Content Year End Review 2025 – Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) Digitalising India’s Dairy Sector   Year End Review 2025 – Ministry of Women & Child Development (MWCD) Why in News? PIB release dated 09 January 2026 published the Year End Review 2025 of MWCD. Highlights scale-up of nutrition, women safety, maternity benefits, child protection, and digital governance. Emphasises technology-led welfare delivery, DBT expansion, and convergence with NEP 2020 & tribal welfare missions. Relevance GS II – Governance & Social Justice Welfare delivery: Poshan 2.0, PMMVY, Mission Shakti, Mission Vatsalya E-governance: Poshan Tracker, FRS, Helpline 1515 Cooperative federalism: Suposhit GP Abhiyan, DAJGUA, ERSS-112 Institutions: OSCs, SHe-Box, Child Helpline, CARINGS GS I – Indian Society Women empowerment: Mission Shakti, PMMVY, shelters Children & vulnerable groups: ECCE, Mission Vatsalya, BVMB Gender issues: GBV (Nayi Chetna, 16 Days of Action) Tribal inclusion: PM-JANMAN AWCs, DAJGUA convergence Macro Overview   Focus: Inclusive development, safety, nutrition, early childhood education, women-led growth. Flagship umbrellas: Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 Mission Shakti Mission Vatsalya Strong push towards real-time monitoring, biometric verification, grievance redressal. Mission Saksham Anganwadi & Poshan 2.0 (Nutrition + ECCE + Adolescent Girls) Coverage: 8.69 crore beneficiaries (PWLMs, children 0–6 yrs, adolescent girls) (as on 30 Nov 2025) Anganwadi Infrastructure 2 lakh AWCs approved for upgradation. 94,077 AWCs upgraded with improved infrastructure incl. LED screens. PVTG Focus (PM-JANMAN): 2,500 AWCs sanctioned, 2,326 operational. MWCD awarded Best Performing Ministry for PM-JANMAN implementation. Tribal Convergence (DAJGUA – MoTA): 875 AWCs sanctioned, 455 operational. 27,785 tribal beneficiaries covered. Digital Governance – Poshan Tracker Launched: March 2021 Nature: End-to-end, real-time governance tool for ICDS. Key Data (2025) 9+ crore beneficiaries registered ~8 crore children monitored monthly (height & weight) 14 lakh Anganwadi Centres connected 24 Indian languages supported PM’s Award for Excellence in Public Administration 2024 (Innovation – Centre) Functional Scope Attendance & AWC opening HCM & THR distribution ECCE instructional content ABHA & APAAR ID creation Citizen module for self-registration at nearest AWC Suposhit Gram Panchayat Abhiyan Launched: 26 Dec 2024 Objective: Identify 1,000 high-performing Panchayats. Criteria: Nutrition outcomes Infrastructure Malnutrition reduction Methodology: Poshan Tracker-based benchmarking Cross-State peer review Goal: Malnutrition-free Bharat Nutrition Outreach & Behaviour Change 8th Rashtriya Poshan Maah (2025) Launched: 17 Sept 2025, Dhar (MP) Theme: Swasth Nari, Sashakt Parivar Abhiyaan 14.33 crore activities conducted nationwide. Convergence with 20+ Ministries. PMMVY DBT Push ₹450 crore transferred in one day Beneficiaries: 15 lakh+ women Strengthening ECCE – Poshan Bhi Padhai Bhi Alignment: NEP 2020 Capacity Building 8,55,728 Anganwadi Workers trained 41,645 State/Local Master Trainers trained Curricula: Aadharshila (0–3 yrs) Navchetana (3–6 yrs) Translated into 12 regional languages Digital Learning 2.56 crore preschool activities/month logged on Poshan Tracker. Co-location with Schools Guidelines issued: 3 Sept 2025 2.9 lakh AWCs already within school premises. Helpline Rationalisation – 1515 Unified helpline for: PM CARES Poshan 2.0 PMMVY Short code changed: 14408 → 1515 Grievances (till Dec 2025): Received: 1,40,862 Resolved: 1,04,662 FRS-Based Verification (Governance Reform) Anganwadi – THR Delivery Aadhaar-based Face Recognition System (FRS) via Poshan Tracker. No separate app. Status (31 Dec 2025): Eligible: 4.73 crore eKYC completed: 4.51 crore (91.38%) THR via FRS (Dec): 2.79 crore (52.68%) PMMVY Mandatory FRS for new enrolments since 21 May 2025. 17.82 lakh beneficiaries enrolled via FRS (till 17 Nov 2025). Outcome: Reduced leakages, enhanced transparency. Mission Shakti – Women Safety & Empowerment One Stop Centres (OSCs): Approved: 1025 Operational: 865 Women assisted: 12.67 lakh Women Helpline 181: Integrated with ERSS-112 in 35 States/UTs 93.48 lakh women supported Shelter Infrastructure: 411 Shakti Sadan 531 Sakhi Niwas PMMVY Overall Impact: 4.26 crore beneficiaries ₹20,060 crore DBT Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – 10 Years Observed: 22 Jan – 8 Mar 2025 Significance: Decade of girl child protection, education & empowerment Aligned with Viksit Bharat 2047 Shift towards Women-Led Development SHe-Box Portal Launched: 29 Aug 2024 Purpose: Single-window SH Act (2013) grievance redressal Coverage: Organised & unorganised sectors Public & private Data (as on 05 Jan 2026): 1.3 lakh workplaces onboarded 50,000+ Internal Committees LCs of all 777 districts Languages: 22 + English Significance: Workplace safety, labour force participation 16 Days of Action & Nayi Chetna 4.0 Period: 25 Nov – 10 Dec 2025 Focus: Gender-based violence Nayi Chetna 4.0: 25 Nov – 22 Dec 2025 Led by Women SHGs MoRD–MWCD convergence Mission Vatsalya – Child Protection Unified Mission Vatsalya Portal operational. CARINGS adoption platform integrated. Child Helpline: Functional in all 36 States/UTs Installed in 728 districts Capacity Building: 303 Master Trainers trained Locations: Delhi, Bengaluru, Guwahati, Bhopal, Lucknow Karmayogi–iGOT Course (with LBSNAA): Enrolled: 37,242 Completed: 19,728 Key Campaigns PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2025 Ceremony: 26 Dec 2025, Vigyan Bhawan 20 children from 18 States/UTs Fields: