Content Government Launches “PM RAHAT” – Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Cabinet approves Rs. One Lakh Crore Urban Challenge Fund to Drive Market-Led Urban Transformation Government Launches “PM RAHAT” – Cashless Treatment of Road Accident Victims Why in News ? PM RAHAT launched as a nationwide cashless trauma-care scheme, targeting India’s persistently high road fatalities and institutionalizing Golden Hour treatment, long recommended by road safety and public health experts. Announcement aligns with India’s commitment to UN Decade of Action for Road Safety 2021–2030, where India pledged to reduce road deaths by 50% by 2030, requiring systemic emergency-care reforms. Relevance GS II (Polity & Governance) Article 21 → Right to life includes timely emergency medical care (Paschim Banga case). Centre–State coordination in health + transport. Digital governance in claims and grievance redressal. GS III (Economy / Infrastructure / Disaster Management) Economic loss of road crashes (3–5% of GDP – World Bank). Road safety as part of infrastructure governance. Data-driven identification of black spots. Practice Question Road accidents in India are as much a governance failure as a public health crisis. Examine how schemes like PM RAHAT can address systemic gaps while highlighting their limitations.(250 Words) Background & Rationale Road Safety Burden India recorded 4.61 lakh road accidents and 1.68 lakh deaths in 2022 (MoRTH), averaging ~460 deaths daily, making road crashes the leading cause of death among people aged 18–45 years. World Bank (2021) estimates road crashes cost India 3–5% of GDP annually, reflecting lost productivity, medical expenses, and long-term disability burdens on households and public health systems. Preventable Mortality Indian Journal of Surgery studies indicate 40–50% trauma deaths occur before hospital arrival, mainly due to delayed evacuation and refusal of admission over payment uncertainty and medico-legal concerns. WHO trauma-care guidelines show survival chances rise by over 30% when definitive care is provided within the first hour, validating Golden Hour–focused policy interventions. Key Features Coverage Design Scheme guarantees cashless treatment up to ₹1.5 lakh for 7 days, directly addressing upfront payment barriers that previously forced families to arrange deposits before trauma care in private hospitals. 24-hour (non-critical) and 48-hour (critical) stabilization windows ensure immediate lifesaving care while allowing parallel police verification, preventing treatment denial due to paperwork delays. Universal Applicability Coverage applies to all road categories—national highways, state roads, and rural roads, significant since over 53% deaths occur on rural and non-urban roads (MoRTH) with weak trauma infrastructure. Emergency Access Integration with ERSS 112 strengthens single-number emergency access; states like Telangana and Himachal Pradesh earlier showed faster response times after ERSS integration, reducing pre-hospital mortality. Digital Integration Linking eDAR and TMS 2.0 creates an end-to-end digital chain from accident recording to hospital payment, reducing claim disputes and enabling national-level accident analytics for targeted interventions. Financial Architecture MVAF-based reimbursement reduces hospital reluctance; earlier pilot cashless schemes failed where payment delays exceeded 6–8 months, discouraging private hospital participation. Insurance-funded payments in insured cases internalize accident costs within the risk-pooling system, consistent with “polluter pays” and actuarial principles in motor insurance regulation. District Accountability Placing grievance redressal under District Magistrate-led Road Safety Committees leverages existing statutory bodies, improving enforceability compared to standalone complaint mechanisms lacking administrative authority. Dimensions Constitutional / Legal Directly advances Article 21 as interpreted in Paschim Banga Khet Mazdoor Samity case (1996), where Supreme Court held government must ensure timely emergency medical treatment. Supports Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act 2019 provisions on cashless treatment and victim compensation, operationalizing legislative intent through a structured national implementation mechanism. Governance / Administrative Embodies whole-of-government approach, integrating MoRTH, NHA, state police, insurers, and health departments, reducing siloed functioning that earlier weakened trauma response systems. Time-bound 24–48 hour police authentication creates measurable accountability; digital timestamps reduce discretion and potential harassment, improving hospital and victim trust. Economic Reducing mortality among working-age adults preserves demographic dividend; even 10% fatality reduction can save billions in productivity, given victims are predominantly economically active males. Cashless trauma care prevents families from falling into poverty traps; NSSO health data shows hospitalization is a major cause of rural indebtedness. Social / Ethical Aligns with welfare-state ethics where life-saving care is a public good, not a market commodity, strengthening trust in state capacity among vulnerable road users. Strengthens Good Samaritan ecosystem; earlier Supreme Court guidelines (2016) reduced legal fear, but financial and hospital-admission barriers still discouraged bystander intervention. Technology / Data Governance National accident-treatment database enables evidence-based policy, supporting identification of accident black spots, which already guide targeted engineering corrections under MoRTH programs. Digital claims reduce corruption opportunities seen in manual reimbursement schemes, aligning with Digital India and minimum government–maximum governance principles. Challenges India has fewer than 1 trauma bed per 100,000 population (various health studies), far below WHO suggestions, limiting scheme impact without parallel infrastructure expansion. Risk of inflated billing or staged accidents exists; similar fraud patterns observed globally in motor insurance, requiring AI-based anomaly detection and audit systems. Fiscal sustainability concerns may arise if accident volumes remain high; without strong prevention, compensation-heavy models can strain public finances. Way Forward Combine PM RAHAT with black-spot rectification, stricter enforcement, and safer vehicle standards, since emergency care reduces severity but not accident incidence. Expand Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) training for district