Content Cabinet approves scheme of Conduct of Census of India 2027 A Sprinting Revival: The Return of the Cheetah Cabinet approves scheme of Conduct of Census of India 2027 Why is this in news? Union Cabinet approved the Census of India 2027 with a financial outlay of ₹11,718.24 crore (PIB, 12 Dec 2025). First fully digital census and first to include nationwide caste enumeration (as per decision of 30 April 2025). Census delayed from 2021 due to COVID; 2027 becomes India’s 16th Census and 8th after Independence. Relevance GS-I: Indian Society Caste enumeration enables updated understanding of social stratification, inequalities, and demographic changes. Migration, literacy, fertility, and religious composition data help assess population dynamics and their impact on society. Urbanisation and housing data reflect changing social patterns, amenities, and living conditions. GS-II: Governance, Constitution & Social Justice Census Act, 1948 → Statutory basis of data governance. Strengthens evidence-based policymaking in health, education, welfare, federal transfers, reservations, and targeted schemes. Enhances cooperative federalism through Centre–State execution, digital monitoring, and training. Real-time digital census contributes to transparency, accountability, and administrative efficiency. What is the census? World’s largest administrative and statistical exercise. Legal basis: Census Act, 1948 and Census Rules, 1990. Provides granular, village/ward-level data on: Housing, amenities, assets Demography, religion SC/ST population Language, literacy, education Migration, economic activity Fertility indicators Structure of census 2027 Two phases Houselisting & housing census: April–September 2026 Population enumeration: February 2027 Exception: Ladakh, snow-bound J&K, HP, Uttarakhand → September 2026 Scale 30 lakh field functionaries deployed nationwide. 1.02 crore man-days of employment generated. Key features and new digital initiatives Digital-first census: Data collected using mobile apps (Android & iOS). Self-enumeration option: Citizens can submit their own data online. CMMS portal: Real-time, nationwide monitoring of enumerators and progress. HLB Creator web mapping: Geospatial mapping of every houselisting block. Census-as-a-service (CaaS): Clean, machine-readable datasets for ministries. Enhanced security protocols: Encryption, authentication, secured digital storage. Caste enumeration: Integrated into the population enumeration questionnaire. Nationwide publicity campaign: Awareness, inclusive participation, last-mile reach. Benefits and governance significance Higher quality & faster data: Digital capture reduces errors and improves speed. Micro-level targeting: Enables accurate beneficiary identification and resource allocation. Support for SDGs: Better planning in health, education, sanitation, gender indicators. Skill development: 18,600 technical personnel trained in GIS, data systems. Improved public access: Data dissemination with dashboards and visualisation tools. Administrative process and implementation Census work conducted by government teachers as enumerators, supervised by a multi-tier structure (district → charge officers → supervisors). Two detailed questionnaires used: Houselisting & housing schedule Population enumeration schedule (includes caste details) State governments appoint most field staff; Centre coordinates design and training. Macro significance Strengthening digital state capacity: Comparable to Aadhaar and UPI in scale. Evidence-based policymaking: Caste + socio-economic data enables redesign of welfare architecture. Cooperative federalism: Requires close Centre–State coordination for staff and real-time reporting. Privacy & data sovereignty debates: Digital census raises issues of consent, encryption, access control. Implications of delay: Policies like delimitation, poverty estimates, population projections were operating on 2011 data; 2027 data will reset baselines. A Sprinting Revival: The Return of the Cheetah Why is this in news? India has reported a revived cheetah population of 30 individuals (12 adults, 9 sub-adults, 9 cubs) as of December 2025. Marks the completion of the world’s first inter-continental translocation of a large carnivore, with 20 cheetahs brought from Namibia and South Africa (2022–23). Birth of second-generation cheetahs in 2025 (Mukhi’s litter of five cubs) signifies ecological success. India is on track to establish a self-sustaining metapopulation of 60–70 cheetahs across 17,000 km² by 2032, with Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary prepared for the next phase. Over 450 Cheetah Mitras, 380 jobs, and 5% eco-tourism revenue are already benefiting local communities. Relevance: GS-III: Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity Species reintroduction programme aligned with IUCN translocation guidelines. Restores a keystone/umbrella species → improves ecological health of grassland & scrub ecosystems. Contributes to SDG-15 (Life on Land) and CBD commitments. Demonstrates success in metapopulation planning, habitat restoration, prey base augmentation. Use of tech such as GPS collars, GIS mapping, distance sampling → scientific wildlife management. Community involvement (Cheetah Mitras, eco-tourism revenue) reflects inclusive conservation. Addresses challenges: human–wildlife conflict, carrying capacity, mortality reduction, genetic viability. What is Project Cheetah? India’s official programme to reintroduce the cheetah, declared extinct in India in 1952. Led by MoEFCC and NTCA, launched on 17 September 2022 when the PM released the first 8 cheetahs in Kuno NP. Based on the 2013 Action Plan, updated in 2022, and implemented as per Supreme Court directions permitting experimental reintroduction. Aligns with CBD mandates and SDG-15 (Life on Land). Uses cheetah as a flagship species to restore India’s grasslands and savanna ecosystems. Historical