Content India–Jordan Relations India’s Traditional Medicine Systems (AYUSH) India–Jordan Relations Why is this in News? 15–16 December 2025: PM Narendra Modi’s first full-fledged bilateral visit to Jordan in 37 years. 75th anniversary of India–Jordan diplomatic relations (1950–2025). Five MoUs signed covering renewable energy, water management, culture, digital solutions, and heritage twinning (Petra–Ellora). India proposed bilateral trade target of USD 5 billion in 5 years. Visit occurred amid West Asia instability, highlighting Jordan’s moderating role. Relevance GS Paper II – International Relations India’s engagement with West Asia beyond the Gulf; diversification of regional diplomacy. Bilateral relations: Political, economic, defence, cultural dimensions. Counter-terrorism cooperation and shared concerns on regional instability (Gaza, West Asia). Role of middle powers in stabilising volatile regions. Diaspora diplomacy and people-to-people ties. Basics at a Glance Diplomatic relations established: 1950 Political system: Constitutional monarchy (King Abdullah II) Strategic location: Levant–West Asia bridge; regional stability anchor Indian diaspora: ~17,500 Trade status: India is Jordan’s 3rd–4th largest trading partner Countries Surrounding (Bordering) JordanIsrael & Palestine (West Bank) – WestSyria – NorthIraq – EastSaudi Arabia – South and Southeast Evolution of India–Jordan Relations Political & Diplomatic Engagement Foundational phase (1950–2000): Friendly, low-profile engagement. Consolidation phase (2000–2018): King Abdullah II’s 2018 India visit: 12 MoUs; C-DAC IT Centre; USD 5 million pharma aid. Strategic deepening (2018–2025): Regular meetings at UNGA, COP-28, G7 (Apulia). Foreign Office Consultations (2025) in Amman. Strong convergence on counter-terrorism, Gaza crisis, regional stability. Middle power diplomacy; West Asia engagement beyond Gulf. Trade & Economic Cooperation (Core Pillar) Trade Profile Total trade (2023–24): USD 2.875 billion India’s exports: Cereals, frozen meat, petroleum products, animal fodder India’s imports: Phosphates, potash (fertilizers) Strategic Fertilizer Linkage Jordan India Fertiliser Company (JIFCO) IFFCO + JPMC Investment: USD 860 million Critical for India’s phosphatic fertilizer security Arab Potash Company–IPL MoU 275,000–325,000 tonnes annually for 5 years 2022 fertilizer MoUs: USD 1.5 billion Manufacturing & Investment 15+ Indian garment firms in Jordan’s QIZs Investment: ~USD 500 million Exports under Jordan–US FTA Supply-chain security, fertilizer diplomacy, South–South economic integration. Defence & Security Cooperation MoU on Defence Cooperation (2018) SOFEX 2024: Indian tri-services delegation participated. Naval cooperation: Jordanian Royal Navy visit to Kochi & INA Ezhimala. Shared stance on terrorism, radicalisation, regional instability. Defence diplomacy without alliances; counter-terror cooperation. Science, Technology & Digital Cooperation India–Jordan Centre of Excellence in IT (IJCOEIT) Located at Al-Hussein Technical University Equipped with PARAM Shavak supercomputer Target: 3,000 Jordanian professionals trained Training areas: Cybersecurity AI & ML Big Data 2025 proposal: Linking Jordan’s digital payment system with UPI. Digital public infrastructure (DPI) as foreign policy tool. Education & People-to-People Ties ITEC slots: 50 annually Graduates from India: 2,500+ Jordanians 2024–25: 37 civilian ITEC slots 5 ICCR scholarships Manpower Agreement (2018) Visa facilitation: Visa on Arrival (since 2009) e-Visa (since 2023) Direct flight: Amman–Mumbai Human capital diplomacy; soft power. Cultural & Civilisational Linkages Strong popularity of Indian films and yoga. Jerash Festival 2024: Assamese folk dance troupe. 2025 MoU: Cultural Exchange Programme (2025–29) Petra–Ellora twinning: heritage diplomacy. Culture as instrument of strategic trust. Outcomes of PM Modi’s 2025 Visit Strategic Outcomes First bilateral visit in 37 years → symbolic reset. Clear articulation of USD 5 billion trade vision. Expanded agenda: Critical minerals Renewable energy Water security Health & pharma Digital transformation MoUs Signed (5) Renewable energy cooperation Water resource management Petra–Ellora twinning Cultural Exchange Programme (2025–29) Digital public solutions (population-scale) Strategic Significance for India West Asia balancing: Jordan as moderate, stable partner. Food & fertilizer security: Critical input supplier. Counter-terror convergence: Shared security concerns. Digital diplomacy: Exporting India Stack. Non-oil West Asia engagement: Diversification beyond Gulf monarchies. Challenges & Constraints Limited trade diversification beyond fertilizers. Jordan’s economic constraints and refugee burden. Regional volatility (Gaza, Israel–Iran tensions). Way Forward Fast-track CEPA feasibility. Long-term fertilizer offtake agreements. Scale up UPI-style DPI exports. Joint projects in water desalination & renewables. Enhanced defence training & counter-terror coordination. Conclusion India–Jordan relations exemplify quiet, trust-based diplomacy