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Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 13 October 2025

Content India’s Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses Transforming India with AI India’s Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses Why in News Launched by PM Narendra Modi on October 11, 2025, at IARI, New Delhi. Outlay: ₹11,440 crore (2025–26 to 2030–31). Goal: Achieve complete self-reliance in pulses by 2030–31 and eliminate import dependence by December 2027. Relevance : GS 3 – Agriculture, Inclusive Growth, Food Security, Nutritional Security, MSP Reforms, Sustainable Farming Background and Context India is theWorld’s largest producer (≈25%), consumer (≈27%), and importer (≈14%) of global pulses. Current production (2024–25): 252.38 lakh tonnes (↑31% since 2013–14). Imports (2023–24): 47.38 lakh tonnes; exports: 5.94 lakh tonnes. Despite progress, domestic production lags behind demand, necessitating a self-reliance mission. Aligned with Vision 2047 and Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Significance of Pulses Contribute 20–25% of total protein intake in Indian diets (NIN data). Crucial for nutritional security, soil nitrogen fixation, and farm income diversification. Per capita consumption below recommended 85 g/day — linked to protein deficiency. Environmental benefits: low water footprint, improves soil fertility and sustainability. Mission Objectives Achieve Aatmanirbharta (self-sufficiency) in pulses by 2030–31. Expand pulses area to 310 lakh ha (↑35 lakh ha from 2024–25 baseline). Increase production to 350 lakh tonnes; improve yield to 1,130 kg/ha. Reduce imports to zero and ensure 100% MSP procurement for Tur, Urad, and Masoor for four years. Empower 2 crore farmers via quality seeds, procurement assurance, and market linkage. Key Components and Interventions Seed Revolution: 126 lakh quintals of certified seeds distributed. 88 lakh free seed kits to farmers. Use of SATHI (seedtrace.gov.in) for seed authentication and traceability. Development of high-yielding, pest-resistant, and climate-resilient varieties. Procurement Security: 100% MSP procurement of Tur, Urad, and Masoor under PM-AASHA. NAFED and NCCF to manage procurement. Value Chain & Infrastructure: Establish 1,000 processing and packaging units, with subsidies up to ₹25 lakh/unit. Focus on cluster-based approach (as per NITI Aayog recommendations). Soil & Climate Sustainability: Promotion of balanced fertilizer use, intercropping, crop diversification, and mechanization. Integration with ICAR and KVKs for field demonstrations and technology dissemination. Technological & Institutional Innovations SATHI Portal (Seed Authentication, Traceability & Holistic Inventory): Tracks the full seed life cycle — from breeder seed to sale. Ensures quality assurance, transparency, and accountability in seed supply. Digital Monitoring: Data-driven decision-making via SAATHI and ICAR monitoring systems. Breeder & Foundation Seed Plans: State-wise rolling five-year seed production plans supervised by ICAR. PM-AASHA Integration Launched: 2018, continued in 2024. Components: Price Support Scheme (PSS), Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS), Market Intervention Scheme (MIS). Objective: Protect farmers from distress sales, ensure price stability, and promote pulses and oilseeds cultivation. NITI Aayog’s Recommendations (Sept 2025 Report) Based on survey of 885 farmers from Rajasthan, MP, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. Key Suggestions: Expand pulses into rice fallows and diversify cropping patterns. Develop “One Block–One Seed Village” model for seed self-sufficiency. Strengthen FPO-based seed hubs for localized production. Promote mechanization, efficient irrigation, and bio-fertilizers. Introduce climate-resilient and short-duration varieties. Establish local procurement centers and processing units to minimize middlemen. Integrate pulses into PDS, Mid-Day Meal, and Poshan Abhiyan to boost demand and nutrition. Implementation Framework Nodal Agency: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. Collaborating Institutions: ICAR, KVKs, NAFED, NCCF, State Agri Departments, and FPOs. Timeline: 2025–26 to 2030–31 (six years). Cluster-Based Implementation: Regional specialization for Tur (Deccan plateau), Urad (Central India), and Masoor (Northern plains). Expected Outcomes Self-sufficiency by 2027 for key pulses (Tur, Urad, Masoor). Zero import dependence by 2030–31. Increase in farmers’ income through assured MSP and value addition. Strengthened seed and processing infrastructure across India. Foreign exchange savings by cutting import bills. Improved soil fertility, climate resilience, and employment generation in rural areas. Challenges Ahead Yield gaps due to climatic variability and pest resistance. Low mechanization and poor irrigation coverage in pulse-growing belts. Ensuring timely MSP procurement and payments. Balancing expansion with ecological sustainability and water management. Need for strong coordination among central, state, and cooperative agencies. Conclusion The Mission for Aatmanirbharta in Pulses is a landmark step toward nutritional security, import substitution, and farmer empowerment. Integrates science, policy, and market reforms to transform India’s pulses sector. By 2030–31, India aims not only to be self-reliant but also a global leader in sustainable pulse production, contributing to Viksit Bharat 2047 through resilient agriculture, healthy citizens, and prosperous farmers. Value Addition Major Pulses Grown in India Pulse Type Major Producing States Sowing Season Key Growing Conditions Tur (Arhar/Pigeon Pea) Maharashtra, MP, Karnataka, UP, Gujarat Kharif (June–July) Warm climate; 25–35°C; rainfall 600–1000 mm; well-drained loamy soils Urad (Black Gram) MP, UP, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu Kharif & Rabi Tolerant to drought; requires 25–30°C; medium black soils Moong (Green Gram) Rajasthan, MP, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh Kharif & Summer 25–35°C; short-duration crop (60–70 days); sandy loam soils Masoor (Lentil) MP, UP, Bihar, West Bengal, Rajasthan Rabi (Nov–Apr) Cool temperature; 18–25°C; requires moderate irrigation Gram (Chickpea) MP, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, UP, Karnataka Rabi (Oct–Feb) Semi-arid climate; 20–25°C; loamy to sandy soils Peas (Matar) UP, Bihar, MP, Punjab, Haryana Rabi Cool, temperate climate; 15–20°C; clay-loam soils Cowpea (Lobia) Rajasthan, Gujarat, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu Kharif/Summer Drought-tolerant; sandy soils Area and Production (2024–25: 3rd Advance Estimates) Parameter Data Total Area under Pulses ~275 lakh hectares Production ~252.38 lakh tonnes Productivity ~915 kg/ha Top Producer State Madhya Pradesh (~30% of India’s total) Largest Exported Pulses Chickpea (mainly to Bangladesh, UAE, and Nepal) State-Wise Contribution (Share in Total Production, 2024–25 est.) Rank State Share (%) Major Crops 1 Madhya Pradesh 30–32 Gram, Tur, Urad, Masoor 2 Maharashtra 15–17 Tur, Gram, Urad, Moong 3 Rajasthan 12–13 Moong, Gram 4 Karnataka 8–9 Tur, Urad 5 Uttar Pradesh 7–8 Gram, Masoor, Pea Agro-Climatic Suitability Pulses can be grown in rainfed, marginal, and arid conditions. Optimal conditions: Temperature: 18–35°C (varies by crop). Rainfall: 400–1000 mm. Soils: Loamy, sandy loam, or black cotton soils with good drainage. Pulses are short-duration crops (60–120 days) ideal for intercropping and crop rotation. Pulses and Soil Health Nitrogen fixation: Pulses host Rhizobium bacteria in root nodules, fixing atmospheric N₂ into soil — reduces fertilizer use. Improves soil structure and organic matter, promoting sustainable agriculture. Ideal for inclusion in crop rotation systems (e.g., Tur–Wheat, Gram–Maize). Transforming India with AI Why in News IndiaAI Mission (₹10,371.92 crore) has achieved 38,000 GPUs, marking a major step in AI infrastructure. India is positioning itself as a global AI hub, combining inclusive innovation with economic transformation. Relevance : GS 3 – Science & Technology, IT & Computers, Inclusive Growth, E-Governance, Innovation & Employment Generation What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)? Definition: AI enables machines to perform tasks that require human-like intelligence — learning, reasoning, decision-making, and problem-solving. Core Components: Machine Learning (ML) – Algorithms that learn from data. Deep Learning (DL) – Neural networks mimicking human brain patterns. Natural Language Processing (NLP) – Understanding human language. Computer Vision – Image and pattern recognition. Generative AI – Produces new content (text, image, audio). India’s approach: “AI for All” — open, affordable, and accessible. AI Landscape in India (2025 Snapshot) Tech Revenue: Projected to cross $280 billion (2025). Employment: 6 million people in tech & AI ecosystem. Startups: 1.8 lakh total, with 89% using AI. Global Capability Centres (GCCs): 1,800+, with 500+ AI-focused. AI Adoption: 87% enterprises use AI; NASSCOM Index score 2.45/4. Sectors leading adoption: BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, and Automotive (≈60% of AI value). Global Recognition: Top 4 in AI skills and policy ecosystem (Stanford AI Index 2025). 2nd largest contributor to AI projects on GitHub. Economic Impact Projected contribution: $1.7 trillion to India’s GDP by 2035 (NITI Aayog estimate). Boosts productivity, governance efficiency, and innovation across public and private sectors. Aligns with Viksit Bharat 2047 — technology-driven inclusive development. IndiaAI Mission (Launched 2024) Budget: ₹10,371.92 crore (5 years). Vision: “Make AI in India and Make AI Work for India.” Implementing Agency: IndiaAI Division under MeitY. GPU Capacity: Target of 10,000 → achieved 38,000 GPUs (affordable compute at ₹65/hour). Seven Pillars of the IndiaAI Mission Pillar Focus Key Outcomes 1. IndiaAI Compute Affordable high-end GPUs 38,000 GPUs deployed 2. IndiaAI Application Development AI for India-specific challenges 30+ approved apps (cybersecurity, agriculture, climate) 3. AIKosh (Data Platform) Unified data repository 3,000 datasets, 243 AI models, 6,000 registered users 4. IndiaAI Foundation Models Indigenous LLMs 4 startups selected (Sarvam, Soket, Gnani, Gan AI) 5. IndiaAI FutureSkills AI talent ecosystem 13,500 fellowships, 27 AI labs in Tier-2/3 cities 6. IndiaAI Startup Financing Funding & global expansion Collaboration with Station F (Paris), 10 startups supported 7. Safe & Trusted AI Ethics, privacy, bias mitigation 8 research projects, AI Safety Institute in progress Supporting Initiatives A. Centres of Excellence (CoEs) Focus sectors: Healthcare, Agriculture, Sustainable Cities, Education. Linked with 5 National Centres for AI Skilling. B. AI Competency Framework Structured AI training for government officials to enhance policy and service design. C. IndiaAI Startups Global Acceleration Programme Collaboration with Station F and HEC Paris to globalize Indian AI innovation. Key Indian AI Projects Initiative Purpose Impact Sarvam AI Building India’s sovereign LLM ecosystem AI-driven Aadhaar services Bhashini Multilingual AI platform 20 languages, 350 models, 1M+ downloads BharatGen AI (2025) Government-funded multilingual LLM Supports 22 Indian languages AI Data Labs Network Foundational AI training 570 labs nationwide AI Impact Summit 2026 Showcasing India’s AI leadership 300 exhibitors, 30+ countries, youth & women innovation challenges AI in Key Sectors (a) Healthcare Early diagnosis, telemedicine, image recognition. ICMR–IndiaAI–U.K.–Singapore collaborations ensure ethical standards. AI models in radiology, pathology, drug discovery. (b) Agriculture AI in crop forecasting, pest detection, irrigation scheduling. Kisan e-Mitra: AI chatbot linking farmers to schemes. National Pest Surveillance System integrates weather & satellite data. (c) Education & Skilling NEP 2020: AI introduced from Class VI–XII. YUVAi Programme: Students build AI solutions for local challenges. DIKSHA Platform: AI for accessibility (text-to-speech, keyword search). (d) Governance & Justice e-Courts Project Phase III: AI in translation, scheduling, and filing. AI Translation Committees translating judgments into regional languages. e-HCR, e-ILR: Digital legal access platforms. (e) Climate & Weather Forecasting IMD uses AI models for rainfall, fog, cyclone intensity. MausamGPT (upcoming) to provide real-time weather advice. Employment & Skilling Impact AI Talent Pool: Expected to double from 6.5 lakh (2025) → 12.5 lakh (2027). FutureSkills PRIME Programme: 18.56 lakh enrolled; 3.37 lakh certified. Focus on 10 frontier technologies including AI, Big Data, and IoT. AI creating new job categories in data science, robotics, analytics, and governance. NITI Aayog Report 2025 – AI for Inclusive Societal Development Vision: Empower 490 million informal workers through AI, IoT, Blockchain, and Robotics. Digital ShramSetu Mission: Frontier technologies for informal sector. Phased Implementation (2025–2035): Mission Orientation (2025–26) – Define goals and framework. Institutional Setup (2026–27) – Governance, regulation, partnerships. Pilot Programs (2027–29) – Sectoral implementation, M&E. Nationwide Rollout (2029–35) – Full-scale adoption and integration. Outcome: Inclusive, voice-first, multilingual, skill-amplifying digital ecosystem. Ethical and Governance Dimensions Safe & Trusted AI Framework: Focus on bias mitigation, explainability, privacy, and accountability. IndiaAI Safety Institute: Developing national AI governance standards. Global Cooperation: Participation in GPAI (Global Partnership on AI) and UNESCO AI Ethics Framework. Challenges Limited domestic chip manufacturing and AI compute capacity. Data fragmentation and lack of standardized datasets. Shortage of AI researchers and PhDs relative to the U.S./China. Need for AI ethics, regulatory clarity, and public trust. Risk of digital divide if access and affordability gaps persist. Way Forward Invest in indigenous GPUs and semiconductor fabs. Accelerate AI skilling in Tier-2/3 cities. Expand AI use in social sectors (health, agri, education). Create a National AI Regulatory Authority for ethical oversight. Integrate AI into Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) frameworks — UPI, ONDC, and Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission. Encourage global South cooperation on ethical, multilingual AI. Conclusion India’s AI transformation blends computational power, inclusive design, and innovation to build a globally competitive yet socially equitable tech ecosystem. With initiatives like IndiaAI Mission, BharatGen, and Digital ShramSetu, India aims to achieve AI sovereignty and inclusive digital empowerment by Viksit Bharat 2047.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 13 October 2025

