Content: Exponential Growth in Digital Transactions Ayurveda provide new hope for Alzheimer’s Disease Exponential Growth in Digital Transactions Context: India’s exponential growth in digital transactions reflects the nation’s transformative journey toward a cashless economy. Spearheaded by platforms like UPI, IMPS, and NETC FASTag, this digital revolution is an embodiment of financial inclusion and efficiency. Relevance : GS 3(Economy ) Unified Payments Interface (UPI) UPI integrates multiple bank accounts into a single app, enabling seamless fund transfers, merchant payments, and more. Growth Statistics: Transactions in December 2024: 16.73 billion (value: ₹23.25 lakh crore). Yearly Increase (2024): 172 billion transactions (+46% from 2023). Significance: Facilitates secure, instant payments. Empowers small businesses and rural merchants, fostering financial inclusivity. Reduced dependency on cash transactions, aligning with government goals like Digital India. Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) IMPS, operational since 2010, offers 24×7 real-time fund transfers. Accessible via mobile, ATM, internet, and SMS, it caters to both businesses and individuals. Growth Statistics: December 2024: 441 million transactions (value: ₹6.01 lakh crore). November 2024: 407.92 million transactions (value: ₹5.58 lakh crore). Significance: Critical for instant payments across sectors. Supports micro and macroeconomic financial activities. NETC FASTag A cashless toll collection mechanism linked to bank accounts, saving time and fuel at national highways. Growth Statistics: Transactions in December 2024: 381.98 million (value: ₹6,642 crore). November 2024: 358.84 million transactions (value: ₹6,070 crore). Significance: Improves highway infrastructure efficiency. Encourages digital adoption in traditionally cash-heavy sectors Drivers of Growth Policy Push: Initiatives like Digital India and demonetization have catalyzed digital adoption. Introduction of robust financial infrastructures by NPCI. Technological Advancements: Mobile penetration and improved internet connectivity. Simplified user interfaces of digital payment apps. Behavioral Shifts: Increased trust in secure, digital transactions. Growth in rural digital literacy and banking access. Challenges to Address Cybersecurity Concerns: Growing digital adoption increases vulnerability to fraud and cybercrimes. Digital Divide: Access disparities in rural and underdeveloped areas. Infrastructure Gaps: Need for reliable internet and digital literacy in remote regions. Future Outlook Enhanced Digital Ecosystem: Expansion of digital payment platforms and innovations in fintech. Increased Adoption: Government initiatives to incentivize digital transactions and address the digital divide. Global Leadership: India’s success can serve as a model for other nations aiming to transition toward a cashless economy. Ayurveda provide new hope for Alzheimer’s Disease Context : The integration of Ayurveda with modern science helping to develop innovative treatments for Alzheimer’s and neurodegenerative diseases. Relevance : GS 2(Health) Focus: The study targets Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Dementia, and related neurodegenerative diseases. It explores the role of amyloid proteins/peptides in the progression of these diseases. Innovative Approaches: Chemically Synthesized Peptides:Designed to combat amyloid beta (Aβ) aggregation.Demonstrated effectiveness in inhibiting and disaggregating amyloid proteins. Ayurvedic Remedy (Lasunadya Ghrita – LG):Repurposed from traditional Ayurveda for treating amyloid beta 40/42 aggregation.Previously effective in addressing depression-related mental illnesses. Ayurvedic Contributions (LGWE) Important Findings: LG’s water extract (LGWE) disrupts amyloid fibrillation at multiple stages: Initial Stages: Inhibits oligomer formation. Elongation Phase: Disrupts fibrillation process. Demonstrates superior efficacy compared to chemically designed peptides: Breaks amyloid aggregates into smaller, non-toxic, and degradable molecules. Potential Impacts Hope for Alzheimer’s Patients: Promises better management of neurodegenerative diseases. Offers a complementary approach to existing treatments. Strengthening Ayurveda’s Relevance: Highlights the potential of traditional remedies in addressing complex medical challenges. Encourages integrating modern science with traditional knowledge for innovative solutions. Future Implications: May inspire further research into natural remedies for neurodegenerative disorders. Opens avenues for safer, more affordable treatment options. Challenges and Recommendations Challenges: Need for large-scale clinical trials to validate findings. Potential standardization issues in preparing Ayurvedic formulations. Recommendations: Promote interdisciplinary research combining modern science and traditional medicine. Strengthen regulatory frameworks for the integration of Ayurveda in modern healthcare.

