAR-XII, the 12th India-Kyrgyzstan joint special forces exercise, is underway in Kyrgyzstan from March 10th to 23rd, 2025.

• The exercise, initiated in 2011, is held annually, alternating between India and Kyrgyzstan.

• Participants include India’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan’s Scorpion Brigade.

• The primary goal is to enhance counter-terrorism and special operations capabilities in urban and high-altitude environments.

• Key training areas encompass sniping, building intervention, and mountain warfare techniques.

• Cultural exchanges, including the Kyrgyz Nowruz festival, are integral to strengthening bilateral ties.

• The exercise underscores India and Kyrgyzstan’s commitment to regional security, addressing shared concerns like terrorism and extremism.

• Kyrgyzstan’s location in Central Asia, particularly its shared Fergana Valley with Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, is strategically important for India’s energy security interests (due to hydrocarbon resources).

• The exercise reinforces defense cooperation between the two nations, promoting peace and stability in the region.

• The previous edition of the exercise was held in India in January 2024.

Swine Flu

• H1N1 (swine flu) is a type A influenza virus causing respiratory illness, currently seeing a rise in cases alongside Influenza B.

• While originating in pigs, H1N1 contains genetic material from birds and humans, and spreads primarily person-to-person via coughs and sneezes.

• Symptoms mimic regular flu: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue; diarrhea and vomiting may occur. Severe cases can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and death.

• H1N1’s first confirmed Indian case was in May 2009, with subsequent outbreaks in 2021, 2022, 2023, and currently.

• No specific H1N1 vaccine exists; prevention relies on hygiene practices to limit germ spread.

• H1N1 is a serious disease, posing higher risks to young children, the elderly, and immunocompromised individuals.

• Symptoms typically last 3-7 days, although cough and weakness can linger for two weeks.

• Isolation, particularly in the first 5-7 days of infection, is advised to contain spread.

North Sea

• A cargo ship collided with a U.S. military jet fuel tanker in the North Sea off the coast of eastern England.

• Both vessels caught fire, resulting in a fuel spill into the North Sea.

• All 37 crew members were rescued, with one hospitalized.

• The incident triggered a major rescue operation involving lifeboats, coast guard aircraft, and commercial vessels.

• The cause of the collision is under investigation.

• Concerns exist about the potential ecological impact of the spill, although scientists suggest the impact may be less severe than a crude oil spill due to jet fuel’s faster evaporation and biodegradation.

• The North Sea is a strategically important body of water: a major shipping zone, significant fisheries, and substantial petroleum and natural gas reserves. It borders several European countries including the UK, Norway, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. It’s connected to the Atlantic Ocean and the Baltic Sea. Numerous major rivers drain into it.

Kisan Credit Card

• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme, launched in 1998, provides credit to farmers for agricultural and allied activities.

• A significant rise (42%) in Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) in KCC accounts is causing concern. NPAs reached ₹96,918 crore in the July-September 2025 quarter.

• The increase in NPAs is attributed to various factors: weather-related crop damage, farmer unawareness of repayment timelines, delayed payments due to household needs, and weak loan recovery mechanisms.

• Lower loan amounts in KCC compared to other agricultural loans make repayment a lower priority for some farmers. Crop insurance inadequacy also impacts repayment.

• Anticipation of loan waivers ahead of elections influences repayment behavior. Banks also face limitations in recovering KCC loans compared to other loan types.

• The outstanding loan amount in operative KCC accounts has increased by nearly 30% between FY2021 and December 2024, reaching ₹5.91 lakh crore.

• The KCC scheme offers a revolving credit facility, with loans extended on a collateral-free basis up to ₹2 lakh. The government provides interest subvention under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS). In Budget 2025-26, the loan limit under MISS was increased from ₹3 lakh to ₹5 lakh.

• Uttar Pradesh had the highest outstanding KCC amount in 2024.

• Loan waivers create moral hazard, impacting credit flow and loan performance.

Barbados Freedom Order

• Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded the Honorary Order of Freedom of Barbados.

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• The award recognizes Modi’s strategic leadership and support during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• The award was announced during the India-CARICOM Summit in Guyana in November 2024.

• Modi dedicated the award to 1.4 billion Indians and the strong India-Barbados relationship.

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• India and Barbados established diplomatic ties in 1966.

• Barbados became a republic in 2021, removing Queen Elizabeth II as its head of state.

• This is Modi’s 19th prestigious international award. Other notable awards include Russia’s Order of St. Andrew the Apostle and the US Legion of Merit.

• The award highlights the growing relationship between India and Barbados. The timing of the award announcement, during a summit, underscores its significance.

• Modi’s public expression of gratitude emphasizes the importance he places on this recognition and the bilateral ties.

India’s Energy Future

• Increased Energy Trade with the U.S.: India aims to boost oil and natural gas imports from the U.S., increasing energy trade value from $15 billion to $25 billion.

• Why:

  • Energy Security: India heavily reliant on imports for crude oil (over 85%), diversifying sources mitigates risks and reduces dependency on West Asia and Russia.
  • Bilateral Trade Growth: Part of a broader strategy to double overall bilateral trade with the U.S. to $500 billion by 2030.
  • Infrastructure Boost: US crude and LNG can support industrial growth, refining expansion, and petrochemical investments.
  • Geopolitical Alignment: Stronger ties could aid India’s IEA membership bid and counterbalance China’s influence.

• Current Energy Consumption & Imports:

  • Imported 234.26 million tonnes of crude oil in 2023-24 (87.8% import dependence).
  • Imported 31.80 billion cubic meters of LNG worth $13.405 billion in 2023-24.
  • Crude oil consumption projected to grow to 500 million tonnes by FY40.

• India’s Energy Strategy:

  • Increase natural gas share in energy mix to 15% by 2030.
  • Doubling oil & gas exploration area by 2030 and new projects.
  • Diversifying import sources (US, Russia, Brazil, etc.).
  • Expanding LNG infrastructure and city gas distribution.
  • Increasing focus on renewable energy (500 GW by 2030), ethanol blending, and hydrogen energy.
  • Policy reforms: FDI incentives and subsidies for EVs and green initiatives.

• Russia’s Role: Russia has become a major crude oil supplier to India(40%) at discounted prices.

• LNG and gas consumption Gas consumption is set to reach 103 bcm annually by the end of the decade.

Moon Mission Success

• Chandrayaan-3, India’s second lunar mission attempt, successfully landed on the Moon’s South Pole on August 23, 2023.
• The mission’s objectives include a safe landing, rover exploration, and in-situ scientific experiments, aiming to find water ice.
• New data suggests water ice may exist beyond the Moon’s polar regions, based on measurements indicating a non-conductive surface layer.
• The Chandrayaan-3 lander and rover completed their mission after a lunar day. The propulsion module remains in Earth orbit.
• Chandrayaan-3 used ISRO’s LVM3 rocket, a cost-effective three-stage rocket, to reach a parking orbit.
• The mission’s lander and rover successfully performed their designated tasks.
• Chandrayaan-3’s mission differs from Chandrayaan-2 as it lacks an orbiter, focusing on landing and rover operations.
• The Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) analyzed data from the ChaSTE instrument to find clues about water ice.
• ChaSTE’s measurements show a 60°C temperature difference between the lunar surface and 10 cm below, hinting at the Moon’s surface composition and thermal properties.