context: extinction to revival Cheetahs historically ranged across Punjab to Tamil Nadu and Gujarat to Bengal, occupying scrublands, savannas, and semi-arid habitats. Last confirmed sighting: 1947 in Koriya district (present-day Chhattisgarh). Declared extinct in 1952 due to: Over-hunting and coursing Habitat loss from agriculture Decline of prey base Genetic limitations and low reproduction Kuno NP chosen after relocation of 24 villages (1,545 families), creating 6,258 ha of inviolate habitat. Prepared under guidelines of NTCA, WII, and IUCN. Key milestones  Sept 2022: First 8 cheetahs from Namibia released by PM. Feb 2023: 12 cheetahs from South Africa arrive under bilateral MoU. 2023–24: First births in India in 70 years; multiple litters follow. Nov 2025: Botswana gifts 8 more cheetahs; Mukhi (India-born) gives birth to 5 cubs. 2024–25: Phase-wise open releases, expansion beyond Kuno. Objectives and strategic framework Establish a metapopulation of 60–70 cheetahs in the 17,000 km² Kuno–Gandhi Sagar landscape. Restore grassland and semi-arid ecosystems, improving prey availability and ecological functioning. Treat the cheetah as an umbrella species for savanna conservation. Maintain 5% annual population growth toward long-term viability. Phased ecological strategy Start with 12–14 genetically diverse founder animals; supplement as needed. Expand from Kuno’s 748 km² core to 3,200 km² landscape. Link with Gandhi Sagar Sanctuary (368 km²) and wider 2,500 km² potential habitat. Monitoring tools: GPS collars Camera traps Distance sampling (734–816 km transects) Budgeting Phase-1 budget: ₹39 crore, integrated into CSS–Project Tiger, plus additional funds for prey augmentation and infrastructure. Population status 30 cheetahs as of Dec 2025: 11 founder animals 19 India-born individuals Presence of second-generation births (e.g., Mukhi’s cubs) confirms successful adaptation. Community and livelihood impact 450+ Cheetah Mitras trained across 80 villages. Employment creation: 80 local trackers 200 protection staff (“Suraksha Shramik”) Youth trained as safari guides Eco-development works in 100+ villages: roads, water structures, sanitation. 5% eco-tourism revenue shared with local communities. Model aligns with UNEP–CBD community-led conservation principles. International collaboration Formal MoUs with Namibia (2022) and South Africa (2023) for translocation, training, and joint management. Expertise exchange in: Carnivore capture and transport Quarantine and boma design Radio-collaring and post-release protocols Project documented internationally as a case study in rewilding. India’s leadership reinforced through the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA): Global platform for seven big cat species ₹150 crore support up to 2027–28 Strengthens research, technology transfer, and multilateral cooperation Why ecological scientists consider Project Cheetah a success ? Early reproduction indicates stress-free habitat adaptation. Adequate prey base and stable social behaviour observed. Minimal mortality relative to global relocation benchmarks. Clear evidence of site fidelity, territory formation, and sustained breeding cycles. Foundation laid for long-term genetic and demographic stability. Challenges and critical evaluation Ensuring prey augmentation to sustain carrying capacity. Managing human–wildlife interface as populations expand beyond core zones. Addressing collar-related injury risks and refining monitoring tech. Diversifying habitats beyond Kuno to avoid overcrowding and inbreeding. Maintaining political and financial commitment over decades. Significance for India and global conservation Restores an extinct species after 70+ years, a rare global achievement. Revives neglected grassland ecosystems, often overshadowed by forest-centric conservation. Positions India as a leader in rewilding science and large carnivore diplomacy. Enhances India’s environmental soft power through IBCA and CBD frameworks. Provides a replicable model for transboundary species recovery. Conclusion Project Cheetah marks a turning point in India’s ecological narrative—an experiment that has matured into a scientifically validated, community-inclusive revival of a lost species. With breeding success, metapopulation planning, and global partnerships, India has transformed an extinct echo into a living, thriving presence. The cheetah’s sprinting revival is not just a conservation milestone—it is a statement of national commitment to biodiversity stewardship.

Content From Licence Raj to Jan Vishwas, what we need to set our entrepreneurs free The Indian Ocean as cradle of a new blue economy From Licence Raj to Jan Vishwas, what we need to set our entrepreneurs free Why is this in news? The editorial discusses the Jan Vishwas (Amendment of Provisions) Act, a major reform aimed at decriminalising business laws, reducing compliance burdens, and improving ease of doing business. The context includes India’s long struggle with overregulation, inspector raj, and criminalisation of minor business offences. With new measures such as rule simplification, perpetual self-registration, randomised inspections, and performance management of civil servants, the article argues India is moving from a permission-based state to a trust-based governance system. The discussion becomes relevant amid global slowdown, unemployment concerns, and the push for India to become a productivity-driven, innovation-led economy. Relevance GS-II  Governance reforms. Decriminalisation of minor offences. Administrative reforms (randomised inspection, performance management). Policy-making and legislative processes. Role of the state in enabling vs controlling enterprise. GS-III Economic growth and job creation. Ease of doing business. Regulatory reforms in industries and MSME sector. Technology-driven monitoring and compliance. Practice Question  “India’s entrepreneurship crisis is rooted more in regulatory overreach than in lack of enterprise.” Examine in the context of the Jan Vishwas Act.