rooted in economic complementarities, counter-terror cooperation, and people-centric engagement. PM Modi’s 2025 visit marks a strategic upgrade, aligning Jordan firmly within India’s broader West Asia and Global South outreach, while reinforcing India’s image as a reliable economic and technological partner. India’s Traditional Medicine Systems (AYUSH) Why is this in News? India is hosting the 2nd WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine in New Delhi (17–19 December 2025). India hosted the 1st WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine on 17-18 August 2023 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, alongside the G20 Health Ministers’ Meeting Theme: “Restoring Balance for People and Planet: The Science and Practice of Well-Being.” Launch of WHO Traditional Medicine Global Library (TMGL): World’s largest digital repository on traditional, complementary and integrative medicine. 1.5 million+ records. Reinforces India’s leadership following: 1st WHO Global Summit (Gandhinagar, 2023). Establishment of WHO Global Traditional Medicine Centre (GTMC), Jamnagar. Relevance GS II – Governance & Social Justice Public health policy and integration of AYUSH with allopathic systems. Role of Ministry of AYUSH in health governance. Universal Health Coverage (UHC) and primary healthcare strengthening. WHO-led global health governance and India’s leadership role. GS III – Science & Technology Scientific validation of traditional knowledge systems. Integration of AI, digital health, evidence-based research in AYUSH. Pharmacovigilance, drug standardisation, quality control. What is Traditional Medicine? WHO definition: Knowledge, skills and practices based on theories, beliefs and experiences indigenous to different cultures, used for health maintenance and disease prevention. Global spread: Practised in 170 of 194 WHO member states. Integral to primary healthcare in Asia, Africa, Latin America. India’s Traditional Medicine Systems (AYUSH) Formally recognised under the Ministry of AYUSH: Types of Traditional Medicine Systems (AYUSH) – UPSC-Ready Ayurveda India’s ancient holistic medical system. Core principle: Balance of Tridosha – Vata, Pitta, Kapha. Focus areas: Preventive healthcare. Lifestyle regulation (Dinacharya, Ritucharya). Herbal formulations, Panchakarma. Objective: Harmony of body, mind and spirit. Unani Originated from Greco-Arab medicine; developed in India. Core concept: Balance of four humours (Akhlat): Blood, Phlegm, Yellow bile, Black bile. Emphasises: Dietotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Ghiza). Regimental therapy (Ilaj-bil-Tadbeer). Natural drugs (Ilaj-bil-Dawa). Strong focus on lifestyle and temperament (Mizaj). Sowa-Rigpa (Amchi Medicine) Traditional Himalayan medical system. Practised in Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim. Philosophical base: Buddhist principles. Influences from Ayurveda and Tibetan medicine. Health based on balance of: Lung (wind), Tripa (bile), Beken (phlegm). Uses herbal, mineral and animal-based medicines. Yoga and Naturopathy Yoga Mind–body discipline rooted in Indian philosophy. Components: Asana, Pranayama, Dhyana, Yama–Niyama. Promotes: Physical fitness. Mental well-being. Stress management and preventive health. Naturopathy Drugless healing system. Principle: Body’s inherent self-healing capacity. Methods include: Diet therapy. Hydrotherapy. Fasting, lifestyle correction. Emphasis on natural living and prevention. Siddha One of the oldest medical systems, originating in South India. Closely associated with Tamil civilisation. Core philosophy: Balance of Vata, Pitta, Kapha, with emphasis on minerals. Features: Highly individualised treatment. Use of herbs, metals, minerals. Diagnostic tools: pulse, tongue, urine examination. Focus on longevity and rejuvenation. Homoeopathy Founded by Samuel Hahnemann. Scientific medical system based on: Law of Similars (“like cures like”). Minimum dose principle. Treatment: Highly diluted remedies. Individualised prescription. Aim: Stimulate the body’s natural healing response. Core philosophy Holistic, preventive, person-centred. Emphasis on lifestyle, balance, and long-term well-being. Institutional Ecosystem under Ministry of AYUSH Scale of Infrastructure (as on 2024) AYUSH hospitals: 3,844 AYUSH dispensaries: 36,848 Registered practitioners: 7.55 lakh+ UG colleges: 886 PG colleges: 251 Annual intake: UG: 59,643 seats PG: 7,450 seats Integration with Public Health System National AYUSH Mission (NAM) – 2014 Centrally Sponsored Scheme. Objective: Mainstream AYUSH into public healthcare. Co-location model PHCs: 2,375 CHCs: 713 District Hospitals: 306 Significance Single-window access to allopathic + AYUSH care. Strengthens primary healthcare and preventive medicine. Regulation, Research & Quality Control Regulatory Focus Evidence-based practice. Drug safety, pharmacovigilance. Standardisation via pharmacopoeias. Research Ecosystem Central Councils conduct: Clinical trials. Observational studies. Drug standardisation research. Emphasis on: Scientific validation. Safety