Bravery, Art & Culture, Environment, Social Service, S&T, Sports Veer Bal Diwas 2025 Observed: 26 Dec 2025 Nationwide celebrations PM interaction with PMRBP awardees Bal Vivah Mukt Bharat (BVMB) 1 year completed: 27 Nov 2025 100-day intensive campaign launched: 4 Dec 2025 Portal: 58,262 CMPOs listed 92,819 awareness activities 1.79 crore participants 8 lakh pledges recorded Takeaway Shift from welfare delivery to welfare governance. Strong use of biometrics, real-time dashboards, convergence models. Nutrition & ECCE positioned as human capital foundations. Aligns with: SDG 2, 3, 5 NEP 2020 Tribal inclusion & Women-led development. Digitalizing India’s Dairy Sector  Why in News? PIB release dated 09 January 2026 published the Year End Review 2025 on digital transformation of India’s dairy sector. Highlights NDDB-led technology-driven reforms covering livestock identification, milk procurement, breeding, ERP systems, logistics, and cooperative governance. Reinforces India’s push towards traceability, farmer-centric DBT, productivity enhancement, and cost efficiency in the world’s largest dairy ecosystem. Relevance GS III – Agriculture & Economy Allied sector: Dairy & agri-GDP Farmer income: AMCS, DBT, cooperatives Agri-tech: NDLM, Pashu Aadhaar, INAPH, SSMS Logistics: GIS route optimisation, ERP DPI: Bharat Pashudhan, i-DIS, NDERP India’s Dairy Sector: Strategic Context India accounts for ~25% of global milk production (largest producer globally). Dominated by small & marginal farmers → high need for: Transparency Payment assurance Disease control Productivity enhancement NDDB positioned as the technology backbone of cooperative dairying. National Digital Livestock Mission (NDLM) – “Bharat Pashudhan” Implementing agencies: NDDB + Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying (DAHD) Core Objective Create a unified national digital livestock ecosystem with individual animal traceability. Pashu Aadhaar 12-digit unique ear tag (barcode-based) aligned with global best practices. Acts as primary key for all animal-related transactions. Coverage (till Nov 2025): 35.68 crore animals tagged Enables tracking of: Vaccination Breeding & AI Treatment & health services Bharat Pashudhan Database 84+ crore field transactions recorded. Users: Farmers Veterinarians Extension workers Benefit: Single-window animal health & productivity history. Farmer Support Tools 1962 App & Toll-Free Helpline (1962): Best practices Scheme information Doorstep veterinary services via Mobile Veterinary Units Analytical Value → NDLM strengthens disease surveillance, productivity analytics, insurance readiness, and export compliance. Automatic Milk Collection System (AMCS) Purpose: Transparent, error-free, and farmer-friendly milk procurement. Functional Design Digitally records: Quantity Fat/SNF quality Price Instant DBT to farmers’ bank accounts Real-time SMS alerts to farmers. Coverage (as on 22 Oct 2025) 17.3 lakh milk producers 26,000+ Dairy Cooperative Societies 54 milk unions Operational in 12 States/UTs System Architecture DCS Application: Windows / Linux / Android Central Portals: Union, Federation, National Mobile Apps: Farmer Society Secretary Dairy Supervisor AMCS Mobile App Adoption 2.43 lakh farmers 13,644 society secretaries 1,374 supervisors Governance Impact Eliminates manual manipulation Enhances price transparency & trust Strengthens cooperative accountability NDDB Dairy ERP (NDERP) Nature: End-to-end digital backbone for dairy & edible oil sectors. Key Features Web-based ERP (built on Frappe ERPNext – open source) No license or installation cost. Modules: Finance & Accounts Purchase & Inventory Sales & Marketing Manufacturing HR & Payroll Maker–checker workflows for internal controls. Distributor Interface iNDERP portal + mNDERP app (Android/iOS): Orders Invoices Delivery challans Payment tracking System Integration Fully integrated with AMCS → cow to consumer digital chain. Uses mass-balance technique to minimise processing losses. Analytical Value → Supports cost optimisation, supply chain transparency, and financial discipline in cooperatives. Semen Station Management System (SSMS) Objective: Quality assurance & traceability in artificial insemination. Operational Scope Bull lifecycle management Frozen Semen Dose (FSD) production Quality control & biosecurity Farm & fodder management Sales & distribution tracking Integration Linked with INSPRM (national portal). Connected to INAPH for field-level traceability. Uses RFID bull tags & lab equipment integration. Coverage 38 graded semen stations nationwide. Developed under National Dairy Plan-I (World Bank funded). Significance Improves genetic quality Enhances milk yield Reduces regional productivity gaps INAPH (Information Network for Animal Productivity & Health) Captures real-time data on: Breeding Nutrition Health services Enables project monitoring & outcome assessment. Supports evidence-based livestock interventions. Internet-based Dairy Information System (i-DIS) Purpose: National cooperative dairy MIS & benchmarking platform. Coverage 198 milk unions 29 marketing dairies 54 cattle-feed plants 15 federations Functional Utility Tracks: Milk procurement & sales Manufacturing & distribution Input supply Enables inter-union benchmarking. Institutional Role Creates National Cooperative Dairy Industry Database. NDDB conducts regular MIS capacity-building workshops. Milk Route Optimisation (GIS-Based) Objective: Reduce logistics cost & time. Technology GIS-based digitised route planning. Replaces manual route mapping. Impact Examples Vidarbha–Marathwada Dairy Development Project (Aug 2022): 4 milk chilling