Pant: A Leader

• Govind Ballabh Pant’s death anniversary (March 7th) was observed. This is newsworthy because it prompted a tribute from the Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, Yogi Adityanath.

• Pant (1887-1961) was a pivotal figure in Indian history, serving as a freedom fighter and the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. His legacy continues to be relevant and influential.

• He played a significant role in the Indian freedom struggle, participating in the Salt Satyagraha, Civil Disobedience Movement, and Quit India Movement. His involvement in these landmark events makes him a significant historical figure.

• Pant was a key member of the Constituent Assembly, contributing to the drafting of the Indian Constitution. This highlights his influence on the foundational document of India.

• As Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, he focused on abolishing the Zamindari system and modernizing the state. These actions demonstrate his commitment to social and economic reform.

• He served as the Union Home Minister under Jawaharlal Nehru, playing a crucial role in establishing Hindi as an official language of India. This showcases his impact at the national level.

• Pant received the Bharat Ratna in 1957, India’s highest civilian award, recognizing his exceptional contributions to the nation. The award highlights the significance of his work.

• His mentorship of future UP leaders like Chaudhary Charan Singh underscores his lasting influence on Indian politics. His guidance shaped the trajectory of political figures.

• The Chief Minister’s tribute highlights Pant’s continued relevance and importance in the political landscape of Uttar Pradesh. The act itself is news as it symbolizes respect for a historical figure.

Sarus Crane

• Rare sighting: A Sarus Crane was spotted in Assam’s Saikhowa region, attracting bird watchers.
• Tallest flying bird: Standing at 152-156 cm tall, it’s the tallest flying bird globally.
• Distribution: Found in Southeast Asia, northern India, and northern Australia. In India, concentrated along the Gangetic plain and eastern Rajasthan.
• Non-migratory: This species doesn’t migrate.
• Habitat: Wetlands, canals, marshes, ponds, and sometimes near human settlements.
• Appearance: Predominantly grey plumage, naked red head and upper neck, pale red legs, white patch on top of head and a small white spot behind the eye. Wingspan reaches 2.5m and weight ranges from 5-12kg.
• Social behavior: Least social crane, mostly seen in pairs or small groups. Monogamous, with lifelong mate bonds.
• Conservation status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List), Schedule IV of the Wildlife (Protection) Act 1972, and Appendix II (CITES).
• Nesting: Nests are built in wetlands or flooded paddy fields.
• Lifespan: Cranes generally live 30-40 years, though some species can reach 80 years.

Unknown Topic

• The Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) celebrated its 55th anniversary on March 5th, 2025.

• The NPT is a multilateral treaty aiming to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons while promoting peaceful nuclear energy use.

• Key provisions define Nuclear-Weapon States (NWS) as those possessing nuclear weapons before January 1st, 1967 (US, UK, France, China, and Russia). Non-nuclear states pledge not to develop them, and NWS pledge not to transfer them.

• The treaty allows for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and includes a withdrawal clause.

• 191 countries are members, including the five NWS. India is not a member.

• The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) monitors compliance.

• India’s opposition to the NPT stems from its perceived discriminatory nature, legitimizing nuclear weapons for five states but not others.

• India maintains a “No First Use” (NFU) nuclear policy and advocates for global nuclear disarmament. This stance is central to its non-membership.

• The anniversary highlights the ongoing debate surrounding nuclear proliferation and disarmament, with India’s position remaining a significant factor in international discussions.

India: #2 Arms Importer

• India is the world’s second-largest arms importer in 2020-24, after Ukraine, according to SIPRI. This is despite a 9.3% decrease in imports compared to 2015-19.

• Russia remains India’s top arms supplier, but its share significantly decreased to 36% from 72% (2010-14). France became the second-largest supplier to India (28%).

• India’s neighbors show contrasting trends: Pakistan’s arms imports increased by 61%, with China as the main supplier (81%). China, meanwhile, dropped out of the top 10 importers due to a strong domestic defense industry.

• Globally, arms transfers remained stable compared to previous periods but were higher than 2005-09. Europe saw a massive surge in imports (155%) due to the war in Ukraine. The US remained the largest arms exporter.

• India is actively pursuing self-reliance in defense manufacturing, with initiatives like increased domestic production, the SRIJAN portal, and positive indigenization lists. Significant budget allocations and FDI support are also key elements.

• The war in Ukraine caused a 100-fold increase in its arms imports, primarily from the US, Germany, and Poland. Russia’s global arms exports significantly decreased (64%) due to sanctions and production constraints.

Phased Array Radar

• China deployed a powerful Large Phased Array Radar (LPAR) near the China-Myanmar border in Yunnan province.
• The radar has a surveillance range exceeding 5,000 kilometers, allowing monitoring of the Indian Ocean and deep into Indian territory.
• It can detect and track ballistic missile launches in real time.
• Unlike traditional radars, LPARs use electronically controlled antennas for rapid scanning and tracking multiple targets.
• This technology is crucial for early warning systems and air defense.
• Besides China, only the US and Russia possess similar systems.
• China’s LPAR is comparable to the US PAVE PAWS radar, with similar detection ranges.
• The LPAR can monitor missile tests from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, crucial for testing strategic weapons like Agni-V and K-4 missiles.
• Capturing data on missile trajectories gives China strategic advantage for developing countermeasures.
• A phased array radar uses an array of antennas to steer the radar beam electronically.

Smooth Otters

• Two smooth-coated otters have arrived at the Delhi zoo after a 20-year absence. This is newsworthy because it signifies a potential boost to the zoo’s collection and conservation efforts for this vulnerable species.

• Smooth-coated otters ( Lutrogale perspicillata) are found in freshwater habitats across South and Southeast Asia. Their presence in the Delhi zoo raises awareness about this less-known otter species.

• They are characterized by smooth fur, a round head with a prominent nose, a flattened tail, and webbed feet. These physical traits distinguish them from other otter species.

• Smooth-coated otters are social animals and hunt fish in groups. This information highlights their behavioral ecology.

• The species is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN and is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972 and Appendix I of CITES, indicating its endangered status and the need for conservation.

• They inhabit protected areas like Corbett and Dudhwa Tiger Reserves, showcasing their importance within existing conservation strategies. The arrival in Delhi zoo may facilitate further breeding programs or research opportunities.

• The otters’ arrival is part of a larger animal exchange program between various Indian zoos, highlighting collaborative conservation efforts across the country.

Arms Trade

• Global arms trade volume remained roughly stable between 2015-19 and 2020-24, though 18% higher than 2005-09.
• Ukraine became the largest arms importer in 2020-24, with imports increasing nearly 100-fold compared to 2015-19.
• India was the second-largest arms importer in 2020-24, with a 9.3% decrease in imports compared to 2015-19. Russia was India’s largest arms supplier (36%) a significant drop from previous decades.
• Russia’s global arms exports fell by 64% during 2020-24.
• France emerged as the second-largest arms exporter (9.6%) in 2020-24, while the US increased its export share to 43%.
• India was the biggest export destination for both Russia and France.
• Four Asian countries (India, Pakistan, Japan, Australia) were among the top 10 arms importers.
• Pakistan’s arms imports rose 61% between 2015-19 and 2020-24, with China becoming its dominant supplier (81%).
• China dropped out of the top 10 arms importers for the first time since 1990-94.
• European arms imports increased by 155% during the same period.
• India received the largest share of French arms exports (28%).