Content: India’s real growth rate and the forecast The multiple layers of the Gaza ceasefire Script reading India’s Real Growth Rate and The Forecast Context : First Advance Estimates (FAE) for 2024-25 Real GDP Growth: Estimated at 6.4%, slightly below the RBI’s revised estimate of 6.6%. Nominal GDP Growth: Projected at 9.7%, lower than the Union Budget’s estimate of 10.5%. Half-Yearly Growth: First half: 6% Second half: 6.7%, indicating improvement over Q2 growth of 5.4%. Decline from Previous Year: Real GDP growth dropped from 8.2% in 2023-24 to 6.4% in 2024-25, driven largely by slower manufacturing sector growth (5.3% vs. 9.9% in 2023-24). Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy) Practice Question : Evaluate the reasons for the projected decline in India’s GDP growth rate in 2024-25 and discuss the medium- to long-term prospects for the Indian economy. (250 words) Government Expenditure and Investment Capital Expenditure: Budgeted Target: ₹11.1 lakh crore Achieved in First 8 Months: ₹5.14 lakh crore (46.2%) A shortfall in government investment has significantly impacted overall GDP growth. Importance for Growth: Sustained and accelerated capital expenditure is critical for: Boosting private investment. Driving domestic demand in the face of global uncertainties. Growth Forecast for 2025-26 Real GDP Growth: Likely to stabilize at 6.5%, assuming: Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF) rate remains around 33.4%. Incremental Capital Output Ratio (ICOR) at 5.1. Global Economic Environment: Uncertainty persists, necessitating reliance on domestic demand. Capital Expenditure Growth: Needs to sustain at 20%+ to support private investment and long-term growth. Medium- to Long-Term Projections Real GDP Growth: Steady rate of 6.5% over the next five years. Nominal GDP Growth: Estimated at 10.5%-11%, with inflation around 4% (based on the implicit price deflator). Developed Country Status: Achievable in 2.5 decades if: Growth remains steady. Exchange rate depreciation averages 2.5% per annum. Challenges: Increasing base effect makes higher growth rates difficult in later years. Reason for 2024-25 Dip Slower government capital expenditure growth. Impact of global uncertainties on exports and investments. Transition from the high growth rate of 8.2% in 2023-24 (an outlier year). The Multiple Layers of the Gaza Ceasefire Context: Announcement of the Ceasefire Timing: Declared on January 15, 2025, to take effect from January 19, just before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration. Central Element: Exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners forms the core of the agreement. Mediating Role: Qatar facilitated the negotiations, reflecting its long-standing involvement in regional diplomacy. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations ) Practice Question : Examine the key factors contributing to the recent Gaza ceasefire agreement and analyze its implications for regional stability and international geopolitics. (250 words) Context of the Ceasefire Prolonged Conflict: The ceasefire ends over 15 months of intense conflict following the October 7, 2023, Hamas terror attack. Civilian Impact: Gaza faced extensive destruction, with significant civilian casualties and humanitarian crises. Hamas Statement: Claimed responsibility for securing the ceasefire to stop “Zionist aggression” and end “genocide.” Role of U.S. Leadership Trump-Biden Coordination: Unusual bipartisan effort between outgoing President Joe Biden and incoming President Trump to broker the deal. Political Motives: Trump: Aimed to showcase American strength and deliver on campaign promises. Biden: Attempted to bolster his legacy through a major foreign policy achievement. Israel’s Strategic Calculations Netanyahu’s Position: Historically advocated for complete victory over Hamas. The deal marks a shift in his approach, potentially seen as a political compromise. Political Cost: Netanyahu risks domestic backlash for negotiating with Hamas without achieving total military objectives. Message to Trump: Signals cooperation and resolve, likely anticipating future U.S. support under Trump’s leadership. Hamas and the Broader Palestinian Dynamics Diminished Capabilities: Leadership decapitation operations weakened Hamas and Hezbollah. Recruitment Trends: U.S. assessments indicate Hamas has recruited militants at a pace matching its losses. Political Stagnation: Hamas remains the dominant force in Gaza. Lack of efforts to integrate Hamas into a broader Palestinian political framework undermines prospects for peace. Persistent Challenges Two-State Solution: Both Hamas and Israel oppose the two-state solution despite global advocacy. Fragile Status Quo: Ceasefire may be temporary, as Hamas is likely to resume hostilities. Netanyahu could leverage future Hamas attacks to justify renewed military action with Trump’s backing. Humanitarian and Rebuilding Efforts Critical Aid: Immediate focus on addressing food and medical shortages in Gaza. Rebuilding Gaza: Premature without political reforms in Palestinian governance. Opportunity for Arab powers to reshape and strengthen the Palestinian Authority. Role of the International Community Sustainability of Ceasefire: International actors must ensure the deal remains effective and enforceable. Stability in Gaza is pivotal for broader regional