centres redesigned. Significant transport cost savings. Successful pilots in: Varanasi Milk Union West Assam Milk Union Jharkhand Milk Federation Indore Milk Union Scaling Tool Web-based dynamic route optimisation software Free for dairy cooperatives. Enables: Fleet optimisation Real-time planning Fuel & emission reduction Overall Impact Assessment Farmer-centric outcomes: Assured payments Service delivery at doorstep Digital inclusion Systemic gains: End-to-end traceability Reduced leakages Data-driven policymaking Strategic alignment: Doubling farmers’ income Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Climate-efficient logistics Conclusion India’s dairy digitalisation, led by NDDB, represents a rare case of technology successfully penetrating a smallholder-dominated sector, creating a transparent, traceable, and productivity-oriented ecosystem aligned with inclusive growth and cooperative federalism.

Content Letting the rupee slide isn’t the answer  High-quality education needs trust between State and institutions Letting the rupee slide isn’t the answer  Why in News? Recent editorial in The Indian Express argues against RBI’s policy of allowing rupee depreciation as a tool to manage external shocks. Context: Persistent rupee volatility amid global monetary tightening. Debate on RBI’s exchange rate management strategy, FX reserves usage, and inflation-growth trade-offs. Relevance amplified by: Rising imported inflation risks. Declining global capital flows to emerging markets. RBI’s balancing act between exchange rate flexibility and stability. Relevance GS III – Indian Economy Exchange rate management Inflation control External sector stability Capital flows & FX reserves GS II – Governance Role of RBI as an independent regulator Credibility of monetary policy institutions Practice Question Letting the rupee depreciate is often presented as a natural adjustment mechanism for external shocks. Critically examine why excessive reliance on currency depreciation can undermine macroeconomic stability in India.(250 Words) Core Argument of the Editorial Letting the rupee depreciate is not a sustainable macroeconomic solution. Excessive reliance on depreciation creates long-term structural and credibility risks. Key Issues Highlighted Limits of Rupee Depreciation as a Policy Tool Depreciation may: Temporarily support exports. Reduce pressure on FX reserves. But: India’s exports are import-intensive → weak competitiveness gains. Trade balance response is limited and delayed (J-curve effect). Imported Inflation Risk Rupee depreciation: Raises cost of oil, fertilisers, electronics, defence imports. Directly fuels cost-push inflation. Inflation transmission: Undermines monetary policy credibility. Forces tighter domestic financial conditions. Corporate Balance Sheet Stress Many Indian firms have: Unhedged foreign currency exposure. Sharp rupee fall: Inflates external debt servicing. Weakens balance sheets → investment slowdown. FX Reserves Are Not Just a Stockpile Reserves serve: Confidence anchor for investors. Buffer against sudden stops. Excess volatility: Increases precautionary reserve demand. Ironically raises pressure on FX reserves instead of reducing it. The “Equilibrium Exchange Rate” Fallacy RBI’s implicit assumption: Market will find a “fair value” if intervention is limited. Editorial’s critique: Equilibrium exchange rate is unobservable and unstable. Global savings-investment dynamics are shifting unpredictably. Risk: Overshooting and self-fulfilling depreciation cycles. Volatility vs Flexibility Trade-off Limited two-way volatility: Encourages hedging. Disciplines speculative positions. Excess volatility: Discourages trade and investment. Raises transaction costs. Hurts small and medium enterprises disproportionately. Capital Flow Dynamics In EMs like India: Capital flows are pro-cyclical. Currency overshooting: Triggers outflows instead of correcting imbalances. Creates feedback loops between currency and capital markets. What Should RBI Do Instead? 1. Managed Flexibility Allow gradual adjustments, not sharp slides. Prevent disorderly movements via calibrated intervention. 2. FX Reserve Utilisation Use reserves to: Smooth volatility. Anchor expectations. Not to defend a fixed level, but to avoid destabilising overshoot. 3. Encourage Hedging, Not Speculation Stable currency environment: Promotes long-term hedging. Discourages short-term carry trades. 4. Policy Credibility over Tactical Gains Prioritise: Inflation control. Financial stability. Predictability in macro framework. High-quality education needs trust between State and institutions Why in News? Recent editorial in The Indian Express discusses structural reforms in Indian higher education in the context of: NEP 2020 implementation Proposed Bharat Shiksha Adhisthan Bill, 2025 Expansion of Viksit Bharat @2047 vision Highlights tensions between: State regulation vs institutional autonomy Scale vs quality in higher education. Relevance GS II – Governance Role of the State in education Regulatory reforms Cooperative institutional governance GS III – Human Capital & Growth Education–productivity linkage Innovation ecosystem Skill and knowledge economy Practice Question Critically examine why trust between the State and higher education institutions is essential for achieving quality and global competitiveness in Indian education.