hospitals and paramedics, ensuring quality care beyond mere financial coverage. Publish annual PM RAHAT performance reports with metrics on response time, survival rates, and claims, improving transparency and parliamentary oversight. Cabinet approves Rs. One Lakh Crore Urban Challenge Fund to Drive Market-Led Urban Transformation Why in News ? Union Cabinet approved Urban Challenge Fund  with ₹1 lakh crore Central Assistance, shifting India’s urban policy from grant-driven to market-linked, reform-based financing, targeting large-scale private capital mobilisation. Operational for FY 2025–26 to 2030–31 (extendable to 2033–34), UCF operationalises Budget 2025–26 vision of cities as growth hubs and engines of India’s next development phase. Relevance GS I (Urbanisation) Urbanisation as driver of structural transformation. Issues of congestion, sprawl, and redevelopment. GS II (Governance & Polity) Fiscal empowerment of ULBs. Reform-linked transfers and competitive federalism. Digital monitoring and accountability. Practice Question Critically analyse the shift from grant-based to market-linked urban financing in India. Can Urban Challenge Fund strengthen genuine urban decentralisation?(250 Words) Background & Rationale Urbanisation Context India’s urban population is ~35% (Census-based estimates) but contributes over 60% of GDP (World Bank), expected to reach ~40% by 2030, necessitating massive urban infrastructure investment. World Bank (2018) estimated India needs $840 billion by 2036 for urban infrastructure; fiscal resources alone are insufficient, justifying market-linked financing frameworks like UCF. Municipal Finance Gap Indian ULB revenues are barely 1% of GDP, compared to 6–7% in OECD countries, reflecting weak fiscal autonomy and low capacity to finance capital-intensive infrastructure. Fewer than 50 ULBs have accessed municipal bond markets till recently, indicating limited creditworthiness and investor confidence. Core Design of UCF Financing Structure 25% Central Assistance cap, with minimum 50% market borrowing from bonds, banks, or PPPs; balance from states/ULBs, ensuring fiscal discipline and leveraging private capital. Expected to crowd-in ₹4 lakh crore investment over five years, using limited public funds to unlock larger market finance through blended-finance logic. Creditworthiness Support Dedicated ₹5,000 crore corpus to enhance credit profiles of 4,200+ cities, especially Tier-II/III cities lacking prior market access. Credit Repayment Guarantee Scheme offers up to 70% guarantee (₹7 crore cap) for first-time loans, reducing lender risk and improving borrowing terms. Challenge-Based Selection Competitive selection ensures funding for high-impact, reform-committed cities, discouraging entitlement-based transfers and rewarding performance. Fund release linked to milestones, KPIs, and third-party verification, strengthening outcome accountability and reducing misuse. Project Verticals Cities as Growth Hubs Focus on economic nodes, transit-oriented development, and corridor-based planning, aligning with global evidence that integrated land-transport planning raises urban productivity. Supports urban mobility and logistics, critical since Indian cities lose ~₹1.5 lakh crore annually to congestion (MoHUA estimates). Creative Redevelopment Targets CBD renewal, brownfield regeneration, and heritage core revitalisation, improving land-use efficiency in already built-up cities where horizontal expansion is unsustainable. Emphasis on climate resilience and disaster mitigation aligns with rising urban climate risks like floods and heatwaves. Water & Sanitation Strengthens water supply, sewerage, stormwater, and solid waste systems, complementing AMRUT and SBM-U, where service gaps still persist in many cities. Dimensions Constitutional / Legal Dimensions Advances 74th Constitutional Amendment vision of empowered ULBs by strengthening fiscal capacity and functional autonomy through market-based resource mobilisation. Supports Article 243W mandate for devolution of urban functions, linking funds with governance and planning reforms. Governance / Administrative Dimensions Reform-linked financing pushes cities toward digital governance, better accounting, and user-charge rationalisation, addressing chronic inefficiencies in service delivery. Single digital portal for paperless monitoring aligns with Digital India and reduces discretion in fund allocation. Economic Dimensions Urban infrastructure has high multiplier effects; RBI and global studies show infrastructure investment can yield 2–3x economic returns through jobs and productivity gains. Positioning ULBs as a bankable asset class deepens India’s municipal bond market, diversifying domestic capital markets beyond sovereign and corporate borrowing. Social / Inclusion Dimensions Outcome metrics include inclusiveness, service equity, and cleanliness, encouraging cities to invest in universal access rather than elite infrastructure enclaves. Improved urban services disproportionately benefit migrants and informal workers reliant on public infrastructure. Environmental / Climate Dimensions Climate-responsive projects support green infrastructure, TOD, and compact growth, reducing emissions and urban sprawl consistent with India’s climate commitments. Urban areas generate over 70% of global CO₂ emissions (UN estimates); greener cities are central to climate mitigation. Challenges / Criticisms Smaller ULBs may struggle with technical capacity for complex financial structuring, risking unequal access despite guarantee support. Over-reliance on borrowing could stress municipal balance sheets if revenue reforms and user charges remain politically sensitive. PPP experience in urban sectors shows risks of renegotiations and viability gaps without robust contracts and regulatory capacity. Way Forward Build municipal capacity in financial management, project structuring, and credit ratings, possibly through pooled finance and state-level support agencies. Ensure predictable property tax reforms and user-charge rationalisation, as stable revenues are key to debt sustainability. Publish annual UCF performance dashboards tracking leverage ratios, reforms achieved, and service improvements.