prosperity. Geopolitical Implications: Momentum could impact initiatives like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor and the Abraham Accords. Saudi-Israel normalization prospects hinge on a stable ceasefire. Strategic Takeaways Regional Influence: Arab states and regional powers must lead efforts to stabilize Palestinian politics. Long-Term Peace: Lasting peace remains elusive without addressing core issues like sovereignty, governance, and mutual recognition. Global Cooperation: The ceasefire underscores the need for a concerted international push toward conflict resolution in West Asia Script Reading Context : Indus Valley Civilization (IVC): Flourished during 3000–1500 BCE, spread across modern-day India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. Urban Sophistication: Comparable to Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China in complexity and urban planning. Discovery Milestone: John Marshall, in 1924, brought global attention to the IVC through his archaeological findings. Relevance : GS 1(Culture , Heritage) Practice Question : The decipherment of the Indus Valley script remains one of the greatest puzzles in history. Discuss the challenges faced in decoding the script and its potential implications for understanding the cultural and linguistic history of the region.(250 words) The Puzzle of the Indus Script Unresolved Script: The script on seals and tablets remains undeciphered despite significant archaeological discoveries. Western Criticism: Some scholars argue the symbols do not constitute a formal writing system but are instead proto-symbolic notations. Conflicting Theories: Literate Society: Advocates suggest the IVC was highly literate. Proto-Dravidian Roots: A school of thought links the script to non-Aryan and pre-Aryan proto-Dravidian systems. Tamil Nadu’s Initiative Prize Announcement: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced a $1-million reward for deciphering the script. Cultural Significance: The initiative reflects Tamil Nadu’s belief in a possible proto-Dravidian connection to the Indus script. State-Supported Research: Studies on Tamil Nadu’s Indus signs, graffiti marks, and Tamili inscriptions aim to shed light on potential linguistic links. Challenges in Deciphering Database Accessibility: Limited public access to the seals’ complete database hampers collaborative research. Need for transparency and open databases with contextual details. Scholarly Independence: Research must remain free from political interference to ensure unbiased findings. Regional Collaboration: South Asiancountries must work together to pool resources and expertise. Political tensions may obstruct collaborative efforts, delaying breakthroughs. Potential Benefits of Decipherment Historical Insight: Would offer a deeper understanding of the IVC’s societal structure, governance, and economy. Cultural Identity: Clarifying linguistic roots could strengthen historical and cultural identities in South Asia. Global Relevance: A successful decipherment would elevate the IVC’s significance in global archaeological studies.

Content: Gaza Truce Approved by Israel Security Cabinet Courts Must Not Use Abetment of Suicide Charge Mechanically’ Dying for Black Gold A Signal of Change Russia, Iran Sign Treaty to Deepen Ties in the Face of Western Curbs What is hydroclimate whiplash and how did it fuel the Los Angeles wildfires? Digitisation of farmlands gains pace as 10 million farmers’ digital IDs linked to land records Gaza Truce Approved by Israel Security Cabinet   Context : Ceasefire Agreement: Israel’s Security Cabinet recommended a ceasefire deal with Hamas, pending approval by the full Cabinet. The ceasefire is expected to begin as early as Sunday, after final sign-off. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Hostage Exchange Agreement: Under the deal, 33 out of approximately 100 hostages held by Hamas will be released. In exchange, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. A second phase of negotiations will focus on releasing the remaining hostages, including male soldiers. Mediators’ Role: Qatar and the U.S. played a key role in mediating the agreement. Last-minute delays were blamed on Hamas by Prime Minister Netanyahu. Political Repercussions: The deal faces opposition from Netanyahu’s far-right allies, creating potential instability within the Israeli government. Calls for a lasting ceasefire and withdrawal from Gaza add complexity to the situation. Contextual Background: The October 7 Attack: Hamas launched a cross-border attack into Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking around 250 hostages. This marked the start of the 15-month conflict. Humanitarian Impact: Israeli military operations have resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, with a significant number being women and children. Gaza residents face severe destruction, displacement, and a dire need for humanitarian aid. Military Escalation: Israeli airstrikes continue to inflict casualties, with 72 people killed on Thursday alone. Historically, both sides intensify military actions before ceasefires to demonstrate strength. Immediate Implications: Humanitarian