(250 Words) Central Thesis High-quality higher education cannot be achieved through control-heavy regulation alone. It requires: Trust-based governance Academic autonomy Outcome-oriented accountability, not micromanagement. Key Arguments Explained NEP 2020 as a Structural Shift NEP marks a transition from: Rigid degree structures → flexible, multidisciplinary pathways Rote evaluation → holistic, competency-based assessment Introduction of: Multiple entry–exit options Academic Bank of Credits Success depends on institutional freedom, not uniform templates. Role of the State: Enabler, Not Controller International evidence (esp. US, Europe): Strong state funding + low academic interference → global excellence. Indian challenge: Tendency towards procedural compliance, approvals, inspections. Editorial argues: State should set outcomes and benchmarks, not dictate processes. Regulatory Overlap and Fragmentation Existing system: Multiple regulators (UGC, AICTE, councils) Overlapping mandates → delays, uncertainty. Bharat Shiksha Adhisthan Bill, 2025: Proposes unified regulation covering: Institutions Standards Accreditation Welcomed as reform, but: Risk of centralised overreach if trust deficit persists. Differentiated Institutional Roles Not all HEIs should be treated alike. Editorial stresses: Research universities Teaching-focused institutions Liberal arts colleges Vocational & skill institutions Uniform regulation: Suppresses diversity Penalises innovation. Innovation Requires Academic Freedom World-class research thrives on: Freedom to design curricula Interdisciplinary experimentation Risk-taking Excess approvals and reporting: Reduce faculty creativity Discourage global collaboration. Global Competitiveness Gap India’s strengths: Large youth population Rising GER Gaps: Few Indian universities in top global rankings Weak international faculty & student mobility Root cause: Limited autonomy + procedural regulation. Science Education: Excellence with Gaps While elite science institutions excel: Undergraduate exposure Laboratory access Experiential learning remain uneven. Emphasis needed on: Hands-on learning Research-based pedagogy Institutional capacity building. Trust as the Missing Institutional Capital Trust deficit manifests as: Excess audits Over-regulation Suspicion-driven oversight High-performing systems operate on: Trust + accountability Outcome audits, not input control. Way Forward Suggested Outcome-Based Regulation Shift from: Permission-based → performance-based oversight Focus on: Graduate outcomes Research output Global engagement. Graded Autonomy Expand autonomy to: Proven institutions With transparent disclosures. State as Capacity Builder Invest in: Faculty development Research infrastructure Digital & blended learning ecosystems. Trust + Transparency Framework Replace micromanagement with: Public disclosure Independent accreditation Social accountability.

Content National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS) DPDP Act, 2023 vs RTI Act, 2005 — Attorney-General’s Opinion Assam’s Pride: Golden Langur Losing Its Only Home The Mountain Monarch: Nilgiri Tahr in the Western Ghats Pesticides Management Bill, 2025: Revised Draft, Old Gaps Persist Only 67 Cities Covered under the National Clean Air Programme Drugs Problem Is Narco-Terrorism, Not a Mere Issue of Crime National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS). Why in News? Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the National Improvised Explosive Device Data Management System (NIDMS). It is a first-of-its-kind national database documenting all bomb blast / IED incidents in India since 1999. Aimed at strengthening counter-terrorism investigations, trend analysis, and predictive policing. Relevance GS III – Internal Security Terrorism and insurgency Use of technology in security management Intelligence sharing and coordination GS II – Governance Role of Union Home Ministry Cooperative federalism in policing Institutional capacity building What is NIDMS? NIDMS (National IED Data Management System): A secure national digital platform. Houses comprehensive data on bomb blasts and IED incidents across India. Designed for systematic collection, standardisation, integration, and sharing of blast-related data. Institutional Framework Nodal Agency: National Security Guard (NSG) Operational Hub: National Bomb Data Centre (NBDC), NSG Headquarters: Manesar, Haryana Primary Role of NSG: Lead force for post-blast analysis in India. Coverage & Scale  Temporal coverage: All IED / bomb blast incidents since 1999. User agencies: State Police forces Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) Central investigating and anti-terror agencies Nature of access: Single-click access to previously scattered case-file data. Key Features of NIDMS End of Data Silos Earlier: Explosion-related data existed across multiple agencies and case files. Now: Integrated into one centralised national repository. Signature Linking of Incidents System can establish linkages between multiple blasts based on: Location Type of explosion Explosive material Circuit and timer design Example cited: Same delayed circuit timer used in: Rameswaram café blast (March 2024) Mangaluru blast (2022) AI-Enabled Analysis Home Ministry aims to: Connect multiple internal data sources. Use advanced AI-based software for: Pattern detection Modus operandi analysis Predictive assessment of future threats. Predictive & Preventive Capability Enables: Identification of repeat signatures. Mapping of terror networks and bomb-makers. Anticipation of emerging trends in IED design and deployment. Strategic Significance Counter-Terrorism Helps: Investigate terrorist incidents across States. Establish inter-State and inter-incident linkages. Strengthens India’s intelligence-led counter-terror framework. Federal Coordination Common platform for: Centre–State