Q1. The US is the largest arms exporter.
Q2. Ukraine is the largest arms importer.

Poshan Abhiyan

• Why in News: Poshan Abhiyan’s ongoing efforts to improve nutrition through technology, cross-sectoral collaboration, and community involvement are consistently newsworthy. Recent updates highlight progress and ongoing initiatives.

• What is Poshan Abhiyan?: A flagship program of the Ministry of Women and Child Development launched in 2018 to improve nutrition for pregnant women, lactating mothers, adolescent girls, and children (0-6 years).

• Objectives: Reduce stunting, undernutrition, anemia, and low birth weight.

• Strategic Pillars:

  • Quality services through ICDS, NHM, and PMMVY.
  • Cross-sectoral convergence (e.g., water & sanitation).
  • Technology (Poshan Tracker, ICDS-CAS).
  • Community engagement (“Jan Andolan”).

• Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0: Focuses on infrastructure upgrades for Anganwadi Centers (AWCs) and promoting health, wellness, and immunity. Significant improvements in AWC infrastructure are being reported.

• Progress: NFHS-5 data shows improvement in key indicators like wasting, undernutrition, and stunting compared to NFHS-4, though challenges remain.

• Key Focus Areas: The first 1000 days of a child’s life, access to essential services, behavior change through community engagement (“Jan Andolan”), and multi-sectoral collaboration.

KHANJAR-XII

• Khanjar-XII, the 12th India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise, is taking place in Kyrgyzstan from March 10-23.

• The exercise focuses on counter-terrorism and special forces tactics in challenging terrains, including mountainous and high-altitude environments.

• Participating forces include India’s Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) and Kyrgyzstan’s Kyrgyz Scorpion Brigade.

• Training will cover advanced sniping, close-quarters combat, building interventions, and mountain warfare.

• Cultural exchange is also a key component, featuring the celebration of Nowruz, the Kyrgyz New Year.

• The exercise strengthens defense ties and addresses common concerns about terrorism and extremism.

• The exercise, initiated in 2011, alternates annually between India and Kyrgyzstan. The previous edition was held in India in January 2024.

• Simultaneously, India and Japan concluded their 7th Army-to-Army Staff Talks, focusing on enhanced defense cooperation, including the Dharma Guardian exercise and collaboration in niche technologies.

La Niña

• La Niña is a climate pattern characterized by unusually cool ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific. It’s the opposite of El Niño.

• La Niña’s cooling effect may be weakened by climate change, rendering it less effective at counteracting rising temperatures.

• La Niña influences global weather patterns, causing increased rainfall in some regions (Southeast Asia, parts of Africa and Brazil) and drier conditions in others (western South America, parts of the US).

• It impacts agriculture, sometimes positively (increased monsoon in parts of India) and sometimes negatively (flooding in Australia). The current La Niña is weak and short-lived.

• India experienced its warmest February since 1901, highlighting the impact of climate change despite La Niña’s presence. An early, intense summer with heatwaves is predicted.

• El Niño events are projected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change, exacerbating global warming’s effects. Even during ENSO-neutral periods, severe heatwaves are likely.

• While La Niña can bring benefits like boosting fish populations through upwelling, its overall impact is becoming less significant compared to the overarching effects of climate change.

Trade-to-Trade
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Inter-Trade
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Trade Flow

• Trade-to-Trade (T2T) stocks require delivery (T+2 settlement) before trading. This means no intraday or Buy Today Sell Tomorrow trading.
• Stocks are moved to T2T by exchanges based on factors like price-earnings ratio, volatility, and market capitalization. This aims to protect retail investors from high volatility and limit speculation.
• Exchanges evaluate stocks bi-weekly and quarterly for T2T placement.
• Stocks not available for Futures & Options trading are also considered for T2T.
• T2T stocks are identified by a suffix (e.g., “BE” on NSE, “T” on BSE) in the stock’s name.
• SEBI is considering relaxing short-selling restrictions, potentially excluding T2T stocks.
• T2T stocks are designed to mitigate risk by limiting the potential for rapid, price-driven trading.

Gange Rejuvenation

• Why in News: The Namami Gange Programme (NGP) has made significant progress in cleaning the Ganga River and has been extended with increased funding. Recent achievements and ongoing projects highlight its impact.

• What is NGP?: A flagship program for Ganga rejuvenation, focusing on pollution reduction, improved water quality, and ecosystem restoration. It operates on a five-tier structure.

• Key Interventions: Pollution abatement (Nirmal Ganga) through improved sewage treatment; ecological improvement and maintaining flow (Aviral Ganga); community engagement (Jan Ganga); and research & policy development (Gyan Ganga).

• Key Achievements: Sewage treatment capacity increased significantly; water quality improved in several states (measured by BOD reduction); Gangetic river dolphin population increased; and international recognition received.

• Implementation Details: Uses Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) for sewage treatment plant (STP) development; a large number of STPs have been completed and are operational, alongside biodiversity and afforestation projects.

• Recent Initiatives: New projects focus on intercepting polluted drains, building more STPs, and creating a national framework for safe reuse of treated wastewater. Biodiversity parks and wetland restoration are also underway.

• Challenges: While significant progress has been made, challenges remain in completely cleaning the river and maintaining long-term sustainability. The program’s success depends on continued commitment and funding.

India’s R&D Surge

• India’s Low R&D Investment: Despite having a large pool of STEM graduates, India’s R&D spending is only 0.65% of its GDP, significantly lower than China (2.43%) and developed nations.

• Need for Increased R&D: Critical for global competitiveness, economic growth, and escaping the middle-income trap. R&D is vital for industrial development, especially in pharma, chemicals, automotive, and deep-tech startups (quantum computing, biotechnology, robotics, nanotechnology).

• Challenges in India’s R&D Ecosystem:

  • Low investment compared to global standards.
  • Heavy reliance on government funding.
  • Weak links between academia and industry, hindering innovation.
  • Lack of diversification in R&D focus.
  • Bureaucratic hurdles in technology transfer.

• Reforms for Strengthening R&D:

  • Increase R&D spending, with more private sector contribution.
  • Utilize the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) to encourage investment.
  • Promote university-led research and industry collaboration.
  • Implement efficient project management models (like DARPA).
  • Encourage risk-taking in early-stage research.

• Importance of Tech Talent: India possesses a large tech talent pool, as indicated by the presence of development centers of global corporations.

• Way Forward: Robust R&D investment, industry-academia collaboration, and policy reforms are essential for India to become a global S&T leader and drive economic growth.

Camanchaca Dulcibella

• Discovery: Marine biologists have discovered a new species of amphipod, Dulcibella camanchaca, in the Atacama Trench.

• Location: Found in the Atacama Trench, one of the deepest parts of the ocean, located off the coast of South America, specifically in the South Pacific Ocean near Chile at a depth of approximately 8,000 meters (26,000 feet).