Content To mend a broken system – Rebuilding trust in public service recruitment exams needs tech-led overhaul Good Diplomacy, Good Business To mend a broken system – Rebuilding trust in public service recruitment exams needs tech-led overhaul Overview Topic: Crisis of trust in public service recruitment exams in India. Core Issue: Repeated exam paper leaks, corruption, and inefficiency undermining credibility of recruitment bodies. Focus: Need for technology-driven, transparent, and accountable recruitment systems. Author’s Stand: Restore public trust through reform, transparency, and digital innovation. Relevance: GS 2 – Governance: Recruitment integrity, accountability, transparency, institutional reforms. GS 2 – Polity: Role of UPSC/PSC in ensuring meritocracy and equal opportunity. Practice Questions: Discuss how technology can be leveraged to enhance transparency and accountability in public service recruitment.(250 Words) Context and Background Public service commissions (State PSCs, SSC, etc.) serve as symbols of meritocracy, social mobility, and equal opportunity. Over the past decade, trust in these institutions has eroded due to widespread exam scams , leaks and other issues. Incidents in Punjab (PPSC 2021), Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal exposed systemic weaknesses. Recruitment exams, once seen as fair gateways to stable jobs, now symbolize corruption, manipulation, and despair for aspirants. Root Causes of the Crisis Systemic Vulnerabilities Paper leaks, manipulation of merit lists, and biased recruitment. Lack of transparency in exam evaluation and result declaration. Weak institutional oversight and delayed investigations. Governance Failures Poor coordination between state agencies and examination bodies. Limited technological adoption in recruitment processes. Absence of accountability mechanisms for officials. Social Impact Erosion of aspirants’ faith in merit-based mobility. Triggered protests, disillusionment, and social unrest among youth. Undermined the legitimacy of government institutions. Consequences Public Distrust: Loss of confidence in the fairness of the system. Economic Cost: Delay in recruitment impacts governance efficiency. Social Unrest: Aspirants’ protests and youth frustration. Meritocracy Erosion: Genuine candidates lose out to corrupt practices. Reform Imperatives 1. Transparency in Recruitment Publish exam syllabi, evaluation methodologies, and performance statistics. Open data portals for result audits and grievance redressal. Encourage public scrutiny to deter malpractice. 2. Technology Integration Use biometric identification and encrypted digital systems to curb impersonation and leaks. Implement secure question paper delivery systems. Strengthen data analytics for anomaly detection in results. 3. Legal & Institutional Strengthening Enforce stringent laws against exam malpractice. Establish fast-track courts for recruitment fraud. Empower independent oversight bodies with authority to probe misconduct. 4. Accountability & Governance Introduce review panels to monitor recruitment integrity. Public service commissions must be auditable and accountable to citizens. Collaboration among central, state, and civil society bodies to ensure oversight. 5. Citizen Participation Engage watchdog groups for transparency. Allow citizen representation in recruitment audits to rebuild credibility. Government Initiatives & Suggested Measures Home Ministry’s emphasis on innovative technology for exam reform. Example: CBI inquiries ordered in cases of leaks. Suggested: AI-based exam monitoring, blockchain for question paper tracking, and real-time CCTV surveillance. Broader Implications Ethical Dimension: Restoring trust equals restoring social justice. Administrative Dimension: Efficient, transparent recruitment = stronger governance. Economic Dimension: Timely appointments = better service delivery and productivity. Political Dimension: Reduces populist anger and restores institutional legitimacy. Challenges Resistance to reform from entrenched interests. Digital divide across states in implementing tech-based solutions. Ensuring data privacy and cyber security in digitized recruitment systems. Conclusion Rebuilding trust in recruitment is both a moral and governance imperative. Requires a multi-pronged approach: technology, transparency, and accountability. A robust and transparent recruitment system is key to reviving faith in state institutions, empowering youth, and strengthening India’s democracy. Good Diplomacy, Good Business Basic Overview Topic: Strengthening India–UK trade relations through the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). Focus: How diplomacy, complemented by economic pragmatism, can convert trade opportunities into growth for India. Core Message: The India–UK CETA is both a diplomatic and economic milestone that can serve as a launch pad for growth by diversifying markets, attracting investments, and overcoming export bottlenecks. Relevance: GS 2 – International Relations: Bilateral trade agreements, strategic partnerships, economic diplomacy. GS 3 – Economy: Trade facilitation, export competitiveness, FDI, MSMEs, logistics reforms. GS 2 – Governance: Regulatory simplification, ease of doing business, institutional support for exporters. Practice Questions: Analyse the strategic and economic significance of the India–UK Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).(250 Words) Background Context UK PM Keir Starmer’s Visit (2025): Aimed to revive and deepen India–UK relations post-Brexit. The visit coincides with U.S. protectionism under Donald Trump’s policies, which have shut doors for Indian exporters — making the UK partnership timely. India–UK CETA negotiations mark a strategic pivot toward trusted democratic partners after trade frictions with the EU and uncertainties in global trade regimes. The CETA aims to cover 99% of tariff lines, encompassing industrial, agricultural, and services sectors. Why It Matters Diplomatic Angle: Symbol of “Good Diplomacy” — leveraging political goodwill to deepen economic integration. Economic Angle: “Good Business” — enhances India’s market access, job creation, and global value chain participation. Strategic Angle: Reduces dependence on protectionist economies like the U.S. and China. Current India–UK Trade Snapshot India’s exports to UK (2023–24): USD 15.5 billion Imports from UK: USD 12.4 billion Trade Balance: In India’s favor (~USD 3 billion). Major Indian exports: Gems & jewellery, textiles, pharma, engineering goods, leather, organic chemicals. Major imports from UK: Machinery, transport equipment, precious metals, chemicals. Target: Double bilateral trade from USD 33 billion to USD 56 billion by 2030. Sectoral Opportunities Gems & Jewellery: India contributes 6% of UK imports (~USD 9 billion); scope for expansion with tariff reduction. Textiles & Apparel: Indian exports face average UK tariff of 9.2%; CETA can lower duties and enhance competitiveness vis-à-vis Bangladesh and Vietnam. Pharmaceuticals: Indian exports (USD 1.3 billion) face non-tariff barriers (quality norms, pricing regulations). Mutual recognition could open access. Engineering Goods & Machinery: Strong demand in UK’s decarbonization, clean tech, and defense sectors. Processed Foods & Beverages: Lowering UK’s tariff on Indian whisky from 150% to 75% would boost exports. Services: Key growth area—IT, education, R&D, fintech, healthcare, legal services, and tourism. Challenges Identified Regulatory Bottlenecks: India’s “regulatory cholesterol” (complex approval, compliance layers). Logistics Constraints: High trade logistics costs and slower customs clearance (India: 173 hours vs. Bangladesh: 67 hours). Capital Access: Limited and costly, hindering export competitiveness. Labour-Intensive Sectors: Like textiles and apparel face steep competition from zero-duty exporters (e.g., Bangladesh). Tariff Disparities: UK’s existing agreements with countries like Canada and Vietnam already provide them duty-free access. Policy Suggestions & Way Forward Trade Facilitation & Customs Reform Streamline customs through single-window clearance and end-to-end digital processing. India’s customs clearance time must reduce from 173 hours to global average (~70 hours). Regulatory Simplification Rationalize product standards, certifications, and inspection layers. Ensure mutual recognition agreements (MRAs) for pharma, food, and services. Targeted Incentives Encourage Indian exporters via Production-Linked Incentives (PLIs) and sector-specific subsidies. Focus on value-added exports instead of raw material shipments. Domestic Reforms Improve access to finance and logistics infrastructure. Enhance port efficiency, warehousing, and multimodal connectivity. Labour & Market Competitiveness Skill upgradation and quality improvement in MSME and labour-intensive industries. Align export standards with UK norms for smoother integration. Diplomatic Leverage Build on UK goodwill to negotiate favorable market access in sensitive sectors (alcohol, dairy, pharmaceuticals). Use CETA as a model for future FTAs with EU, Canada, and other Commonwealth nations. Wider Economic Implications Short-Term: Boost to exports, FDI inflows, and employment generation in trade-linked sectors. Medium-Term: Expansion of India’s manufacturing base through global supply chain integration. Long-Term: Strengthening India’s position as a trusted trade partner in the Global South and reducing vulnerability to U.S.–China trade dynamics. Author’s Core Argument “Good diplomacy leads to good business.” The India–UK CETA shows that when politics and economics align, trade becomes a vehicle for inclusive growth. India must complement diplomatic wins with domestic reforms — better logistics, simplified regulations, and capital access — to realize the full benefits. Conclusion The India–UK CETA is more than a trade pact — it’s a symbol of economic trust and strategic alignment. It can serve as a launch pad for growth if India: Enhances trade facilitation, Reduces bureaucratic friction, Improves export competitiveness, and Leverages technology and innovation. Ultimately, this is a test of India’s ability to convert diplomacy into durable economic gains — a model of “strategic economic statecraft.”

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 13 October 2025

Content Recent digs in T.N.’s Tenkasi reveal presence of Iron Age culture The mountains mourn Do cash transfers build women’s agency? Case Study: Natural farming gains traction in Himachal The grain of ethanol production Quantum leap by Indian researchers in boosting digital security In Morocco, Madagascar now: what unites ‘Gen Z’ protests across countries Recent digs in T.N.’s Tenkasi reveal presence of Iron Age culture Why in News The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) conducted its first season of excavations at Thirumalapuram in Tenkasi district. Excavations revealed Iron Age cultural remains near the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu. Discovery includes urn burials, a stone slab chamber, and various ceramics, marking a first-of-its-kind finding in the state. Relevance GS 1 – Ancient history : Iron Age in South India, archaeological methodology. Basic Overview Location: Thirumalapuram, ~10 km northwest of the present-day village, between two seasonal streams from the Western Ghats. Site Area: Approximately 35 acres. Dating: Tentatively dated to early to mid-3rd millennium BCE (Iron Age). Excavation Method: 37 trenches dug during the first season. Key Findings Burial Structures A rectangular chamber constructed with 35 stone slabs, filled with cobblestones up to 1.5 m depth. Contains urn burials, unique in Tamil Nadu. Ceramics Variety of pottery found: black-and-red ware, black ware, black-slipped ware, red ware, red-slipped ware. Some ceramics featured white-painted designs, a unique feature for the region. Grave Goods Pottery included symbols on urns, considered among the most striking discoveries. Grave goods reflect ritualistic and cultural practices. Comparison with Other Sites Similar symbols and ceramic types seen in Adichanallur, Sivagalai, Thulukkarpatti, Korkai. Helps in understanding regional continuity and spread of Iron Age culture in Tamil Nadu. Historical and Archaeological Significance First-of-its-kind discovery in Tamil Nadu: Urn burials with stone slab chambers were not previously reported in the state. Indicates Iron Age cultural presence close to the Western Ghats, expanding knowledge beyond coastal or plains-based settlements. Helps reconstruct funerary practices, ritualistic life, and material culture of early communities in southern India. Adds to the body of evidence on ceramic technology, burial practices, and symbolism in South Indian Iron Age archaeology. Scientific and Methodological Insights Excavations employed systematic trenching and scientific analyses. Artifact study allows chronological placement, typology classification, and comparative analysis with other Iron Age sites. Provides a baseline for further multidisciplinary studies, including geoarchaeology, archaeobotany, and material science. Broader Implications Cultural: Reveals regional variation in Iron Age practices and expands understanding of social hierarchies and ritual practices. Tourism & Heritage: Potential for archaeological tourism and heritage awareness in Tenkasi. Academic: Opens avenues for research on Iron Age trade, migration, and technology in peninsular India. Preservation: Emphasizes the importance of protecting newly discovered archaeological sites from encroachment or looting. Value Addition Chronology & Periodization Iron Age in South India: ~1200 BCE – 300 BCE (regional variations exist). Characterized by the introduction of iron tools, agriculture intensification, and settled village life. Coexisted with megalithic practices, including elaborate burials, indicating complex social structures. Settlement Patterns Location: Predominantly near rivers, fertile plains, and foothills of the Western Ghats. Sites include Adichanallur, Sivagalai, Korkai, Thirumalapuram, Thulukkarpatti, T. Kallupatti. Suggests agriculture-based economy, supplemented by pastoralism and trade. Material Culture Pottery: Black-and-red ware (BRW), black-slipped ware, red-slipped ware, coarse red ware; often decorated with white-painted motifs. Iron Tools: Axes, chisels, sickles, indicative of farming, woodwork, and craft specialization. Symbolic Artefacts: Ceramics with symbols on urns reflect ritual and religious symbolism, possibly linked to ancestor worship. Burial & Funerary Practices Megalithic urn burials: Stone slab chambers, cobblestone-filled graves, cist burials. Contained urns with human remains, pottery, and grave goods. Indicates belief in life after death and hierarchical social structures. Regional uniqueness: Thirumalapuram urn burials are the first slab-chamber type in Tamil Nadu, unlike earlier southern urn burials. Socio-Economic Insights Agriculture: Iron tools enabled intensification of cultivation, supporting population growth. Trade & Craft: Evidence of beads, metal ornaments, and distinctive ceramics suggests local and inter-regional trade. Social Stratification: Variation in grave goods implies emerging hierarchies and differentiated social status. Cultural & Ritual Aspects Symbols on urns indicate early literacy of symbols or proto-writing systems, possibly for clan or identity markers. Ancestor worship and ceremonial burial rituals show complex belief systems. Continuity with later Tamil culture and religious practices, e.g., reverence for hills and rivers. The mountains mourn Why in News Torrential rainfall on the night of October 4–5, 2025 triggered over 110 major landslides in Darjeeling district and other parts of north Bengal. At least 32 dead, 40 injured, thousands stranded, with many missing. Areas like Mirik, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, Jalpaiguri, and Alipurduar were severely affected. The disaster coincided with Dashain festival, during which many families had gathered for celebrations, worsening human impact. Relevance GS 1 – Geography: Landslide-prone Himalayan terrain, hydrology of Teesta and Balason rivers, impact of rainfall on soil stability. GS 3 – Disaster Management: Floods, landslides, NDRF operations, disaster preparedness and mitigation strategies. GS 3 – Environment & Climate Change: Extreme rainfall, climate change impact, hydropower projects and river management. Basic Overview Rainfall: ~261 mm in 12 hours caused soil instability, river overflow, and landslides. Geography: Darjeeling and Mirik are hilly regions cradled between Western Himalayan ranges and alpine forests. Infrastructure Damage: Roads vanished under mud; Balason river iron bridge collapsed, temporarily cutting off connectivity. Tourism Impact: Mirik and surrounding areas rely heavily on tourism, now