(15 marks) What is the Licence Raj? A system between 1950s–1991 where entrepreneurs required approvals for almost every business decision. Characterised by: Heavy state control over private enterprise Red-tapism and inspector raj Criminal penalties for administrative lapses Restrictions on scale, pricing, production, imports 1991 LPG reforms reduced but did not eliminate the regulatory overhang. The Editorial argues that many “licence raj instincts” still survive within Indian bureaucracy. What is the Jan Vishwas Act?  A legislative reform passed to amend 180+ provisions across 42 laws. Core objectives: Decriminalise minor offences (especially where no harm is caused) Replace jail terms with monetary penalties Enable voluntary compliance Establish perpetual self-registration for many licences Reduce the interface between businesses and inspectors Make the system less adversarial, more trust-driven Areas amended include: environment, agriculture, media, IT, patents, trade, and archival laws. India’s entrepreneurship problem is regulatory, not cultural Indians are naturally entrepreneurial but are held back by: Excessive permissions Criminal penalties for routine errors Opaque decision-making Arbitrary inspections Discretionary powers Example cited: Parents in the 1980s asking “ijazat hai?”—a mindset shaped by prior approval cultures. India suffers from four core regulatory pathologies Prior approval culture Too many activities require prior permission, often discretionary. Over 3,000 forms, licences and permissions required for business activity. This slows down job creation and investment. Compliance overload 1,000+ acts, 58,000 compliances, 26,000 criminal provisions. Entrepreneurs spend excessive time on compliance instead of innovation. Many laws impose criminal liability for technical, non-malicious errors. Criminalisation of economic activity Minor lapses (late filings, non-material compliance errors) can lead to arrest or jail. Creates fear, reduces risk-taking, and pushes MSMEs into informality. Leads to case backlogs in judiciary. Punitive enforcement instead of facilitation Government tends to punish rather than guide. Most cases filed by government are those where no harm has occurred—yet prosecution continues. Only 5% of cases result in conviction, showing systemic inefficiency. Missing priority: non-rule instruments The editorial stresses not just laws (“Acts”) but rules and subordinate legislation (“Act–rules–punishments” chain). India has: 1,600+ central rules 700+ state rules Hundreds of circulars, FAQs, guidance notes Entrepreneurs struggle because while Acts are well-known, rules are numerous and complex. State capacity constraints With 25 million civil servants, the state spends ₹10 lakh crore annually on salaries, but performance is often poor. Emphasis on: Reducing inspector discretion Randomised inspections Third-party evaluation Digitisation The Jan Vishwas Act is a structural leap, not a patch It decriminalises approx. 150+ minor offences. Introduces self-certification, perpetual registration, compounding, and ease-of-compliance norms. Central message: “Government should trust first, verify later, punish only if harm occurs.” Consequences of over-criminalisation Backlogs in courts: 3.4 crore cases. Criminalisation increases fear, costs, and delays. Instead of fostering entrepreneurship, system becomes punitive. Compliance officers spend more time avoiding penalties than creating value. A modern regulatory philosophy required The article proposes three pillars: Aspirational, facilitative state Predictable, transparent rules Proportionate punishments and risk-based regulation This aligns with global norms of smart regulation. Macro significance of reforms Economic Lower cost of doing business. Higher formalisation. Boost to MSMEs and startups. Encourages FDI and global competitiveness. Governance Reduces bureaucratic discretion. Increases regulatory clarity. Frees judicial capacity from low-value cases. Societal Promotes job creation and economic mobility. Reduces harassment of small business owners. Strengthens trust between state and citizen. Conclusion The editorial argues that India’s economic future depends not only on capital and labour, but on creating a regulatory environment that unleashes entrepreneurship. The Jan Vishwas Act is an important step toward shifting India from inspector raj to trust-based governance, reducing criminalisation, and positioning the country for innovation-driven growth. The Indian Ocean as cradle of a new blue economy  Why is this in news? India is emerging as a key player in global ocean governance, with major milestones occurring in 2025–26, including: COP30 (Belém) prioritising ocean-climate linkages. UNOC3 (Nice) outcomes pushing new commitments for sustainable oceans. Entry into force of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. Surge in global blue economy financing, including: €8.7 billion new commitments at BEFF 2025 $20 billion One Ocean Partnership (COP30) India’s preparation to ratify the BBNJ Agreement and potential leadership role in IORA. The article highlights how India, historically a champion of “common heritage of mankind” during UNCLOS negotiations, now stands at a pivotal moment to lead ocean sustainability in the Indian Ocean, the world’s most climate-stressed basin. Relevance GS-III   Blue economy & sustainable development Climate resilience and ocean-based mitigation Marine biodiversity conservation IUU fishing, coral reef loss, coastal degradation Financing sustainable oceans (blue bonds, blended finance) Marine technology transfer and innovation Maritime security through sustainability Practice Question “Security in the Indian Ocean will increasingly depend on sustainability rather than naval power.” Analyse.