Aid: The ceasefire would allow hundreds of thousands of Palestinians to return home. A surge in humanitarian assistance is anticipated following the truce. Hostage Recovery Operations: Israeli forces are preparing for the return of hostages. Families of captives have been informed about the potential release. Global and Regional Reactions: The conflict has destabilized West Asia and sparked widespread protests globally. Stakeholders continue to monitor developments, urging sustained peace efforts. Challenges Ahead: Second Phase of Hostage Negotiations: Releasing the remaining hostages, including soldiers, is expected to face greater challenges. Hamas demands a full Israeli withdrawal for further releases. Government Stability in Israel: Far-right coalition partners’ resistance to the truce could destabilize Netanyahu’s government. Balancing domestic political pressures and international expectations remains critical. Long-term Ceasefire Prospects: Hamas seeks a lasting ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Israel’s stance on dismantling Hamas and maintaining security control complicates the pathway to peace. Courts must not use abetment of suicide charge mechanically Context: The Supreme Court dealt with a case involving the charge of abetment of suicide under Section 306 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The accused was an employee of a financial company who had demanded the repayment of a loan from a young man, leading to the latter’s suicide. The Madhya Pradesh High Court had rejected the accused’s plea for discharge, but the Supreme Court set aside this decision. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Judiciary) Court’s Ruling: The Supreme Court emphasized that Section 306 (abetment of suicide) should not be applied mechanically or casually by the police. The ruling highlighted that police authorities must carefully examine the facts before invoking this charge, ensuring there is a clear and direct connection between the accused’s actions and the victim’s decision to end their life. Criteria for Abetment: For abetment of suicide to be proven, the accused must have actively instigated or facilitated the suicide. It is not sufficient for the accused to have made a remark in anger or emotion without intent for the consequences to occur. Instigation must involve actions or omissions that created circumstances where the victim felt they had no alternative but to take their own life. Example: A word uttered in anger that did not foresee or intend the outcome would not meet the criteria for abetment. Judicial Caution: The Court advised trial courts to exercise caution and avoid adopting a “play it safe” syndrome by mechanically framing charges. The ruling stressed the importance of ensuring that criminal charges, especially in cases of suicide, are only filed when there is clear evidence of instigation or facilitation. Role of Investigating Agencies: The Supreme Court highlighted the need for investigating agencies to be sensitized to the law under Section 306. Authorities should avoid resorting to the charge as a quick solution to appease the distraught family or public sentiment. Key Observations: Section 306 of IPC and its corresponding provisions in the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 should be invoked with circumspection. It is critical to differentiate between genuine abetment and situations where the deceased acted out of personal distress or other reasons without clear external provocation. Implications: The ruling serves as a reminder to law enforcement and judicial authorities to adhere to the principles of fairness and ensure due diligence before pursuing criminal charges in cases of suicide. This case could set a precedent for more responsible legal processes surrounding the complex issue of suicide and the potential involvement of others in the decision to take one’s life. Help Resources: The DISHA suicide prevention helpline (1056) is a support mechanism for individuals facing suicidal thoughts. This ruling is significant for its emphasis on due process, ensuring that charges are not misused or filed without proper investigation, especially in emotionally charged cases like suicide. What is hydroclimate whiplash and how did it fuel the Los Angeles wildfires? Definition of Hydroclimate Whiplash: Hydroclimate whiplash refers to rapid swings between wet and dry conditions, often exacerbated by climate change. It leads to extremes in precipitation—intensely wet followed by dangerously dry weather. Relevance :GS 3(Disaster Management) Factors in California Wildfires: Wet Season Followed by Dry Conditions:In early 2024, California experienced a wet season, promoting vegetation growth. This was followed by prolonged dry conditions, with severe drought conditions in Los Angeles by January 2025. Drought Impact:36% of California faced moderate to extreme drought, and Los Angeles was under severe to moderate drought. The absence of natural forest regeneration due to lack of rainfall led to overgrown, dry vegetation, increasing fire risks. Santa Ana Winds: The winds, which descend from dry desert areas, compress and warm as they move