Content CATCH LIMITS FOR FISHING BEST PERFORMING PANCHAYATS CATCH LIMITS FOR FISHING Why in News ? ICAR–CMFRI recommended Minimum Legal Size (MLS) for key species like pomfret; States advised to enforce via Marine Fishing Regulation Acts (MFRAs) using mesh-size norms and MLS to curb juvenile fishing. Relevance GS III (Environment & Economy)  Sustainable fisheries, marine biodiversity, blue economy, resource governance Links to IUU fishing, climate change, coastal livelihoods, EEZ management Static areas: EEZ, MSY concept, stock assessment, precautionary principle Practice Question “Catch limits and size regulations are essential for ensuring marine sustainability, but enforcement remains India’s biggest challenge.” Discuss in the context of India’s fisheries governance framework.(250 Words) Basics  Legal–Institutional Framework Fisheries managed by States in territorial waters (up to 12 nm) under MFRAs; Centre regulates EEZ (12–200 nm) and issues advisories for conservation-aligned practices. ICAR–CMFRI Role Conducts periodic stock assessments, species-wise advisories, and ecosystem studies guiding MLS, gear regulations, and conservation measures. Minimum Legal Size (MLS) MLS sets size thresholds to prevent capture of juveniles before first maturity, protecting recruitment and spawning biomass. Policy Tools for Sustainable Fishing Gear & Effort Controls Mesh-size regulations reduce juvenile bycatch; bans on Bull/Pair Trawling and LED-light fishing in EEZ curb destructive, high-effort fishing. Spatial Zoning Traditional zones reserved for non-mechanised/small motorised boats; mechanised vessels restricted to reduce conflict and overfishing nearshore. Seasonal Closures Uniform 61-day annual fishing ban on both coasts during peak breeding protects spawning stocks and aids stock rebuilding. Data & Facts  Stock Health 91.1% marine fish stocks healthy per MFSS Report 2022 (latest assessment 2023)—suggests benefits of regulations but needs continued compliance. Species Focus—Silver Pomfret Maharashtra’s ‘State Fish’ to spotlight conservation; notified MLS ~135–140 mm to protect juveniles in breeding grounds. Welfare During Bans Under PMMSY, support of ₹3,000 (Govt) + ₹1,500 (beneficiary); ₹4,500 released during three-month lean/ban period. Blue Economy Linkages Livelihood–Conservation Balance Combining MLS, bans, zoning, welfare transfers aligns income stability with long-term stock sustainability. Habitat Enhancement Artificial Reefs funded under PMMSY improve habitat complexity, fish aggregation, and local productivity in coastal/traditional zones. Challenges Enforcement Gaps Monitoring MLS and gear norms across dispersed fleets is difficult; requires vessel tracking, port inspections, and community co-management. IUU Fishing Risks Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated (IUU) fishing can undermine stock gains and distort data-driven management. Climate Variability Warming seas shift species distribution, affecting stock assessments and MLS relevance over time. Way Forward Science-Led Adaptive Management Update MLS and closures using real-time stock data, climate indicators, and participatory research. Tech-Enabled Compliance Scale VMS/AIS tracking, e-logbooks, QR landing slips for traceability and MLS enforcement. Co-Management Models Empower fisher cooperatives for self-regulation, reporting, and stewardship to reduce IUU and conflicts. BEST PERFORMING PANCHAYATS Why in News ? Ministry of Panchayati Raj (MoPR) announced National Panchayat Awards 2023–25 under Incentivisation of Panchayats (IoP) aligned with Localisation of SDGs (LSDGs), rewarding PRIs with ₹50 lakh–₹5 crore grants. Relevance GS II (Polity & Governance)  73rd Constitutional Amendment, decentralisation, local governance Performance-linked grants, SDG localisation Fiscal decentralisation & accountability Practice Question “Performance-based incentives to Panchayats can deepen decentralisation but may also widen inter-regional disparities.”Critically examine.(250 Words) Basics Constitutional Basis Panchayats derive authority from Part IX (Articles 243–243O); promote democratic decentralisation, local planning, social justice, economic development via elected rural bodies. Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) Centrally Sponsored Scheme to strengthen PRIs’ capacity, infrastructure, and training; supports Panchayat Bhawans, digital systems, institutional development. Incentivisation of Panchayats (IoP) Performance-based competitive grants encouraging outcomes in poverty reduction, health, climate action, governance, livelihoods, water sufficiency. Award Architecture LSDG Alignment Themes mapped to SDGs: poverty, livelihoods, health, WCD, water, climate action, sanitation, infrastructure, social security, governance. Types of Awards DDUPSVP, NDSPSVP, and special categories like Carbon Neutral Panchayat, Gram Urja Swaraj, Climate Action, Atmanirbhar Panchayat. Incentive Size Financial awards from ₹50 lakh to ₹5 crore, tier-based; funds reinvested in local development and model replication. Data & Facts Digital Planning Scale 2,53,992 Gram Panchayats uploaded GPDPs (FY 2025–26), showing near-universal digital local planning adoption. Financial Digitisation PRIs transferred ₹44,000+ crore via eGramSwaraj–PFMS, ensuring real-time payments, reduced leakages, transparent fund flow. Punjab Snapshot 12,807/13,236 GPs service-ready under BharatNet. 