(15 marks) What is UNCLOS and India’s legacy? UNCLOS (negotiated 1973–82) is the global “constitution of the oceans”. India aligned with small island states, arguing that the international seabed should be a global commons, not controlled by powerful states. India advocated fairness, equity, and resource sharing—strengthening its moral leadership in ocean diplomacy. Post-independence vision: 1950s Nehru recognized seas as central to security and prosperity. India consistently promoted freedom of navigation, sustainable resource use, and equitable ocean governance. Why new ocean leadership is needed now ? Oceans face unprecedented stress: Climate warming Ocean acidification Sea-level rise Illegal, unreported, unregulated (IUU) fishing Habitat & coral degradation The Indian Ocean: Home to 1/3rd of humanity One of the most climate-vulnerable marine regions Key for global shipping, food security, energy routes Hence, India must lead not just law-making but practice-setting. India’s Blue Ocean Strategy — three pillars Stewardship of the commons Promote the Indian Ocean as a shared space, not strategic battleground. Lead efforts on: Marine ecosystem restoration Biodiversity conservation Sustainable fisheries Cooperative resource management Build frameworks that prioritise sustainability over competition. Climate and ocean resilience Establish a Regional Resilience and Ocean Innovation Hub for: Ocean observation systems Early warning systems Climate adaptation technology Technical support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and African littoral nations Inclusive and sustainable blue growth Unlock the Indian Ocean’s economic potential through: Green shipping & maritime decarbonisation Offshore renewable energy Sustainable aquaculture Marine biotechnology Blue bonds and blended finance Ensure benefits reach all littoral states, not just large economies. Financing momentum: Why this moment matters ? Recent global commitments signal an unprecedented expansion of ocean finance: BEFF 2025 (Monaco): €25 billion ocean investment pipeline €8.7 billion new blue finance commitments 20 public development banks pledging $7.5 billion annually Dev Bank of Latin America: doubles blue economy target to $2.5 billion by 2030 COP30 Belém: One Ocean Partnership: $20 billion for ocean action India can now: Mobilise funds Direct financing to Indian Ocean priorities Establish an Indian Ocean Blue Fund for regional projects Security through sustainability: a shift in India’s maritime doctrine Current discourse focuses on: Indo-Pacific Naval competition Freedom of navigation Securing Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs) But the article argues real security threats begin with ecological collapse, not military imbalance. Examples of ecological security threats IUU fishing undermines food security Coral reef loss destroys livelihoods Storm surges intensify Marine ecosystem collapse fuels instability Alignment with SAGAR India’s SAGAR doctrine (2015) positions the Indian Ocean as a: Zone of peace, Stability, and Prosperity for all Not a theatre of geopolitical rivalry. India’s Navy, Coast Guard, and civilian agencies can jointly lead: Marine domain awareness Disaster response Ecosystem monitoring Capacity building for island nations This reframes the Indian Ocean as a zone of responsibility, not dominance. Global governance moment: Why 2026 is pivotal ? Three global processes converge: UNOC3 outcomes BBNJ Agreement entering into force COP30 aligning climate & ocean agendas India’s readiness to ratify BBNJ strengthens its credibility as a leader in: Equitable marine biodiversity conservation Fair access to marine genetic resources Inclusive marine technology transfer Blue carbon and ocean-based climate mitigation Opportunity: India can shape norms for emerging fields like: Green shipping corridors Blue bonds Ocean-based CO₂ removal Fair governance of high-seas resources India’s historic responsibility India has moral authority from its UNCLOS-era leadership. It now has global expectations due to its economic and geopolitical rise. Indian Ocean, cradle of old civilisations, can become cradle of a new blue economy founded on: Sustainability Inclusive prosperity Climate justice Conclusion The editorial argues that India is at a historic juncture: It once shaped global norms through UNCLOS; It can now lead global practice by transforming the Indian Ocean into a model of sustainability, innovation, and shared prosperity. India’s leadership—rooted in ambition, humility, inclusivity, and climate justice—can ensure the Indian Ocean becomes a beacon of cooperation rather than conflict.

Content Census of India 2027 Strengthening India’s Framework Against Fake News and Deepfakes Ozempic (Semaglutide) MGNREGA Likely to be Renamed ‘Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana’ Private Entry in Nuclear Sector & 100% FDI in Insurance Census of India 2027 Why is this in News? Union Cabinet approved the Scheme for Conduct of Census of India 2027 with a financial outlay of ₹11,718.24 crore (PIB, 12 Dec 2025). First fully digital census with self-enumeration, mobile apps, geospatial mapping, and real-time monitoring. First nationwide caste enumeration in independent India (as per Cabinet decision of 30 April 2025). Census postponed from 2021 due to COVID-19; 2027 becomes India’s 16th Census and 8th after Independence. No separate allocation for NPR; government stated no decision yet on NPR update. Relevance GS-I: Indian Society Caste enumeration offers updated insights into social stratification and inequalities. Data on migration, fertility, religious composition → understanding population dynamics. Housing and urbanisation data → trends in living conditions, amenities, and social change. GS-II: Governance and Social Justice Census Act, 1948 provides statutory foundation for population data governance. Enables evidence-based policy in health, education, welfare, reservations, and fiscal transfers. Digital census → higher transparency, accountability, and administrative efficiency. Strengthens cooperative federalism through joint Centre–State operations. What is the Census? World’s largest administrative and statistical exercise. Statutory basis: Census Act, 1948; Census Rules, 1990. Mandatory, confidential, and decennial. Provides granular village/ward-level datasets on: Population composition, religion SC/ST population Caste (2027 onwards) Literacy, education, fertility Economic activity, migration Housing, amenities, assets Languages and demographic transitions Structure of Census 2027 Two-phased operation Houselisting & Housing Census: April–September 2026 Population Enumeration: February 2027 Exceptions (snow-bound): Ladakh, J&K (selected areas), HP, Uttarakhand → September 2026 Scale 30 lakh field functionaries, mostly government teachers. 