disrupted, affecting livelihoods. Human Tragedy & Social Impact Personal accounts reveal loss of children and relatives due to sudden landslides during sleep. Many families lost entire households, highlighting vulnerability during extreme weather. Psychological trauma and grief compounded by the festival season, which is usually associated with celebration. Community displacement: Families moved to temporary shelters like Dudhia community hall. Geological & Environmental Factors Terrain: Steep slopes, unstable soil, and heavy rainfall combine to create high landslide risk in Darjeeling hills. Hydropower Projects: Tala hydropower dam and other projects contributed to flooding after dam gates failed to open. River Systems: Teesta and Balason rivers played a role in rapid water flow, contributing to soil erosion and infrastructure collapse. Climate Dimension: Increased frequency of extreme rainfall events linked to climate change may exacerbate such disasters. Economic & Livelihood Impact Tourism-dependent communities lost income due to road closures and suspended travel to hill destinations like Mirik and Sandakphu. Infrastructure damage disrupted local trade and access to essential services. Additional costs for restoration, temporary shelters, and compensation added to government expenditure. Humanitarian & Social Implications Highlighted vulnerability of hilly populations to flash floods and landslides. Exposed the need for early warning systems, flood forecasting, and community awareness. Emphasized importance of resilient infrastructure in disaster-prone regions. Psychological impact on children, families, and displaced populations. Broader Implications Governance: Need for proactive disaster management and coordination between central, state, and local bodies. Environment & Climate Policy: Importance of sustainable land use, forest cover maintenance, and hydropower regulation. Disaster Preparedness: Integration of early warning systems, evacuation plans, and local community training. Socio-Economic Resilience: Strengthening tourism, agriculture, and infrastructure to withstand natural disasters. Landslide Basics Definition & Types Landslide: Downward and outward movement of rock, soil, or debris on slopes due to gravity. Types of Landslides: Rockfalls: Sudden free-fall of rocks from steep cliffs. Debris Flows: Rapid movement of loose soil, rocks, and water. Slumps: Rotational sliding of soil along a curved surface. Creeps: Very slow downward movement of soil or rock. Complex Landslides: Combination of types (e.g., slump followed by debris flow). Causes of Landslides A. Natural Causes Heavy rainfall / Snowmelt: Saturates soil, reduces cohesion. Earthquakes: Trigger slope failure in hilly regions. Volcanic activity: Lava and ash destabilize slopes. Steep slopes and unstable geology: Common in Himalayas, Western Ghats. B. Anthropogenic / Human-Induced Causes Deforestation: Removes root structures stabilizing slopes. Construction & urbanization: Roads, buildings, and terrace cuts destabilize slopes. Mining / Hydropower projects: Excavation weakens natural slope stability. Poor drainage & irrigation: Waterlogging increases pore pressure in soil. Regions Prone to Landslides in India Himalayas: Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Darjeeling, Sikkim. North-Eastern Hills: Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya. Western Ghats: Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra. Other Regions: Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu), parts of Andaman & Nicobar Islands. Do cash transfers build women’s agency? Why in News Despite near-universal Jan Dhan accounts and rise of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes, women’s economic agency in India remains incomplete. Recent initiatives like Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana (2025) aim to provide seed capital to 75 lakh women for self-employment. The issue has policy and socio-political dimensions: cash transfers act as both welfare instruments and electoral strategies. Relevance GS 1 – Social Issues: Women’s empowerment, gender inequality, digital divide. GS 2 – Governance: DBT schemes, JAM trinity, policy implementation, and evaluation. GS 2 – Social Justice: Access to resources, property rights, social inclusion. GS 3 – Economy: Financial inclusion, self-employment, women-led entrepreneurship, impact on household welfare. Basic Overview Goal: Move beyond placing money in women’s accounts to genuine financial empowerment. Current Status: 56 crore Jan Dhan accounts opened; women hold 55.7%. Despite 38 crore RuPay cards issued, women’s usage of debit cards and digital payments lags behind men. Challenges: Low digital literacy, limited mobile phone access (19% less than men), patriarchal norms, distance from banks, and lack of privacy. Key Issues & Barriers 1. Financial Access vs Agency Accounts exist but are often dormant or used only to withdraw cash transfers. Women rarely control assets, take loans, or make independent financial decisions. 2. Digital Divide Women’s low mobile phone ownership restricts access to digital banking. Reliance on shared devices erodes privacy, autonomy, and independent decision-making. 3. Socio-Cultural Constraints Patriarchal norms often restrict women’s financial participation. Social attitudes limit women from leveraging their bank accounts, savings, or credit opportunities. 4. Structural & Policy Gaps Less than 10% of banking correspondents are women, reducing trust and accessibility. Lack of tailored financial products for women’s informal, seasonal, or sporadic incomes. Insufficient financial and digital literacy programs. Recent Policy Initiatives Bihar’s Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana: ₹10,000 seed capital for self-employment, with potential additional ₹2 lakh support. Other women-focused DBT programs include: Karnataka: Gruha Lakshmi West Bengal: Lakshmir Bhandar Madhya Pradesh: Ladli Behna Telangana: Mahalakshmi Programs rely on JAM trinity (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar, Mobile) for direct and transparent delivery. Path to Economic Empowerment 1. Asset Ownership Women must have tangible control over land, property, or business assets to leverage credit and sustain enterprises. 2. Digital & Financial Literacy Providing subsidized smartphones, affordable data, and training. Establish community-based advisory networks (digital banking sakhis, WhatsApp/UPI groups). 3. Agency-Building Beyond receiving money, women should be able to: Grow and reinvest funds. Engage with markets and participate in new forms of commerce. Exercise decision-making in household and community economic matters. 4. Institutional Support Co-create financial products reflecting women’s informal and seasonal income patterns. Expand female banking agents to enhance trust and access. Socio-Economic & Political Implications Household Welfare: Increased income in a woman’s name improves child and elderly outcomes. Social Justice: Strengthens women’s role as economic actors, not just welfare recipients. Political Economy: Cash transfer schemes often have electoral significance, influencing political participation and accountability. Macro-Level: Empowering women financially can boost entrepreneurship, market participation, and inclusive growth. Case Study : Natural farming gains traction in Himachal Why in News Himachal Pradesh farmers are increasingly adopting chemical-free natural farming, supported by state policies and incentives. The push aligns with India’s broader national focus on sustainable and chemical-free agriculture. Farmers are benefiting from higher yields, better prices, and reduced input dependence, creating both economic and environmental advantages. Relevance GS 3 – Agriculture: Natural farming, MSP, productivity, input management, organic agriculture. GS 3 – Environment & Biodiversity: Soil conservation, reduction in chemical inputs, eco-friendly practices. GS 2 – Governance: State-supported schemes, policy interventions, implementation of PK3Y. GS 3 – Economy: Market linkages, price support, rural income enhancement. GS 1 – Society: Women’s participation in agriculture, livelihood improvement. Basic Overview Natural/Organic Farming: Agricultural practices without synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, relying on farm-produced inputs and ecological balance. Key Government Support: Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana (PK3Y): Launched 7 years ago to promote natural farming in Himachal Pradesh. Minimum Support Prices (MSP): Turmeric ₹90/kg, wheat ₹60/kg, maize ₹40/kg. Training & Certification: Farmers are trained and certified via CETA–ARA–NF (Certified Evaluation Tool for Agriculture – Natural Farming). Current Adoption & Outcomes Over 3.06 lakh farmers trained, with 2.22 lakh practicing partially or fully across 38,437 hectares. Farmers report: Higher profits: E.g., turmeric price rose from ₹60/kg (local market) to ₹90/kg (government procurement). Health benefits: Reduced chemical exposure reduces farmer illness. Independence: Farmers produce their own inputs, lowering market dependence. Women farmers are increasingly participating, expanding wheat and turmeric cultivation. Drivers of Adoption Economic Incentives: MSP support encourages market creation for natural produce. Training & Certification: PK3Y provides knowledge and credibility for natural farming practices. Health & Environmental Awareness: Chemical-free methods protect soil health, biodiversity, and human health. Government Backing: Policies create a structured ecosystem including procurement, pricing, and extension services. Benefits of Natural Farming A. Economic Higher yield and better prices due to government support. Reduced dependency on chemical inputs, lowering production costs. Opens market for premium, organic products nationally and potentially internationally. B. Environmental Enhances soil fertility and biodiversity. Reduces groundwater contamination and chemical runoff. Promotes long-term sustainability of hill agriculture. C. Social Empowers women farmers and smallholders. Builds community knowledge networks and reduces dependency on corporate agro-inputs. Challenges Initial yield fluctuations during transition from chemical to natural farming. Need for efficient marketing and supply chains to prevent price disparities. Labor-intensive practices require skill and training. Limited awareness and adoption in remote villages due to digital and extension service gaps. Policy & Institutional Support PK3Y (Prakritik Kheti Khushhal Kisan Yojana): Training, input support, MSP, and market integration. CETA–ARA–NF Certification: Validates natural farming practices and encourages market trust. State Government Procurement: Government agencies procure at higher prices to incentivize adoption. Broader Implications Sustainability: Demonstrates a model for eco-friendly hill agriculture in India. Health: Chemical-free produce is safer for consumers and reduces occupational health hazards. Replication Potential: Successful model can be adapted for other hill states and tribal regions. Women Empowerment: Promotes economic participation and decision-making among rural women farmers. The grain of ethanol production Why in News India’s ethanol blending programme, initially meant to support sugarcane growers, has increasingly benefited standalone grain-based ethanol producers. Investment of ₹40,000 crore in ethanol distilleries has shifted the focus from sugarcane to grains like maize and surplus rice, due to sugar shortages and policy incentives. Ethanol blending in petrol aims to reduce oil import dependence, support farmers, and promote cleaner fuels. Relevance GS 3 – Economy: Ethanol blending programme, agro-industrial investment, rural economy, food vs fuel policy. GS 3 – Agriculture: Crop diversification, sugarcane economics, grain utilization, government procurement. GS 3 – Energy & Environment: Biofuels, renewable energy, emission reduction, energy security. GS 2 – Governance & Policy: Implementation of National Biofuel Policy, coordination between OMCs, distilleries, and agricultural stakeholders.   Basic Overview Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP): Launched to blend ethanol in petrol, initially targeting sugar mills to provide extra revenue via ethanol production. Feedstock Sources: Sugarcane (C-heavy molasses, B-heavy molasses, cane juice/syrup) Grains (maize, surplus/damaged rice from FCI) Government Incentives: Higher prices for ethanol from B-heavy molasses, cane juice/syrup, and grains; excise-duty exemptions for grain-based ethanol. Production Mechanism: Molasses/cane juice: Sucrose fermentation → ethanol Grain: Starch conversion → sugar → fermentation → ethanol Trends in Ethanol Production Supply Increase: Ethanol supplied to OMCs rose from 38 crore litres (2013-14) to 189 crore litres (2018-19). Blending Ratio: Increased from 1.6% to over 4% in petrol. Grain-Based Ethanol Dominance: 2023-24: 672.4 crore litres procured; <40% from sugarcane, >60% from grains. 2024-25: 920 crore litres requirement projected; 520 crore litres from grains, 400 crore from sugarcane-based feedstock. Maize contributes the majority of grain-based ethanol (~420 crore litres). Reasons for Grain Dominance Sugar Shortage: Plummeting sugarcane output (423.8 lakh tonnes in 2023-24; 331 lakh tonnes projected in 2024-25) limits sugarcane ethanol production. Policy Neutrality: Government procurement policy does not distinguish feedstock, so distilleries can supply grains or sugarcane. Higher Returns: Ethanol price (₹71–86/litre) exceeds market value of rice, maize, or cane juice. Economic & Policy Implications Investment & Capacity: 499 distilleries with ₹40,000 crore investment, annual capacity 1,822 crore litres; OMCs procurement limited to 1,050 crore litres → potential overcapacity. Food vs Fuel Debate: Grain-based ethanol uses maize and rice that could feed humans or livestock, raising concerns about food security. Supply Constraints: Ethanol from sugarcane is capped by domestic sugar consumption, while grain ethanol can expand but may affect feed prices for poultry/livestock. Market Dynamics: Potential to create new markets for surplus grain but requires careful balancing of agricultural production and domestic consumption. Wider Implications A. Energy & Environment Supports National Biofuel Policy and petrol blending targets (20%), reducing fossil fuel dependence. Ethanol use reduces vehicular emissions and greenhouse gases. B. Agricultural Provides an alternative revenue stream for farmers, especially in surplus grain-producing states (Punjab, Haryana, Bihar, MP, UP, Maharashtra). Could influence crop choice and production patterns, with more maize/rice diverted to ethanol. C. Economic Encourages private investment in distilleries and rural industrial growth. Risk of oversupply and price volatility if ethanol output exceeds OMCs’ procurement capacity. D. Policy Challenges Need to balance sugarcane, grain, and food security interests. Must ensure efficient procurement, blending, and storage infrastructure. Managing ethanol pricing and feedstock allocation to avoid inflationary pressures on food and livestock feed. Quantum leap by Indian researchers in boosting digital security Why in News Indian researchers at Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru, led by Urbasi Sinha, have developed quantum techniques to generate and certify truly random numbers. The breakthrough has major implications for digital security, potentially enabling hack-proof encryption. It is a globally significant achievement under India’s National Quantum Mission. Relevance GS 3 – Science & Technology: Quantum computing, quantum cryptography, cybersecurity, National Quantum Mission. GS 3 – Security: Digital security, encryption, quantum-proof technologies. GS 2 – Governance: Government support in quantum research and technology commercialization. GS 3 – Economy & Industry: Potential for startups, innovation, and technology exports in quantum security. Basics Random Numbers in Digital Security: Foundation of encryption, passwords, and secure authentication systems. Must be truly random (not predictable) for high security. Pseudorandom Numbers: Currently used in computers, generated via algorithms. Adequate for today’s security but vulnerable to quantum computing attacks. Quantum Random Numbers: Derived from inherently random quantum processes (e.g., electron behavior, photon states). Device-independent methods ensure numbers cannot be predicted or manipulated. Key Scientific Concepts Quantum Random Number Generation (QRNG): Uses quantum phenomena such as superposition and entanglement. Example: Measurement of electrons/photons to produce random sequences of 0s and 1s. Certification Challenge: Even quantum devices may be hacked or malfunction, so output must be certifiable as truly random. Certification ensures randomness is not from device fault or external manipulation. Entanglement & Bell’s Inequality: Two entangled particles behave as substitutes across distance. If measurement results violate Bell’s inequality, the randomness is quantum in origin. Leggett-Garg Inequality: Used to certify true randomness at the single-particle level. 