• Unique Characteristics: Dulcibella camanchaca is an amphipod crustacean, measuring about 4 centimeters in length. Unlike most deep-sea amphipods, it is an active predator with specialized appendages for capturing and consuming smaller crustaceans, marking the first known predatory amphipod in the hadal zone (depths beyond 6,000 meters).

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• Significance:

  • Highlights the incredible adaptability of life to extreme environments.
  • Provides insights into how life can thrive in conditions of crushing pressure, frigid temperatures, and complete darkness.
  • The discovery is a reminder of how much we still have to learn about the deep ocean.

• Implications: This discovery has implications for the search for life beyond Earth, as the extreme environment mirrors conditions on some moons. Studying how Dulcibella camanchaca survives helps scientists understand the potential for life in similar environments on other worlds.

• Importance of Conservation: Underscores the importance of deep-sea exploration and conservation, especially with threats from deep-sea mining and climate change. Protecting these habitats is critical, as human activities reach even the most remote parts of the ocean.

India’s Chipmaking

• India’s First Domestically Made Chip: India aims to produce its first domestically manufactured semiconductor chip by 2025. Why: This signifies a crucial step towards self-reliance in a strategically important technology sector.

• Semicon India Programme: Launched in 2021, this program supports the development of India’s semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem. Why: It’s the government’s primary initiative to drive growth in this sector.

• Manufacturing Facilities Under Construction: Five facilities are currently under construction, including the Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Facility in Assam and the Dholera Fab facility in collaboration with Taiwan’s Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation. Why: These facilities are the physical manifestation of the government’s investment and industry partnerships.

• High Import Dependency: India heavily relies on importing semiconductors, with significant growth in imports of Monolithic Integrated Circuits, memory chips, and amplifiers over the past decade. Why: This highlights the urgency of reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and securing domestic supply chains.

• Import Trends: Imports of critical components like Monolithic ICs, memory chips and amplifiers have increased significantly (2,000%, 4,500%, and 4,800% respectively) between FY16-FY24, with China being the top supplier. Why: It illustrates a growing risk associated with over-reliance on imports.

• Challenges and Gaps: India lags in Electronic Design Automation (EDA) software, core IP, wafer production, and fab tools, and also in chip design capabilities. Why: These are critical components India needs to master to become a fully self-sufficient semiconductor manufacturer.

Madhav Park

• Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been declared India’s 58th Tiger Reserve, and the 9th in Madhya Pradesh.
• The park is located in the Shivpuri district, Chambal region and currently houses five tigers, including two cubs.
• The designation was announced by the Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and welcomed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Mohan Yadav.
• The park’s designation as a tiger reserve is a step forward in India’s commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental protection.
• The park has a rich ecosystem, including lakes, dry deciduous and dry thorn forests, supporting various species like tigers, leopards, Nilgai, Chinkara, Chousingha, and various deer species.
• The addition of the tiger reserve aligns with the government’s focus on restoring ecological diversity and reflects the work of forest officials.
• Three tigers were introduced to the park in 2023 as part of a tiger reintroduction project.

Koch-Rajbongshi

• Koch-Rajbongshis, a large community in Assam and West Bengal, are demanding Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. This demand has been ongoing for decades.

• They are renewing their demand ahead of Home Minister Amit Shah’s visit to Assam.

• The Koch-Rajbongshis were once rulers of the Kamata kingdom. They are considered indigenous to the region.

• Their primary livelihood is agriculture. They have diverse religious affiliations, primarily Hindu, but also including Muslim, Christian, and Buddhist members.

• The community currently holds Other Backward Classes (OBC) status in Assam, Scheduled Caste (SC) status in Bengal, and Scheduled Tribe (ST) status in Meghalaya.

• Granting ST status is opposed by existing ST communities in Assam who fear being marginalized in education, employment, and political representation.

• The Koch-Rajbongshis’ demand also includes the “re-establishment of the historic Kamatapur State” and the creation of a Chilarai Regiment in the armed forces.

• The BJP had previously promised ST status to six communities, including the Koch-Rajbongshis, before the 2014 Lok Sabha elections.

• The Koch-Rajbongshis were granted ST status briefly in 1996, but it was revoked due to concerns about disproportionate access to reserved quotas.

• The community has threatened protests if their concerns are ignored and if they are used for electoral gains.

CT2025

• India won the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, defeating New Zealand by 4 wickets.
• The tournament was primarily hosted by Pakistan, with India’s matches in Dubai due to security concerns.
• This was India’s record-extending third Champions Trophy title.
• The 2025 edition’s qualification differed from previous years; it used the 2023 Cricket World Cup results to determine the top eight teams.
• The tournament format remained consistent since 2006: two groups of four, with top two advancing to the semi-finals.
• Group A consisted of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and New Zealand; Group B had Australia, Afghanistan, England, and South Africa.
• India’s victory marked their seventh ICC title since 1983.
• Rohit Sharma became only the second Indian captain to win multiple ICC trophies.
• The total prize pool was $6.9 million.
• Indian pacer Mohammad Shami appealed to the ICC to lift the ban on using saliva to shine the ball. The ban, introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, made reverse swing more difficult.
• The Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) method, used for rain-affected matches, was highlighted following the death of its co-creator, Frank Duckworth.

Madhav National Park

• Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh is India’s 58th tiger reserve and Madhya Pradesh’s ninth.
• It’s located in Shivpuri district, on the northern fringe of the Central Highlands.
• Historically, it served as a hunting ground for Mughal emperors and the Maharaja of Gwalior. It became a national park in 1958.
• The park’s area encompasses diverse ecosystems including lakes, meadows, and forests (Northern tropical dry deciduous mixed forests and dry thorn forests).
• It supports a variety of wildlife: tigers (including recently born cubs), leopards, deer, antelopes, and other animals. Two lakes, Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar, are key features.
• The declaration signifies India’s commitment to tiger conservation and environmental protection. The expansion of tiger reserves reflects a multifaceted conservation strategy involving legal frameworks, international cooperation, and community engagement.
• Prime Minister Modi and Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav lauded the development, highlighting India’s dedication to wildlife conservation and ecological diversity.
• The park’s status as a tiger reserve aims to protect tiger habitats and boost the tiger population. India currently hosts over 70% of the world’s wild tiger population.

Jalantheeswarar Temple

• Jalantheeswarar Temple (Thiruvooral), in Thakkolam, Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu, is in disrepair. A northern outer wall has collapsed, and the temple tank is neglected.

• The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva as Jalantheeswarar (a sand lingam), boasts Dravidian architecture with a three-tiered gopuram.

• Its construction began with the Pallavas, expanded by Cholas, and its current structure dates to the Nayak period (16th century).

• The temple is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams, significant in Saivite tradition. It holds numerous inscriptions crucial for understanding Chola dynasty chronology.

• Inscriptions mention the temple’s ancient names: Thiruvural and Aparajita-chaturvedimangalam, and its association with Pallava and Chola kings.

• Thakkolam’s historical significance is highlighted by the CISF renaming its Arakkonam training center after Rajaditya Chola, a prince killed in a battle near Thakkolam in 949 CE.

• The temple’s poor condition and the need for restoration are currently in the news, with local officials seeking HR&CE department approval for kumbabishekam (consecration). The last consecration was over 15 years ago.

Preventive Detention

• Preventive detention is the detention of an individual without trial or conviction. Its aim is to prevent future offenses, not punish past ones.