1.02 crore man-days of employment. Supervision structure: District Collectors → Charge Officers → Supervisors → Enumerators. Key Features and Digital Innovations Digital-first Census Mobile app (Android/iOS) for data collection. Digital identity verification and encrypted storage. Self-enumeration Households can submit data online via a secure portal. CMMS (Census Management & Monitoring System) Real-time tracker of enumerators, progress dashboards, exception flags. HLB Creator Geospatial mapping of every Houselisting Block (HLB) for high geographic precision. Census-as-a-Service (CaaS) Clean, machine-readable datasets for ministries Facilitates automated integration with dashboards Enhanced Cybersecurity Encryption, two-factor authentication, restricted access, audit trails. Nationwide Awareness Campaign Inclusion of migrants, nomadic groups, remote habitations, digital-poor regions. Caste Enumeration Integrated into Population Enumeration Schedule. First time since 1931 (except SECC 2011, which produced non-usable caste data). Administrative Process and Implementation Enumerators: Government teachers conducting survey in addition to regular duties. Detailed training modules on digital tools, GIS mapping, cybersecurity. Two questionnaires: Houselisting & Housing Schedule Population Enumeration Schedule (includes caste) Centre handles design, IT backbone, and training; States deploy field staff → cooperative federalism in execution. Benefits and Governance Significance Higher-quality, faster data Digital capture reduces human error and improves validation. Faster release of tables through automated pipelines. Micro-targeting of welfare Identification of caste groups, vulnerable households, slum populations, migrant clusters. Supports targeted schemes: education, health, nutrition, reservation calibration. Supports SDGs Better indicators on maternal health, sanitation, urbanisation, poverty, gender. Digital state capacity Infrastructure comparable to Aadhaar, UPI in administrative scale. Builds a long-term digital backbone for population statistics. Public access Dashboards, visualisation tools, and machine-readable datasets increase transparency. Comparisons Difference from Earlier Censuses First fully digital census First nationwide caste enumeration Geo-tagged houselisting Self-enumeration Real-time digital audit trails Machine-readable datasets  Policy Significance of Caste Enumeration Enables redesign of OBC reservation matrix. Helps identify intra-group inequalities (dominant vs. marginalised OBCs). Supports evidence-based social justice strategies. NPR, NRC and 2027 Census 2019 NPR budget absent in 2027 allocation. Political sensitivities lowered; technical pathway still possible under Citizenship Rules 2003. Census 2027 remains a standalone demographic exercise. Implications of Census Delay (2011 → 2027 gap) India’s key baselines (poverty, urbanisation, fertility rates, population projections) were outdated. Delimitation post-2026 will require updated population numbers. 2027 dataset will reset national planning parameters. Macro Significance Deepens digital governance capacity comparable to Aadhaar ecosystem. Caste + socio-economic + demographic data → redesign India’s welfare architecture. Strengthens cooperative federalism through joint Centre–State operations. Sparks debates on privacy, data sovereignty, access governance, and algorithmic use of population data. Challenges Digital divide in remote regions. Enumerator workload (teachers juggling dual duties). Cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Political sensitivities around caste data release. Harmonising State-level objections (e.g., to NPR earlier). Tight timelines for training and digital readiness. Strengthening India’s Framework Against Fake News and Deepfakes Why is this in News? Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting Ashwini Vaishnaw told the Rajya Sabha that India has significantly strengthened its framework to combat fake news and AI-generated deepfakes across media platforms. The Minister stated that while Article 19(1)(a) protects free speech, fake news threatens public order, democratic processes, elections, and social harmony. He highlighted the existing statutory and institutional mechanisms: Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act Press Council norms IT Rules, 2021 Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit (FCU) The statement comes against a backdrop of rising AI-enabled deepfakes, misinformation during elections, and regulatory debates over digital platforms. Relevance GS II – Governance Regulation of digital platforms; IT Rules, 2021. Role of statutory bodies: PCI, PIB FCU, Programme Code. Balance between free speech (Art. 19(1)(a)) and reasonable restrictions (Art. 19(2)). Impact on elections, public order, democratic processes. GS III – Internal Security Deepfakes as emerging cyber threat. Misinformation risks to national security & communal harmony. Need for AI-governance, detection tools, cyber-regulation. What is Fake News?  