2024: RRI generated random numbers violating this inequality in a lab setting. The Breakthrough First demonstration of device-independent QRNG using a commercially available quantum computer. Significance: Moves beyond controlled lab experiments to real-world noisy environments. Enhances practical applicability of quantum random numbers for digital security. Potential Applications: Hack-proof encryption Secure communication channels Authentication systems resistant to quantum attacks Strategic & Commercial Implications: Boosts India’s capabilities in quantum technologies. Opens avenues for startups and research commercialization. Reinforces India’s position in the global quantum security landscape. Challenges Ahead Scaling up commercial applications while ensuring security in real-world conditions. Continued research and funding required for robust device-independent QRNG systems. Integration into national digital security infrastructure and financial networks. In Morocco, Madagascar now: what unites ‘Gen Z’ protests across countries Why in News Youth-led ‘Gen Z protests’ have erupted in Morocco and Madagascar, following earlier similar movements in Indonesia, Nepal, and the Philippines. These are social media–driven mass agitations centered around inequality, poor governance, and quality-of-life issues, reflecting a global pattern of youth disillusionment in developing economies. Relevance GS 2: Governance, accountability, political participation, comparative politics. GS 1 (Society): Youth aspirations, social change, inequality. Basic Context Gen Z refers to the generation born between mid-1990s and early 2010s, now in their 20s or early 30s. They are digitally connected, socially conscious, and politically assertive, often using online platforms like Discord, TikTok, and Facebook for mobilisation. These protests represent a new form of political participation, less reliant on formal organisations and more driven by networked activism. Triggers and Contexts 1. Morocco Trigger: Death of a young woman during childbirth in a public hospital (Agadir, Sept 2024). Symbolism: Protesters contrasted poor healthcare with billions spent on FIFA World Cup 2030 infrastructure. Slogan: “Stadiums are here, but where are the hospitals?” Organisers: Collective called Gen Z 212 (country code for Morocco) using Discord for coordination. Socioeconomic context: Unemployment (15–24 yrs): 36% Per capita GDP (2024): USD 3,993 (global avg: > USD 13,000) >50% population under 35; frustration with inequality and elite privilege. Political backdrop: Constitutional monarchy; visible inequality between ruling elite and youth masses. 2. Madagascar Trigger: Government repression of youth protests (Sept 2024) leading to 20+ deaths. Escalation: Youth-led movement (Gen Z Madagascar) evolved into a wider anti-establishment uprising, leading to President Andry Rajoelina’s resignation. Organisation: Initially youth movements on Facebook & TikTok, later supported by civil society groups. Economic distress: Per capita income declined 45% since independence (1960–2020). Widespread poverty and public anger at elite capture of resources. Common Threads Across Gen Z Movements Digital mobilisation: Social media as the main tool for organisation and message amplification. Economic frustration: Youth unemployment, inequality, and declining purchasing power. Perceived elite capture: Anger against “nepo kids” (nepotism, privilege, and dynastic elites) — seen in Nepal, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Quality-of-life concerns: Health, education, job security, and state accountability. Erosion of trust: Young citizens view traditional political structures as unresponsive and corrupt. Short-lived intensity: Movements gain traction rapidly but often fizzle out due to lack of long-term coalition building. Structural Causes Economic: Shrinking industrial jobs due to automation and globalisation. Middle-income trap in developing economies. Inflation and cost-of-living crisis post-pandemic. Social: Rising educational aspirations unmet by job opportunities. Social media exposure magnifies global comparisons and resentment. Political: Weak democratic accountability; dominance of entrenched elites. Repressive state responses erode legitimacy further. Global Dimensions Similar Gen Z uprisings seen in: Indonesia (2020–21): Labour law reforms. Nepal (2023): Corruption and nepotism. Philippines: Inequality and political dynasty protests. Reflects a transnational generational shift in political participation, often leaderless but connected online. Scholarly Insight As per Dr. Janjira Sombatpoonsiri (German Institute for Global & Area Studies): These movements stem from a “crisis of expectations” — youth promised prosperity through education but facing structural stagnation. Social media enables rapid mobilisation but weak organisational endurance, limiting tangible outcomes. Implications Governance Challenge: States must address youth aspirations through inclusive growth and service delivery. Political Reforms: Need for democratic responsiveness and youth engagement. Security Dimension: Online radicalisation or unrest risk if grievances persist. Developmental Focus: Investment in education-to-employment linkages, digital literacy, and job creation

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 11 October 2025

Content Minimum Support Prices: From Safety Net to Self-Sufficiency India Accelerates AI Self-Reliance: From Compute Power to Foundation Models Minimum Support Prices: From Safety Net to Self-Sufficiency Basic Concept Minimum Support Price (MSP): The pre-announced price at which the government purchases crops from farmers, acting as a safety net against price fluctuations. Objective: Protect farmers from distress sales. Ensure fair income and incentivize production. Promote crop diversification and national food security. Coverage: Announced for 22 mandated crops; also extended to Toria and de-husked coconut. Relevance : GS 3 – Agriculture, Inclusive Growth, Government Policies, Food Security, MSP Reforms Policy Framework Recommending Body: Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). Approval: By the Cabinet, after consulting State Governments and Central Ministries. Determinants: Cost of production (A2+FL basis). Domestic & international price trends. Inter-crop price parity. Terms of trade (agriculture vs non-agriculture). Effect on economy & inflation. Formula since 2018-19: MSP = 1.5 × cost of production (ensuring 50% profit margin). Cost Computation Includes: Paid-out costs (A2) + Imputed family labour (FL). Components: Seeds, fertilizers, irrigation, rent for leased land, depreciation, interest, labour, diesel/electricity, etc. Uniform Formula: Applied across 22 crops and all states. Rabi Crops (MSP 2026–27) Highest MSP margin: Wheat — 109% over cost (₹2,585/qtl). Rapeseed & Mustard — 93%. Lentil — 89%. Highest absolute increase: Safflower — ₹600/qtl. Procurement target: 297 Lakh MT; farmers to receive ~₹84,263 crore. Kharif Crops (MSP 2025–26) Highest increase: Nigerseed (+₹820), Ragi (+₹596), Cotton (+₹589). Highest margin: Bajra (63%), Maize & Tur (59%). Focus: Pulses, oilseeds, and nutri-cereals — incentivizing diversification beyond cereals. Procurement Mechanisms Lead Agencies: FCI — Cereals & coarse grains. NAFED & NCCF — Pulses, oilseeds, copra (under PM-AASHA). CCI & JCI — Cotton and jute. Estimation Basis: Production, surplus, and state-level inputs. No quantitative limit on procurement for cotton & jute. PM-AASHA (Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan) Objective: Ensure remunerative prices for farmers. Key Component: Price Support Scheme (PSS) — activated when market prices < MSP. Procurement Mode: Direct from pre-registered farmers (Aadhaar, land records mandatory). Through NAFED and NCCF. Financial Provision: PM-AASHA guarantee raised from ₹45,000 crore to ₹60,000 crore (Budget 2025). Extension: Continued up to FY 2025–26. From MSP to Atmanirbharta (Self-Sufficiency) Goal: India to become self-reliant in pulses by December 2027. Government Commitment: 100% procurement of tur, urad, and masoor up to 2028–29. Supported by Budget 2025 announcements. Progress: By March 2025, 2.46 LMT tur procured across 5 states. 1.71 lakh+ farmers benefitted. Impact Analysis (2014–2025) a. Foodgrains Overall Procurement: ↑ from 761 LMT (2014–15) to 1,175 LMT (2024–25). Value disbursed: ↑ from ₹1.06 lakh crore → ₹3.33 lakh crore. Farmers benefitted: ↑ from 1.63 crore (2021–22) → 1.84 crore (2024–25). b. Paddy & Kharif Crops Procurement: ↑ from 4,590 LMT (2004–14) → 7,608 LMT (2014–25). MSP payout: ↑ from ₹4.44 lakh crore → ₹14.16 lakh crore (paddy). For all 14 Kharif crops: ↑ from ₹4.75 lakh crore → ₹16.35 lakh crore. c. Pulses & Oilseeds Pulses procurement: ↑ 7,350%, from 1.52 LMT (2009–14) → 82.98 LMT (2020–25). Oilseeds procurement: ↑ over 1,500% (2014–25). Marked decline in import dependence and price volatility. d. Wheat RMS 2024–25 procurement: 266 LMT, up from 262 LMT (2023–24). ₹0.61 lakh crore credited directly to 22 lakh farmers’ bank accounts. Technology & Transparency Reforms Digital Portals: e-Samriddhi (NAFED): End-to-end digital procurement for pulses & oilseeds. e-Samyukti (NCCF): Tracks farmer registration, scheduling, payments. Kapas Kisan App (CCI): For cotton — self-registration, quality check updates, multilingual interface. Benefits: Eliminates middlemen, ensures timely MSP payments, improves data traceability. Overall Outcomes Economic Security: Tripling of MSP payouts in a decade. Wider Inclusion: 20 lakh+ additional farmers benefitted since 2021–22. Diversification: Strong push toward pulses, oilseeds, and millets. Digital Governance: Transparent, cashless procurement ecosystem. National Self-Reliance: Policy shift from safety net → productivity & import substitution. Challenges Ahead Regional skew in procurement (Punjab-Haryana dominance). Storage and logistics limitations for expanded MSP crops. Balancing fiscal burden and inflation management. Ensuring private market participation without price distortion. Conclusion MSP has evolved from a price safety mechanism into a strategic tool for self-sufficiency. With strong procurement, digital transparency, and focus on pulses & oilseeds, India is progressing toward Atmanirbhar Krishi. The 109% margin on wheat and 100% procurement guarantee for pulses mark a new phase of inclusive, data-driven, and technology-enabled agricultural governance. India Accelerates AI Self-Reliance: From Compute Power to Foundation Models Why in News MeitY hosted Pre-Summit events for the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 during India Mobile Congress 2025 in New Delhi. Announced: 12 Indian companies developing AI foundation models using 38,000 GPUs. Compute Cost: ₹65 per GPU per hour — among the lowest globally, ensuring affordable AI model training and innovation access. National Large Language Model (LLM) to be launched by end of 2025. Relevance : GS 3 – Science & Technology, IT and Computers, Indigenization of Technology, Digital Economy Core Objective Strengthen AI self-reliance and digital sovereignty under the IndiaAI Mission. Build a frugal, inclusive, and globally replicable model for AI development — leveraging affordability, public-private collaboration, and equitable access. Institutional Framework Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) Mission Executing Body: IndiaAI under Digital India Corporation IndiaAI Mission: Pillars of AI Self-Reliance Affordable Compute Infrastructure: 38,000 GPUs available at ₹65/hour (among the world’s lowest). National AI compute grid enabling public and private sector parity. National Data Platform: Curated, secure, and anonymized datasets for AI R&D. Foundation Model Development: 12 companies developing indigenous LLMs and multimodal models. AI Skilling and Workforce: Initiatives for AI literacy, reskilling, and inclusion. Safe and Trustworthy AI: Frameworks for responsible use, bias mitigation, and transparency. Strategic Context: From Dependence to Digital Atmanirbharta Reducing dependency on foreign AI models and compute infrastructure (like OpenAI, Google, or Nvidia clouds). India aims to emerge as a “compute-rich, cost-efficient hub” for the Global South. Alignment with Digital India, Make in India, and Viksit Bharat @2047 goals. India-AI Impact Summit 2026: Vision and Themes Date & Venue: 19–20 February 2026, Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Theme: “From Action to Impact.” Guiding Sutras: People: Inclusive, human-centric AI respecting diversity. Planet: Sustainable, resource-efficient AI aligned with climate goals. Progress: Equitable access to AI benefits, compute, and models. Seven Chakras: Operational Pillars of AI Diplomacy Human Capital: Global AI literacy, upskilling, and equitable workforce transition. Inclusion for Social Empowerment: Multilingual, gender-neutral, accessible AI systems. Safe and Trusted AI: Common safety-testing, auditing, and governance tools. Resilience, Innovation & Efficiency: Lightweight, resource-optimized AI for real-world use. Science: Open and responsible AI research collaborations across the Global South. Democratizing AI Resources: Shared access to compute, datasets, and models. AI for Economic Development & Social Good: AI deployment in healthcare, education, governance, and agriculture. Key Areas of AI Application in Telecom AI in Telecom for Social & Economic Impact: Improved connectivity, smart infrastructure. Trustworthy AI in Telecom: Frameworks for safety, transparency, and ethics. AI Workforce Development: Training engineers and professionals for telecom-AI integration. AI for Inclusive Growth: Bridging digital divides in rural and underserved areas. Institutional Participants Government: MeitY, NIC, IndiaAI, C-DOT. Industry: Reliance Jio, Airtel, TCS, AWS, AMD, Google, Netweb Technologies, Tanla Platforms. Academia: BITS Pilani. International Agencies: UNESCO and other global AI stakeholders. Outcomes and Global Relevance India’s AI model recognized by international agencies for: Cost-effective scalability. Public–private inclusivity. Replicability for Global South nations. Reinforces India’s leadership in responsible AI diplomacy, linking digital access with social empowerment. Achievements & Recognition MeitY Pavilion awarded Best Government Exhibitor at IMC 2025. Acknowledged for interactive showcase of India’s AI ecosystem and digital innovation. Broader Implications Economic: Boosts domestic AI industry, startups, and export potential. Strategic: Reduces reliance on foreign AI tech, enhancing data sovereignty. Social: Promotes inclusive digital growth, AI accessibility for marginalized groups. Environmental: Encourages low-energy, sustainable AI design principles. Conclusion India’s AI strategy exemplifies frugal innovation and inclusive modernization, blending affordability with ambition. With national foundation models, accessible compute infrastructure, and global partnerships, India is positioning itself as the AI hub of the Global South—ensuring that the power of Artificial Intelligence serves People, Planet, and Progress.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 11 October 2025