protocols. Integrative healthcare models. Major Schemes for Quality & Credibility National AYUSH Mission (NAM) Infrastructure upgradation. Supply of essential drugs. Integration with PHCs/CHCs/DHs. Ayurgyan Research & innovation scheme. Supports: Clinical validation. Medicinal plant research. Drug standardisation. Includes Continuing Medical Education (CME). Ayurswasthya Yojana Public health orientation. Components: AYUSH Public Health Interventions (PHI). Centres of Excellence (CoE). AOGUSY (AYUSH Oushadhi Gunvatta evum Uttapadan Samvardhan Yojana) Focus: Quality & regulation of AYUSH drugs. Supports: Drug-testing labs. Manufacturing standards. Pharmacovigilance systems. Medicinal Plants Conservation Scheme Sustainable cultivation. Farmer support. Supply-chain strengthening. Biodiversity conservation. Digitisation & Knowledge Protection Ayush Grid: Digital backbone for education, research, services. Traditional Knowledge Digital Library (TKDL): Prevents bio-piracy. Used by international patent offices. Medical Value Travel (MVT): Promotes AYUSH-based wellness tourism. International Cooperation (IC): Capacity building, global outreach. WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, 2025 Key Features 100+ countries, 170+ speakers. 25+ sessions, 21 innovations. Representation from 6+ WHO biocultural regions. Three-Day Focus Day 1: Knowledge systems, planetary & human health. Day 2: Research, innovation, science of well-being. Day 3: Global standards, data systems, AI, implementation. WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034 Four Core Objectives Evidence generation via quality research and digital tools. Regulatory frameworks for products & practitioners. Integration into health systems, especially primary care. Cross-sectoral value: Biodiversity. One Health. SDG 3.8 (Universal Health Coverage). Alignment with India Matches AYUSH priorities: Scientific validation. Digitisation. Sustainability. Knowledge protection. Traditional Medicine Global Library (TMGL) Significance 1.5 million+ records. Global evidence maps, policies, standards. Integrated with Research4Life for LMICs. Strategic Value for India Positions India as knowledge hub. Boosts global confidence in AYUSH systems. Supports policymaking and research globally. Strategic Significance for India Health diplomacy: Leadership in global health governance. Soft power: Culture-rooted yet science-oriented systems. Universal Health Coverage: Affordable, preventive care. Economic potential: AYUSH drugs. Wellness tourism. Global markets. Environmental synergy: Biodiversity & One Health. Challenges Need for uniform global standards. Evidence gaps across systems. Risk of over-commercialisation. Ensuring ethical sourcing of medicinal plants. Way Forward Scale high-quality clinical research. Strengthen global regulatory harmonisation. Responsible AI & digital health integration. Sustainable medicinal-plant ecosystems. Position AYUSH as pillar of Viksit Bharat@2047. Conclusion India’s traditional medicine systems represent a unique convergence of ancient wisdom and modern science. By institutionalising quality, integrating AYUSH into public health, digitising knowledge, and shaping WHO-led global frameworks, India is redefining traditional medicine as a credible, evidence-based pillar of global healthcare. The 2nd WHO Global Summit marks a decisive step in transforming traditional medicine from cultural heritage into mainstream global health architecture.

Content India’s Nuclear Governance Needs Regulatory Independence  Dear students, wait, your teacher is on election duty India’s Nuclear Governance Needs Regulatory Independence  Why is this in News? Editorial debate following the SHANTI Bill, 2025 (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Technology for India). Bill operationalises: Private participation in civil nuclear energy. Target of 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 (Viksit Bharat vision). Deployment of at least 5 indigenous Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) by 2033. Raises concerns over: Liability framework adequacy. Supplier accountability. Lack of regulatory independence in nuclear governance. Relevance GS II – Governance & Polity Role, powers and autonomy of regulatory bodies (AERB). Centre–regulator relationship; regulatory capture. Legislative reforms (SHANTI Bill, Atomic Energy governance). Accountability and transparency in high-risk sectors. GS III – Economy, Energy & Science & Technology Energy security and clean energy transition. Nuclear energy expansion and SMRs. Public–private partnerships in strategic sectors. Risk-sharing, liability regimes, and investment climate. Practice Questions India’s ambition of achieving 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 hinges as much on governance reforms as on technology and finance. Critically examine the SHANTI Bill in this context.(250 words) Nuclear Power in India:  Share in electricity generation (2024–25): ~3%. Installed capacity: ~7.5 GW (largely PHWRs). Operator monopoly so far: NPCIL (under Department of Atomic Energy). Legal framework: Atomic Energy Act, 1962. Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act (CLNDA), 2010. What is the SHANTI Bill? Objective Enable large-scale nuclear expansion by: Mobilising domestic private capital. Reducing construction and financing risks. Accelerating approvals and commissioning. Key Shift From state monopoly → licensed participation by: Government entities. Public–private joint ventures. “Any other company” (subject to conditions). Design Logic of SHANTI Bill 1. Controlled Liberalisation Private entry permitted mainly in: Reactor construction. Plant delivery. Parts of supply chain. Sensitive fuel-cycle activities retained by the State: Enrichment. Reprocessing. Waste management. Rationale: Prevent nuclear proliferation. Balance energy expansion with strategic control. 2. Risk Sharing & Capital Mobilisation Expands pool of project developers. Allows sharing of: Construction risk. Time overruns. Financing burden. Essential for achieving 100 GW target. Liability Framework: Key Provisions & Concerns Provisions Operator liability cap: ₹3,000 crore. Beyond the cap: Central government assumes liability. Centre may: Assume full liability for non-government installations “in public interest”. Mandatory insurance or financial security for operators. Concerns ₹3,000 crore may be: Inadequate for mass casualty compensation. Insufficient for long-term environmental remediation. Government installations exempted from insurance: Raises transparency and public accounting concerns. Risk of socialising losses, privatising gains. Supplier Accountability Issues Operator’s right of recourse against suppliers allowed only: If expressly written into contracts, or If damage results from intentional acts. Implications: Supplier liability becomes contract-dependent, not statutory. Varies across projects. Weakens uniform safety incentives. Echoes criticism of dilution of original CLNDA intent post-2015. Regulatory Governance: The Core Weakness Current Structure Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): Not fully independent. Linked institutionally to DAE. Under SHANTI: Appointments and oversight continue to vest heavily with: Central government. Atomic Energy Commission. Why Regulatory Independence Matters ? Public trust: Nuclear safety demands credibility and transparency. Investor confidence: Independent regulator reduces political and conflict-of-interest risks. Global best practice: IAEA norms emphasise separation of: Operator. Promoter. Regulator. Comparative Overview Countries with successful nuclear expansion (France, UK, Canada): Strong, arm’s-length nuclear regulators. Clear liability regimes. Predictable enforcement mechanisms. India risks: Regulatory capture. Perception of weak oversight. Overall Assessment Strengths Pragmatic response to India’s energy transition needs. Enables scale through domestic capital. Reduces legal ambiguity for new entrants. Can shorten project timelines. Risks Liability caps may under-protect victims. Supplier accountability diluted. Continued regulator dependence undermines trust. Way Forward Establish a statutorily independent nuclear regulator. Revisit operator liability caps with inflation-indexing. Create uniform statutory supplier liability floors. Ensure transparent accounting for government-run installations. Align governance framework with IAEA safety and independence standards. Dear students, wait, your teacher is on election duty Why is this in News? Editorial critique of routine deployment of government schoolteachers for election-related duties. Renewed relevance amid: Intensifying electoral schedules (frequent elections, by-polls). Learning losses post-COVID and concerns over foundational literacy. Debate on misuse of Article 324 powers and neglect of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance Powers of Election Commission under Article 324. Balance between constitutional bodies and fundamental rights. Implementation gaps in the Right to Education Act, 2009. Administrative ethics and state capacity. GS I – Social Issues Education inequality. Impact on disadvantaged children. Foundational literacy and learning outcomes. Practice Question Critically examine the impact of deploying government schoolteachers for election duties on the right to education and learning outcomes in India.