759 GP Bhawans, 4,300 computers, 500 CSCs approved under RGSA. Digital Governance Ecosystem eGramSwaraj Platform for planning, accounting, monitoring, online payments; integrated with PFMS for seamless fiscal management. Meri Panchayat App Public access to plans, works, progress, strengthening transparency and social audits. AuditOnline & Panchayat NIRNAY Online audit & Gram Sabha management tools; 13,272 GP audit reports in Punjab (2023–24) generated. Governance Significance Deepening Decentralisation Performance-linked incentives convert PRIs into outcome-oriented local governments, reinforcing subsidiarity and accountability. SDG Localisation LSDGs make Panchayats frontline actors for achieving Agenda 2030 targets. Digital India Convergence BharatNet + CSC 2.0 + e-Panchayat reduce rural digital divide and improve last-mile service delivery. Challenges Capacity Deficit Gaps in data literacy, planning skills, trained manpower affect effective utilisation. Fiscal Dependence Limited own-source revenue, high dependence on grants-in-aid. Inter-State Variations Panchayat is a State subject, causing uneven devolution and support. Way Forward Capacity Building Continuous training in digital governance, SDG planning, financial management. Fiscal Empowerment Strengthen property tax, user charges, local revenue mobilisation. Best Practice Replication Scale award-winning models via peer learning and MoPR platforms.

Content The CPI base revision exercise measures a slice of life The Constitution enters the sanctum The CPI base revision exercise measures a slice of life Source :The Hindu Why in News? CPI Base Revision (2012 → 2024) MoSPI revising CPI base year to 2024 using HCES 2023–24, reflecting new consumption patterns, digital spending, and services share, improving inflation measurement for better monetary policy and welfare indexation. Revision captures structural changes like urbanisation, income growth, platform-based consumption, ensuring CPI mirrors current household budgets and prevents policy errors arising from outdated consumption weights and baskets. Relevance GS III (Economy)   Inflation measurement, monetary policy transmission, real incomes, macroeconomic stability Links to RBI inflation targeting, fiscal policy calibration, poverty estimation, wage indexation Static areas: CPI vs WPI vs GDP Deflator, demand-pull vs cost-push inflation Practice Question “Accurate inflation measurement is as important as inflation control.” Discuss in the context of CPI base revision in India.(250 Words) Basics Inflation — Meaning Inflation is a sustained increase in general price levels, reducing purchasing power and real incomes, especially harming fixed-income earners and poor households, making inflation control a core macroeconomic objective. It differs from temporary price shocks; persistent inflation influences savings, investments, interest rates, and exchange rates, shaping overall macroeconomic stability and growth prospects. Consumer Price Index (CPI) CPI measures retail inflation by tracking price changes in a representative basket of goods and services consumed by households across rural and urban India, reflecting cost-of-living pressures. It converts everyday expenses like food, housing, fuel, and services into a statistical index, linking household experience with official inflation measurement for policy decisions. CPI vs WPI CPI captures retail and services inflation faced by consumers, whereas WPI measures wholesale price movements, largely goods-centric, making CPI more relevant for welfare and monetary policy targeting. RBI prefers CPI because it reflects final consumer prices and service-sector inflation, which dominate modern consumption patterns and directly affect household budgets. CPI Base Year Concept Base Year Role Base year (index = 100) provides a benchmark to compare price changes over time, enabling consistent inflation measurement and long-term trend analysis for policymaking and research. Periodic revision ensures the reference reflects current consumption realities rather than outdated economic structures. Need for Revision Rising incomes, urban lifestyles, digital payments, and service-sector expansion alter spending patterns, making older baskets unrepresentative and distorting inflation signals used for policy calibration. Without revision, CPI risks over- or underestimating real inflation, leading to inappropriate interest-rate and welfare decisions. Features of CPI 2024 Series Updated Weights Weights derived from HCES 2023–24 assign higher importance to services, telecom, and transport, and lower weight to declining-share items, improving representativeness of actual household spending. Reflects diversification of consumption beyond food toward services and lifestyle expenditures. Expanded Basket Basket updated to include emerging services and digital consumption categories, capturing modern lifestyle changes, rising discretionary spending, and platform-based purchases across urban and semi-urban households. Ensures