Content Crime patterns The real need is a holistic demographic mission Crime patterns About NCRB and the Report Institution: National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), under the Ministry of Home Affairs. Purpose: Collects, compiles, and analyzes crime and prison statistics across States/UTs. 2023 Report: Released after delay of nearly one year; critical for assessing law and order, social justice, and digital safety trends. Relevance: GS II – Governance and Social Justice NCRB data as a tool for evidence-based governance and policy evaluation. Linkages between crime, social structure, and digital transformation. Relevance to vulnerable sections — women, children, and STs — under constitutional and legal protection. GS III – Science & Technology and Internal Security Cybercrime rise linked to digital governance, fintech expansion, and AI misuse. Need for AI-enabled policing, cyber-forensic capacity, and jurisdictional reform. Practice Question: India’s crime profile is shifting from physical violence to digital and structural forms. Critically analyse the emerging crime patterns in light of the 2023 NCRB Report and suggest institutional reforms for preventive policing.(250 words) Key National Trends (2023 NCRB Data) Overall decline in murders: ↓ 2.8% — indicates relative improvement in conventional violent crimes. Sharp rise in crimes against STs: ↑ 28.8% — largely driven by ethnic violence in Manipur (from 1 case in 2022 to 3,399 in 2023). Cybercrime surge: ↑ 31.2% — fastest-growing category; mainly financial frauds, sextortion, and online scams. Crimes against children: ↑ 9.2%; 96% of offenders known to victims — indicates unsafe domestic and social environments. Crimes against women: Marginal ↑ 0.4%, but dowry deaths and harassment up by 14.9% — revealing persistent patriarchal violence. Interpreting Crime Statistics Comparability challenge: Crime data varies with reporting and registration across States — higher numbers may reflect better reporting, not necessarily higher incidence. Delayed data ecosystem: NCRB report delay mirrors larger pattern — postponement of Census, NSS, and surveys — limiting timely policy responses. Underreporting persists: Especially in domestic violence, caste atrocities, and cyber offences due to stigma or digital illiteracy. Regional Dimensions Manipur: Ethnic violence (Meitei–Kuki conflict) caused explosion in ST crime cases. Central India (MP, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh): Persistently high ST crime rates — linked to land alienation, displacement, and policing deficits in tribal belts. Urban vs Rural divide: Cybercrime concentrated in urban areas but expanding rapidly to rural regions with rising internet penetration. Thematic Crime Patterns a) Cybercrime Driven by digital payments expansion, AI scams, and social media frauds. Financial frauds dominate (over 60% of cybercrime cases). Emerging trend: deepfake-based sexual exploitation. Challenge: Low conviction rate due to lack of cyber-forensic expertise and cross-border jurisdictional hurdles. b) Crimes against Tribals Reflect structural violence — land encroachment, mining, and ethnic marginalization. Political instability and identity conflicts amplify vulnerability. Indicates failure of targeted protection under SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989. c) Crimes against Children High share of known offenders (96%) — mostly family or neighbors. POCSO misuse issue: consensual adolescent relationships criminalized under the Act. Calls for nuanced interpretation, not mechanical prosecution. d) Crimes against Women Modest total increase hides specific spikes — dowry deaths, domestic violence, and cyber harassment. Reveals stagnation of gender reforms and persistence of socio-cultural patriarchy. Institutional and Policy Implications Policing modernization: Need for AI-enabled predictive policing, cyber forensics, and specialized training units. Tribal security: Strengthen local policing, community engagement, and land rights enforcement. Children’s protection: Integrate school-based sensitization and revise POCSO implementation guidelines. Gender justice: Reassess dowry law enforcement, fast-track courts, and community awareness campaigns. Data transparency: Ensure timely release of NCRB, NSS, and Census data for evidence-based policymaking. Editorial’s Takeaway Highlights contrasting trajectories — traditional crimes (murders) declining, while technology-linked and identity-linked crimes surge. Warns of a governance lag: administrative delays, poor inter-State coordination, and reactive rather than preventive policing. Urges multi-dimensional reform — technological, social, and institutional — to match evolving crime ecosystems. Conclusion India’s crime profile is shifting — from physical to digital and structural forms. Marginalized communities and digital users are the new vulnerable groups. Policy priority: Move from mere law enforcement to crime prevention and societal resilience. Broader message: Data integrity, digital literacy, and inclusive governance are as crucial as policing for ensuring safety in a rapidly transforming society. The real need is a holistic demographic mission Context and Background Trigger: On August 15, 2025, the government announced a “Demographic Mission” to monitor undocumented immigration from Bangladesh and its demographic implications in border regions. Controversy: Critics argue that such a narrow focus on illegal migration ignores India’s broader demographic transitions — fertility, mortality, migration, ageing, and capability disparities. Core argument: India needs a holistic, capability-oriented demographic mission, not a politically driven one limited to population control or border surveillance. Relevance: GS I – Indian Society Demographic transition, ageing, migration, and fertility variations across regions. Population as a social and economic resource — diversity and regional imbalance. GS II – Governance & Social Justice Policy need for integrated demographic planning covering migration, ageing, and welfare portability. Human capability and inclusion as constitutional imperatives. GS III – Economy & Development Harnessing demographic dividend through education, health, and skilling. Challenges of dependency ratio, labour mobility, and social security models. Practice Question: “India’s demographic advantage can turn into a liability if not managed through capability-based planning. Discuss the need for a holistic demographic mission integrating fertility, migration, and ageing dimensions.” (250 words) Basic Concepts Demography: The statistical study of human populations — fertility (births), mortality (deaths), and migration (movement). Demographic transition: Shift from high birth/death rates to low ones as a society industrializes. India is now entering the post-transition phase. Demographic dividend: Economic advantage from a large working-age population — currently India’s key opportunity. Demographic mission (proposed): A national framework to understand and govern population dynamics, capabilities, and mobility, ensuring equitable human development. Why India Needs a Holistic Demographic Mission Demographic crossroads: India is the world’s most populous nation, but fertility is declining and regional disparities are deepening. Demographic diversity: States like Bihar, UP still have young populations, while Kerala, Tamil Nadu are ageing rapidly. Policy gap: Demography has historically been viewed only through the lens of population control, not human capability or migration justice. Global comparison: India’s demographic advantage must be viewed relative to ageing societies (Japan, Europe, China), to plan for long-term sustainability. Three Core Components to Address a) Fertility & Mortality India has achieved near-replacement fertility (TFR ≈ 2.0). Mortality has declined, increasing life expectancy and ageing pressure. Focus must shift from controlling births to enhancing health, education, and employability of the existing population. b) Migration Internal migration is the “hidden equalizer” of India’s population distribution. Migration balances regional labour surpluses and shortages. Yet, migrants face political hostility, lack of identity, and exclusion from welfare, voting, and housing rights. c) Longevity & Ageing Rising longevity demands reimagining retirement, work-life, and social security. India must transition from pension-centric to lifelong productivity models. Employers and governments should jointly ensure financial literacy and retirement preparedness. Critical Issues Highlighted a)Unequal Human Capability Infrastructure Education, health, and skilling facilities remain regionally skewed. Urban and affluent groups reap demographic benefits; poorer regions stagnate. Result: unequal access to the “demographic dividend”. b)Migration Identity Crisis Migrants neither belong fully to the home state (lose voting rights) nor the host state (denied welfare benefits). The editorial calls this a “battle of belonging” — a constitutional and ethical dilemma India must resolve. c)Rethinking Social Security With increasing life expectancy, older adults can remain economically active longer. The state alone cannot sustain universal social security — private employers and financial planning must share responsibility. d)Data and Planning Gaps Current metrics (per capita income, literacy rates, etc.) ignore age-structure composition. A true demographic mission should integrate population data into resource allocation, planning, and monitoring frameworks. Policy Recommendations Establish a National Demographic Mission — integrating fertility, ageing, migration, education, and employment data. Mainstream demographic sensitivity in all ministries — from urban planning to labour and education. Reform migration policy — ensuring portability of welfare benefits, voting rights, and dignified inclusion of internal migrants. Reorient social security — promote multi-pillar systems involving state, employer, and individual savings. Invest in regional capability equity — improve schooling, skilling, and healthcare in lagging states. Demographic literacy drive — make citizens and policymakers aware of evolving population realities. Analytical Intellect Shift in paradigm: India’s demographic challenge is not about numbers, but about nurturing human potential. Intergenerational balance: Young (dividend) and old (dependency) populations must be harmonized through lifelong productivity. Migration as strength: Needs reframing from “security threat” to “development enabler.” Political implication: Moving beyond population-control politics toward capability and inclusion politics. Comparative and Global Relevance China’s cautionary tale: Rapid ageing and shrinking workforce due to past population-control policies. Japan & EU: Facing demographic decline despite prosperity — contrast with India’s young, expanding workforce. Global South leadership: India can model a “demographic stewardship approach” — balancing youth opportunity with ageing resilience. Editorial’s Takeaway Core thesis: A demographic mission must evolve from counting people to empowering people. Key insight: Demography is the foundation of all planning — economic, social, and environmental. Goal: Align demographic realities with policy responses — education, health, migration, and ageing — to sustain India’s growth beyond 2050. Conclusion India stands at a demographic inflection point — decisions today will shape its social and economic trajectory for the next century. A holistic demographic mission must integrate data, dignity, and diversity into governance. Demography, when human-centered and capability-driven, can be India’s greatest national asset — not merely a statistical parameter.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 11 October 2025

Content India’s Kabul mission to be upgraded to embassy Killer cough syrup Hydropower project on Chenab gets clearance Microfinance loan defaults surged in 2024-25: Sa-Dhan data Artificial light exposure leads to early dementia symptoms Revisiting India’s industrial barometer: Base year revision of IIP Maria Corina Machado, ‘Iron Lady of Venezuela’, winner of Nobel Peace Prize India’s Kabul mission to be upgraded to embassy Why in News? India announced the upgradation of its ‘Technical Mission’ in Kabul to a full-fledged Embassy, marking a significant diplomatic shift towards re-engagement with Taliban-led Afghanistan. The announcement came during the visit of Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi to New Delhi, the first such visit since 2021. Relevance GS Paper II – International Relations: India-Afghanistan relations, Taliban engagement, humanitarian diplomacy, regional power dynamics (China, Pakistan, Iran), counterterrorism cooperation. GS Paper III – Security: Implications for national security, cross-border terrorism, and strategic interests in South Asia. Background and Context After the Taliban’s takeover in August 2021, India shut down its embassy in Kabul citing security concerns. In June 2022, India re-established a limited technical mission for overseeing humanitarian and development assistance. The current upgradation marks India’s first major step toward formal diplomatic engagement since the Taliban regime’s return. Why Upgrade Now Regional Realism: China and Russia have already exchanged ambassadors with Taliban; India cannot stay isolated in Kabul’s evolving power dynamics. Security Imperatives: Need to safeguard Indian interests against cross-border terrorism and extremist spillover from Afghan soil. Humanitarian Diplomacy: Continued supply of foodgrains, medicines, vaccines, and rehabilitation aid demands a stronger institutional presence. Strategic Engagement: Rebuilding influence to counter Pakistan’s dominance and China’s deepening footprint in Afghan infrastructure and mining. Key Outcomes of Jaishankar–Muttaqi Meeting Sovereignty & Non-Interference: Both sides reaffirmed commitment to sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-use of Afghan soil for terrorism against India. Refugee Issue: India raised concerns over forced repatriation of Afghan refugees by Pakistan, offering housing and aid to returnees. Development Cooperation: Six new projects announced (schools, hospital, trauma centre, maternity clinics). 