• It’s a draconian measure requiring careful scrutiny, as highlighted by a recent Supreme Court case.

• The Supreme Court quashed a Nagaland preventive detention order because the detaining authority failed to independently apply its mind. The order merely stated satisfaction with supporting documents, lacking specific grounds for detention.

• Article 22 of the Indian Constitution provides protections for those arrested or detained, including provisions for preventive detention. It limits detention to three months unless an advisory board approves extension.

• Detainees have a right to know the grounds of their detention, though this can be withheld in the public interest.

• Laws permitting preventive detention exist at both the national and state levels in India (e.g., NSA, UAPA, PSA). These allow detention for periods up to 12 months without trial.

• The detaining authority must provide opportunities for the detainee to make representations against the detention.

• Parliament holds exclusive power to enact preventive detention laws for reasons of defense, foreign affairs, or national security. Both Parliament and state legislatures can enact such laws for public order or essential supply maintenance.

India-Mauritius Ties

• Historical Ties: Strong historical connection with Mauritius due to Indian origin population (70%) and cultural exchange. Prime Minister Modi’s visit celebrates these long-standing ties and offers an opportunity to connect with the newly elected Prime Minister Navinchandra Ramgoolam, whose father worked with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.

• People-to-People Connections: Significant Indian diaspora in Mauritius with diverse linguistic groups. India supports cultural preservation through institutions like the Mahatma Gandhi Institute and the World Hindi Secretariat.

• Economic and Trade Cooperation: Bilateral trade reached $554 million in 2022-23. Mauritius acts as a gateway to Africa due to its African Union membership and preferential trade agreements. The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) makes Mauritius a major channel for foreign investment into India.

• Maritime Security Cooperation: Mauritius’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean is crucial. India and Mauritius collaborate on maritime security through the Colombo Security Conclave. India supports surveillance with radar stations, the Agaléga joint facility, and access to the Information Fusion Centre.

• Geopolitical Significance: Cooperation assumes special importance as China’s influence in the Indian Ocean grows. The visit provides an opportunity to strengthen this partnership, and its importance to India’s security interests.

Madhav Park

• 58th Tiger Reserve: Madhav National Park in Madhya Pradesh has been declared India’s 58th tiger reserve. This also makes it the ninth tiger reserve in Madhya Pradesh.

  • Why: Enhances tiger conservation efforts and boosts the protection status of the park.

• Location and Background: The park is located in the Shivpuri district of the Chambal region, Madhya Pradesh. Established in 1959, it was formerly a hunting ground for the Scindia royal family.

  • Why: Provides context to the location and historical significance, and clarifies its importance as a protected area.

• Tiger Population: Currently, the reserve has five tigers, including two cubs. More tigers may be released soon. Three tigers (two females) were introduced in 2023 as part of a reintroduction project.

  • Why: Highlights the ongoing conservation efforts and tiger population growth.

• Notable Features: The park includes Sakhya Sagar and Madhav Sagar lakes, designated a Ramsar site in 2022. It also has George Castle, built in 1911.

  • Why: Details unique features and recognition, indicating the park’s importance for biodiversity.

• Fauna: The park is home to various mammals like Chinkara, Chital, Nilgai, and predators, as well as reptiles (Mugger crocodile) and migratory birds.

  • Why: Demonstrates the biodiversity present in the park.

• Government Recognition: The decision was announced by the Union Environment Minister and applauded by the Prime Minister.

  • Why: Highlights the significance of the event and the importance given to wildlife conservation by the government.

Sharavathi Pumped Storage

• Project Approval: The Sharavathi pumped-storage project received final approval from the Karnataka state government, following a prior nod from the State Wildlife Board.

• Location: Situated on the Sharavathi River in Karnataka, known for its hydroelectric potential and the Jog Falls.

• Environmental Concerns: The project has raised environmental concerns because of its location within the Sharavathi Lion Tailed Macaque Sanctuary.

• Capacity and Design: The project aims to generate 2,000 MW of power through eight units, using the Talakalale and Gerusoppa reservoirs as upper and lower water storage, respectively.

• Operation: Water will be pumped between the reservoirs to store energy during low-demand periods and released to generate power during peak demand.

• Sharavathi River’s Importance: The Sharavathi River is a vital west-flowing river originating in the Western Ghats. Its importance lies in its water resources, hydroelectric power generation, and biodiversity.

Multiple Seats

• The Issue: “One Candidate, Multiple Constituencies” (OCMC) allows candidates to contest elections from multiple constituencies. This practice, permitted by law, is under scrutiny.

• Legal Framework:

  • Candidates can contest a maximum of two constituencies.
  • If elected to multiple seats, they must resign all but one.
  • Bye-elections fill vacated seats within six months.
  • Constitutional provisions (Article 101) address dual membership.

• Challenges of OCMC:

  • Favors Ruling Parties: They gain an advantage in bye-elections.
  • Financial Burden: Frequent bye-elections are costly.
  • Administrative Disruptions: Model Code of Conduct enforcement delays policies.
  • Breach of Voter Trust: Prioritizes political interests over the electorate.
  • Parachute Candidacy: Candidates lacking local connection.
  • Low voter turnout: Public apathy in bye-elections.
  • Organisational disruptions: Disregarding local leaders.
  • Political Expediency: Enhances the possibility of getting elected

• Proposed Reforms:

  • Ban OCMC: Implement “One Election, One Candidate, One Constituency.”
  • Recover Bye-Election Costs: Candidates should bear the expenses.
  • Delay Bye-Elections: Extend the cooling-off period.
  • Mandatory Resignation: Resign before contesting another election.
  • Restrictions on sitting legislators contesting another election.
  • Cooling period immediately after the election and before the dissolution of the legislature.

• Arguments For & Against: The right to be elected is a constitutional right. However, the cons, such as low voter turnout and parachuting of candidates outweigh the advantages.

• International Context: Other countries like Canada and Australia have restrictions.

Shingles

• Shingles, caused by the varicella-zoster virus (same virus as chickenpox), is a painful rash with blisters.
• Over 90% of adults over 50 carry the virus, yet awareness is low (56.6% of Indian participants aged 50+ know little about it).
• The rash typically appears as a band on one side of the body.
• Risk increases with age, most common in those over 50. Weakened immune systems (from chronic conditions like diabetes) increase risk.
• Shingles is not contagious, but the virus can spread chickenpox to those who haven’t had it.
• Symptoms include pain, itching, tingling, numbness, fever, headache, chills, and fatigue. Postherpetic neuralgia (long-lasting nerve pain) is a common complication.
• A vaccine (Shingrix) is available for prevention. Antiviral medications can reduce severity and duration if started early. There’s no cure.
• A recent survey highlights low global awareness of shingles, particularly in India, where many with chronic conditions show limited concern about developing it.
• Cases are gradually increasing, especially among those over 50 and those with chronic illnesses or high stress. Misdiagnosis delays treatment.
• Timely antiviral treatment within 72 hours is crucial to minimize complications. Vaccination is strongly recommended for those over 50 or with chronic illnesses.

Spice Power India

• Low Market Share: Despite being the largest spice producer and exporter, India holds only 0.7% of the global seasoning market. China (12%) and the US (11%) have significantly larger shares.