Content The UAE-India corridor is sparking a growth story Bridging a divide with an ‘Indian Scientific Service’ The UAE-India corridor is sparking a growth story Source : The Hindu Why in News ? India–UAE bilateral trade crossed $100 billion in 2025, achieving the CEPA 2022 target five years early, prompting a revised target of $200 billion by 2032, signalling accelerated economic integration. Corridor expanding into AI, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and finance, moving beyond traditional energy-diaspora linkage toward a diversified strategic economic partnership. Relevance GS II (IR / Governance) Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2017). Economic diplomacy + diaspora diplomacy. BIT 2024: investor protection, dispute settlement. Corridor diplomacy as part of Link West policy. GS III (Economy / Energy / S&T) Trade >$100B; target $200B by 2032. Logistics cost in India ~13–14% GDP vs global ~8%. UAE sovereign wealth as patient infrastructure capital. Energy security: UAE in crude + LNG basket. AI, fintech, data centres → digital geoeconomics. Supply-chain diversification (China+1). Practice Question  India–UAE ties have moved from energy-dependence to geoeconomic partnership. Analyse the drivers and strategic implications.(250 Words) Background & Evolution Strategic Context UAE is India’s third-largest trading partner and among top FDI sources; relationship upgraded to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2017), deepening economic and security cooperation. India’s Look West / Link West policy and West Asia’s diversification beyond oil have converged, creating strong complementarities in capital, markets, and technology. Policy Architecture CEPA 2022 eliminated tariffs on ~90% tariff lines, improving market access for gems, textiles, engineering goods, and food products, driving rapid trade expansion. Bilateral Investment Treaty (2024) and emerging defence cooperation provide legal certainty and risk protection, crucial for long-term capital flows. Scale of Economic Linkages Trade Non-oil trade reached ~$65 billion with ~20% annual growth, indicating diversification beyond hydrocarbons and stronger value-added trade. UAE is a major hub for India’s re-exports to West Asia and Africa, leveraging Dubai’s logistics ecosystem and free zones. Investment Flows UAE FDI in India >$22 billion since 2000, spanning infrastructure, renewables, logistics, and finance; India among top destinations for UAE sovereign wealth. Indian investment in UAE >$16 billion, reflecting two-way corridor rather than one-sided capital flow. DP World’s additional $5 billion commitment strengthens India’s port-logistics chain, critical as logistics cost in India remains ~13–14% of GDP versus global best of ~8%. Financial Sector Integration Emirates NBD–RBL Bank deal represents one of the largest FDI moves in Indian banking, signalling confidence in India’s financial sector reforms. ADIA base in GIFT City validates India’s ambition to build an international financial services hub comparable to Dubai or Singapore. Diaspora & Connectivity ~5 million Indians in UAE, largest expatriate group, remitting billions annually; UAE consistently among top remittance sources for India (World Bank). 1,200+ weekly flights create one of the world’s densest air corridors, supporting business mobility, tourism, and cargo flows. Diaspora acts as informal economic diplomats, facilitating trust, networks, and SME trade linkages. Sectoral Deepening Energy & Climate Transition ADNOC LNG supply deals with Indian PSUs enhance energy security; UAE remains key in India’s crude import basket. Shift toward low-carbon chemicals and renewables aligns with India’s net-zero 2070 and UAE’s net-zero 2050 commitments. Manufacturing & Infrastructure Reliance–TA’ZIZ $2B+ low-carbon chemicals project shows green industrial collaboration. L&T role in solar-plus-storage megaprojects reflects India’s rising global EPC competitiveness. Ashok Leyland EV shift to UAE signals production internationalisation by Indian firms. Technology & AI UAE appointed world’s first AI Minister (2017) and invests heavily in AI; India leads in digital public infrastructure and IT talent, creating natural synergy. Cooperation in data centres and advanced computing positions corridor within emerging digital geopolitics. Geoeconomic & Strategic Dimensions Corridor supports India’s diversification of supply chains amid global China+1 strategies, giving firms stable West Asian production and logistics bases. UAE’s location connects India to Africa, Europe, and Eurasia, making it a strategic gateway in multimodal corridors like IMEC conceptually. Bharat Mart in UAE can double India’s exports to Africa/West Asia by acting as a wholesale and distribution hub. Constitutional / Governance Angle Supports Article 301 (freedom of trade) spirit in external domain via liberalised trade regimes. Demonstrates economic diplomacy as a governance tool integrating MEA, Commerce Ministry, and financial regulators. Economic Significance External trade is key for India’s target to become a $5–7 trillion economy; high-growth corridors like UAE reduce overdependence on traditional Western markets. Sovereign wealth participation provides patient capital for infrastructure where domestic fiscal space is limited. Social / Soft Power Dimensions Strong diaspora welfare cooperation reflects India’s use of people-centric diplomacy, strengthening bilateral trust. Cultural affinity and religious tourism links add social ballast to economic ties. Challenges / Risks Exposure to West Asian geopolitical volatility and regional conflicts can disrupt trade and energy flows. Overconcentration in a few Gulf markets may create vulnerability if diversification is not pursued. Regulatory and data–governance differences may complicate digital and AI cooperation. Way Forward Expand cooperation in semiconductors, green hydrogen, fintech, and food security corridors. Institutionalise corridor governance with periodic review mechanisms and dispute-resolution frameworks. Use UAE as a springboard for Africa outreach, aligning with India’s Global South diplomacy. Bridging a divide with an ‘Indian Scientific Service’ Source : The Hindu Why in News ? Renewed debate on creating an Indian Scientific Services (ISS) to integrate scientific expertise into policymaking, as governance increasingly deals with climate change, AI, biotechnology, and disaster risks requiring domain knowledge. Discourse highlights mismatch between Central Civil Services (Conduct) Rules, 1964 and needs of scientific work, reviving calls for structural reform in science–policy interface. Relevance GS II (Polity & Governance) Generalist vs specialist debate in civil services. Evidence-based policymaking. Institutionalising science–policy interface. Regulatory governance in environment, health, AI. GS III (S&T / Environment / Security) Climate policy, AI governance, biosecurity need domain expertise. Disaster risk reduction requires scientific inputs. Innovation-led growth tied to science governance quality. Practice Question Critically examine the need for a dedicated Indian Scientific Service in the context of technology-driven governance.