20 ambulances, MRI/CT machines, and cancer medicines to be provided. Collaboration on water management, irrigation, and sustainable resource use. Trade & Connectivity: Boost to India-Afghanistan Air Freight Corridor for direct trade. Commitment to resume additional flights between Kabul and New Delhi. Humanitarian Support: India reaffirmed long-term aid through UNODC and other agencies, including drug rehabilitation and disaster relief materials. Broader Regional and Geopolitical Context Pakistan–Afghanistan tensions: Taliban accused Pakistan of violating Afghan sovereignty through airstrikes — signaling a shifting regional balance that India may leverage. China’s Influence: Beijing’s growing engagement, including formal diplomatic recognition, pressures India to recalibrate. Iran Factor: Tehran’s relative decline post-U.S. sanctions has weakened one regional pillar of Afghan engagement, increasing India’s strategic weight. U.S. Vacuum: After withdrawal, space left for India, China, Russia, Iran, and Gulf states to shape Afghanistan’s stability trajectory. India’s Strategic Calculus Maintain non-recognition but functional engagement — balancing between legitimizing Taliban and protecting national interests. Keep counterterrorism cooperation open, particularly regarding LeT, JeM, and IS-K threats. Safeguard development projects worth over $3 billion invested since 2001. Retain people-to-people and cultural linkages, especially education and healthcare access. Challenges Ahead Taliban’s human rights record, especially gender discrimination, remains a moral and diplomatic dilemma. Global non-recognition limits formal international cooperation mechanisms. Internal divisions within Afghan diaspora in India, including disputes over the embassy’s flag and representation, reflect legitimacy crisis of the regime. Conclusion: India’s decision to upgrade its mission in Kabul signals a pragmatic return to strategic realism, ensuring its presence in Afghanistan’s evolving geopolitical theatre while cautiously avoiding full recognition of the Taliban regime. It balances security, humanitarian, and geopolitical imperatives amid shifting Asian power equations. Killer cough syrup Why in News ? At least 24 children have died in Madhya Pradesh (M.P.) after consuming the Coldrif cough syrup, manufactured by Sresan Pharmaceuticals (Tamil Nadu), which was found contaminated with Diethylene Glycol (DEG) — a toxic industrial solvent. The tragedy has exposed serious flaws in India’s drug regulatory and quality control system. Relevance : GS Paper II – Governance: Public health governance, regulatory failures, federal-state coordination. GS Paper III – Health: Drug safety, pharmaceutical regulation, non-communicable and acute disease prevention, public health infrastructure. Background and Incident Overview Between August–September 2025, several children in Parasia (Chhindwara district, M.P.) developed acute kidney failure after taking Coldrif syrup prescribed for common cold and fever. 24 deaths have been confirmed, with 3 children critically ill in Nagpur. Initial symptoms: vomiting, drowsiness, abdominal pain, body swelling, and inability to urinate — all consistent with diethylene glycol poisoning. Investigations traced the source to a contaminated batch (SR-13) of Coldrif cough syrup. Investigative Findings Toxic Agent: DEG contamination detected at 48.6% weight/volume — highly toxic to kidneys. Source: DEG-laced non-pharmacopoeial propylene glycol used by Sresan Pharma (Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu) as a cheaper substitute for pharmaceutical-grade solvent. Other Contaminated Syrups Identified: Respifresh TR (Rednex Pharma, Gujarat) – 1.34% DEG ReLife (Shape Pharma, Gujarat) – 0.61% DEG Biopsy Reports: Confirmed Acute Tubular Necrosis (ATN), typical of glycol poisoning. Actions Taken: CDSCO recalled Coldrif, Respifresh TR, and ReLife. WHO informed; production of Coldrif halted; license cancellation recommended. Sresan Pharma owner arrested; factory sealed. Failure of India’s Drug Regulatory Mechanism Regulatory Division: CDSCO (Centre): approves new drugs, imports, and clinical trials. State Drug Control (SDSCO): licenses manufacture, sale, distribution. Breakdown Points: Lack of central inspection — CDSCO failed to audit the facility for 6 years (against the 3-year mandate). Negligence in state checks — Tamil Nadu Drug Inspectors failed to test samples; suspended later. Poor inter-state coordination: Madhya Pradesh FDA had no prior approval record but failed to test random samples. Observation Report: Tamil Nadu inspectors found 39 critical and 325 major non-compliances at Sresan Pharma. Broader Context: Pattern of Recurrent Drug Contamination Year Location Deaths Substance Source 1986 Mumbai 14 DEG JJ Hospital case 2022 Gambia, Indonesia, Uzbekistan 300 DEG & EG Indian-made syrups 2025 Madhya Pradesh 24 DEG Coldrif (Sresan Pharma)   Common pattern: Substitution of safe pharmaceutical solvents with cheaper DEG/EG to reduce manufacturing cost. Regulatory inertia: No nationwide surveillance mechanism to ensure solvent purity or supplier traceability. Health and Legal Response Criminal charges: Sections 105 (culpable homicide) and 276 (adulteration of drugs) under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. Section 27(A) of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 — penalty for manufacture/sale of substandard drugs. Public Health Measures: Over 4,000 health workers (ASHA, ANMs, Anganwadi) conducting door-to-door syrup recovery. 543 bottles seized, with ~600+ distributed before recall. National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and CDSCO conducting surveillance and forensic sampling. Structural and Systemic Issues Fragmented Authority: “Health” is a State subject, leading to divided accountability. Weak Quality Surveillance: Only 1% of India’s 60,000+ drug samples are randomly tested annually. Lack of GMP Compliance: Over 8,000 small-scale drug firms operate without WHO-GMP certification. Reactive Regulation: India acts after deaths, not through proactive inspections. Inadequate Penalties: Drug adulteration often punished by small fines or short imprisonment, creating moral hazard. Ethical and Governance Dimensions Medical Ethics: Doctors cannot detect contamination in appearance; responsibility lies with regulators. Governance Lapse: Regulatory complacency and inspection backlog reveal federal accountability vacuum. Public Trust Erosion: Domestic tragedies and international recalls (Gambia 2022, now M.P. 2025) threaten India’s pharmaceutical reputation. Policy and Reform Imperatives Centralised Drug Surveillance Grid: Unified National Drug Quality Database integrating State labs. Mandatory GMP & Solvent Traceability: Blockchain-based tracking of solvent suppliers. Increased Testing Frequency: Random batch testing at retail level. Regulatory Cadre Creation: All-India Drug Regulatory Service under UPSC-like structure. Whistleblower Protection: Incentives for reporting manufacturing violations. Public Disclosure: Annual “Drug Quality Index” for transparency. Conclusion The Madhya Pradesh cough syrup tragedy is not an isolated event but a symptom of systemic collapse in India’s drug safety framework. It reflects institutional negligence, fragmented authority, and economic shortcuts overriding public health ethics. Unless India moves towards centralized, transparent, and technology-driven regulation, its global image as the “pharmacy of the world” risks permanent erosion. Hydropower project on Chenab gets clearance Why in News ? The Sawalkote Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab river in Jammu & Kashmir has been granted fresh environmental clearance by the Environment Ministry, marking it as the first major hydropower project on the Indus rivers to receive clearance after India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) in April 2025. Relevance : GS Paper II – Governance: Environmental governance, forest and water clearances, inter-state/federal coordination, public hearings under FRA. GS Paper III – Energy: Renewable energy, hydropower development, energy security, strategic infrastructure. GS Paper III – Environment: Sustainable development, climate mitigation, ecological impact of run-of-the-river projects, resource management. Project Overview Type: Run-of-the-river hydroelectric project (no major dam storage). Location: Chenab river, Ramban district, J&K. Installed Capacity: 1,856 MW. Projected Generation: ~8,000 million units annually. Ownership: Initially by Jammu & Kashmir Power Development Corporation (JKPDC); later transferred to NHPC Ltd. in 2021, which will manage it until 2061. Original Clearance: Designated committee approved in 2017; lacked forest clearance initially. Environmental and Regulatory Approvals Fresh Clearance: Approved by the Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of the Environment Ministry after detailed review. Forest Clearance: ‘Stage 1 forest clearance’ granted in September 202Public hearings conducted under Forest Rights Act between Dec 2022–Feb 2023. Central Approvals: Central Electricity Authority (CEA) Central Water Commission (CWC) Significance: First major Indus river hydropower project cleared after India’s suspension of IWT, signaling strategic autonomy in river water utilization. Strategic and Political Context Indus Waters Treaty Suspension: Announced on April 23, 2025, post-Pahalgam terror attack; provides leeway for India to harness eastern Indus rivers. Geopolitical Significance: India can fully utilize Chenab and other eastern Indus tributaries for energy generation. Counters Pakistan’s objections under IWT. Regional Development: Largest hydro project in J&K by capacity. Potential to provide power security and local employment. Project Cost and Timeline Estimated Cost: Increased from ₹22,000 crore to ₹31,380 crore due to inflation, engineering, and environmental compliance costs. Timeline: Construction began post-transfer to NHPC; approval momentum accelerated post-IWT suspension. Environmental and Social Implications Environmental Concerns: Run-of-the-river projects have lower ecological impact than large dams but can still affect riverine ecosystems, aquatic life, and sediment flow. Forest clearances and public hearings aim to mitigate biodiversity and displacement issues. Social Impact: Local employment and regional electrification. Minimal displacement due to lack of storage dam. Strategic Energy and Policy Relevance Boost to Renewable Energy: Strengthens India’s hydropower capacity, supporting renewable energy targets. Energy Security: Reduces dependence on fossil fuels in northern India. Federal-State Coordination: Example of multiple approvals across central and state bodies (CEA, CWC, EAC, NHPC, forest authorities). Key Takeaways Sawalkote HEP marks India’s assertive use of eastern Indus rivers post-IWT suspension. Integration of environment, forest, and energy clearances illustrates complex regulatory navigation for strategic projects. Economic and energy benefits are balanced with environmental and social safeguards, setting a precedent for future hydropower projects in sensitive regions. Microfinance loan defaults surged in 2024-25: Sa-Dhan data Why in News ? The delinquency rate of microfinance loans in India rose sharply in 2024-25, according to Sa-Dhan’s Bharat Microfinance Report 2025, highlighting growing risks in the microfinance sector, particularly among rural borrowers. Relevance : GS Paper III – Indian Economy: Financial inclusion, microfinance sector, rural credit, non-performing assets, economic reforms, poverty alleviation. GS Paper II – Governance: Role of self-regulatory bodies, RBI guidelines, policy interventions for rural financial stability.   Basics: Microfinance Loans Definition: Small loans provided to low-income individuals, especially in rural and semi-urban areas, to support income-generating activities. Typical Loan Size: ₹10,000–₹50,000 per borrower. Repayment Structure: Weekly or monthly installments; often without collateral. Purpose: Financial inclusion, poverty alleviation, women empowerment, livelihood generation. Key Findings from the Report (2024–25) Overall Delinquency: 30+ days overdue: 6.2% (up from 2.1% in 2023-24). 90+ days overdue: 4.8% (up from 1.6% in 2023-24). State-wise Highlights: Bihar: ₹57,712 crore outstanding; 7.2% 30+ days overdue; 4.6% 90+ days overdue. Urban-Rural Comparison: Rural borrowers: 6.4% 30+ days overdue. Semi-urban: 6.1% 30+ days overdue. Urban: 6% 30+ days overdue. Trend: Delinquencies are rising across all geographies and sectors. Reasons for Rising Delinquency Economic Stress: Rising inflation, cost of living, and agricultural distress affecting repayment capacity. Climate Impact: Crop failure or unpredictable monsoons reduce rural borrowers’ income. Over-indebtedness: Borrowers taking multiple loans from different MFIs without sufficient repayment capacity. Operational Issues: Inefficient loan monitoring by some microfinance institutions (MFIs). Policy and Regulation: Delays in government relief schemes, lack of financial literacy. Implications Financial Sector Risk: High delinquency rates increase the Portfolio at Risk (PAR) and can affect MFIs’ sustainability. Credit Access: Rising defaults may tighten credit availability for low-income households. Rural Livelihoods: Non-performing microloans can exacerbate poverty and indebtedness. Policy Focus: Need for targeted interventions, crop insurance, financial literacy, and debt restructuring mechanisms. Policy and Regulatory Perspective Self-Regulatory Bodies: Sa-Dhan monitors MFIs and provides early warning signals. RBI Guidelines: MFIs must maintain capital adequacy and risk management frameworks. Government Schemes: Schemes like PM SVANidhi, crop insurance, and livelihood support can mitigate repayment stress. Need for Monitoring: Continuous monitoring of rural and high-risk borrowers is crucial to prevent systemic defaults. Artificial light exposure leads to early dementia symptoms Why in News ? A Delhi University study shows that constant exposure to artificial light and light pollution disrupts sleep and accelerates neurodegeneration, potentially worsening diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. The study highlights the hidden neurological risks of modern lifestyles dominated by night-shift work, screens, and urban lighting. Relevance : GS Paper III – Science & Technology: Neuroscience research, circadian biology, urban health risks. GS Paper III – Health: Non-communicable diseases, dementia, neurodegeneration, preventive health measures. GS Paper III – Environment: Light pollution, urbanization effects on health, sustainable urban planning. Basics: Light Pollution & Neurodegeneration Light Pollution: Excessive or misdirected artificial light that disrupts natural darkness. Circadian Rhythm: The body’s internal clock regulating sleep-wake cycles, hormone secretion, and brain health. Neurodegeneration: Progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, seen in diseases like: Alzheimer’s Disease (memory loss, confusion) Parkinson’s Disease (movement difficulties, tremors) Sleep Deprivation: Known contributor to cognitive decline, reduced memory consolidation, and accelerated neuronal damage. Study Highlights Conducted by Delhi University, Department of Genetics, South Campus. Published in ‘Neurochemistry International’. Model Used: Genetically-altered fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster) carrying human tau protein genes. Key Findings: Continuous artificial light disrupted normal sleep patterns. Accelerated brain cell degeneration in regions controlling memory, learning, and sleep. Increased stickiness of tau proteins, forming toxic clumps that mimic human neurodegenerative pathology. More than 10% of dementia severity linked to timing and amount of sleep lost. Mechanism Identified Artificial light → Circadian disruption → Sleep loss → Accelerated tau protein aggregation → Neurodegeneration. Acts as a disease accelerant, not just a symptom trigger. Impacts brain’s molecular and cellular health, hastening onset of age-related disorders. Societal Context Modern lifestyle factors increasing risk: Night-shift work Late-night use of smartphones, laptops, and other screens Urban lighting (streets, homes, offices) Rising prevalence of dementia: India projected 14.3 million dementia cases by 2050. Implications Health Risks: Accelerated cognitive decline, early onset of neurodegenerative diseases. Preventive Potential: Proper sleep management and circadian protection may delay disease onset. Public Health Concern: Urbanization and technology use may increase neurodegenerative disease burden. Recommendations Limit night-time exposure to