• Export Target: The Spices Board of India aims for a USD 10 billion export target by 2030, requiring increased production and value addition.

• Current Export Status: India exported spices worth USD 4.4 billion (nearly 14 lakh tonnes) in 2023-2024. Chilli is the top export.

• Value Addition Gap: Only 48% of India’s spice exports are value-added products. Increasing this to 70% is crucial for reaching the export target.

• Challenges:

  • Competition: Rising competition from countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, China, and others.
  • Quality & Processing: Issues include adulteration, pesticide residues, poor processing, inadequate post-harvest handling, and limited mechanization impacting quality and shelf life.
  • Domestic Focus: 85% of Indian spices are consumed domestically, indicating room for export growth.

• Opportunities:

  • Exploring nutraceutical and pharmaceutical uses of spices.
  • Leveraging India’s 15 agro-climatic zones for diverse spice cultivation.
  • Developing high-yielding, climate-resistant varieties.
  • Increasing production to meet export demands and finding ways to bring down the cost of production.

• Initiatives: The World Spice Organisation (WSO) is working with FPOs to improve safety, quality, and sustainability in spice cultivation through training on quality control, pesticide usage, integrated pest management, and hygiene practices.

Vanuatu: Paradise

• Vanuatu is an island nation in the South Pacific, comprising 83 volcanic islands, only 65 inhabited. Its location is east of Australia and north of New Zealand.

• It has a diverse geography featuring volcanoes (including the accessible Mount Yasur), mountains, and coral reefs.

• The capital is Port Vila, located on Efate Island. The population is small (around 300,000), predominantly Melanesian, with Bislama as the national language and English and French as official languages.

• Vanuatu’s economy relies on agriculture (copra, kava), tourism, fishing, and importantly, offshore financial services.

• A significant revenue source is its “golden passport” citizenship-by-investment program, costing around $150,000 USD. This allows visa-free travel to 56 countries.

• The country’s lack of income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, and exchange controls contributes to its appeal as a tax haven.

• Recent news highlights Vanuatu’s citizenship program due to its use by individuals seeking to avoid legal issues in their home countries, like fugitive former IPL chief Lalit Modi.

Kursk

• Kursk Region is located in Russia, near the border with Ukraine.

• It’s historically significant, hosting the Battle of Kursk (1943), a pivotal WWII tank battle.

• The region boasts fertile soil (“Black Earth”) and a diverse industrial base (machine building, food processing, etc.).

• Recently, Ukrainian forces briefly captured parts of the Kursk region in a surprise attack.

• Russia is currently launching a counter-offensive to retake this territory.

• This Russian advance threatens Ukraine’s bargaining position in the ongoing war.

• Kursk city is the administrative center of the region and has been a strategically important location throughout history.

• The name “Kursk” is derived from the Kur River.

• The region’s strategic importance and recent military developments have brought it into the news.

EPIC Number

• The Issue: West Bengal Chief Minister alleged voter duplication by the Election Commission of India (ECI), citing identical Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers for multiple voters across different states.

• ECI’s Response: The ECI admitted to duplicate EPIC numbers, attributing them to pre-ERONET legacy data errors (manual data entry, decentralized systems). The ECI clarified that, despite identical EPIC numbers, a voter can only vote at their designated polling station within their registered constituency. They’ve committed to eliminating duplicates via ERONET 2.0.

• What is EPIC: A 10-digit alphanumeric voter ID issued by the ECI since 1993, designed to prevent voter impersonation and electoral fraud. It’s linked to a voter’s photo, constituency, and polling station.

• How EPIC is managed: EPIC numbers are generated and managed through ERONET, a web-based platform that automates the electoral roll process.

• TMC’s Counter-Argument: Trinamool Congress (TMC) rejected the ECI’s explanation, raising concerns about potential voter disenfranchisement due to photo mismatches when using duplicate EPICs. They alleged a conspiracy to suppress votes in non-BJP areas. They cited that the EPIC number is linked to voter photos on electoral rolls, creating a problem.

Vanuatu CBI

• What it is: Vanuatu offers a “Citizenship by Investment” (CBI) program, often called a “golden passport,” allowing wealthy individuals to gain citizenship by making significant financial contributions.
• How it works: Individuals can acquire citizenship by investing a specified amount, with fast processing times (30-60 days) and minimal documentation. The cost ranges from $135,500 to $155,500.
• Benefits: A Vanuatu passport provides visa-free access to 113 countries (as of 2025), according to the Henley Passport Index, ranking higher than China and India. Vanuatu is also a tax haven, with no income, capital gains, or inheritance tax.
• Concerns: The program raises security concerns due to the potential for criminals and those involved in money laundering and tax evasion to obtain citizenship. Countries like the UK and EU have voiced concerns.
• Impact: The CBI program is a significant revenue source for Vanuatu, reportedly accounting for around 30% of the country’s revenue in 2019.
• Scandals & Risks: The program has faced scrutiny due to corruption scandals and allegations of misuse by global criminal groups. Several individuals with questionable backgrounds have been granted citizenship.
• Historical Context: The EU suspended visa-free access in March 2022 due to security concerns, making the suspension permanent in February 2023.

India’s Biotech Boom

• India’s Bioeconomy Growth: The biotechnology sector experienced significant growth, soaring from USD 10 billion in 2014 to USD 130 billion in 2024, with a target of USD 300 billion by 2030.
• Himalayan Region Potential: The Himalayan territories, particularly Jammu & Kashmir, hold significant untapped agri-biotech potential. The region’s rich biodiversity and climate offer opportunities for advancements in agriculture and pharmaceuticals.
• Key Initiatives & Government Support: Government initiatives like the BioE3 Policy, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF), and the Bio-RIDE Scheme are driving innovation and growth. DBT’s budget increased by 130% over the last decade, showcasing government commitment to the sector.
• Recent Breakthroughs: 2024 saw key advancements including the world’s first HPV vaccine, a groundbreaking indigenous antibiotic (‘Nafithromycin’), and the first successful gene therapy experiment for Hemophilia.
• Global Standing & Innovation: India’s global standing has improved, ranking 3rd in the Asia-Pacific and 12th globally in biomanufacturing. India’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index rose from 80th in 2014 to 39th in 2024.
• Agri-Biotech in J&K: Initiatives like the Aroma Mission and floriculture revolution are boosting J&K’s agricultural economy. Biotechnological innovations are reshaping traditional agriculture, creating a lucrative startup industry.
• Startup Ecosystem: The biotech startup ecosystem has grown exponentially, from 50 startups in 2014 to nearly 9,000 in 2025.
• Scientific Excellence: Over 5,352 Indian researchers are now among the world’s top 2% of scientists.

US Drops Loss & Damage Fund

• US Withdrawal: The United States has withdrawn from the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF). This decision was communicated in a March 4 letter by the US representative on the LDF board.

• Impact on Climate Commitments: This withdrawal reinforces the US’s disengagement from global climate commitments, including the Paris Agreement.

• Loss and Damage Fund Overview: The LDF was established at COP27 to support developing nations and small island states facing climate-related losses. It’s designed to help with issues like rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

• US Contribution and Previous Involvement: The US had contributed $17.5 million to the LDF before withdrawing and was one of the few countries to have already transferred its committed amount.