(250 Words) Background & Context Legacy of Generalist Model Post-Independence India adopted a generalist civil service model for nation-building, ensuring neutrality and continuity, but not designed for today’s technology-intensive and risk-driven governance challenges. Generalist dominance worked in early developmental state phase, but modern governance requires specialised regulatory and technical decision-making in environment, health, energy, and digital sectors. Expansion of Technical Governance India’s policy domains now include climate commitments, nuclear safety, biotechnology regulation, AI governance, and disaster resilience, all requiring continuous scientific input, not episodic consultancy. IPCC-driven climate policymaking, pandemic responses, and nuclear regulation globally show decisions rely heavily on institutionalised scientific expertise. Current Institutional Mismatch Recruitment & Career Pathways Scientists enter through advanced degrees, peer-reviewed research, and domain expertise, unlike exam-based recruitment of administrators, creating divergent professional cultures within government. Absence of structured scientific career tracks in ministries reduces incentives for long-term policy research and domain specialisation. Service Rules & Professional Autonomy Scientists governed by CCS Conduct Rules, 1964, prioritising hierarchy and neutrality, whereas scientific culture depends on questioning, peer scrutiny, and evidence-based dissent. Without formal protection, scientists may avoid recording risk or uncertainty, weakening evidence-based policymaking. Advisory vs Institutional Role Scientific advice often remains ad-hoc and crisis-driven, seen during pandemics or disasters, rather than embedded in routine policy cycles and regulatory processes. Overreliance on short-term expert committees limits institutional memory and continuity. International Comparisons Advanced Country Models US Scientific Integrity Policies protect researchers from political interference, mandate transparency, and prevent suppression of findings, strengthening trust in science-based decisions. UK, France, Germany, Japan maintain specialised scientific cadres and advisory systems within ministries, ensuring domain experts influence regulation and standards. OECD governance studies show countries with strong science-policy integration perform better in environmental regulation and innovation governance. Constitutional / Legal Dimensions Supports Article 51A(h) duty to develop scientific temper, extending it from society to state institutions and governance processes. Strengthens Article 21 indirectly by improving policy quality in public health, environment, and disaster management affecting right to life. Governance / Administrative Dimensions Dedicated scientific cadre can improve regulatory quality, risk assessment, and foresight, reducing policy reversals and litigation arising from weak technical grounding. Clarifies division: administrators handle coordination and implementation; scientists provide evidence and risk evaluation, improving decision legitimacy. Economic Dimensions Evidence-based regulation reduces costly policy errors in sectors like energy, environment, and pharma; regulatory uncertainty often deters investment. Innovation-driven growth requires credible science governance; countries leading in R&D show stronger science–policy linkages. India spends only ~0.7% of GDP on R&D (DST data), far below advanced economies, making efficient use of scientific capacity crucial. Social / Ethical Dimensions Transparent scientific advice builds public trust, critical during crises like pandemics or climate disasters where misinformation can spread rapidly. Ethical governance requires acknowledging uncertainty and risk honestly rather than suppressing inconvenient evidence. Environmental / Security / Tech Dimensions Climate adaptation, biodiversity protection, and AI regulation require long-term scientific assessment beyond electoral cycles. National security increasingly linked to technology domains like cyber, space, and biosecurity, where scientific literacy in governance is essential. Proposed ISS Framework Possible Cadres Suggested cadres include Environmental & Ecological, Climate & Atmospheric, Water & Hydrological, Marine & Ocean, Public Health & Biomedical, Disaster Risk, Energy & Resources, S&T Policy, Agricultural Systems, Regulatory Science. Specialised cadres enable domain continuity and institutional expertise, similar to technical services in railways or defence. Recruitment & Evaluation National-level selection plus peer review and research credentials can ensure merit-based scientific recruitment. Performance metrics could include research output, policy impact, and risk assessment quality rather than generic ACR formats. Challenges / Criticisms Risk of bureaucratisation of science if excessive hierarchy or paperwork burdens researchers. Coordination issues may arise between ISS officers and IAS-led administrative structures without clear role definitions. Fiscal and institutional costs of creating new cadres may face resistance. Way Forward Begin with pilot scientific cadres in high-impact ministries like Environment, Health, and Energy before full-scale rollout. Enact scientific integrity guidelines protecting evidence-based advice while preserving democratic policy authority. Strengthen science-policy fellowships and lateral entry as transitional measures.