artificial light (screens, room lights). Adopt sleep hygiene practices: regular sleep schedule, dark sleeping environment. Encourage workplaces to consider circadian-friendly shift timings. Promote awareness of light pollution as a neurodegenerative risk factor. Further research to understand cellular-level impacts of light pollution. Key Takeaways Sleep loss from artificial light exposure can accelerate neurodegeneration. Modern lifestyle choices (screens, urban lighting) have hidden long-term brain health consequences. Protecting circadian rhythms is a simple but effective preventive measure against age-related cognitive decline. Revisiting India’s industrial barometer: Base year revision of IIP Why in News ? The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) is revising the base year of the All-India Index of Industrial Production (IIP) to improve accuracy, relevance, and timeliness of industrial output data. The revision reflects India’s evolving industrial landscape, changing technologies, and the need for better decision-making in economic planning and policy. Relevance : GS Paper III – Indian Economy: Industrial growth, structural transformation, policy initiatives (Make in India, PLI schemes, industrial corridors). GS Paper III – Governance/Statistics: Statistical system, data quality, importance of timely and accurate indicators for policy-making. Basics: IIP and Structural Transformation Structural Transformation: Economic shift from agriculture → industry → services during long-term growth. Agriculture: ~15% of GVA Industry: ~22% of GVA Services: ~62.5% of GVA Index of Industrial Production (IIP): Measures growth in industrial sectors: manufacturing, mining, electricity. Influences GVA estimates, policy-making, planning, and research. Serves stakeholders: government, RBI, businesses, researchers. Issue of Industrial Growth in India Industrial sector lagging: Only 22% of GVA; needs improvement. Boost initiatives: Make in India Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes Ease of Doing Business reforms Industrial corridors GST rate cuts to stimulate consumption Post-Covid recovery: Mining, manufacturing, and electricity sectors show improved growth. Emerging industries and deregulation signal a dynamic industrial ecosystem. Need for Base Year Revision India’s economy is increasingly market-oriented, requiring accurate and timely industrial data. Old base years fail to reflect technological changes, new industries, and product innovations. The Technical Advisory Committee for Base Year Revision of IIP (TAC-IIP) was formed to address this. Historical revisions: Base year practice started in 1937, aligned with GDP base revisions and International Recommendations for IIP (IRIP 2010). Key Improvements in the New IIP Series Expansion of item basket: Inclusion of modern products like LED bulbs, vehicle batteries, computers, printing machinery. Removes obsolete items. Sectoral reclassification: Five groups: Quarrying, Manufacturing, Electricity, Gas & Water Supply, Waste Management First-time coverage of minor minerals and gas supply. Treatment of “not elsewhere classified” items: 276 items re-identified for better weight allocation (~95% of weights assigned to specific items). Substitution of factories: Old factories replaced by active ones with at least 12 months of overlapping reliable data. Seasonally-adjusted series: De-seasonalised data to capture underlying trends and cycles. Improved data coverage: Better factory-level data, sectoral weights, and market-relevant information. Implications Policy-making: More accurate industrial data supports GVA estimation, fiscal planning, and economic reforms. Investment decisions: Updated IIP data helps businesses assess sectoral growth, market potential, and industrial risks. Research & analysis: Enhanced statistical accuracy improves academic, financial, and macroeconomic research. International alignment: Conforms to IRIP 2010 recommendations, improving comparability. Key Takeaways IIP is a critical indicator of industrial growth and structural transformation. Revision of base year ensures timely, accurate, and relevant industrial statistics. New IIP series captures technological change, emerging products, and modern sectors, enhancing decision-making. MoSPI’s efforts align with global standards while reflecting India-specific requirements. Maria Corina Machado, ‘Iron Lady of Venezuela’, winner of Nobel Peace Prize Why in News ? Maria Corina Machado, a Venezuelan politician and democracy activist, was awarded the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize for her two-decade-long struggle to defend democracy and civil rights in Venezuela amid entrenched authoritarianism. Relevance : GS Paper II – International Relations: Democracy movements, US-Latin America relations, regional politics in Venezuela. GS Paper II – Governance & Global Governance: Civil society’s role, human rights advocacy, democratic resilience, Nobel Peace Prize as a global normative mechanism. GS Paper III – Economy & Governance: Economic impacts of authoritarian regimes, oil dependence, institutional erosion. Basics: Venezuela and Democracy Historical democracy: Until the 1990s, Venezuela had one of Latin America’s longest-running democracies. Shift to authoritarianism: 1999: Hugo Chávez elected President → new constitution increasing executive powers. Anti-Chávez opposition weakened due to inefficiency and failed coups/strikes (2002-2003). Chávez and successor Nicolás Maduro entrenched autocratic rule over two decades. Maria Corina Machado: Profile Civil and electoral activist: Advocates “ballots over bullets”, promoting democracy through electoral observation. Founded Súmate, a volunteer organisation ensuring transparent vote counting. Political opposition: Challenged Chávez and Maduro’s regimes in various campaigns. Remained in Venezuela despite criminal charges, judicial intimidation, and threats. International support: Maintains ties with US institutions (e.g., National Endowment for Democracy). Met US President George W. Bush in 2005; recently acknowledged support from Donald Trump. Key Contributions and Actions Súmate’s major campaigns: 2003–2004: Organised referendum to remove Chávez (2004 referendum retained Chávez amid voter fraud allegations). Ensured electoral transparency and citizen participation despite state harassment. Electoral activism: Advocated for citizen rights, election monitoring, and civic engagement. Emerged as a key opposition figure by late 2000s; ran in 2012 opposition primaries. Uniting opposition: Heads main opposition campaign in 2024. Seen as the most popular opposition figure, though Maduro retained power in 2024 elections. Political Context Chávez and Maduro regimes: Used oil revenues and socialist policies to consolidate power. Opposition often fragmented; many leaders fled the country. Venezuela’s crisis: Democratic erosion, judicial intimidation, political persecution, and economic turmoil. Machado’s resilience: Unlike many opposition leaders (e.g., Juan Guaidó), Machado remained in-country, facing risks. Seen as a symbol of civil courage and democratic resistance in Latin America. Implications Symbolic: Reinforces global recognition of non-violent democratic activism in authoritarian contexts. Political: Strengthens credibility of Venezuelan opposition internally and internationally. Diplomatic: Highlights US involvement/support in Venezuelan opposition politics, which may fuel regional debates. Key Takeaways Machado exemplifies courage under authoritarian regimes, using democratic processes rather than violence. The Nobel Prize underscores the importance of civil society and electoral integrity in global democracy. Her activism demonstrates the intersection of domestic politics, international support, and human rights advocacy.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 10 October 2025

Content Shaping India’s Next Frontiers in Science Through Biomedical Research Careers DRAVYA” Portal to Catalogue 100 Ayush Substances in First Phase Shaping India’s Next Frontiers in Science Through Biomedical Research Careers Context and Background Biomedical research integrates biological, medical, and technological sciences to improve healthcare outcomes through innovation in drugs, diagnostics, devices, and therapies. India’s biomedical sector is a key driver of its bioeconomy, contributing to public health, innovation, and self-reliance. The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science & Technology, has been central in developing India’s biomedical ecosystem aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat, Swasth Bharat, and Make in India. To institutionalize world-class biomedical careers, DBT and Wellcome Trust (UK) launched the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP) in 2008–09 via the DBT/Wellcome Trust India Alliance (SPV). Relevance: GS II – Governance & Social Justice: Institutional framework for biomedical research governance Gender and regional inclusion in science (BioCARe, Tier-2/3 outreach) Indo–UK scientific collaboration and policy partnership GS III – Science & Technology / Health / Economy: Promotion of indigenous biomedical innovation and translational R&D Strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat and Swasth Bharat through research ecosystems Human capital development and contribution to India’s bioeconomy Evolution of BRCP Phase Years Focus Achievements Phase I 2008–09 to 2017–18 Establishing fellowships, building scientific capacity Laid foundation for ethical, competitive research careers in India Phase II 2018–19 to 2024–25 Expanding grants, attracting global talent ₹2,388 crore invested, 721 grants, 90 international recognitions Phase III 2025–26 to 2030–31 (service till 2037–38) Scaling up India’s biomedical capacity, inclusivity, innovation ₹1,500 crore total outlay, targets 2,000+ researchers and TRL-4+ innovations Key Features of BRCP Phase-III Financial Outlay: ₹1,500 crore (DBT: ₹1,000 crore + Wellcome Trust: ₹500 crore). Implementation Period: Active Phase: 2025–26 to 2030–31. Servicing Phase: 2031–32 to 2037–38 for ongoing projects. Target Outcomes: Train 2,000+ researchers and post-docs. Achieve high-impact publications and patentable innovations. Push 25–30% projects to TRL-4 and above (prototype validation). 10–15% more support for women scientists. Broaden outreach to Tier-2/3 research institutions. Strategic Objectives Build world-class biomedical research ecosystems in basic, clinical, and public health domains. Attract global talent to Indian institutions. Promote interdisciplinary and translational research (lab-to-life). Strengthen research management and regulatory frameworks. Reduce regional disparities in scientific capacity. Foster ethical, inclusive, and transparent research culture. Structure and Programmes (a) Fellowship Categories Early Career & Intermediate Fellowships: Support for promising young scientists in basic, clinical, and public health research. Collaborative Grants: Career Development Grants and Catalytic Collaborative Grants for team-based research. Encourage partnerships between 2–3 investigators, bridging institutions. Research Management Programme: Builds administrative and technical capabilities in research institutions. (b) Capacity-Building Components Mentorship and networking opportunities. National and international collaborations. Training in science administration and regulatory affairs. Emphasis on diversity and inclusivity. Alignment with National Visions Directly linked to Viksit Bharat 2047—aiming for a globally competitive research ecosystem. Supports Atmanirbhar Bharat through domestic innovation in diagnostics, drugs, and devices. Advances Swasth Bharat via disease prevention, early diagnosis, and affordable healthcare. Contributes to Startup India through biotech entrepreneurship and translational R&D. Impact Achievements from Previous Phases (a) COVID-19 Response Supported 70+ projects including 10 vaccine candidates, 34 diagnostics, and 10 therapeutics. Strengthened national emergency biomedical response capacity. (b) dbGENVOC – World’s First Oral Cancer Variant Database Developed by DBT–NIBMG with 24 million variants from Indian patients. Enables genetic research for oral cancer (India’s most common male cancer). (c) National AMR Mission Collaboration with WHO using One Health Approach. Created AMR pathogen priority list, national bio-repository, and AMR R&D partnerships. (d) Biorepositories and Clinical Trial Networks Established across India for translational research and data sharing. Accelerated lab-to-market pathways for diagnostics and therapeutics. Women in Biomedical Research BioCARe Programme: First independent research grants for women scientists. Janaki Ammal Award: Recognizes excellence in biomedical research. BIRAC WInER Awards & Bioincubators: Support women-led biotech startups. Women Leaders in Global Health Conference: Global platform for collaboration and leadership. Priority Research Domains Focus Area Key Initiatives Expected Outcomes Human Genetics & Genomics GenomeIndia (10,000 genomes), UMMID Personalized & predictive medicine Infectious Disease Biology HIV, TB, malaria, dengue, COVID-19 National biobanks, epidemic preparedness Vaccines Indo-US Vaccine Action Programme ROTAVAC®, Covaxin, TB & dengue vaccines Diagnostics & Devices CRISPR kits, RT-PCR, affordable devices Self-reliance in diagnostics Therapeutics & Drug Repurposing Repurpose existing drugs Faster, cost-effective treatments Biomedical Engineering & Biodesign Indigenous implants, devices Reduced import dependency Stem Cells & Regenerative Medicine Tissue & cell-based therapy New-age solutions for chronic diseases Maternal & Child Health GARBH-ini project Reduced infant mortality, improved maternal health Marine & Aquaculture Biotechnology Fish vaccines, nutraceuticals Marine-derived drugs, health supplements Public Health & Nutrition AMR, NCDs, malnutrition Strengthened public health & preventive care Expected Macro-Level Outcomes Human Capital: 2,000+ trained scientists and research managers. Innovation Output: Increased patents, TRL-4+ products, global collaborations. Gender Equity: Higher women representation in leadership and research roles. Economic Impact: Strengthened bioeconomy through biotech startups and indigenization. Health System Strengthening: Affordable, evidence-based solutions for national health priorities. Global Relevance Reinforces India–UK scientific diplomacy and South–South cooperation. Showcases India as a biomedical innovation hub for developing nations. Builds research credibility through open data and ethical frameworks. Challenges Ahead Bridging infrastructure and funding gaps across Tier-2/3 institutions. Retaining talent against global research migration. Ensuring ethical compliance and data protection in biomedical research. Translating academic breakthroughs into commercial solutions effectively. Conclusion BRCP Phase-III represents a strategic Indo-UK partnership to transform India’s biomedical research into a globally competitive, inclusive, and innovation-driven enterprise. It integrates capacity building, inclusivity, translational innovation, and public health priorities—anchored to Viksit Bharat 2047. With initiatives like GenomeIndia, dbGENVOC, and AMR Mission, India is transitioning from a knowledge consumer to a global knowledge producer in life sciences. The programme is expected to catalyze health security, economic growth, and global leadership in biomedical innovation. “DRAVYA” Portal to Catalogue 100 Ayush Substances in First Phase Basic Context DRAVYA stands for Digitised Retrieval Application for Versatile Yardstick of Ayush. It is an AI-ready digital portal launched by the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) under the Ministry of Ayush. Objective: To digitize, unify, and standardize information on medicinal