• Implications for Vulnerable Nations: Vulnerable countries, like India (which faced significant weather-related damages), now face increased uncertainty in climate aid, potentially straining climate negotiations.

• US Accountability: Climate activists view the US withdrawal as undermining global climate justice and failing to fulfill its responsibilities as a major historical emitter.

CSW

• The 69th session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) is taking place at the UN headquarters in New York from March 10-21, 2025.

• India’s Union Minister for Women and Child Development, Annpurna Devi, leads the Indian delegation.

• The CSW is the UN’s principal intergovernmental body dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment.

• This year’s session marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action.

• The session focuses on global progress in gender equality and women’s empowerment, including reviewing the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

• India’s national statement will highlight government initiatives for women and girls’ development.

• A side event, co-hosted by the Indian government and UN Women, will focus on financial and digital empowerment strategies for women.

• The Minister will also interact with the Indian diaspora in New York, celebrating International Women’s Day.

• Participants include UN member states, intergovernmental organizations, civil society, and private sector representatives.

• The CSW’s work aims to promote women’s political, economic, civil, social, and educational rights.

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IWD 2025

• International Women’s Day 2025 Significance: Celebrated globally on March 8th to recognize women’s achievements across various spheres. 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA), a critical framework for women’s rights.

• Theme for 2025: “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment.” emphasizing inclusive rights and opportunities.

• Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action (BPfA): A blueprint from 1995 adopted in Beijing, China promoting legal protection, service access, youth engagement, and social change for women. India is a signatory.

• Current Status of Women in India – Key Indicators:

  • Maternal Health: Institutional deliveries at 95%, with a decline in maternal mortality.
  • Education: Improved sex ratio, increased female enrollment in higher education, schemes like Beti Bachao Beti Padhao improving sex ratio.
  • Financial Inclusion: 100 million women via SHGs, training in digital literacy.
  • Addressing Gender-Based Violence: 770 One Stop Centres providing support.

• Challenges to Women Empowerment:

  • Political Underrepresentation (low percentage in parliament and leadership roles).
  • Gender-Based Violence (increase in conflict-related sexual violence).
  • Workplace Discrimination (wage gap, fewer women in workforce).
  • Unpaid Care Work (disproportionate burden on women).
  • Barriers in Education & Food (potential for girls remaining out of school).
  • Legal Barriers (lack of equal rights in some countries).

• Way Forward:

  • Increased Gender-Responsive Budgeting for education, health, and social security.
  • Strengthening Legal Protection to eliminate discrimination.
  • Economic Empowerment with equal access to resources, and supporting entrepreneurs.
  • Bridging Workplace Inequality through flexible work and childcare.

• Government Initiatives in India: Constitutional and Legal Framework ensuring gender equality. Schemes for Education, Health, Economic Empowerment, Digital & Technological Empowerment, Safety & Protection are implemented.

Pelican vs. Stork

• Sighting at Zoological Park: Pelicans and painted storks have been sighted at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam.

• Freedom After Cyclone: The birds, previously confined to enclosures, have been roaming freely since Cyclone Hudhud destroyed their enclosures in 2014. This is an unexpected positive impact of the disaster.

• Habitat & Behavior: They now roam freely over the zoo’s greenery, sometimes visiting nearby water bodies for food and return to the trees at the zoo. They are demonstrating adaptability.

• Pelican Characteristics: Pelicans are large, social water birds with long beaks and throat pouches, found on all continents except Antarctica. They are carnivores, eating fish and other animals, preferring warm waters.

• Painted Stork Characteristics: Painted storks are large birds from South and Southeast Asian wetlands. They are known for their pink flight feathers, white bodies, and black markings. They are primarily non-migratory.

• IUCN Status of Painted Stork: The painted stork is listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN, highlighting the importance of their conservation.

• Visitor Experience: The free-roaming birds add to the charm of the zoo, providing visitors with a rare opportunity to observe wildlife outside of enclosures.

Hantavirus Pneumonia

• Hantavirus pulmonary syndrome (HPS) is a rare but serious viral disease, recently in the news due to the death of Gene Hackman’s wife.

• HPS is caused by several strains of hantavirus, primarily transmitted through contact with rodent excretions (urine, droppings, saliva). Transmission is not person-to-person. Rarely, bites or scratches can cause infection.

• Initial symptoms mimic the flu: fever, muscle aches, headache, fatigue. Respiratory symptoms may develop, leading to life-threatening lung and heart problems. The mortality rate is approximately 38% if respiratory symptoms appear.

• There is no specific cure for HPS. Early medical attention is crucial for managing severe disease.

• HPS is a zoonotic disease (transmitted from animals to humans).

• The incubation period is 9 to 33 days, averaging 14-17 days.

• Diagnosis can be challenging as symptoms overlap with other illnesses. A blood test is the most reliable diagnostic method.

• HPS is considered a rare disease, with a relatively small number of cases reported annually in the US, though New Mexico and Colorado have seen higher incidence rates.

Bar-Headed Goose

• First-time sighting of a bar-headed goose in Morshing village, Arunachal Pradesh, India.
• Remarkable migratory bird known for its high-altitude flights.
• Flies at altitudes up to 25,000 feet over the Himalayas during migration.
• One of the highest-flying birds in the world.
• Native to central Asia, breeds in countries like Kazakhstan and migrates to South Asia for winter.
• In India, its winter range extends from Northeast to South.
• Prefers water bodies, inhabiting high-altitude lakes during breeding and freshwater sources in winter.
• Also found in rocky regions, farmlands, and marshes.
• Distinctive gray and white plumage with brownish-black bars on its head. Pink, orange, or yellow bill and legs.
• Wingspan of 140-160 cm. Males slightly larger than females.
• Monogamous pairs, seasonal breeders.
• IUCN Red List status: Least Concern.
• Migrates across the Himalayas to spend winters in South Asia, ranging from Assam to Tamil Nadu in India.

T-72 Tank

• India Procures T-72 Tank Engines: The Ministry of Defence signed a $248 million deal with Russia’s Rosoboronexport to procure 1000 HP engines for the T-72 tank.

• Engine Upgrade: This upgrade will replace the current 780 HP engines, improving the T-72’s battlefield mobility and the Indian Army’s offensive capabilities.

• “Make in India” Initiative Boost: The deal includes Transfer of Technology (ToT) to the Heavy Vehicle Factory in Avadi, Chennai, for local engine production, supporting the “Make in India” initiative in the defence sector.

• T-72’s Significance: The T-72 is a mainstay of the Indian Army’s tank fleet. India has a substantial number of T-72 tanks in service.

• Tank Features: T-72 tanks are equipped with a 125mm D-81 smoothbore gun, machine guns, and offer layered armor protection. They also have an automatic loading system for a high rate of fire.

• Global Presence: The T-72 is a widely used main battle tank worldwide, manufactured in multiple countries and serving in numerous armies.

Dulcibella

• New Deep-Sea Predator Discovered: A new species of amphipod, Dulcibella camanchaca, has been found in the Atacama Trench.

• Hadal Zone Predator: It’s the first known predatory amphipod in the hadal zone (depths exceeding 6,000 meters).