cooperation. Information symmetry across police forces. Reduces duplication and investigation delays. Evidence-Based Security Policy Supports: Trend analysis of explosives used. Shifts in terrorist tactics. Enables data-driven formulation of counter-terror strategies. Governance & Technology Angle Reflects shift towards: Digital governance in internal security AI-supported law enforcement Aligns with: National security modernisation Smart policing initiatives. DPDP Act, 2023 vs RTI Act, 2005 — Attorney-General’s Opinion Why in News? Attorney-General of India, R. Venkataramani, in a written opinion, stated that the Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023 does not dilute the Right to Information (RTI) Act, 2005. Comes amid criticism from civil society and transparency advocates after the Centre notified amendments to RTI in November 2025 via the DPDP Act. Core dispute: Whether amendment to Section 8(1)(j) of RTI weakens transparency by expanding the “personal information” exemption. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Transparency vs privacy Role of Attorney-General Accountability mechanisms GS IV – Ethics Public interest vs individual privacy Discretion and ethical decision-making by public authorities Legal & Policy Background RTI Act, 2005 Enacted to operationalise Article 19(1)(a) (Right to know). Section 8(1) lists exemptions from disclosure. Section 8(2) provides an override clause allowing disclosure if public interest outweighs harm. DPDP Act, 2023 Enacted to protect informational privacy under Article 21, following Puttaswamy (2017). Amended RTI Act’s Section 8(1)(j) relating to personal information. What Changed in Section 8(1)(j)? Earlier Position (Pre-DPDP) Personal information could be disclosed if: It had a relationship to public activity/interest, or Larger public interest justified disclosure. Included a key proviso: Information not denied to Parliament could not be denied to citizens. Post-DPDP Amendment Language simplified to exempt “personal information” without explicitly mentioning: Public activity linkage Parliamentary disclosure proviso Triggered concerns of a blanket exemption. Attorney-General’s Opinion 1. No Dilution of RTI AG argues: Section 8(2) of RTI Act remains untouched. This section mandates disclosure of even exempt information if public interest outweighs harm. Hence, transparency safeguards still exist. 2. Balance Between Privacy and Transparency DPDP Act provides a legal framework to balance: Right to Privacy (Article 21) Right to Information (Article 19(1)(a)) Explicitly aligned with Supreme Court’s Puttaswamy judgment (2017). 3. Harmonious Construction RTI exemptions must be read with Section 8(2), not in isolation. CPIOs and appellate authorities retain discretion to disclose in public interest. Government’s Stand   RTI amendment notified November 2025, even as: Other DPDP provisions were given 12–18 months for implementation. Centre maintains: No reduction in accountability. Only clarification to avoid misuse of personal data. Concerns Raised by Critics Transparency Advocates’ Arguments Removal of explicit public interest language in Section 8(1)(j): May lead to over-cautious denial by officials. Parliamentary proviso omission: Weakens a key democratic safeguard. Practical risk: Information on assets, appointments, disciplinary actions may be denied citing privacy. Constitutional Dimension Article 19(1)(a): Right to Information (derived). Article 21: Right to Privacy (Puttaswamy, 2017). AG’s view: DPDP Act restores constitutional balance, not hierarchy. Implications for Governance Positive Stronger personal data protection regime. Reduced arbitrary disclosure of private data. Compliance with global data protection standards. Risks Chilling effect on RTI usage. Increased discretion at CPIO level. Potential dilution unless Section 8(2) is robustly applied. Key Data & Facts for Mains Enrichment RTI Act enacted: 2005 DPDP Act enacted: 2023 RTI amendment notified: November 2025 Landmark case: K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017) Assam’s Pride: Golden Langur Losing Its Only Home Why in News? Recent article highlights rapid habitat fragmentation threatening the Golden Langur, a globally rare primate endemic only to Assam (India) and Bhutan. Raises concerns over: Infrastructure-led habitat loss Genetic isolation Long-term survival of an endemic species Fits into broader debates on: Biodiversity conservation Human–wildlife conflict Community-led conservation models Relevance GS III – Environment & Biodiversity Endemic species conservation Habitat fragmentation Human–wildlife conflict What is the Golden Langur? Taxonomy & Identity Common name: Gee’s Golden Langur Scientific name: Trachypithecus geei Group: Old World monkeys Identified as a distinct species by Zoological Survey of India, based on documentation by Edward Pritchard Gee (1964). The IUCN Red List lists the golden langur as Endangered Geographic Distribution Endemic range: Western Assam Foothills of Bhutan’s Black Mountains Natural boundaries: Manas River (east) Sankosh River (west) Altitudinal range: 100–1,500 metres (subtropical Himalayan foothills) Population Status Estimated population in Assam: ~7,400 individuals Source: Global Ecology and Conservation (2024) One of the rarest and most threatened primates globally. Habitat & Ecology Habitat Type Subtropical broadleaf forests: Moist evergreen Semi-evergreen Riverine forests Strictly arboreal: Depends on continuous tall forest canopy. Behaviour & Social Structure Group size: Average 8 individuals Social system: One male, multiple females, juveniles