inflation reflects evolving consumption realities. Online Price Inclusion Incorporates online prices for airfares, telecom, and digital services, complementing physical surveys and aligning CPI with e-commerce-driven consumption patterns and dynamic pricing realities. Improves coverage of modern markets. Methodological Upgrades Computer-Assisted Collection CAPI-based price collection reduces manual errors, enables real-time validation, and improves timeliness, strengthening reliability of high-frequency inflation data used in policy decisions. Enhances data accuracy. Administrative Data Use Greater reliance on official sources for rail fares, fuel, postal charges, and PDS prices reduces survey bias and increases precision in regulated-price items. Improves consistency and credibility. Data Integration Integration of survey data, administrative records, and digital prices creates a wider database, enabling cross-verification and improving robustness of inflation estimates. Supports evidence-based policymaking. Policy Significance Monetary Policy Anchor RBI’s flexible inflation targeting framework uses CPI to guide repo-rate decisions, aiming to balance growth and price stability while anchoring inflation expectations. Accurate CPI improves policy transmission. Welfare & Indexation CPI guides DA revisions, pensions, wage contracts, and social benefits, protecting real incomes of salaried and vulnerable groups against inflation erosion. Critical for welfare calibration. Global Comparability Alignment with international standards improves cross-country inflation comparisons while retaining India-specific features, aiding investors and multilateral assessments. Enhances credibility globally. Challenges Informal Market Capture Large informal markets and regional diversity complicate uniform price capture, risking localized mismeasurement and representational gaps in the index. Requires adaptive sampling. Rapid Consumption Shifts Fast-evolving digital economy and changing preferences may outpace revision cycles, necessitating more frequent updates to maintain relevance. Calls for agile statistics. Cost–Quality Trade-off High-frequency, tech-driven data improves quality but requires greater resources, training, and infrastructure investments in statistical systems. Balancing cost and precision remains key. Way Forward Frequent Updates Shorter revision cycles reduce structural bias, ensuring CPI reflects evolving consumption and improves policy responsiveness. Keeps index contemporary. Big Data Integration Leveraging GST data, scanner data, and digital transactions can provide granular, real-time price signals. Enhances timeliness and coverage. Statistical Literacy Public understanding of inflation metrics reduces misinterpretation and builds trust in official statistics. Supports informed discourse. Can we police AI fakes in the age of whizzy tech? Source : Live Mint Why in News? Amended IT Rules, 2026 on AI Content Amended IT Rules 2026 mandate takedowns of non-consensual intimate imagery within 2 hours, other unlawful content within 3 hours, compulsory AI-content labelling, and safeguards against CSAM, explosives, and fraudulent deepfakes. Shift from earlier calibrated restraint to stricter compliance, signalling India’s move toward harder AI regulation amid rising deepfake harms, impersonation frauds, and synthetic content misuse. Relevance GS II — Polity & Governance  Fundamental Rights & Regulation – Article 19(1)(a) vs 19(2): free speech vs reasonable restrictions; proportionality in regulating deepfakes, misinformation, AI harms. Digital Governance : Tests state regulation of Big Tech, platform liability, and IT Act rule-making, reflecting governance in the digital public sphere. GS III — Science & Tech + Internal Security Emerging Technology Governance : AI regulation as frontier S&T governance balancing innovation, ethics, and safety-by-design. Cybersecurity & Information Integrity : Deepfakes threaten elections, national security, and finance, making AI misuse a hybrid security risk. Practice Question “Regulating AI-generated content requires balancing free speech with harm prevention.” Discuss in the context of India’s amended IT Rules, 2026.(250 Words) Basics What is Generative AI? Generative AI creates text, images, audio, or video autonomously using large datasets and models, enabling realistic impersonation and synthetic media that blur lines between reality and fabrication.Expands innovation but raises risks. Deepfakes — Meaning Deepfakes are AI-generated or manipulated media that convincingly mimic real persons’ faces or voices, enabling misinformation, reputational harm, political manipulation, and financial fraud.Major governance concern. Existing Legal Framework IT Act 2000, Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, and IT Rules provide platform liability and data safeguards, but no dedicated AI law exists yet.Regulation remains evolving. Key Provisions  Takedown Timelines Platforms must remove NCII/deepfakes within 2 hours of complaint and other unlawful content within 3 hours of valid orders, creating one of the world’s strictest response timelines.Prioritises harm prevention. Mandatory Labelling AI-generated