Content Death Sentences in India: Fewer Confirmations, Higher Acquittals Ambiguities in the U.S.–India Trade Deal Bio-based Chemicals and Enzymes: India’s Bioeconomy Push India Adds 50,000+ MW Power Capacity: Renewable Surge AI Impact Summit 2026: India & Global AI Governance LHS 1903 Planetary System Discovery RBI Plan to Compensate Victims of Digital Fraud Death Sentences in India: Fewer Confirmations, Higher Acquittals Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief As of 31 Dec 2025, 574 prisoners (550 men, 24 women) on death row — 43.5% rise since 2016, indicating growing imposition at trial stage despite low final confirmation. ~45% death row prisoners for murder; ~37% for murder with sexual offences, showing concentration in aggravated violent crimes. NALSAR Death Penalty Report (2025) notes rising removal from death row since 2020 due to appellate courts’ reluctance to confirm capital punishment. Only 8.31% death sentences upheld by High Courts; Supreme Court confirmed none in last 3 years, showing systemic dilution at higher judiciary. Signals concerns on evidence quality, procedural fairness, and rights protection at trial level. Relevance GS-II (Polity & Governance) Judiciary, criminal justice system, due process Role of higher judiciary in protecting fundamental rights Legal aid and access to justice B. Static Background Constitutional & Legal Basis Article 21 permits deprivation of life by “procedure established by law” → constitutional basis for death penalty. Bachan Singh vs State of Punjab (1980): Introduced “rarest of rare” doctrine, making death penalty an exception. Machhi Singh vs State of Punjab (1983): Elaborated aggravating vs mitigating factors framework. Death penalty provided under IPC/BNSS for offences like terrorism, waging war, rape-murder, etc. C. Key Dimensions Judicial Trends 1,310 death sentences (last decade) by Sessions Courts → high trial-level imposition. Out of 842 cases reviewed, only 70 confirmed by HCs → strong appellate correction. 34.65% HC decisions led to acquittals, indicating serious trial-stage errors. Highest acquittal rates: Patna HC – 78.31% Karnataka HC – 50.46% Jharkhand HC – 46.97% Criminal Justice System Insight Pattern suggests over-reliance on capital punishment at trial stage, followed by appellate reversals. Reflects investigation gaps, weak legal aid, coerced confessions, and forensic limitations. D. Critical Analysis Structural Concerns High acquittal rates imply possible wrongful convictions, undermining fairness in irreversible punishment. Trial courts may award death penalty under public pressure in heinous crimes, later corrected by higher courts. Long death row incarceration creates “death row phenomenon” — psychological torture recognised in jurisprudence. Rights Perspective Global human rights discourse increasingly views death penalty as violative of right to life and dignity. Law Commission 262nd Report (2015) recommended abolition except for terrorism-related offences. Deterrence Debate Empirical studies globally show no conclusive proof that death penalty deters crime more than life imprisonment. NCRB data show crime trends not directly correlated with capital punishment frequency. E. Way Forward Strengthen forensic infrastructure and investigation quality to reduce wrongful convictions. Mandatory mitigation investigation reports before awarding death penalty (as SC suggested in recent rulings). Improve legal aid quality at trial stage; many death row prisoners are socio-economically vulnerable. Consider legislative re-evaluation of death penalty scope in line with Law Commission suggestions. Promote victim-centric justice models focusing on restitution and speedy trials rather than symbolic severity. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers Death penalty constitutional under Article 21. “Rarest of rare” doctrine – Bachan Singh (1980). Law Commission 262nd Report recommended partial abolition. Supreme Court confirmation required for execution. Mains Practice Question (15M) “The declining confirmation of death sentences by higher courts indicates deeper structural issues in India’s criminal justice system.”Critically examine in light of recent death penalty statistics. Ambiguities in the U.S.–India Trade Deal Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief India and U.S. moved toward an interim trade deal (2025–26) after prolonged tariff tensions; comes when bilateral trade already crossed ~$190–200 billion (FY24, USTR/GoI data), making U.S. India’s largest trading partner. U.S. imposed 25% tariff hikes on select imports and an additional 25% tariff threat linked to Russian oil purchases, blending trade policy with geopolitical leverage. U.S. cuts tariffs to 18% on Indian goods; India reportedly indicated ~$500 billion purchase intentions over 5 years in energy, defence, and tech, aimed at narrowing the U.S. trade deficit and stabilising ties. Domestic debate intensified due to possible concessions on agriculture, GM foods, and NTBs, raising farmer-income and food-security concerns. Relevance GS-II (International Relations) India–U.S. bilateral relations Trade diplomacy and strategic autonomy Geoeconomics and foreign policy B. Static Background Trajectory of India–U.S. Trade Bilateral goods & services trade: ~$120 bn (2016) → ~$191 bn (2023–24) Target often discussed: $500 bn by 2030 (joint ambition statements). U.S. accounts for ~18% of India’s exports (largest single-country destination), especially in IT services, pharma, gems & jewellery, engineering goods. India runs a goods trade surplus (~$30–35 bn) with the U.S., a recurring U.S. concern. Disputes GSP withdrawal (2019) affected ~$6 bn of Indian exports. Section 232 (steel/aluminium) and 301 tariffs created friction. Multiple disputes filed at WTO (e.g., ICT products, steel tariffs). C. Key Dimensions 1) Tariffs & Market Access U.S. average applied tariffs: ~3–4% overall, but higher on specific sectors (textiles, footwear, agri). India’s average tariffs: ~17–18% (WTO data); higher in agriculture (30–40%+ in some lines). Interim deal discussions focus on: Lower Indian duties on nuts, apples, medical devices, select agri. Better U.S. access for Indian textiles, leather, and engineering goods. Example: Earlier tariff cuts on U.S. almonds and apples were used as confidence-building measures. 2) Agriculture Sensitivity Agriculture supports ~45% of India’s workforce but contributes ~15–16% of GDP → high livelihood sensitivity. U.S. provides large farm support: $20–30 bn annually in farm subsidies (OECD estimates vary by year). Creates price competitiveness against Indian smallholders. India’s red lines: Dairy, cereals, pulses, edible oils, and GM foods. Example: India kept dairy largely out of RCEP, showing consistent defensive stance. 3) Energy & Strategic Trade U.S. already among India’s top LNG suppliers: U.S. share in India’s LNG imports rose from ~5% (2017) to ~15%+ in some recent years. Russian oil: Share in India’s crude imports jumped from <2% (pre-2022) to ~35–40% in 2023–24 due to discounts. Linking tariffs to Russian oil purchases introduces geoeconomics into trade, potentially constraining India’s diversification strategy. 4) Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs) & GM Foods U.S. repeatedly flags India’s SPS measures and lengthy approvals as NTBs. India restricts GM food imports citing: Biosafety Environmental risks Farmer dependency on patented seeds Example: GM mustard debate in India shows domestic sensitivity to biotech crops. D. Critical Analysis Opportunities Improved access to U.S. market benefits: Textiles & apparel (~$10 bn+ exports to U.S.) Pharmaceuticals (U.S. takes ~30–35% of India’s pharma exports) Energy deals diversify supply and support India’s role as a major energy consumer economy. Trade cooperation complements strategic ties in QUAD, iCET, semiconductor and defence tech cooperation. Risks Import surges can depress prices for MSP-backed crops: Example: edible oil import liberalisation earlier hurt domestic oilseed farmers. Policy space erosion: FTAs may constrain future use of tariffs for infant industry protection. Strategic autonomy: Trade conditionalities on energy sourcing blur line between commerce and geopolitics. Asymmetric bargaining: U.S. GDP ~$27 trillion vs India ~$4 trillion → power imbalance in negotiations. E. Way Forward Use tariff-rate quotas (TRQs) for sensitive agri products. Strengthen domestic competitiveness via logistics, storage, and value chains rather than only tariffs. Institutionalise stakeholder consultations with states & farmer bodies before commitments. Diversify export destinations to avoid overdependence on a single market. Separate trade diplomacy from geopolitical pressure points to preserve autonomy. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers U.S. = India’s largest trading partner. GSP withdrawal – 2019. WTO terms: AoA, SPS, TBT often tested. Section 232/301 = U.S. unilateral trade tools. Mains Practice Question (15M) “India’s trade negotiations increasingly reflect a balance between export ambition, farmer protection, and strategic autonomy.”Examine in the context of recent India–U.S. trade developments. Bio-based Chemicals and Enzymes: India’s Bioeconomy Push Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief Bio-based chemicals are produced from renewable biomass (sugarcane, corn, agri-residue) using fermentation or enzymatic processes, offering lower carbon footprint vs petrochemicals. India has prioritised the sector under Department of Biotechnology’s BioE3 Policy (2024) — Biotechnology for Economy, Environment, Employment. India still imports key intermediates; e.g., ~$480 million acetic acid imports in 2023, showing petrochemical dependence and opportunity for bio-alternatives. Global push for net-zero and circular bioeconomy is driving demand for green chemicals, sustainable fuels, and industrial enzymes. Relevance GS-III (Science & Technology) Biotechnology, industrial bioprocessing Innovation-led growth sectors GS-III (Environment) Circular economy Low-carbon industrial transition Waste-to-wealth B. Static Background What are Bio-based Chemicals? Industrial chemicals derived from biomass instead of fossil fuels, including: Organic acids (lactic, acetic) Bio-alcohols (ethanol, butanol) Bioplastics & solvents Used in plastics, cosmetics, pharma, textiles, packaging. What are Enzymes? Biological catalysts enabling reactions at lower temperature & pressure, reducing energy use by 10–30% in some industrial processes (IEA estimates for bioprocessing). Key sectors: Detergents Food processing Pharmaceuticals Biofuels Policy Framework BioE3 Policy (2024): Focus on bio-manufacturing and green growth. Links with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Net Zero 2070 goals. Related initiatives: National Biofuel Policy PLI schemes in chemicals & specialty materials SATAT for bio-CNG C. Key Dimensions 1) Economic Potential Global bio-based chemicals market: Estimated $110–120 billion, projected to grow at ~10–12% CAGR (industry estimates). Enzyme market: Global size $12–15 billion, dominated by Novozymes (Denmark) and DSM (Netherlands). India’s enzyme market: Consolidated; top players hold >75% share. 2) Resource Advantage India produces 500+ million tonnes of agri-residue annually, much underutilised or burned. Strong sugar industry: India among top 2 global sugar producers, enabling ethanol and biochemicals. 3) Industrial Base Major Indian players: Praj Industries – biofuels & biochemicals. Godavari Biorefineries – bio-based chemicals & ethanol. Advanced Enzyme Technologies, Rossari Biotech – industrial enzymes. 4) Environmental Gains Bio-based chemicals can reduce lifecycle emissions by 30–80% vs petrochemicals (EU bioeconomy studies). Support circular economy and waste-to-wealth models. D. Critical Analysis Opportunities Reduces import dependence on petrochemicals. Creates new markets for farmers via biomass value chains. Aligns with global ESG investment flows toward green manufacturing. Risks / Constraints Cost disadvantage vs fossil-based chemicals when crude prices are low. Limited bioprocessing infrastructure: Few bio-foundries, pilot plants, scale-up facilities. Technology gaps: Advanced enzymes and fermentation tech often imported. Market adoption: Downstream industries reluctant without price parity. E. Way Forward Scale shared bio-manufacturing infrastructure (bio-foundries, pilot plants). Offer green procurement incentives for bio-based products. Support R&D-industry linkages via DBT and BIRAC. Develop standards & certification for bio-based products. Integrate with carbon markets and green finance. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers BioE3 Policy – DBT initiative. Enzymes reduce energy need in industry. Bio-based chemicals derive from biomass, not fossil fuels. India major agri-residue producer. Mains Practice Question (15M) “Bio-based chemicals and enzymes can transform India’s industrial ecosystem from fossil-dependent to bio-economy driven.”Discuss opportunities and challenges. India Adds 50,000+ MW Power Capacity: Renewable Surge Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief India added 52,537 MW generation capacity in FY 2025–26 (till Jan 31) — highest-ever annual addition, surpassing previous record 34,054 MW (FY 2024–25). Addition equals ~11% increase over last year’s base capacity, indicating accelerated infrastructure build-out. 39,657 MW (≈75%) of new capacity from renewables, led by 34,955 MW solar and 4,613 MW wind. India’s total installed capacity now at 5,20,510.95 MW (≈520.5 GW), reflecting rapid energy-sector expansion. Relevance GS-III (Infrastructure & Energy) Power sector, renewable transition Grid stability and storage GS-III (Environment) Climate commitments (Panchamrit) Decarbonisation pathway B. Static Background India’s Power Mix – Structural Context Current installed capacity share: Renewables (incl. large hydro): ~50.5% (2,63,189 MW) Fossil fuels: ~48% (2,48,541 MW) Nuclear: ~1.6% (8,780 MW) India is the 3rd-largest electricity producer and consumer globally (IEA). Electricity demand growing ~6–7% annually due to urbanisation, EVs, cooling demand, and industrial growth. Policy Framework Driving Growth National Electricity Plan (CEA) projects ~900 GW capacity by 2032 to meet demand and climate goals. Panchamrit commitments (COP26): 500 GW non-fossil capacity by 2030 50% energy from renewables Net Zero by 2070 Key schemes: PLI for solar modules Green Energy Corridor PM Surya Ghar Rooftop Solar ISTS charge waivers for renewables C. Key Dimensions 1) Solar Dominance 34,955 MW solar added in one year: Nearly equals total solar capacity addition of many countries annually. India already among top 5 global solar markets. Falling solar tariffs: Utility-scale tariffs reached ₹2–2.5/unit range in recent bids, improving competitiveness. 