Behaviour: Shy Avoids human contact Physical Characteristics  Long, silky coat with golden to silvery-white sheen. Seasonal colour variation: Males darker golden Females and juveniles lighter Distinct features: Black face Pale beard Crown hair whorl Tail length often >1 metre Cultural Significance Known and revered by: Bodo community (considered descendant of a mythical monkey king) Rabha community Bodoland Territorial Council: Golden langur is the official mascot Cultural reverence has enabled community protection. Key Threats 1. Habitat Fragmentation Causes: Roads Power transmission lines Forest clearance Results in: Isolated forest patches Disrupted canopy continuity 2. Direct Mortality Factors Electrocution from overhead power lines Roadkill (especially near highways) Dog attacks near villages and plantations 3. Genetic Risks Fragmentation restricts gene flow. Leads to: Inbreeding Reduced genetic diversity Long-term population decline Conservation Efforts   Protected Areas Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary Raimona National Park Kakoijana Reserved Forest Parts of Manas National Park Fragmented patches in Kokrajhar & Dhubri districts Community-Based Conservation Local groups: Patrol forests Prevent timber smuggling Plant native tree species Example areas: Chakrashila Kakoijana Infrastructure Mitigation Canopy bridges: 4 bridges constructed over NH-117 (Bongaigaon) Enable safe arboreal movement Reduce roadkill and electrocution What Needs to Be Done Restore forest corridors: Reconnect fragmented habitats across Assam and Bhutan Wildlife-sensitive infrastructure planning: Underground cabling in key habitats Mandatory canopy crossings Transboundary conservation: India–Bhutan coordination Strengthen community stewardship: Incentives for conservation Recognition of indigenous knowledge The Mountain Monarch: Nilgiri Tahr in the Western Ghats   Why in News? New 2025 joint survey by Kerala & Tamil Nadu Forest Departments estimates Nilgiri tahr population at 2,668 individuals, indicating cautious recovery. Revival linked to: Project Tahr (Tamil Nadu, 2023) Grassland restoration and habitat connectivity efforts. At the same time, article warns recovery is fragile due to climate change, invasive species and habitat fragmentation. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment & Biodiversity Endemic species conservation Shola–grassland ecosystems Invasive species management Climate change impacts on fauna GS Paper I – Culture & Geography Sangam literature Tribal ecological knowledge Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot What is the Nilgiri Tahr? Identity & Taxonomy Common name: Nilgiri tahr Scientific name: Nilgiritragus hylocrius Category: Mountain ungulate (goat-antelope) Endemic to the Western Ghats (India only) The Nilgiri Tahr (Nilgiritragus hylocrius) is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List Geographic Distribution  Habitat: Shola–grassland ecosystems of the Western Ghats. Elevation: Typically above 1,200 metres, prefers cliffs and alpine grasslands. Major landscapes: Eravikulam Anamalai Mukurthi Silent Valley Glenmorgan Present only in: Kerala and Tamil Nadu Cultural & Historical Significance Mentioned in: Tamil Sangam literature (Kurinji landscape) as varayãdu. Epics like Silappathikaram. Tribal knowledge: Toda, Badaga, Kota, Muthuvan tribes. Tahr tracks used to: Navigate fog Locate springs Identify safe mountain passes. Symbol: Endurance, survival, mountain wisdom. Physical & Ecological Adaptations Stocky, sure-footed body adapted to steep cliffs. Curved horns; males have silvery “saddleback” patch. Diet: Generalist feeder Consumes 120+ plant species: Grasses Herbs Shrubs Legumes Some trees. Ecological role: Maintains grassland structure Nutrient recycling Supports predator populations. Population Status – Key Data Total population: 2,668 Kerala: ~1,365 individuals Eravikulam National Park: 841 (largest, most secure population) Tamil Nadu: ~1,303 individuals Indicates recovery after decades of decline. Why Did the Tahr Decline Earlier? 1. Habitat Loss & Fragmentation Conversion of grasslands for: Agriculture Tourism infrastructure Reduced continuous shola–grassland mosaics. 2. Invasive Species Spread of: Wattle Eucalyptus Suppressed native grasses essential for tahr grazing. 3. Climate Change Rising temperatures pushing tahrs: To higher elevations Into smaller habitat zones. 4. Ecological Risks Fragmented populations led to: Genetic isolation Disease vulnerability Reduced resilience. Conservation Turnaround: What Changed? 1. Project Tahr (Tamil Nadu, 2023) Declared Nilgiri tahr as Tamil Nadu’s State Animal. Budget: ₹25.14 crore. Focus areas: Grassland restoration Invasive species removal Long-term population monitoring. 2. Grassland Restoration Revival of native grasses: Chrysopogon zeylanicus Tripogon wightii Enhances forage quality and soil fertility. 3. Community Integration Collaboration with Muthuvan tribe: Mapping migration routes Identifying feeding grounds Use of indigenous ecological knowledge. 4. Kerala’s Parallel Efforts Active conservation in: Eravikulam National Park Silent Valley National Park Protection of core breeding populations. Advanced Conservation Strategies (Current) 1. Translocation (Planned) Kerala considering relocation to: Suitable but under-occupied habitats. Includes: Habitat assessment Forage improvement Soft-release protocols. 