westward, exacerbating wildfire conditions. Combined with low humidity, high temperatures, and dry vegetation, they facilitate the rapid spread of fires. Role of Hydroclimate Whiplash in Intensifying Fires: Vegetation Growth Followed by Drying:The initial wet season created abundant vegetation, which then dried out due to the subsequent drought, creating a large fuel load for fires. Strong Winds:Santa Ana winds are notorious for driving fire spread. Their combination with dry vegetation during droughts creates explosive wildfire conditions, as seen in the Palisades, Eaton, and Kenneth fires. Global Trends and Future Projections: Increase in Hydroclimate Whiplash:Hydroclimate whiplash has increased globally by 31%-66% since the 20th century. Climate change is accelerating this, and with a 3°C rise in global temperatures, hydroclimate whiplash could increase by 113% in sub-seasonal periods. Impact on California:Experts predict more extreme wet and dry years in California, increasing the frequency and severity of such wildfires in the future. Conclusion: Hydroclimate whiplash, fueled by climate change, significantly contributes to the severity of wildfires in California, creating a cycle of wet and dry extremes that sets the stage for devastating fires like those currently ravaging Los Angeles Dying for black gold Background: On January 6, 2025, a flood occurred at a rat-hole coal mine in Kalamati, Assam, trapping nine miners. As of 10 days later, only four bodies have been recovered, highlighting the challenges in rescue operations and the scale of the disaster. The flood likely occurred due to water accumulation in the mine, a recurring issue during the mining season. Relevance: GS 2(Poverty ),GS 3(Environment ,Disaster Management) Rat-Hole Mining: Rat-hole mining involves creating narrow, vertical shafts up to 250 feet deep, from which coal is extracted through interconnected tunnels. Despite being hazardous and banned in many regions, rat-hole mining continues due to the high financial rewards, often paying miners significantly higher wages than other rural jobs. The mining method is labor-intensive and involves dangerous working conditions with minimal safety measures. The incident underscores the high human cost of the illegal mining practice, which primarily employs vulnerable workers seeking a quick source of income. Risks of Rat-Hole Mining: Asphyxiation: Due to the limited airflow in narrow, enclosed tunnels. Tunnel Collapse: The mines are unstable, with frequent incidents of tunnel collapse leading to fatalities. Drowning: The mines frequently flood during the rainy season, as evidenced by the Kalamati incident. Exposure to Toxic Gases: Lack of ventilation increases exposure to dangerous gases, leading to health risks like asphyxiation or poisoning. Minimal Safety Measures: Miners use only head torches for visibility, and the lack of proper equipment or support systems exacerbates the risks. Mining Season: Timeframe: Mining occurs mainly between November and March when the weather conditions are more conducive to extracting coal. Dewatering Process: Miners first drain water from flooded mines before starting coal extraction. Coal Extraction: Miners use basic tools like pickaxes and shovels to break coal from the walls of the tunnels. The coal is then hauled up using a crane system with metal troughs. Government Response: The Assam Cabinet approved a judicial inquiry to investigate the incident, signaling an attempt to hold accountable those responsible. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) will be formed to further probe the illegal mining activities and identify those at fault. Persistence of Illegal Mining: Supreme Court Ban (2014): A ban was imposed on rat-hole mining in Meghalaya in 2014, but illegal mining continues in both Assam and Meghalaya due to entrenched local networks and corruption. Coal Syndicates: Organized coal syndicates control the mining and transportation of coal. They operate with the complicity of local politicians, law enforcement, and business interests, ensuring that illegal operations remain profitable. Legal Loopholes: The Sixth Schedule and the autonomous councils in the Northeast create a complex governance structure that allows mining activities to continue without effective state intervention. Systemic Issues: Corruption and Collusion: There is widespread collusion between local politicians, landowners, and officials who benefit from illegal mining operations. This undermines any efforts to ban or regulate mining. Tribal Land Ownership: In regions like Meghalaya and Assam, tribal land ownership systems, coupled with autonomy granted to regional councils, complicate enforcement of national laws. Weak Enforcement: Despite legal frameworks, weak governance and local autonomy allow illegal mining to flourish unchecked. Impact on Miners: Income Concerns: Many miners are worried that the Kalamati tragedy will lead to stricter enforcement of the mining ban, reducing their earnings. The high wages, despite the risks, have made rat-hole mining an attractive option for marginalized workers. Cautious Optimism: Some miners express confidence that coal demand will