False, misleading, manipulated or fabricated information presented as authentic news. Includes text, images, videos, voice clones, AI-generated content and deepfakes. Deepfakes use AI (GANs, diffusion models) to synthetically modify faces/voices, making false content appear real. Consequences Distorts democratic decision-making. Fuels polarisation, hate speech, violence. Undermines institutional trust. Manipulates markets, public health behaviour, disaster response. Data and Facts  India is among the world’s largest consumers of social media content; misinformation spreads fastest in high-trust WhatsApp ecosystems. 2023 Microsoft Threat Assessment Report called India a “global hotspot” for deepfake proliferation. 65% of Indians surveyed by LocalCircles (2023) reported receiving fake news at least once a day. 2018–2023: Police registered thousands of FIRs under IPC Sections related to misinformation, but conviction rates remain low due to tech complexity. Lok Sabha elections 2024 saw a 300–400% rise in deepfake content, including doctored political speeches. UNESCO 2023: Deepfakes globally are doubling every 6 months. These trends justify the government’s stronger regulatory posture. Constitutional Context Article 19(1)(a) → Freedom of speech and expression. Article 19(2) → Reasonable restrictions: public order, defamation, sovereignty/security of State, decency/morality. Fake news often breaches public order and defamation, framing the basis for regulatory intervention. Statutory Framework to Combat Fake News The Minister emphasised that India already has a broad legal and institutional architecture.  Cable Television Networks (Regulation) Act Content must follow the Programme Code. Prohibits: obscene or defamatory content, “deliberately false” content, half-truths, suggestive innuendos, material harming public order. Three-tier grievance redressal system: Self-regulation by channel Self-regulatory bodies Oversight by government (I&B Ministry)  Press Council of India (PCI) – Print Media Norms of Journalistic Conduct prohibit fake, defamatory, misleading, or sensational reporting. PCI can: issue warnings, censure publications, conduct inquiries, examine complaints. Limited power: cannot impose monetary penalties.  IT Rules, 2021 – Digital News Platforms Code of Ethics for digital news publishers. Three-tier grievance system: Publisher Self-regulatory body Government oversight (Inter-Departmental Committee) Ensures accountability of digital newsrooms and aggregators.  Press Information Bureau (PIB) Fact Check Unit (FCU) Fact-checks government-related news. Can flag false information on: government policies, schemes, official data, public statements. Social media intermediaries often rely on FCU flags for content moderation.  Gaps and Challenges in India’s Anti-Fake News Architecture Reactive, not preventive: FCU checks only government-related claims. Deepfakes are too advanced for current detection capacities. Enforcement asymmetry across States. Limited authentication infrastructure for AI content. High volume of misinformation during elections. Lack of uniform standards for platforms → safe harbour debates under IT Act. Societal vulnerabilities: low digital literacy, echo chambers, linguistic diversity.  Government Initiatives and Strengthening Measures Deepfake Task Force (2023–24) proposed watermarking standards, rapid-takedown protocols, AI-detection tools for law enforcement. Digital India Act (draft) aims to redefine obligations of social media platforms. Fact Check Units expanded across ministries. Awareness campaigns with MeitY, NCERT, MyGov. AI-powered detection through partnerships with IITs and CERT-In. Advisory to platforms to label synthetic media.  International Comparisons  EU Digital Services Act → strict liability for platforms, misinformation takedown timelines. US → free speech centred; limited federal regulation. Singapore POFMA → strong powers to correct/flag misinformation. China → mandatory watermarking for AI-generated content. India’s evolving framework sits between EU-style regulation and US free-speech orientation. Ozempic (semaglutide)    Why is this in News? Ozempic (semaglutide), developed by Novo Nordisk, has become officially available in India. Pricing per weekly dose: 0.25 mg → ₹2,200 0.5 mg → ₹2,542 1 mg → ₹2,794 Approved in India as a first-line therapy for Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) along with diet and exercise. The launch comes amid rising interest in GLP-1 drugs globally for diabetes control and significant weight-loss effects. Relevance GS II – Health & Social Justice Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) burden in India. Regulatory role of CDSCO; drug approvals and pricing. Accessibility and affordability of advanced therapies. Public health challenges: diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular risk. GS III – Science & Technology GLP-1 receptor agonists as modern pharmacological innovation. Biotechnology, AI-assisted drug development, clinical trials. What is Ozempic? Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RA). Active molecule: semaglutide, a long-acting incretin mimetic. Administered once weekly via pre-filled injection pen. Class action: enhances physiological insulin response. How GLP-1 RAs Work? Stimulate glucose-dependent insulin secretion. Suppress glucagon release. Slow gastric emptying, flattening post-meal glucose spikes. Reduce appetite (satiety effect), contributing to weight loss. Improve cardiometabolic risk markers. Why Ozempic Matters for India ? India has ~101 million diabetics (ICMR–INDIAB 2023). Another 136 million are pre-diabetic. India accounts for 1 in 7 adults with diabetes globally. T2DM prevalence increasing rapidly in 20–45 age group. Current Challenges Poor glycaemic control: only ~28% of patients achieve target HbA1c. Obesity and metabolic syndrome rising in urban and semi-urban India. High cardiovascular risk: diabetes contributes to ~30% of heart disease deaths. Relevance of Ozempic More potent lowering of HbA1c vs. many oral agents. Reduces risk of major cardiovascular events in high-risk diabetics. Particularly useful in overweight and obese T2DM patients. Regulatory Status Approved by CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation) for: Adults with Type-2 Diabetes, As first-line therapy, adjunct to diet and exercise. Not approved in India yet for obesity treatment (unlike the U.S. Wegovy version of semaglutide). Pricing and Market Impact India launch pricing places Ozempic in the premium therapy segment. Still significantly cheaper than U.S. retail price (~$900 per month). Advantages of Ozempic Large HbA1c reduction (~1.4–1.8%). Strong, consistent weight loss (~4–6 kg average in diabetes; higher in obesity trials). Proven cardiovascular risk reduction (SUSTAIN-6 trial). Once-weekly dosage improves adherence. Lower hypoglycaemia risk vs. sulfonylureas. Limitations & Concerns High cost limits access for rural and low-income patients. Gastrointestinal side effects (nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea) common initially. Requires injection; may affect acceptance. Risk of supply constraints (global Ozempic shortages 2022–2024). Cannot fully substitute insulin in advanced diabetes. Misuse risk for cosmetic weight loss without medical supervision. MGNREGA Likely to be Renamed ‘Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana’   Why is this in News? Government may rename the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) to “Pujya Bapu Gramin Rozgar Yojana.” Government is also considering increasing guaranteed employment from 100 days to 125 days for eligible rural households. FY25 data shows average employment per household was just 50 days, far below the legally guaranteed 100 days. Only 40.70 lakh households completed 100 days of work in FY24; in FY25 so far, about 6.74 crore households have worked under the scheme. Proposal comes alongside a Finance Ministry approval process related to rebranding and scheme restructuring. A 2022 Rural Development Ministry committee had studied state performance and governance issues under MGNREGA; its report is guiding current changes. Relevance GS II – Governance Rights-based welfare legislation; MGNREGA Act, 2005. Centre–State financial relations; cooperative federalism. Policy redesign, renaming, administrative reforms. MIS, social audits, transparency, wage payments. GS III – Indian Economy Rural distress, labour markets, consumption effects. Fiscal burden, employment guarantees, poverty reduction. Impact of raising guaranteed days from 100 → 125. What is MGNREGA?  Enacted under MGNREGA Act, 2005 — a rights-based, demand-driven wage employment programme. Guarantees 100 days of unskilled work to every rural household (likely to increase to 125). Work must be given within 15 days of demand; else unemployment allowance due. Focus on: water conservation, land development, soil and moisture works, flood control, drought-proofing, rural infrastructure. Gram Sabha and Gram Panchayat central to planning and implementation. India’s Rural Labour Context  FY25 average employment per household: 50 days → underutilisation of the guaranteed entitlement. Households completing full 100 days (previous year): 40.70 lakh. Total households already working in FY25: 6.74 crore. Indicates high demand but limited provision of full entitlements. Persistent mismatch between budget allocations, state delays, and actual rural distress levels. Objectives of the Scheme Provide livelihood security in rural areas. Prevent seasonal migration and income volatility. Support natural resource management and durable asset creation. Promote participatory planning through Gram Sabhas. Enhance rural women’s labour force participation; women constitute ~55% of the workforce. Why Renaming is Being Considered Aligning with Gandhian ideals of rural labour and self-reliance. Government narrative to position rural employment as productive nation-building rather than welfare. Renaming coincides with discussion on increasing guaranteed days to 125, signalling a policy shift. Finance Ministry’s involvement indicates administrative restructuring and budget recalibration. Political messaging: rural employment as core to development agenda. Legal and Administrative Implications Act name remains MGNREGA unless Parliament amends it. Scheme/operational name can be changed via executive notification. MIS, job cards, work demand registers, social audit formats must be updated. States must retrain frontline staff and modify implementation guidelines. Performance Snapshot with FY25 Updates Average days provided: 50 (FY25) → well below guarantee. Households demanding work remain high, reflecting rural distress. Low achievement of 100 days target signals: insufficient funds released on time, rationing of work by states, delays in wage payment, administrative bottlenecks. Social audits and transparency mechanisms uneven across states. Strengths of MGNREGA One of world’s largest employment programmes. Counter-cyclical economic stabiliser (proven in drought years and COVID-19). Enhances women’s earnings and rural empowerment. Builds durable assets (check-dams, ponds, contour trenches, plantations). Strong digital MIS for transparency. Persistent Issues & Governance Challenges Under-provision of work despite high demand (50 days avg.). Delayed wage payments through PFMS. Inadequate annual budget leading to states curbing demand. Aadhaar-Based Payment System (ABPS) glitches. Material-wage ratio rigidity in states with high material costs. Weak social audit compliance in many states. Political resistance to expanding fiscal outlay. Implications of Increasing Guaranteed Days to 125 Positive Higher labour absorption, better income security. Stronger rural consumption effects. Better environmental asset