(250 words) Core Issue in One Line India’s democracy relies on teachers for election management, but this comes at the systematic cost of children’s right to uninterrupted education, especially in government schools. Constitutional & Legal Basics Article 324: Empowers Election Commission of India (ECI) to conduct elections. Teachers as “government servants”: Routinely requisitioned for electoral rolls, polling, counting, logistics. Right to Education Act, 2009: Mandates regular schooling and teacher availability. Section 27: Allows deployment of teachers for non-educational duties only for decennial census, disaster relief, and elections. Tension: Constitutional democracy vs constitutional right to education. What Exactly Do Teachers Do During Elections? Preparation and revision of electoral rolls. Booth-level officer (BLO) duties. Training, polling, counting, supervision. Often involves: Long hours. Tight deadlines. Travel to remote locations. Risks: Documented cases of stress-related illness and deaths. Unequal Impact on Children Government vs Private Schools Government schools: Teachers pulled out → classes cancelled. Principals forced to “manage” students without instruction. Private schools: Largely insulated from election duties. Outcome: Discriminatory impact on poorer children. Reinforces educational inequality. Pedagogical Costs Teaching is not mechanical labour. Requires: Planning. Continuity. Classroom presence. Evaluation and feedback. Election duty disrupts: Academic calendars. Examination schedules. Foundational learning, especially at primary level. Editorial insight: Primary school learning gaps cannot be “covered up” later. Governance Paradox Highlighted Teachers are: Trusted to conduct free and fair elections. But not trusted enough to be shielded from non-academic burdens. State perception: Teaching treated as a “soft profession”. Assumption that teachers are “free” for administrative work. Democratic Irony Teachers: Have been pillars of Indian democracy since Independence. Provide electoral legitimacy at the grassroots. Yet: Costs of democracy are externalised onto children, not the state. Children “pay” through lost learning time. RTE Act: Missed Opportunity Original draft (pre-2009): Sought to minimise non-teaching duties. Final Act: Diluted safeguards via Section 27. Supreme Court: Has upheld election duty deployment as constitutional. Result: Legal sanction without pedagogical sensitivity. Ethical & Administrative Concerns Human cost: Teacher burnout, health risks, fatalities. Moral hazard: Easy availability of teachers discourages administrative innovation. Accountability gap: No learning-loss audit linked to election deployment. International Perspective Many democracies: Use dedicated election staff, retirees, or temporary civil services. India: Relies excessively on frontline social-sector workers (teachers, ASHAs, anganwadi staff). Way Forward: Policy Options Create a dedicated election services cadre. Limit teacher deployment to: Poll-day only, not preparatory phases. Compensatory mechanisms: Mandatory academic recovery plans. Additional teaching days. Digitisation: Reduce manual electoral roll burdens. RTE-compliant safeguards: Clear ceilings on non-teaching days per academic year.

Content India’s Position on West Asian Conflicts Infiltration Along India’s Borders and Regulation of the Free Movement Regime AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters and India’s Defence Modernisation Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025: 100% FDI in Insurance Inhalable Microplastics: A New Frontier of Urban Air Pollution Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls and Voter Inclusion Concerns India’s Position on West Asian Conflicts Why is this in News? December 2025: PM Narendra Modi visited Jordan. EAM S. Jaishankar visited Israel. India publicly reiterated its stance on: Israel–Palestine conflict. Wider West Asian instability (Gaza war spillovers, regional escalation risks). Significance: Diplomatic signalling amid polarised global positions. India balancing strategic ties with Israel and traditional support to Palestine & Arab world. Relevance GS II – International Relations India’s West Asia policy: balancing strategic autonomy with issue-based alignment. India–Israel relations vs India’s support for Palestine & Two-State Solution. India–Jordan relations and role of moderate Arab states. India as a balancer power amid polarised global geopolitics. West Asia: Strategic Basics Region includes: Israel–Palestine Jordan, Gulf states, Iran, Iraq, Syria. Importance for India: ~60% of India’s crude oil & LNG imports. 9+ million Indian diaspora. Critical trade routes (Red Sea, Suez). Counter-terrorism cooperation. India’s Traditional Policy on West Asia Core principles: Strategic autonomy. Non-alignment (now issue-based alignment). Support for international law & UN resolutions. Historical pillars: Support for Two-State Solution. Strong ties with Arab states. Since 1992: Full diplomatic relations with Israel. India–Israel Relations: Snapshot Diplomatic ties: Since 1992. Key areas: Defence & weapons systems. Intelligence & counter-terrorism. Agriculture, water technology, innovation. Israel is among India’s top defence suppliers. Post-2017: De-hyphenation of Israel–Palestine policy. India–Jordan Relations: Snapshot Jordan’s role: Custodian of Islamic holy sites in Jerusalem. Moderate Arab state with diplomatic credibility. Cooperation areas: Defence training. Water & renewable energy. Infrastructure and skill development. Jordan often acts as a bridge between Arab concerns and Western diplomacy. Continuity and Change in India’s West Asia Policy Continuity Support for Palestinian cause. Emphasis on diplomacy and restraint. Non-interventionist approach. Change Clearer articulation against terrorism. Open strategic embrace of Israel. Willingness to engage all sides simultaneously. Challenges for India Diplomatic tightrope: Israel vs Arab & Muslim world sentiments. Diaspora safety amid conflicts. Energy security risks due to regional instability. Pressure from: Western allies. Global South expectations. Opportunities for India Mediation potential due to credibility with all sides. Strengthening role in: Humanitarian diplomacy. Conflict de-escalation narratives. Leveraging West Asia for: IMEC corridor. Energy transition cooperation. Infiltration Along India’s Borders Why is this in News? Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) informed Lok Sabha about: 878 infiltrators apprehended along the India–Myanmar border in the last two years. Status of border fencing across Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Pakistan borders. Update followed: Manipur ethnic violence (since 2023). Government decision to regulate (not fully scrap) the Free Movement Regime (FMR). Relevance GS III – Internal Security Border management challenges: porous borders, insurgency, illegal migration. Internal security implications of India–Myanmar border instability. Terrorism, arms trafficking (Pakistan border). Role of forces: Assam Rifles, BSF. Border Infiltration: Basic Understanding Infiltration: Unauthorized cross-border movement of persons. Motivations include: Illegal migration. Ethnic conflict spillovers. Insurgent movement. Economic distress. India shares porous land borders with: Myanmar (Northeast). Bangladesh (East). Pakistan (West). India–Myanmar Border: Key Facts Total length: 1,643 km. Terrain: Dense forests, hills, poor connectivity. Fencing status: Only 9.2 km fenced so far (<1%). Infiltration trend (2014–2025): Sharp rise post-2021 Myanmar coup and post-2023 Manipur violence. Annual arrests rose from double digits → 400+ in 2024–25. Free Movement Regime (FMR): Basics Introduced: 2018. Purpose: Facilitate movement of ethnically linked border communities (Naga, Kuki-Chin groups). Original provision: Visa-free movement up to 16 km across border. Recent Changes in FMR (Regulation, Not Abolition) Announcement (Feb 2024): Entire Myanmar border to be fenced. FMR to be scrapped (political intent). Actual implementation (Dec 2024): FMR regulated, not abolished. Key changes: Movement limit reduced: 16 km → 10 km. 43 designated entry–exit gates notified. Introduction of: Gate passes. Biometric registration. Rationale: Balance security concerns with humanitarian & ethnic sensitivities. Bangladesh Border: Infiltration Snapshot Border length: 4,096.70 km. Fencing status: 79.08% fenced (3,239.92 km). Arrests: 2024: 2,525 2025: 2,556 Nature of infiltration: Economic migration. Illegal stay beyond permits. Not primarily insurgency-driven. Pakistan Border: Snapshot Fencing status: 93.25% fenced. Remaining unfenced: Difficult terrain (riverine, marshy). Infiltration nature: Terrorism-centric. Arms & narcotics trafficking. Security Implications Internal Security  : Nexus between: Illegal migration. Insurgency. Ethnic violence (Manipur). Demographic stress: Local resource competition. Ethnic balance concerns. Governance challenges: Law & order. Refugee vs infiltrator distinction. Government’s Border Management Strategy Physical measures: Accelerated fencing. Smart fencing (sensors, surveillance). Administrative measures: Regulated FMR. Biometric identification. Institutional mechanisms: Assam Rifles (Myanmar border). BSF (Bangladesh & Pakistan). Policy shift: From open-border pragmatism → security-first approach. Challenges Terrain constraints in Northeast. Ethnic ties across borders. Humanitarian concerns (refugees vs illegal migrants). Diplomatic sensitivity with Myanmar. Opportunities & Way Forward Integrated Border Management System (IBMS). Technology-driven surveillance (drones, AI). Clear refugee policy framework. Border-area development to reduce local collusion. Diplomatic engagement with neighbours for coordinated border management. AH-64E Apache Attack Helicopters Why is this in News? Indian Army received the final batch of three AH-64E Apache helicopters, completing its six-helicopter fleet. The helicopters were inducted into the 451 Army Aviation Squadron, based at Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Background: Deal signed in February 2020 with the United States for $600 million. Delivery was delayed by ~15 months due to global supply-chain disruptions. Strategic context: Comes amid high-level India–US defence engagement and review of bilateral cooperation. Relevance GS III – Defence & Security Military modernisation and force multipliers. Role of attack helicopters in conventional deterrence. Jointness and role demarcation between IAF and Army Aviation. Western front preparedness. GS II – International Relations India–US strategic and defence cooperation. Defence technology transfer and interoperability. Implications of foundational agreements (LEMOA, COMCASA, BECA). What is the AH-64E Apache? A heavy attack helicopter designed for: Close air support. Anti-armour warfare. Armed reconnaissance. Operated by: United States Army and several allied forces. AH-64E (“Guardian”) is the latest and most advanced variant. Key Technical Features Role: Multi-role attack helicopter. Capabilities: Precision strike. Night and all-weather operations. Network-centric warfare. Core systems: Advanced fire-control radar. Longbow sensors. Integrated electronic warfare suite. Armament: 30 mm chain gun. Air-to-ground missiles (e.g., Hellfire). Rockets and air-to-air missiles. Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025 Why is this in News? Lok Sabha passed the Insurance Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2025. Key highlight: FDI limit in insurance raised from 74% to 100%. Context: Government push for financial sector reforms under Viksit Bharat vision. Need to improve insurance penetration, capital adequacy, and product innovation. Political context: Bill passed amid opposition protests over foreign ownership concerns. Relevance GS III – Economy Financial sector reforms and insurance penetration. FDI liberalisation and capital inflows. Role of insurance in risk management and economic stability. Reinsurance capacity and systemic risk reduction. GS II – Governance Role and powers of regulators (IRDAI). Legislative reforms and regulatory oversight. Public sector reforms and listing of PSUs. Basics: Insurance Sector in India Insurance in India governed by: Insurance Act, 1938 LIC Act, 1956 IRDAI Act, 1999 Two segments: Life insurance. General (non-life) insurance. Regulator: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Key challenge: Low insurance penetration: ~4% of GDP vs global average ~7%. What is FDI in Insurance? FDI allows foreign entities to: Invest capital. Bring technology and managerial expertise. Evolution of FDI limits: 26% (pre-2015). 49% (2015). 74% (2021). 100% (2025 Bill). Key Provisions of the Bill 100% FDI in Insurance Companies Foreign insurers can: Set up wholly owned subsidiaries. Operate without mandatory Indian joint-venture partners. Conditions: All Indian laws applicable. Full regulatory oversight by IRDAI. Reinsurance Reforms Net Owned Fund (NOF) requirement for Foreign Reinsurance Branches (FRBs): Reduced from ₹5,000 crore → ₹1,000 crore. Objective: Attract global reinsurers. Expand domestic risk-bearing capacity. Reduce premium outflows abroad. Enhanced Powers of IRDAI New powers: Disgorgement of wrongful gains from insurers and intermediaries. Penalty rationalisation: Maximum penalty on intermediaries raised: ₹1 crore → ₹10 crore. Objective: Strong deterrence. Improved compliance and governance. Public Sector Insurance Strengthening Capital infusion: ₹17,450 crore into three public sector general insurers. Structural reforms: Listing of: LIC. GIC Re. New India Assurance. Objective: Market discipline. Transparency. Operational efficiency. Rationale Behind the Reforms Capital constraints in insurance sector. Need for: Better products. Deeper risk coverage. Digital and actuarial expertise. Ease of doing business: Joint ventures often complex and restrictive. Align India with: Global best practices in insurance regulation. Potential Benefits Increased capital inflow. Enhanced competition and innovation. Improved insurance penetration. Better reinsurance availability. Stronger regulatory enforcement and policyholder protection. Concerns and Criticism Foreign dominance fears in a sensitive financial sector. Profit repatriation risks. Public sector insurers’ competitiveness. Regulatory capacity of IRDAI under expanded mandate. Way Forward Phased and monitored implementation. Stronger consumer grievance redressal. Capacity building within IRDAI. Parallel reforms in: Financial literacy. Insurance awareness. Safeguards to protect public interest. Inhalable Microplastics and Urban Air Pollution Why is this in News? November–December 2025: A first-of-its-kind Indian study, published in Environment International, has flagged inhalable microplastics as a serious and overlooked air pollutant. Conducted across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Chennai by IISER Kolkata. Context: Severe winter smog episodes in NCR. Public protests demanding the right to clean air. Key finding: City residents inhale ~132 micrograms of microplastics daily, with Delhi and Kolkata worst affected. Relevance GS III – Environment & Public Health Emerging environmental contaminants. Limitations of AQI and existing pollution frameworks. Urban air pollution and health externalities. Plastic waste management failures. What are Microplastics? Microplastics: Plastic particles <5 mm in size. Inhalable microplastics: Particles <10 micrometres (µm). Small enough to: Bypass nasal filtration. Penetrate deep lung tissue. Source: Primary: Microbeads, synthetic fibres. Secondary: Breakdown of larger plastic waste. Traditional Air Pollution Framework Focus on criteria pollutants: PM2.5, PM10. SO₂, NOx, CO, ozone, lead. AQI: Does not explicitly account for microplastics. Gap: Emerging contaminants like microplastics remain outside regulatory radar. Key Findings