content must be clearly labelled, aiming to improve transparency and reduce deception in public discourse and political communication.Supports informed consumption. Prohibited Content Controls Platforms must prevent creation or spread of CSAM, explosives-related content, and fraudulent deepfakes, embedding safety-by-design obligations into AI systems.Focuses on high-risk harms. Grievance Redressal User complaints must be resolved within 7 days, strengthening accountability and time-bound remedies.Enhances user protection. Global Comparisons International Benchmarks Germany’s NetzDG mandates 24-hour removal of manifestly illegal content; EU DSA requires expeditious compliance; Australia eSafety allows 24-hour takedowns.India’s deadlines are stricter. Regulatory Trend Democracies are converging on platform accountability and rapid takedowns to address online harms without fully stifling innovation.Balancing act continues. Implementation Challenges False Positives Risk Tight deadlines may push platforms to remove first, verify later, raising wrongful removals and delayed restoration appeals.Risks chilling speech. Contextual Judgement India’s linguistic diversity and cultural nuance complicate automated detection, especially distinguishing satire, art, or political commentary from harmful deepfakes.AI moderation limits exist. Traceability Limits Metadata stripping, watermark degradation, and open-source models reduce traceability; provenance tools may be bypassed by sophisticated actors.Enforcement complexity rises. Surveillance Concerns Traceability mechanisms could expose whistleblowers or lawful speakers, creating privacy and civil-liberty risks if misused.Needs safeguards. Constitutional & Governance Angle Free Speech Balance Article 19(1)(a) protects speech; restrictions under 19(2) must be reasonable, targeting clearly unlawful content like CSAM, fraud, or incitement.Proportionality essential. Due Process Clear definitions, transparency in takedowns, and independent oversight ensure legitimacy and prevent arbitrary censorship.Builds trust. Way Forward Clarity & Definitions Precise legal definitions for deepfakes, NCII, and harmful AI content reduce ambiguity and over-compliance.Improves predictability. Transparency & Appeals Publish takedown statistics, reasons, and swift appeal mechanisms to correct false positives.Strengthens accountability. Tech + Legal Mix Combine cryptographic provenance, watermarking, platform monitoring, and deterrent penalties to raise cost of deception.Layered defence works better. Independent Oversight Empower neutral regulators or appellate bodies to review platform actions, ensuring balanced enforcement.Protects rights

Content Tamil Brahmi inscriptions discovered in Egypt shed light on ancient trade links India gets first ‘musical path’; Mumbai’s Coastal Road plays ‘Jai Ho’ for motorists Have States gained from the 16th Finance Commission? Vande Mataram to be played before National Anthem: govt There are 765 dolphins of six species along Odisha’s coast, latest census reveals Nature’s renewal has slowed down despite rising temperatures: Study Tamil Brahmi inscriptions discovered in Egypt shed light on ancient trade links Source : The Hindu Why in News? 2024–25 Discovery in Egypt Researchers identified ~30 Indian inscriptions (Tamil Brahmi, Prakrit, Sanskrit) in Valley of the Kings tombs, dated 1st–3rd century CE, indicating direct Indian presence in elite Egyptian funerary spaces. Study by Charlotte Schmid (EFEO, Paris) and Ingo Strauch (Lausanne) documented inscriptions across six Theban Necropolis tombs, expanding evidence beyond Red Sea ports into the Nile valley. Relevance GS I — History & Culture Ancient Indian maritime trade, Indo–Roman trade, Sangam age economy, early globalisation Cultural diffusion, epigraphy, Indian Ocean trade networks Correlation between literature (Sangam) and archaeology Practice Question “Recent discoveries of Tamil Brahmi inscriptions in Egypt reframe our understanding of ancient Indian trade networks.” Discuss how archaeological evidence complements literary sources in reconstructing India’s early maritime history. (250 Words) Historical Context Tamil Brahmi Script Tamil Brahmi (c. 3rd century BCE onward) is earliest Tamil writing system, used in trade, donations, and memorial inscriptions across Tamilakam, Sri Lanka, and Indian Ocean networks. Script reflects early literacy, mercantile culture, and mobility of South Indian traders, monks, and artisans in transregional exchange systems. Indo–Roman Trade Background 1st–3rd century CE marked peak Indo–Roman maritime trade, linking Tamilakam’s Malabar and Coromandel coasts with Roman Egypt via monsoon-driven routes. Classical sources like Periplus of the Erythraean Sea and Pliny the Elder note Indian exports—pepper, pearls, ivory, textiles—flowing to Roman markets. Key Findings  Nature of Inscriptions Visitors carved names and short graffiti inside tomb corridors, following established multilingual graffiti traditions dominated by Greek inscriptions documented since 1926. Indian names appear alongside Greek, showing participation in shared commemorative practices by foreign visitors to royal necropolis sites. Repeated Name — Cikai Korran Name “Cikai Korran” appears 8 times across 5 tombs, sometimes at ~4 metres height, suggesting deliberate, visible self-marking by literate visitors. “Korran” linked to Tamil root korram (victory/slaying), associated with Chera warrior culture and goddess Korravai, indicating cultural identity retention abroad. Corroborative Parallels Name elements appear in Berenike sherd (1995) and Pugalur Tamil Brahmi inscriptions (2nd–3rd century CE), aligning Egyptian finds with known Chera-era onomastics. Other names like Kopan, Catan, Kiran match Tamil Nadu epigraphic records, strengthening attribution to Tamilakam visitors. Trade & Cultural Implications Beyond Port Trade Evidence shows Indians travelled beyond Red Sea ports (e.g., Berenike) into Egypt’s cultural heartland, indicating deeper socio-cultural interactions, not mere commercial docking. Suggests merchant mobility along Nile corridors tied to trade logistics, diplomacy, or pilgrimage-like curiosity. Diaspora Footprints Graffiti functioned as identity markers, similar to modern travel inscriptions, revealing presence of an early Indian mercantile diaspora in Roman domains. Reinforces idea of Indian Ocean as a connected commercial-cultural zone. Wider Historical Significance Early Globalisation Evidence Demonstrates people-to-people mobility, linguistic plurality, and cultural exchange in antiquity, predating modern globalisation by two millennia. Highlights Tamilakam as an active node in Afro–Eurasian trade circuits. Reframing Tamil History Moves narrative from regional to transcontinental connectivity, validating Sangam references to Yavanas (Westerners) and maritime wealth. Supports archaeological-economic reading of Sangam literature. Challenges & Cautions Attribution Limits Graffiti are brief and lack occupational details; linking individuals to specific trade guilds or missions requires cautious interpretation. Epigraphy must be corroborated with material culture. Preservation Bias Survival of inscriptions depends on tomb conservation; absence elsewhere may reflect erosion, not absence of Indians. Archaeological record remains partial. Way Forward Interdisciplinary Research Combine epigraphy, archaeobotany, numismatics, and maritime archaeology to map Indo–Mediterranean networks more precisely. Multi-proxy methods improve historical reconstruction. Indian Ocean Studies Strengthen research on monsoon navigation, port archaeology, and trade diasporas to contextualise findings within broader oceanic history.Enhances global history scholarship. India gets first ‘musical path’; Mumbai’s Coastal Road plays ‘Jai Ho’ for motorists Source : The Hindu Why in News? India’s First Musical Road (2026) Mumbai Coastal Road launched India’s first ‘musical path’, where calibrated rumble strips play ‘Jai Ho’ when driven at 60–80 kmph, showcasing innovation in road engineering and behavioural nudges. Implemented by BMC on the Nariman Point–Worli stretch, making India the 5th country globally after Hungary, Japan, South Korea, and UAE to adopt musical roads. Relevance GS III — Science & Tech / Infrastructure Urban mobility innovation, behavioural nudges in public policy Road safety engineering, Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Application of physics in civic infrastructure Practice Question “Behavioural nudges are emerging as effective public policy tools.”Examine the role of behavioural insights in improving urban governance and public safety, citing examples. (250 Words) Basics  What is a Musical Road? A musical road uses precisely spaced rumble strips that generate musical notes through tyre friction and vibration, producing melodies when vehicles maintain designated speeds. Works on physics of vibration frequency and acoustic resonance, converting mechanical motion into audible musical patterns. Rumble Strips — Purpose Traditionally used for speed calming, lane discipline, and driver alerts, rumble strips improve road safety by creating tactile and auditory feedback. Musical adaptation adds behavioural incentives. Technology & Design Engineering Principle Groove depth, width, and spacing determine pitch and rhythm; consistent speed ensures correct melody sequence. Small deviations distort tune, nudging drivers toward steady speeds. Hungarian Technology Base Concept derived from Hungarian road-safety innovation, adapted locally by BMC for Indian traffic conditions and road materials. Demonstrates tech transfer in urban infrastructure. Governance & Policy Relevance Behavioural Public Policy Musical roads apply nudge theory, encouraging voluntary speed compliance without coercive enforcement or penalties. Aligns with behavioural economics in governance. Urban Mobility Innovation Reflects shift toward smart mobility solutions, integrating safety, user experience, and technology in city infrastructure. Supports sustainable urban transport planning. Road Safety Significance Speed Management Designed for optimal listening at 60–80 kmph, indirectly discouraging overspeeding and promoting uniform traffic flow. Complementary to signage and enforcement. Driver Engagement Interactive infrastructure can reduce monotony on long stretches, potentially lowering fatigue-related accidents.Psychological engagement aids safety. Challenges Noise Concerns Repeated musical output may create noise pollution for nearby residents if deployed in dense urban areas. Requires zoning prudence. Limited Impact Scope Effectiveness depends on driver awareness and compliance; reckless drivers may ignore intended speed ranges. Not a standalone solution. Way Forward Pilot-Based Expansion Deploy on expressways, accident-prone corridors, and tourist routes, evaluating behavioural outcomes before scaling. Evidence-based rollout preferred. Integration with ITS Combine with Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS), speed sensors, and signage for holistic traffic management. Enhances impact. Have States gained from the 16th FC?