2. Habitat Connectivity Mapping wildlife corridors across: Mukurthi Anamalai Glenmorgan Eravikulam Aim: Restore genetic exchange Reduce isolation. Key Concerns Going Forward Translocation risks if: Habitats are not ecologically stable. Climate change may: Shrink high-altitude grasslands further. Conservation success depends on: Landscape-level restoration, not isolated protection. Pesticides Management Bill, 2025: Revised Draft, Old Gaps Persist Why in News? Union Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare released a revised draft of the Pesticides Management Bill, 2025 on January 7, 2026. Bill seeks to replace the Insecticides Act, 1968 and its Rules framed over 50 years ago. Despite revisions, experts and civil society argue core regulatory and accountability gaps remain unaddressed. Public comments invited till February 2, 2026. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment & Agriculture Pesticide regulation Environmental health Sustainable agriculture GS Paper II – Governance Regulatory institutions Centre–State relations Accountability mechanisms Background & Evolution  1968: Insecticides Act enacted. 2008: First attempt to replace the Act. 2018: New Bill introduced. 2020: Revised Bill introduced in Rajya Sabha → referred to Parliamentary Standing Committee. 2025: Fresh draft released with limited changes. What the Bill Seeks to Do ? Regulate: Manufacture Import Sale Distribution Use of pesticides Aim (as per draft language): To “strive to minimise risk to humans, animals, non-target organisms, and the environment”. Promote: Transparency Traceability Farmer-centric regulation Biological and traditional-knowledge-based pesticides. Key Structural Changes in 2025 Draft Clauses reduced: From 65 (2020 draft) → 55 (2025 draft). Government claims: Simplification Ease of compliance. Critics argue: Weaker language, not stronger safeguards. Major Concerns & Gaps  1. Weak Role of State Governments States cannot permanently ban pesticides. Powers limited to: Temporary prohibition (max 1 year). Final decision rests with: Registration Committee (Union-controlled). Implication: States remain administrative implementers, not regulators. 2. Centralised Regulatory Architecture Registration Committee Constituted by Union Government. Members include: Drugs Controller General of India ICAR MoEFCC Dept. of Chemicals & Petrochemicals Plant Protection Advisor Reviews state prohibitions and decides continuation. Issue: Over-centralisation. Weak cooperative federalism in agriculture (State subject). 3. Central Pesticides Board – Advisory, Not Binding Functions: Recommend pesticides for inclusion. Frame: Good Manufacturing Practices Recall procedures Disposal norms SOPs for poisoning cases. Problem: Functions not embedded as enforceable legal provisions. Similar to 2020 draft → no strengthening. 4. Absence of Criminal Liability No explicit provision for: Criminal liability of manufacturers, distributors, marketers. Critical gaps in cases of: Pesticide misuse for suicides. Deliberate poisoning of lakes and water bodies. Weakens deterrence against corporate misconduct. 5. Diluted Environmental & Health Safeguards Language shift: From “minimise risk” → “strive to minimise risk”. Seen as: Lowering regulatory obligation. Creating ambiguity in enforcement. Flagged by organisations like Pesticide Action Network (PAN) India. 6. No Price Regulation Mechanism Bill silent on: Price control of pesticides. Concern: Farmers vulnerable to exploitation. Contradiction with “farmer-centric” claim. 7. Accountability & Redressal Deficit No robust: Compensation mechanism Liability framework Farmer grievance redressal authority. Weak enforcement against: Spurious pesticides Fake seeds (raised by Agriculture Minister in 2025). Government’s Justification Describes Bill as: “Farmer-centric legislation”. Focus on: Ease of living Transparency Traceability. Context: Month-long farmer complaints campaign (2025) highlighted spurious pesticides. Federalism & Governance Angle Agriculture is a State subject (Entry 14, State List). Bill reinforces: Central dominance in regulation and prohibition. Raises questions on: Cooperative federalism State capacity to respond to local agro-ecological risks. Environmental & Public Health Implications India is among the largest pesticide consumers globally. Pesticide misuse linked to: Farmer suicides Water contamination Biodiversity loss Weak regulation undermines: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) SDG 3 (Health) SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption). Only 67 cities covered under clean air plan Why in News? A CSE–CREA report (Jan 2026) highlights that only 67 cities are covered under the National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). This is despite India having 1,878 cities with population above 4 lakh. Raises concerns over: Limited coverage of air-pollution control Chronic PM pollution across urban India Misalignment of funding priorities. Relevance GS Paper III – Environment Air pollution Environmental health Policy evaluation (NCAP) GS Paper II – Governance Public policy design Centre–State coordination Evidence-based policymaking Basics: What is NCAP? National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) launched in 2019. Nodal ministry: MoEFCC. Objective: 20–30% reduction in PM10 and PM2.5 levels (baseline 2017; later extended to 2026). Approach: City-specific action plans Non-attainment city focus Multi-sectoral coordination. Key Findings of the Report 1. Limited Coverage Cities with population >4 lakh: 1,878 Cities under NCAP: 67 Coverage ratio: ~3.6% Implication: Vast majority of polluted cities remain outside structured clean-air interventions. 2. India’s Most Polluted Cities (2025 PM2.5) Assam: Byrnihat – 90 µg/m³ Delhi NCR: Delhi – 35 µg/m³ Ghaziabad – 35 µg/m³ All far above: WHO guideline: 5 µg/m³ Indian NAAQS: 40 µg/m³ (annual PM2.5). 