of the Study Concentration Levels Average inhalable microplastics (4 cities): 8.8 µg/m³. Daily exposure: ~132 µg per person per day. City-wise exposure: Delhi: 14.18 µg/m³ Kolkata: 14.23 µg/m³ Mumbai: 2.65 µg/m³ Chennai: 4 µg/m³ Seasonal Variation Winter evenings: 32.7 particles/m³ Non-winter evenings: 18.8 particles/m³ 74% increase during winter due to: Temperature inversion. Low wind speed. Poor dispersion. “Trojan Horse” Effect Microplastics act as carriers for: Heavy metals: Lead (highest in Kolkata). Cadmium. Endocrine-disrupting chemicals: Diethyl phthalates. Microbes: Fungi like Aspergillus fumigatus. Antibiotic-resistance genes. Net impact: Amplifies toxicity beyond physical particles. Health Implications Deep lung penetration → chronic exposure. Linked risks: Respiratory diseases. Hormone-related disorders. Cancer. Breast and reproductive health issues. High-risk groups: Traffic police. Construction workers. Urban informal labour. Tyre-wear microplastics: Identified as particularly carcinogenic. Sources of Inhalable Microplastics Urban origins: Tyre wear. Synthetic textiles. Packaging materials. Cosmetics. Construction activities. Household waste. Waste management failures: Open dumping. Burning of plastics. Poor segregation. Why Delhi and Kolkata are Worse Affected High population density. Severe waste mismanagement. Landlocked geography. Adverse winter meteorology. Contrast: Mumbai and Chennai benefit from: Coastal winds. Better atmospheric dispersion. Governance and Policy Gaps AQI framework: Not designed to capture microplastics. Plastic regulation: Weak enforcement of single-use plastic bans. Occupational safety: No specific standards for microplastic exposure. Waste management: Persistent urban governance failures. Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of Electoral Rolls Why is this in News? Draft electoral rolls published after SIR in West Bengal, Rajasthan, Goa, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. 1.02 crore names removed, causing the total electorate to shrink by 7.6%. Trigger: Election Commission of India (ECI) conducted Special Intensive Revision ahead of upcoming elections. Public debate: Concerns over large-scale deletions, transparency, and voter disenfranchisement. What is an Electoral Roll? Electoral Roll: Official list of eligible voters in a constituency. Constitutional basis: Article 324 – Superintendence of elections vested in ECI. Statutory framework: Representation of the People Act, 1950. Purpose: Ensure free, fair, and inclusive elections. What is Special Intensive Revision ? SIR: A comprehensive, door-to-door verification of electoral rolls. Conducted: Periodically or before major elections. Objective: Remove: Duplicate voters. Deceased voters. Shifted or non-resident voters. Add: Eligible but left-out citizens. Differs from: Routine annual revision (more limited, application-based). Key Findings from the 2025 SIR Total electors: Reduced from 13.35 crore → 12.33 crore. Net deletion: 1.02 crore voters. States/UTs affected: West Bengal. Rajasthan. Goa. Lakshadweep. Puducherry. Official reasons for deletion: “Shifted”. “Deceased”. “Untraceable”. Duplicate entries. State-wise Snapshot (Indicative) West Bengal: Largest absolute deletions. Rajasthan: Significant rural and urban deletions. Goa: Notable drop despite smaller electorate. Lakshadweep & Puducherry: Smaller numbers, but high proportional impact. Reasons Behind High Deletions Migration: Seasonal and inter-state mobility. Urbanisation: Address mismatches. Documentation gaps: Failure to submit required forms. Administrative factors: Booth Level Officer (BLO) discretion. Short verification windows. Digital divide: Limited awareness of verification procedures. Democratic Concerns Raised Voter disenfranchisement risk: Eligible voters may be wrongly deleted. Due process issues: Inadequate notice. Limited opportunity for appeal. Impact on vulnerable groups: Migrant workers. Urban poor. Elderly. Women. Political neutrality: Allegations of selective or uneven deletions. Election Commission’s Position Deletions are: Based on field verification. Subject to claims and objections process. Draft rolls: Not final; corrections allowed. Legal safeguards: Re-inclusion possible before final publication. Constitutional & Legal Dimensions Right to vote: Statutory right (not fundamental). Still central to democratic participation. Supreme Court view: ECI must ensure procedural fairness and transparency. Balance required: Roll purity vs inclusiveness. Governance and Federal Issues Centre–State coordination: SIR executed by state machinery under ECI. Trust deficit: Between voters, political parties, and election authorities. Institutional credibility: Directly affects legitimacy of electoral outcomes. Way Forward Improve transparency: Public disclosure of deletion reasons. Strengthen due process: Mandatory notice before deletion. Technology use: Aadhaar-linked but consent-based verification. Awareness drives: Especially for migrants and urban poor. Independent audit: Post-SIR review of deletions and additions.