- Explained Source : The Hindu Why in News? 16th Finance Commission Report (2026–31) 16th Finance Commission (Chairman: Dr. Arvind Panagariya) submitted report for 2026–31, and Union government accepted devolution recommendations, reviving debates on fiscal federalism, equity, and efficiency. Introduced State GDP contribution as a new horizontal devolution criterion, signalling gradual shift toward recognising growth and efficiency alongside equity. Relevance GS II — Polity Fiscal federalism, Centre–State relations Constitutional bodies (Art 280, 270) Equity vs efficiency debate GS III — Economy Tax devolution, divisible pool, cess & surcharge issue Political economy of resource distribution Practice Question “Finance Commissions must balance equity and efficiency in fiscal transfers.” Discuss in the context of recent Finance Commission recommendations. (250 Words) Constitutional Basis Finance Commission — Article 280 Article 280 mandates a Finance Commission every five years to recommend tax devolution, grants-in-aid, and measures to strengthen fiscal federalism. Acts as key constitutional body for Centre–State fiscal balance. Tax Devolution — Article 270 Article 270 governs distribution of net tax proceeds between Centre and States through the divisible pool. Operationalises fiscal sharing framework. What Taxes are Shared? Included in Divisible Pool Shared taxes include corporation tax, personal income tax, CGST, and Centre’s share of IGST, forming bulk of sharable revenues. Core revenue-sharing sources. Excluded Taxes Cess and surcharge are excluded from divisible pool; Centre retains full proceeds. For 2025–26, divisible pool ~81% of gross tax revenue after such exclusions. Evolution of Vertical Devolution Pre-14th FC Till 13th FC, vertical share was 32%, with large tied transfers under Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) carrying conditionalities. Limited State autonomy. 14th FC Shift 14th FC raised devolution to 42% and reduced CSS conditional transfers, strengthening fiscal autonomy and cooperative federalism. Landmark decentralisation. Why 41% in 15th FC? 15th FC reduced to 41% due to Jammu & Kashmir reorganisation, where Union Territories do not receive State share. Technical adjustment. Demands by Industrialised States Efficiency Recognition States like Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Telangana sought weight for GDP contribution, arguing contribution to national growth deserves fiscal recognition. Push for efficiency. Income Distance Debate Many developed States opposed excessive weight to income distance, claiming it penalises better performers and disincentivises reforms. Equity–efficiency tension. What 16th FC Recommended? Vertical Devolution Retained 41% share, citing States’ existing tax share, CSS transfers routed to States, and Centre’s needs for defence and infrastructure spending. Status quo maintained. Cess & Surcharge FC held it neither permissible nor desirable to cap or include cess/surcharge in divisible pool under current constitutional scheme. Preserves Union flexibility. Horizontal Devolution Approach Guiding Principles Emphasised gradual changes in State shares and due recognition to efficiency and growth contribution. Avoids fiscal shocks. New GDP Criterion Added State GDP contribution as criterion with moderate weight, creating directional shift without drastic redistribution. Efficiency signal. Distribution Impact Southern and western States’ shares marginally increased, while big northern/central States saw slight decline. Balanced recalibration. Key Observations by 16th FC For the Centre Recommended progressive reduction in reliance on cess and surcharge for transparency and fairness. Encourages clean tax sharing. For States Urged targeted subsidies, power-sector reforms, and fiscal discipline to manage deficits and debt sustainably. Promotes fiscal prudence. PSU Reforms Called for public sector enterprise reforms at both Union and State levels to improve efficiency and fiscal health. Structural strengthening. Governance Significance Fiscal Federalism Reflects balance between equity (redistribution) and efficiency (growth incentives) in India’s cooperative federal framework. Political Economy Devolution debates shape Centre–State relations, regional equity, and development politics. Vande Mataram to be played before National Anthem: govt Source : The Hindu Why in News? MHA Guidelines   Union Home Ministry (MHA) issued fresh instructions