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• Unique Hunting Behavior: Unlike most deep-sea creatures that scavenge, D. camanchaca actively hunts using specialized appendages.

• Extreme Adaptation: It thrives in freezing temperatures and pressures over 1,000 times that at sea level.

• Size and Name: Approximately 4 centimeters long; “Dulcibella” is a literary reference, while “camanchaca” means “darkness” in some South American languages, reflecting its habitat.

• Scientific Significance: This discovery provides insights into life’s adaptation to extreme environments, potentially relevant to the search for extraterrestrial life.

• Conservation Implications: The discovery highlights the importance of deep-sea exploration and conservation, especially given threats from deep-sea mining and climate change.

Cluster Munitions Ban

• The Convention on Cluster Munitions (CCM) is an international treaty banning the use, production, transfer, and stockpiling of cluster munitions. Adopted in 2008, it has 112 member states.

• Lithuania recently withdrew from the CCM, citing security concerns related to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. This is the first withdrawal from the convention.

• Human rights groups strongly criticized Lithuania’s decision, warning of increased civilian casualties. They argue the convention effectively protects civilians from indiscriminate harm.

• Lithuania’s justification is that possessing cluster munitions enhances its defense capabilities against Russia. They plan to implement measures to minimize civilian harm from any potential use.

• The decision raises concerns about a potential trend of other nations reconsidering their commitment to humanitarian disarmament treaties, especially amid heightened geopolitical tensions.

• Other major powers, including the US, Russia, China, India, Ukraine, and Israel, are not members of the CCM.

• Cluster munitions are weapons that disperse smaller explosives over a wide area, posing significant risks to civilians due to unexploded ordnance.

IPCC

• Global Authority: The IPCC is the leading international scientific body assessing climate change, established by the UN and WMO in 1988.

• Seventh Assessment Cycle: The IPCC is currently working on its seventh assessment cycle.

• Scope of Work: The IPCC assesses the scientific, technical, and socio-economic information related to climate change, including its human-induced causes, potential impacts, and solutions.

• Role in Policy: The IPCC provides scientific information to governments for developing climate policies.

• Report Outputs: The IPCC produces comprehensive reports, including assessment reports, special reports, and methodology reports. These reports are critical for international climate negotiations.

• Assessment Process: The IPCC does not conduct new research. It evaluates published, peer-reviewed scientific literature, drawing on the expertise of volunteer scientists.

• Working Groups: The IPCC has three working groups:

  • WG1: Physics of Climate Change.
  • WG2: Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation, and Vulnerability.
  • WG3: Climate Change Mitigation.

• Upcoming Reports: The Seventh Assessment cycle includes a Special Report on Climate Change and Cities and a report on Short Lived Climate Forcers.

• Significance: The IPCC reports guide government and business actions, informing climate policy decisions and actions to transition towards clean energy.

Sharavathi Pumped Hydro

• Project Overview: The Sharavathi Pumped Storage Hydroelectric Project (PSHP) is a large-scale pumped storage power project planned on the Sharavathi River in Karnataka.
• Power Generation: The project aims to generate 2000 MW, making it the largest pumped storage power generation unit in India.
• Reservoir Setup: The project will utilize two existing reservoirs: Talakalale dam (upper reservoir) and Gerusoppa dam (lower reservoir).
• Operation: During off-peak hours, water will be pumped uphill using grid power and released downhill during peak demand to generate electricity.
• Dual Purpose: It aims to supply drinking water to Bengaluru, similar to the Kaleshwaram project.
• Infrastructure: The plan includes five tunnels and eight pumping stations.
• Environmental Concerns: Environmentalists and locals are concerned about potential ecological damage to the Western Ghats ecosystem.
• River Characteristics: The Sharavathi River flows west towards the Arabian Sea, originates in the Western Ghats and is 128 km long and forms the Jog Falls.
• Geographical Features: The river basin contains diverse geological features including rocky outcrops, fertile plains, and deep gorges.
• Major Tributaries: Key tributaries include Nandihole, Haridravathi, Mavinahole, Hilkunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole, and Nagodihole.

Loss and Damage Fund

• The Loss and Damage Fund (LDF) compensates developing nations for climate change impacts like rising sea levels and extreme weather.

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• Established at COP27 (2022), it aims to provide financial aid for both economic and non-economic losses.

• Developing countries, especially small island states, pushed for the LDF, arguing developed nations bear responsibility for climate change’s effects.

• Approximately $750 million has been pledged, with the US initially contributing $17.5 million.

• The US unexpectedly withdrew from the LDF’s governing board, causing significant concern.

• The US’s withdrawal is viewed as a setback for climate justice and a blow to vulnerable nations already suffering from climate-related disasters.

• Critics highlight the US’s historical role in greenhouse gas emissions and its responsibility to contribute to global climate reparations.

• The LDF’s future is uncertain following the US’s withdrawal, raising concerns about funding and support for affected nations.

• The World Bank is the interim trustee, managing the fund for four years.

• The LDF is meant to operate from January 1, 2025.

Pyramid Schemes

• Enforcement Directorate Action: The Enforcement Directorate (ED) seized a business jet at Hyderabad airport in connection with a ₹850 crore Ponzi scheme probe against Falcon Group (Capital Protection Force Pvt. Ltd.) and its promoters.

• The Alleged Scheme: Falcon Group allegedly collected ₹1,700 crore from investors promising high returns through a fraudulent invoice discounting scheme. ₹850 crore was repaid, leaving approximately 6,979 investors unpaid.

• The Jet’s Role: The ED believes the jet was purchased with “proceeds of crime” from the Ponzi scheme. The jet, owned by Kumar’s private charter company, was used by CMD Amar Deep Kumar to flee the country.

• What is a Ponzi Scheme: A Ponzi scheme is an investment scam where early investors are paid with money from later investors, creating an illusion of profit and promising high returns with minimal risk.

• Legal Framework in India: Ponzi schemes are illegal in India, banned under the Prize Chit and Money Circulation (Banning) Act, 1978, and the Unregulated Deposit Schemes Act, 2019. The Enforcement Directorate also investigates these schemes under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act, 2002.

• Similarities to Pyramid Schemes: Both Ponzi and pyramid schemes rely on recruiting new investors/participants to pay earlier ones but collapse when recruitment slows.

Dehing Patkai

• Dehing Patkai National Park is located in Assam, India.
• It’s situated in the Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts, at the foothills of the Patkai Hills, and adjacent to Namdapha Wildlife Sanctuary.
• The park is significant for being the largest stretch of tropical lowland rainforest in India, often called the “Amazon of the East.”
• It was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2004 and upgraded to a national park in 2020.
• The park boasts high biodiversity, including species like the clouded leopard (recently captured on camera trap), slow loris, pig-tailed macaque, Indian leopard, and Asian elephant. Its flora is rich with diverse trees and plants.
• The region has a tropical climate with over 4000mm of annual rainfall.
• More than a dozen ethnic groups, including indigenous Assamese communities and others, inhabit the area.
• The park’s location near the Brahmaputra River is a defining geographical feature.
• Recent news focuses on the rare clouded leopard sighting, highlighting the park’s ecological importance and conservation efforts.
• The park’s significance lies in its unique biodiversity, vast rainforest ecosystem, and the cultural diversity of its human inhabitants.