continue, and they plan to return to mining once the situation settles down. However, this highlights the dependency on the mining industry for livelihood in the region. Long-term Sustainability: The reliance on such dangerous and illegal mining practices raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of the region’s labor force and the environmental consequences of continued exploitation of resources. A signal of change Context: In December 2024, Telangana inducted 44 transgender individuals as traffic assistants, a significant move towards inclusivity and formal recognition. Relevance : GS 2 (Social Justice) Challenges and Social Stigma: Many recruits face family rejection, as seen with Sarala and Ishaan, who struggle with identity acceptance and societal norms despite professional success. Impact on Society: The initiative has shifted public perceptions, transforming transgender individuals from marginalized figures to respected authorities. Commuters now greet them with respect and acknowledgment. Government Support and Implementation: Telangana Police Commissioner emphasizes the need for societal integration and better career opportunities for transgender individuals. The Hyderabad Police have been sensitized to ensure respectful onboarding and smooth integration of transgender recruits. Recruits underwent a two-week training, focusing on traffic management, fitness, and job challenges. Economic and Social Benefits: Traffic assistants are paid ₹26,000-₹30,000 per month and receive medical and welfare benefits, offering economic independence to those previously excluded from formal employment. Pilot Project and Future Outlook: The initiative, on a six-month trial, will be evaluated mid-2025 for potential expansion to other government departments. Personal Narratives of Triumph: Recruits like Srivalli, Sania, and Nitya view their roles as symbols of transformation and societal acceptance, marking a shift in social integration. Broader Implications: The success of this pilot could inspire other states to adopt similar inclusive policies, demonstrating the potential for broader societal change through equal opportunities for marginalized communities. Russia, Iran sign treaty to deepen ties in the face of Western curbs Strategic Partnership Treaty: Russia and Iran signed a comprehensive strategic partnership covering trade, military, science, education, and culture. The treaty aims to strengthen ties amid Western sanctions. Relevance : GS 2(International relations) Economic Cooperation: Putin acknowledged current trade and economic cooperation as insufficient, hoping the treaty will boost these areas. Focus on resolving technical obstacles for natural gas exports and transport corridors to Iranian ports in the Gulf. Political Context: Treaty signing occurred before Trump’s inauguration in 2025, who has vowed a tougher stance on Iran. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov denied any link to Trump’s election, saying the treaty was long-planned. Iran’s Commitment: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian described the treaty as a solid foundation for future cooperation. He emphasized resolving regional issues independently, criticizing external forces, particularly the U.S., for causing instability. Military and Regional Cooperation: Russia and Iran have strengthened ties since Russia’s intervention in Ukraine in 2022, with accusations that Iran supplied drones to Russia for use in Ukraine. Historical Ties: Russia-Iran relations have evolved from post-Soviet tensions to a strategic partnership, with Russia building Iran’s nuclear reactors and providing military support. Syria Support: Both countries supported Assad’s regime in Syria but failed to prevent his downfall in 2024, after the opposition’s offensive. Assad fled to Russia. Geopolitical Challenges: Iran’s dependence on Russian support has increased due to economic woes and regional setbacks. Trump’s “maximum pressure” policy could worsen Iran’s situation. Digitisation of farmlands gains pace as 10 million farmers’ digital IDs linked to land records Context : Government Initiative The Union government is linking digital IDs (e.g., Aadhaar) to land records for efficient implementation of agricultural policies. The aim is to create a comprehensive database of farmers for better policy targeting and direct beneficiary transfers. Relevance : GS 2(Governance,Schemes) Scope of the Drive: 10 million farmers across 10 states have been covered in the digitisation process. Kisan Pehchaan Patra: A unique digital ID, known as ‘Kisan Pehchaan Patra,‘ contains details such as: Land holdings Crops grown Other relevant agricultural data. These IDs facilitate easier access to government schemes and benefits through direct transfers. Current Challenges: Landless and Marginal Farmers: Approximately 80% of farmers in India are landless or marginal. It remains uncertain how these farmers will be included in the digitisation drive, as they do not possess land records for linkage. Census Implications: The digitisation effort coincides with the upcoming Census exercise, which is expected to provide more data for the agricultural database.