stating Vande Mataram should precede Jana Gana Mana when both are played, clarifying protocol, decorum, and occasions for singing/playing. Guidelines uploaded February 6, 2026, without formal announcement, but triggered debate on symbolism, constitutional status, and protocol hierarchy between National Song and National Anthem. Relevance GS II — Polity National symbols, constitutional morality Fundamental Duties (Art 51A) Legal vs moral obligations GS I — Culture Freedom movement symbolism Nation-building and identity politics Practice Question “National symbols play a role in nation-building but can also raise questions of inclusivity.” Discuss with reference to constitutional values. (250 Words) Historical & Cultural Background Origin of Vande Mataram Vande Mataram, composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Anandamath (1882), became a rallying cry in the freedom movement, symbolising devotion to the motherland. Strong nationalist association. Constituent Assembly Position In 1950, Constituent Assembly accorded Jana Gana Mana as National Anthem and recognised Vande Mataram as National Song with equal respect but distinct constitutional status. Political compromise. Constitutional & Legal Status National Anthem Article 51A(a) makes respect for National Anthem a Fundamental Duty; Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971 enforces legal protection.Legally enforceable. National Song No specific constitutional or statutory provision mandates National Song; its status is cultural-symbolic, though officially recognised. Moral respect expected. Key Provisions in Guidelines Order of Playing When both played, National Song precedes National Anthem, reinforcing ceremonial sequencing but not altering constitutional hierarchy. Protocol clarity. Standing Protocol Audience must stand to attention when official version (~3.1 minutes) is sung or played, except during film/newsreel where standing may disrupt proceedings. Practical decorum. Ceremonial Occasions Played on arrival/departure of President or Governor, flag unfurling, cultural and ceremonial functions, and other government-notified occasions. State functions focus. Band & Choir Use Band performances preceded by drum roll; mass singing allowed with trained choirs ensuring coordination and dignity. Structured presentation. Schools Schools may begin day with community singing of Vande Mataram, promoting civic values and patriotic education. Civic culture. Governance & Policy Significance Symbolic Nation-Building Reflects role of national symbols in fostering collective identity, patriotism, and cultural unity. Soft power domestically. Centre–State Coordination Protocols guide uniform practices across States, reducing ambiguity in official ceremonies. Administrative standardisation. Debates & Sensitivities Pluralism Concerns Some communities historically expressed discomfort with certain verses; debate centres on balancing cultural symbolism with inclusivity. Diversity management. Legal vs Moral Duty Unlike Anthem, National Song observance is not legally enforceable, raising questions on voluntary patriotism vs mandated symbolism. Constitutional nuance. Way Forward Sensitivity & Inclusion Promote respectful observance while ensuring pluralistic accommodation and avoiding coercive nationalism. Harmony focus. Civic Education Increase awareness on history and protocol of national symbols, strengthening informed patriotism. Knowledge-based respect. There are 765 dolphins of six species along Odisha’s coast, latest census reveals Source : Down to Earth  Why in News? Record Dolphin Count  Odisha recorded 765 dolphins in 2026, highest in five years, marking an increase of 55 individuals from previous year, credited to conservation, habitat protection, and community participation. Census conducted 20 January 2026 by Odisha Forest Department, showcasing India’s only annual marine dolphin monitoring programme at state scale. Relevance GS III — Environment Marine biodiversity conservation Schedule I species protection Ramsar wetlands (Chilika) Community-based conservation models Practice Question “Scientific monitoring is crucial for wildlife conservation.” Evaluate the role of periodic biodiversity assessments in conservation policy. (250 Words)  Species Composition  Species-wise Numbers Humpback dolphins: 497, Irrawaddy: 208, Bottlenose: 55, Spinner: 3, Finless porpoise: 2, reflecting species diversity along Odisha’s coast and estuaries. Humpbacks dominate coastal waters. Trend Over Time Dolphin numbers rose from 544 (2020–21) to 765 (2026), indicating gradual recovery despite marine ecosystem pressures. Suggests conservation gains. Irrawaddy Dolphin Focus  Status & Protection Irrawaddy dolphin listed under Schedule I, Wildlife Protection Act 1972 and IUCN Endangered, receiving highest legal protection.Flagship conservation species. Chilika Stronghold 159 Irrawaddy dolphins in Chilika, Asia’s largest brackish lagoon and a Ramsar site, making it the world’s largest single-site population. Global significance. Distribution Beyond Chilika Sightings in Balasore (15), Berhampur (13), Puri (12), Rajnagar mangroves (9) show range expansion along Odisha coast. Habitat connectivity