2) Wind Sector 4,613 MW wind addition shows revival after slow years. Offshore wind policy and hybrid projects (solar-wind-storage) gaining traction. 3) Energy Transition Signal Renewables now largest share in installed capacity, a structural shift from coal dominance a decade ago. In 2014: Renewables share was ~30% or less (including hydro). Coal dominated >60%. 4) Grid & Storage Implications Higher RE penetration requires: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) Pumped hydro Smart grids CEA estimates India may need ~27 GW storage by 2030. D. Critical Analysis Opportunities Reduces fossil import bill: India imports ~85% of crude oil and significant coal. Supports climate diplomacy credibility. Creates green jobs: Solar & wind sectors labour-intensive in installation phase. Challenges Installed capacity ≠ actual generation: Coal still provides ~70% of actual electricity generation due to higher PLFs. Land acquisition and transmission bottlenecks slow RE deployment. DISCOM financial stress affects payment security to RE developers. E. Way Forward Accelerate storage deployment for grid stability. Reform DISCOMs under RDSS scheme for financial viability. Promote domestic manufacturing of modules, cells, and batteries. Integrate green hydrogen with renewable growth. Strengthen interstate transmission for RE-rich states. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers India = 3rd largest power producer globally. 500 GW non-fossil target by 2030. Renewables now >50% of installed capacity. Nuclear share ~1–2%. Mains Practice Question (15M) “India’s rapid renewable capacity addition is transforming its energy landscape, but structural challenges remain.”Examine. AI Impact Summit 2026: India & Global AI Governance Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief AI Impact Summit 2026 hosted by India at Bharat Mandapam (Feb 16–20) — first time the global AI summit is hosted in a Global South country, signalling India’s growing AI diplomacy role. Participation from ~100 countries, 20+ heads of state/government, and global tech CEOs like Sundar Pichai, Sam Altman, Demis Hassabis, showing high geopolitical-tech convergence. Event includes India AI Impact Expo with 300+ exhibitions, 3,000+ speakers, and expected 2.5 lakh visitors, making it one of the largest AI gatherings globally. India positions summit around “human-centric AI” and equitable access rather than heavy regulation-first models. Relevance GS-II (International Relations) Tech diplomacy Global governance of emerging tech India as Global South voice GS-III (Science & Tech) AI ecosystem, compute infrastructure DPI model and AI applications B. Static Background Global AI Governance Context Previous AI summits hosted by: UK (Bletchley Park, 2023) South Korea France Global debate split between: EU-style regulation-first approach (AI Act) U.S.-style innovation-led governance China’s state-driven AI model India advocates inclusive AI governance for Global South, aligned with its Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) diplomacy. India’s AI Ecosystem India among top 5 AI talent pools globally (Stanford AI Index, recent editions). MeitY-backed IndiaAI Mission (~₹10,000+ crore outlay approved in 2024) focuses on: Compute infrastructure Datasets Startups Skilling India has 100,000+ AI professionals and one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems. C. Key Dimensions 1) Geopolitical Significance AI seen as strategic technology shaping economic and military power. Hosting summit boosts India’s soft power similar to: G20 Presidency 2023 Voice of Global South Summits Engagement from Brazil, France, UAE, African and Latin American states indicates South–South tech diplomacy. 2) Economic & Innovation Impact Global AI market projected to reach: $1–1.5 trillion by 2030 (PwC/McKinsey estimates). AI could add ~$500 billion to India’s GDP by 2025–30 period (industry estimates). AI-driven productivity gains expected in: Health Agriculture Education Governance 3) Human-Centric AI Approach Focus on People, Planet, Progress: AI for climate modelling Smart agriculture Public service delivery Aligns with India’s DPI model: Aadhaar UPI CoWIN 4) Tech Diplomacy & Standards Early participation in AI standards can prevent rule-setting dominance by developed nations. Opportunity to shape global norms on ethics, data governance, and access to compute. D. Critical Analysis Opportunities Positions India as bridge between tech powers and developing world. Boosts domestic AI startup visibility and investment. Enhances India’s claim as trusted tech partner. Concerns / Risks Compute gap: Advanced AI requires high-end GPUs; global supply concentrated in few firms. Data governance: Balancing innovation with privacy under DPDP Act 2023. Skill gap: Large talent pool but uneven advanced research capacity. Ethical debates and reputational risks around controversial attendees can politicise events. E. Way Forward Invest in national AI compute infrastructure and semiconductor ecosystem. Promote open datasets for public-good AI. Strengthen AI skilling under Skill India Digital. Develop balanced AI regulation ensuring safety without stifling startups. Lead Global South AI coalition for equitable access. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers IndiaAI Mission – MeitY initiative. EU AI Act = regulation-first model. AI summits earlier in UK, Korea, France. DPI model = Aadhaar, UPI, CoWIN. Mains Practice Question (15M) “AI governance is emerging as a key arena of global power politics.” Discuss India’s role in shaping inclusive and human-centric AI governance. LHS 1903 Planetary System Discovery Source : The Hindu A. Issue in Brief Astronomers identified a four-planet system around red dwarf star LHS 1903 (117 light-years away) that challenges existing planet formation theories. System contains 2 rocky super-Earths + 2 gaseous mini-Neptunes, but unusually the outermost planet is rocky instead of gaseous, contradicting classical models. Observed using ESA’s CHEOPS (Characterising Exoplanet Satellite) space telescope dedicated to exoplanet studies. One rocky planet has estimated surface temperature ~60°C, placing it near the inner edge of habitable conditions. Relevance GS-III (Science & Technology — Space) Exoplanets, astronomy Space missions and telescopes B. Static Background What are Exoplanets? Planets outside our solar system; over 5,500 exoplanets confirmed (NASA Exoplanet Archive, recent data). Detection methods: Transit method (most common) Radial velocity Direct imaging Planet Formation Theory Standard model: Planets form in a protoplanetary disk of gas and dust. Inner planets = rocky (gas evaporates due to heat). Outer planets = gaseous (retain hydrogen-helium). LHS 1903 system deviates from this expected pattern. Red Dwarf Stars Make up ~70–75% of stars in Milky Way. Smaller, cooler, longer-lived than Sun: LHS 1903 is ~50% Sun’s mass Only ~5% Sun’s luminosity Habitable zones closer to the star due to low luminosity. C. Key Dimensions 1) Scientific Significance Rocky outer planet suggests: Sequential formation rather than simultaneous. Gas depletion before last planet formed. Alternative hypothesis: Planet lost atmosphere due to stellar radiation or collision. 2) Habitability Angle Surface temperature ~60°C: High but potentially within extremophile tolerance. Habitability also depends on: Atmosphere Water presence Magnetic field Many potentially habitable exoplanets found around red dwarfs. 3) Technology & Space Science CHEOPS mission (launched 2019): ESA mission focused on characterising known exoplanets. Measures planet size, density, and orbit. Complements missions like: NASA’s TESS James Webb Space Telescope D. Critical Analysis Opportunities for Science Forces refinement of planetary formation models. Improves understanding of atmospheric evolution and planetary migration. Expands search criteria for habitable worlds. Limitations Habitability inference based on temperature alone is incomplete. Red dwarfs emit strong stellar flares: Can strip atmospheres and harm life prospects. Distance (117 light-years) makes direct study difficult. E. Way Forward Use JWST spectroscopy to detect atmospheric gases. Study more red dwarf systems to see if pattern repeats. Integrate findings into next-gen planet formation simulations. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers Exoplanets = planets outside solar system. Red dwarfs most common stars. CHEOPS = ESA exoplanet mission. Super-Earth vs mini-Neptune distinction. Mains Practice Question (10–15M) “Recent exoplanet discoveries are reshaping our understanding of planetary formation and habitability.”Discuss with examples. RBI Plan to Compensate Victims of Digital Fraud Source : The Indian Express A. Issue in Brief RBI proposed a framework (Feb 2025) to compensate victims of digital payment frauds, especially UPI-related scams, addressing rising consumer vulnerability in India’s fast-growing digital economy. Proposal follows surge in complaints: National Cybercrime Reporting Portal recorded ~25 lakh cyber complaints in 2024, many linked to financial fraud. RBI aims to shift from purely customer-liability model to a shared-responsibility and faster-redress system. Reflects need to sustain trust in India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (UPI, AEPS, cards, wallets). Relevance GS-II (Governance) Consumer protection Role of RBI as regulator Ombudsman and grievance redressal GS-III (Economy & Internal Security) Digital economy & fintech risks Cyber fraud and financial security B. Static Background Digital Payments Growth Context India is world leader in real-time payments: UPI processed 100+ billion transactions in 2023–24 (NPCI data). Monthly UPI transactions often exceed ₹15–20 lakh crore. Rapid scale has also expanded fraud surface area. Existing Liability Framework RBI’s 2017 circular on “Customer Protection – Limiting Liability”: Zero liability if customer reports promptly and no negligence. Limited liability if delay or customer fault. However, delays in dispute resolution often leave victims uncompensated. C. Key Dimensions 1)     Rising UPI Fraud Trends UPI fraud data (as per Parliamentary replies): Year Fraud Cases Amount 2021–22 ~4.07 lakh ~₹242 crore 2022–23 ~7.25 lakh ~₹573 crore 2023–24 ~13.42 lakh ~₹1,087 crore 2024–25 ~12.64 lakh ~₹981 crore 2025–26* ~10.64 lakh ~₹805 crore (*till Dec 2025) Shows 3–4x rise in cases since 2021–22. 2) RBI Proposed Compensation Structure Compensation cap proposed: up to ₹25 thousand per victim (or 85% of actual loss, whichever lower). RBI to create a dedicated fund (~20% contribution from banks). Banks expected to contribute ~15%+ share, ensuring industry skin-in-the-game. Focus on cases involving: OTP scams Social engineering App-based fraud 3) Consumer Protection & Trust Digital payments rely on network trust: Any fear reduces adoption, especially among elderly and rural users. RBI signals shift toward proactive consumer protection, not just reactive grievance handling. 4) Institutional Mechanism Integration with: NPCI dispute resolution Ombudsman framework Cybercrime portal coordination Faster turnaround expected compared to current bank-led investigations. D. Critical Analysis Opportunities Strengthens confidence in DPI ecosystem (UPI, Aadhaar, Jan Dhan). Encourages reporting rather than silent victimhood. Aligns with global best practices: UK & EU frameworks ensure faster fraud refunds. Concerns / Risks Moral hazard: Users may lower vigilance expecting refunds. Fraud ecosystem increasingly sophisticated: Deepfakes, spoofed calls, phishing-as-a-service. Burden on banks: Rising fraud losses could affect profitability. Enforcement gap: Low conviction rates in cyber fraud cases. E. Way Forward Strengthen real-time fraud detection using AI/ML. Nationwide digital literacy campaigns under Digital India. Mandatory cooling period for high-risk transactions. Stronger KYC norms for mule accounts. Faster coordination between banks and law enforcement. F. Exam Orientation Prelims Pointers UPI = NPCI-run real-time payment system. RBI Ombudsman handles digital payment complaints. India leads world in real-time digital payments volume. Customer liability rules from RBI 2017 circular. Mains Practice Question (15M) “Rapid digitisation of finance must be accompanied by robust consumer protection.”Discuss in context of rising digital payment frauds in India.