3. Widespread Chronic Pollution 44% of Indian cities face chronic air pollution. Driven by: Persistent emissions (transport, industry, construction) Not just episodic events (stubble burning, dust storms). 4. PM10 Dominance in NCAP NCAP primarily targets PM10, not PM2.5. Issue: PM2.5 is more harmful (penetrates lungs & bloodstreaaam). Under-addressed despite being dominant pollutant in most cities. Funding & Implementation Gaps 1. Misaligned Spending 68% of NCAP funds spent on: Roads Traffic management Limited spending on: Industrial emission control Clean energy transition Airshed-based interventions. 2. Sectoral Blind Spots Weak focus on: Industrial fuel switching Power plant emissions Construction dust beyond urban roads. Structural Problems in NCAP Design 1. City-Centric, Not Airshed-Based Pollution spreads across regions. Current model ignores: Inter-city transport of pollutants. Need for regional / airshed approach. 2. Exclusion of Industrial Towns Many polluted industrial clusters are: Outside NCAP Outside city-based governance frameworks. 3. Weak Regulatory Integration NCAP relies on: Action plans Advisory mechanisms Lacks: Binding emission reduction mandates Strong enforcement teeth. Implications Public Health Air pollution is among top risk factors for premature deaths in India. PM2.5 linked to: Respiratory diseases Cardiovascular disorders Reduced life expectancy. Environmental Governance NCAP’s limited reach questions: Equity in environmental protection Urban bias vs regional pollution realities. SDG Linkages SDG 3: Good Health SDG 11: Sustainable Cities SDG 13: Climate Action Way Forward Expand NCAP coverage to more cities & industrial clusters. Shift from: City-based → airshed-based planning. Rebalance funding towards: Industrial emissions Power plants Clean fuel transitions. Strengthen: PM2.5 monitoring Emission inventories Accountability frameworks. Drugs problem is narco-terrorism, not mere crime Why in News? Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared India’s drug problem as narco-terrorism, not just a law-and-order issue. Announcement coincides with: Launch of a 3-year national anti-drug campaign (2025–2028). Inauguration of National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) by NSG. Reflects a shift from policing approach to national security framework. Relevance GS Paper III – Internal Security Terror financing Organised crime Border security Use of technology in security GS Paper II – Governance Federal coordination Role of MHA Institutional strengthening What is Narco-Terrorism? Narco-terrorism: Use of drug trafficking networks to finance terrorism, insurgency and organised violence. Drugs → money → weapons → terror infrastructure. Recognised globally by: UNODC US DEA (since 1980s, Latin America). India’s Context: Why Drugs = National Security Threat 1. Terror Financing Link Drug profits fund: Terror outfits Cross-border insurgency Urban terror modules. Particularly relevant for: Punjab Jammu & Kashmir North-East. 2. Geographic Vulnerability (Facts) India lies between: Golden Crescent (Afghanistan–Pakistan–Iran) Golden Triangle (Myanmar–Laos–Thailand). Major trafficking routes: Western border (Pakistan-linked heroin) Eastern border (synthetic drugs, methamphetamine). Data & Enforcement Outcomes (As cited) 2014–2024 (last decade): ₹1 lakh crore worth drugs seized. Sharp rise from pre-2014 levels. 2024 alone: Major seizures of heroin, cocaine, synthetic drugs. Shows: Scale of narco-economy Growing sophistication of networks. Government’s Strategic Shift From Crime Control to Security Doctrine Earlier view: Drugs as law-and-order / social problem. Current view: Strategic conspiracy to destroy youth & economy. Narco-terrorism placed alongside: Terrorism Insurgency Organised crime. 3-Year “Drug-Free India” Campaign (2025–28) Pillars: Supply reduction: crackdown on traffickers. Demand reduction: awareness, de-addiction. Financial disruption: freezing narco-funds. Target: Youth protection Social health Economic security. Operational & Institutional Measures 1. Financial Intelligence Focus Emphasis on: Tracking narco-money flows Digital payment trail analysis Narco-terror networks depend on: Hawala Shell firms Cross-border laundering. 2. Integrated Forensics & Technology Use of: Forensic intelligence AI & machine learning for pattern analysis. Aim: Identify linkages between drugs, terror & explosives. 3. National IED Data Management System (NIDMS) Maintains data on: All IED incidents since 1999. Enables: Signature matching Pattern recognition Terror network mapping. Narco-terrorism link: Drugs → terror → explosives. 4. Database Integration (Key Facts) Existing platforms: CCTNS (crime & criminals) ICJS (justice delivery) NATGRID NIDMS complements them by: Adding explosives-terror data layer. Example data scale: ICJS: ~17.4 crore cases Prison database: ~2.2 crore prisoners Forensics database: ~31 lakh samples. Role of States & Police Shah directed: State DGPs to adopt mission-mode permanent teams. Better coordination between: Police NCB CAPFs Intelligence agencies. Emphasis on: End-to-end disruption (supply → finance → terror). Why This Approach Matters? Internal Security Narco-terrorism: Fuels terrorism without visible weapons. Weakens society internally. Treating it as crime alone is insufficient. Youth & Social Impact Drugs: Destroy demographic dividend. Create social instability. Hence framed as: Threat to future generations. International Cooperation Narco-terrorism is transnational. Requires: Intelligence sharing Financial tracking Border cooperation.