important. Conservation Framework Protected Areas Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary hosts 474 Humpback dolphins, also famous for Olive Ridley turtle rookeries. Multi-species conservation zone. Monitoring System Dolphin estimation began in Chilika (2008), expanded coastwide in 2015, using boat and shore transects for scientific accuracy. Long-term dataset. Capacity Building Training on species identification and survey methods builds institutional expertise among frontline staff. Strengthens governance. Governance Significance Model for Marine Conservation Odisha’s annual census seen as a national model for evidence-based marine biodiversity management. Data-driven policy. Community Participation Local fisher engagement reduces conflict and supports habitat stewardship. Co-management success. Challenges Habitat Stress Prawn gheries, nylon fishing nets, and boat traffic degrade habitats and increase bycatch risks. Major threats. Slow Breeding Irrawaddy dolphins have low reproductive rates, limiting rapid population growth. Recovery takes time. Stagnation in Chilika Population stable at 159 for two years, indicating carrying-capacity or disturbance issues. Needs habitat regulation. Way Forward Habitat Regulation Control illegal aquaculture, destructive fishing gear, and pollution in lagoon and coastal zones.Reduce stressors. Technology Use Employ acoustic monitoring, satellite tagging, and GIS mapping for precise tracking.Improves science. Community Incentives Promote eco-tourism and compensation schemes to align livelihoods with conservation. Sustainable approach. Nature’s renewal has slowed down despite rising temperatures: Study Source : Down to Earth Why in News? Nature Communications Study Study from Queen Mary University London, published February 3, 2026, finds species turnover has slowed in many ecosystems over the past century despite accelerating climate change. Challenges assumption that warming automatically speeds biodiversity reshuffling. Relevance GS III — Environment & Ecology Biodiversity loss, ecosystem resilience Climate change vs habitat degradation Ecological regime shifts Practice Question “Climate change is not the only driver of biodiversity change.”Analyse the role of anthropogenic pressures in altering ecosystem dynamics. (250 Words) Basics  What is Species Turnover? Species turnover is the rate at which species disappear and are replaced within ecological communities over time, reflecting ecosystem dynamism, resilience, and adaptive capacity. Core biodiversity indicator. Why Turnover Matters ? Continuous turnover allows ecosystems to adapt to climate shifts, disturbances, and invasions, maintaining functional diversity and stability. Supports resilience. Key Findings Overall Trend Turnover decelerated in significantly more ecosystems than it accelerated, with rates typically declining by ~one-third over the last century. Indicates global pattern. Dataset Scope Analysis used BioTIME database, covering land, freshwater, and marine biodiversity surveys over decades. Large-scale evidence. Community Patterns Slowdown observed in birds, benthic, and mixed communities; fish showed inconsistent signals due to fisheries management distortions. Human pressure factor. Ecological Interpretation Not Climate-Driven Short-term species changes often driven by internal ecosystem dynamics, not directly by climate change. Counters common narrative.  Shrinking Species Pools Environmental degradation reduces regional species pools, limiting new colonisers and slowing community reshuffling. Biodiversity erosion link. Causes of Deceleration Anthropogenic Pressures Habitat destruction, pollution, fragmentation, and overexploitation reduce biodiversity reservoirs necessary for natural turnover. Human footprint dominant. Fisheries Impact Exploited fish communities show distorted turnover patterns due to harvesting and management interventions. Alters natural dynamics. Implications for Ecosystems Reduced Resilience Lower turnover reduces ecosystems’ ability to self-repair and adapt, increasing vulnerability to climate variability. Weakens buffers. Regime Shift Risk Stagnant communities face higher chances of abrupt ecological regime shifts, such as coral collapse or forest dieback. Tipping-point concern. Conceptual Insight “Self-Repairing Engine” Analogy Nature works like a self-repairing engine replacing species over time; slowdown suggests this mechanism is weakening. Powerful exam metaphor. Governance & Policy Relevance Conservation Focus Emphasises restoring habitat quality and connectivity, not just climate mitigation, to sustain biodiversity dynamics. Policy shift needed. Monitoring Importance Long-term biodiversity datasets crucial for evidence-based conservation planning. Science-led governance. Way Forward Habitat Restoration Expand protected areas, corridors, and wetland restoration to rebuild species pools. Enhances colonisation. Pollution & Fragmentation Control Reduce chemical pollution and land-use fragmentation to maintain ecological connectivity. Supports turnover. Sustainable Resource Use Strengthen fisheries and wildlife regulations to reduce overexploitation pressures. Balance use and conservation.