creation. Concerns Significant additional fiscal burden (estimated 20–25% increase). States may struggle with administrative load without capacity enhancements. Possible widening of delays if fund releases do not match demand. Private Entry in Nuclear Sector & 100% FDI in Insurance Why is this in News? The Union Cabinet has cleared private participation in India’s civil nuclear sector and approved 100% FDI in the insurance sector, marking a major reform push. Cabinet approved: A Bill to amend FDI limits in insurance from 74% → 100%. Atomic Energy Bill, 2025 under the SHANTI framework (Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India), allowing private players to participate in nuclear energy activities. The SHANTI Bill aims to add 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047, a transformational expansion aligned with India’s long-term energy security and decarbonisation goals. Government also announced a Nuclear Energy Mission with ₹20,000 crore outlay for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), to be deployed by 2033. Relevance GS II – Governance & Policy Reforming strategic sectors; legislative amendments (Atomic Energy Act). Regulation of insurance sector; IRDAI reforms. Federal implications, institutional capacity. GS III – Economy, Energy & S&T Private participation in nuclear → technology, SMRs, decarbonisation. Energy security, climate commitments (100 GW by 2047). Insurance capital mobilisation, financial deepening, long-term funds. Strategic technology development under SHANTI framework. Background: India’s Nuclear Sector  Atomic Energy Act, 1962 gives the Central government exclusive control over nuclear research, production, and power generation. Private sector participation is currently limited to: Components, EPC works Fuel supply chain (non-strategic parts) Construction services Nuclear liability governed by: Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act, 2010 (CLND Act) Convention on Supplementary Compensation (CSC), which India joined in 2016. India aims for net-zero by 2070, requiring large-scale baseload clean energy; nuclear is crucial due to: low emissions stable load energy security Key Components of the Reform Package Private Participation in Civil Nuclear Energy SHANTI Bill allows private participants in civilian nuclear activities under regulated conditions. Targets: Add 100 GW nuclear capacity by 2047 (current ~7 GW). Accelerate R&D, manufacturing, and deployment of reactors. Allows private sector roles in: reactor construction component manufacturing fuel fabrication (non-sensitive aspects) equipment maintenance operations under regulatory oversight Nuclear Energy Mission for SMRs Outlay: ₹20,000 crore. Goal: Develop at least five indigenous SMRs deployable by 2033. SMRs enable: lower cost faster installation enhanced safety suitability for remote/industrial regions 100% FDI in Insurance FDI limit raised from 74% → 100% to: attract long-term capital increase insurance penetration strengthen solvency and risk-bearing capacity Strategy aligns with expected 7% annual growth in insurance over next five years. Additional Governance Reforms Restrictions on repatriation of dividends and key management roles eased. Chairman/MD/CEO now required to be India-based for improved oversight. Nuclear liability rules may be modified to align with global investor expectations, ensuring clarity on compensation and risk-sharing. Why Private Participation in Nuclear? Current Capacity Constraints India’s nuclear capacity is stagnant at ~7 GW, far behind China (~55 GW) and U.S. (~95 GW). Large capital costs and long construction cycles have slowed expansion. Meeting Climate Targets To reach the projected clean baseload requirement for 2070 net-zero, India needs: diversification beyond solar/wind stable power for industry and grid reliability Private Sector Capabilities Strong EPC, manufacturing, and design capabilities in companies like L&T, BHEL, Tata, Reliance. Capable of reducing project delays and cost overruns. Global Precedent U.S., France, Japan, South Korea all have mixed public–private nuclear ecosystems. Private sector essential for SMRs and next-gen reactors. Expected Benefits of the Reforms For the Nuclear Sector Accelerated capacity addition (100 GW by 2047). Attracts global nuclear technology leaders. Boosts Make in India for nuclear components. Enhances safety through modern designs (SMRs, passive safety systems). Job creation in high-technology sectors. For the Insurance Sector Higher capital inflows → improved solvency norms. Greater competition → better products, digital penetration. Facilitates long-term infrastructure financing through insurance funds. Challenges and Concerns Nuclear Sector Requires amendments to the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. Liability concerns under CLND Act may deter private players. Need for strong regulatory oversight (AERB → possible independent regulator proposed). Public perception and safety concerns persist. High capital cost unless tariff arrangements stabilised. Insurance Sector Total foreign ownership may raise concerns of: capital flight data security prioritisation of shareholder interests over policyholders Need for robust IRDAI oversight. Governance, Federal and Institutional Implications Nuclear policy is Union List – restructuring requires central legislative action. Independent safety tribunal proposed for nuclear sector. Tariff-setting may shift to an independent regulator (like CERC model). For insurance, IRDAI will need strengthened surveillance and consumer protection mechanisms. Macro Significance Reform package marks India’s transition to a high-investment, technology-driven energy future. Positions India competitively in global SMR development. Enhances foreign confidence in India’s financial and strategic sectors. Enables long-term decarbonisation, energy independence, and capital mobilisation.