substances used in Ayush systems (Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homoeopathy). Launched during the 10th Ayurveda Day (23 September 2025, Goa) — themed around the digital transformation of traditional medicine. Relevance: GS II – Governance & Social Justice: Digital governance under Ministry of Ayush for transparency and access Integration of traditional knowledge with modern policymaking Institutional strengthening through CCRAS and Ayush Grid GS III – Science & Technology / Health: AI-enabled digitization and standardization of Ayush substances Evidence-based validation of traditional medicine systems Contribution to Digital India and Viksit Bharat 2047 through health-tech innovation Core Objective and Vision Create a comprehensive open-access digital repository of Ayush medicinal substances. Integrate classical Ayurvedic knowledge with modern scientific data for global use. Establish a credible, evidence-based knowledge platform to strengthen scientific validation and international collaboration in traditional medicine. Implementation: Phase I Scope: Catalogue 100 key medicinal substances in the first phase. Dynamic Updating: Continuous data input through a dedicated entry software ensuring precision and authenticity. Developed by: CCRAS (an autonomous body under Ministry of Ayush). Future Expansion: Will progressively cover a larger range of Ayush substances and formulations. Technological and Structural Features AI-Ready Architecture: Enables integration with future artificial intelligence tools for predictive analytics, cross-referencing, and data mining. Integration: Linked to the Ayush Grid, India’s central digital health mission for traditional systems. Will connect with other Ministry of Ayush databases on drug policy, medicinal plants, and pharmacopoeias. QR Code Integration: Standardized QR codes will be installed in medicinal plant gardens and drug repositories across India. Enables users to scan and instantly access verified digital profiles of substances. User Interface: Designed to be intuitive, modular, and multilingual, ensuring accessibility for researchers, students, and practitioners. Data Coverage and Content The portal consolidates data from: Classical Ayurvedic Texts: Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, etc. Modern Research Databases: PubMed, pharmacopoeias, botanical and chemical datasets. Key Information Domains: Ayurvedic pharmacotherapeutics (uses, dosages, formulations) Botanical identification and taxonomy Chemical constituents and pharmacology Pharmaceutical standards and safety profiles Toxicity, drug interactions, and quality control data Institutional and Policy Context Nodal Agency: Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS). Supported by: Ministry of Ayush. Part of Broader Initiatives: Ayush Grid: Digital integration of Ayush education, clinical, research, and drug sectors. Evidence-Based Ayush Research Policy: For enhancing credibility and standardization of Ayush systems. National Ayush Mission: Strengthening Ayush infrastructure and mainstreaming traditional medicine. Leadership Statements (Indicative Significance) Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav: Called DRAVYA “the living embodiment of India’s knowledge tradition in a contemporary form.” Emphasized blending of traditional wisdom with modern technology for global innovation. Secretary Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha: Highlighted the portal as a scientific and globally accessible resource, integrating classical and contemporary knowledge. Director General (CCRAS) Prof. Rabinarayan Acharya: Positioned DRAVYA as a cornerstone for researchers, practitioners, and students, enabling pharmacopoeial harmonisation and evidence-based validation of Ayush drugs. Strategic Significance Scientific Validation: Strengthens the evidence base of Ayurveda and other Ayush systems, aligning them with modern research methodologies. Global Credibility: Positions India as a knowledge leader in traditional medicine and integrative health research. Cross-Disciplinary Innovation: Bridges Ayurveda with pharmacology, chemistry, AI, and data science. Policy Utility: Aids drug regulators, policymakers, and pharmacopoeial committees with authenticated data. Public Engagement: Enhances transparency, accessibility, and trust in traditional medicine. Expected Outcomes Creation of a verified, standardized, and dynamic digital repository of medicinal substances. Promotion of research collaboration between Ayush scholars, biomedical scientists, and data technologists. Facilitation of drug discovery and formulation modernization using AI-enabled data analytics. Strengthened pharmacopoeial harmonization across different Ayush systems. Enhanced international trade and recognition of Indian traditional medicines through data transparency. Broader Policy Relevance Digital Public Infrastructure for Health: Contributes to India’s digital health ecosystem under Ayush Grid and Digital India Mission. Viksit Bharat 2047 Vision: Aligns with the goal of transforming India into a global innovation and wellness hub. Evidence-Based Traditional Medicine: Supports WHO’s strategy (2025–2034) for integrating traditional medicine into national health systems. Challenges Ahead Ensuring data standardization and authenticity across multiple classical sources. Balancing traditional epistemology with scientific validation frameworks. Maintaining interoperability between DRAVYA, Ayush Grid, and global digital health platforms. Continuous updating and peer review to prevent outdated or conflicting information. Conclusion DRAVYA represents a transformative leap in bringing India’s ancient medicinal heritage into the digital and AI era. It blends Sanskrit grantha-based wisdom with modern research validation, creating a scientifically robust, globally accessible, and technology-driven repository. The initiative not only digitizes data but revitalizes Ayurveda’s intellectual ecosystem—making traditional medicine searchable, standardized, and globally credible. It marks India’s progress from being a custodian of heritage knowledge to a leader in evidence-based digital traditional medicine systems.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 10 October 2025

Content India’s mental health crisis, the cries and scars India needs a unified mental health response India’s mental health crisis, the cries and scars Context and Background Rising suicide cases in India reflect a deep national mental health crisis affecting all social groups — rural and urban, youth and elderly, men and women. Triggered by recent tragic incidents in Uttar Pradesh (family suicide) and Kota (student suicides). Editorial calls for urgent state-led intervention and ethical regulation of AI-based mental health tools. Relevance: GS II – Governance & Social Justice: Policy formulation for mental health, suicide prevention, and community-based interventions. Cross-ministerial coordination (Health, Education, Women & Child Development, Agriculture). Legal frameworks: Mental Healthcare Act, 2017; judicial recognition under Article 21. Gender-sensitive approaches: addressing female suicides, homemakers’ mental health, youth. GS III – Health & Economy: Public health infrastructure: District Mental Health Programme, Tele MANAS, school-based counselling. Human resource development: psychiatrists, psychologists, mid-level providers. Economic impact: untreated mental illness → $1 trillion GDP loss by 2030; workplace productivity, absenteeism. Digital health regulation: AI tools for counselling, telemedicine integration, ethical oversight. Practice Question : Evaluate the current mental health scenario in India, highlighting key systemic gaps and policy challenges. Suggest measures to strengthen mental health care access and equity.(250 Words) Scale of the Crisis NCRB ADSI 2023: 1,71,418 suicides (↑0.3% from 2022). Suicide rate: ↓0.8% per lakh population (population growth outpaced cases). High-incidence regions: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Sikkim, Kerala. Top contributing states: Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal (40% of suicides). Gendered crisis: Men = 72.8% of suicides → tied to economic pressure & social expectations. Major causes: Family problems – 31.9% Illness – 19% Substance abuse – 7% Relationship/marriage distress – ~10% Sectoral Breakdown Farmers: 10,786 suicides (6.3% of total), mainly in Maharashtra & Karnataka. Structural causes: debt, crop failure, price shocks, policy neglect. Over 1 lakh farmer suicides since 2014; 2.96 lakh (1995–2015) cumulatively. Homemakers: High rates of depression & domestic distress but underrepresented in data. Reflects gender invisibility in national mental health policy. India’s Mental Health Burden 230 million Indians suffer from mental disorders (depression, anxiety, bipolar, substance use). Treatment gap: 70%–92%; only 1 in 5 with severe illness receives care. Prevalence: Lifetime rate – 10.6%. WHO suicide estimate: 16.3 per lakh – higher than NCRB figures → underreporting likely. Systemic Gaps Human Resources: 0.75 psychiatrists per 1 lakh (WHO minimum = 1.7; ideal = 3). Shortages of psychologists, nurses, and social workers. Institutional Weakness: Counselling in schools/colleges = symbolic or part-time. Coaching hubs like Kota lack sustained mental health services. Policy Frameworks (Progressive but Poorly Implemented): Mental Healthcare Act 2017: Decriminalised suicide, guaranteed right to care. National Suicide Prevention Strategy 2022: Aimed at 10% reduction — no visible decline. Manodarpan (school support scheme): Mostly inactive. Budget: ₹270 crore allocated, largely unspent. The Digital Turn – Promise and Peril Increasing reliance on AI-based mental health tools (ChatGPT, emotional support apps). Reflects social isolation and lack of human care, not tech progress. Risks: No confidentiality, regulation, or crisis response protocols. Users mistakenly treat AI as therapy substitutes. Regulation Needed: Mandatory disclaimers, privacy transparency, redirection to real counsellors. Ethical oversight before public adoption. Policy Priorities and Recommendations National Emergency Declaration: Treat mental health as a public health priority. Cross-Ministerial Task Force: Health, Education, Agriculture, Women & Child Development. Human Resource Expansion: Target: 3–5 professionals per 1 lakh by 2030. Scholarships, rural service incentives, and new psychiatry programs. Counselling Infrastructure: Mandatory trained counsellors in every school, college, and district hospital. Publicly funded, not NGO-dependent. Awareness & De-Stigmatisation: Campaigns sharing recovery stories and promoting help-seeking. Targeted Support: Farmers: Mental health + debt relief + livelihood support. Homemakers: Community-based therapy and social outreach. Students: Continuous institutional counselling, especially in coaching hubs. Economic and Social Stakes Suicide = leading cause of death among 15–29-year-olds. India accounts for a disproportionate share of global female suicides. Economic loss: Untreated mental illness → projected $1 trillion GDP loss by 2030. Employers lose ₹1.1 lakh crore annually (burnout, absenteeism). Mental health = not only a health issue but a social justice and productivity imperative. Way Forward Institutionalise counselling as public infrastructure. Enforce AI regulation before integration into health care. Build a community-based, inclusive mental health system — reaching farmers, women, students, and workers. Align national response with WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan (2013–2030). Conclusion India faces a silent epidemic — mental illness is widespread but invisible. The crisis reflects institutional neglect, cultural stigma, and policy underexecution. True modernity lies in building a society where every individual hears: “You matter.” A humane, regulated, and inclusive mental health system is essential for a resilient, compassionate, and productive India. India needs a unified mental health response Context and Background Global context: Over 1 billion people (13% of population) live with mental illnesses. India: Lifetime prevalence = 13.7%, ~200 million affected. Legal framework: Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 guarantees mental health care, decriminalises suicide, mandates insurance coverage, and upholds patient dignity. Judicial reinforcement: Sukdeb Saha vs State of Andhra Pradesh (SC) confirmed mental health as a fundamental right under Article 21. Relevance: GS II – Governance & Social Justice: Policy formulation for mental health, suicide prevention, and community-based interventions. Cross-ministerial coordination (Health, Education, Women & Child Development, Agriculture). Legal frameworks: Mental Healthcare Act, 2017; judicial recognition under Article 21. Gender-sensitive approaches: addressing female suicides, homemakers’ mental health, youth. GS III – Health & Economy: Public health infrastructure: District Mental Health Programme, Tele MANAS, school-based counselling. Human resource development: psychiatrists, psychologists, mid-level providers. Economic impact: untreated mental illness → $1 trillion GDP loss by 2030; workplace productivity, absenteeism. Digital health regulation: AI tools for counselling, telemedicine integration, ethical oversight. Practice Question : Suicide remains a leading cause of death among Indian youth. Examine the sociocultural, economic, and institutional factors contributing to this trend. How can governance and legal frameworks mitigate the crisis?(250 Words) Existing Government Initiatives District Mental Health Programme (DMHP): Covers ~767 districts; provides counselling, outpatient care, and suicide prevention. Tele MANAS: 24×7 helpline with 20 lakh+ tele-counselling sessions, expanding access to underserved areas. School-based programme: Manodarpan reached 11 crore students nationwide. Key Challenges Treatment gap: 70%-92% (NMHS 2015-16), 85% for common disorders like depression/anxiety. Workforce scarcity: 0.75 psychiatrists & 0.12 psychologists per 1,00,000 people (WHO recommends ≥3 psychiatrists). Urban-centric; rural areas underserved (~70% population). Service delivery issues: DMHP functional gaps, irregular medicine supply, <15% rehabilitation coverage. Budget allocation: Only 1.05% of health budget for mental health vs WHO recommendation of ≥5%. Stigma & cultural barriers: >50% Indians perceive mental illness as personal weakness. Policy gaps: ICD-11 disorders (e.g., complex PTSD, prolonged grief, gaming disorder) not integrated. Monitoring & evaluation: Fragmented data collection; no robust cascade monitoring systems. International Comparisons Countries like Australia, Canada, UK: Treatment gaps = 40%-55% (lower than India). Mental health spending = 8%-10% of health budget. Mid-level providers deliver ~50% counselling; India remains specialist-centric. Insurance coverage >80% vs <15% in India. Digital & school-based programs cover 20%-30% of population; India’s Tele MANAS limited. Policy Recommendations Budgetary Increase: Raise allocation to ≥5% of total health expenditure. Workforce Expansion: Recruit psychiatrists, psychologists, nurses, social workers. Train mid-level providers to address urban-rural gaps. Integration into Primary Care & Insurance: Ensure accessible, affordable services nationwide. Policy Updates: Incorporate ICD-11 disorders into national guidelines. Monitoring & Evaluation: District/state-level cascade monitoring, linked to budgets. Anti-Stigma Campaigns: Target schools and workplaces; achieve >60% mental health literacy by 2027. Inter-Ministerial Coordination: Align health, education, social justice, and labour policies for unified response. Economic and Social Stakes Untreated mental illness → projected $1 trillion GDP loss by 2030. Early intervention and workforce scaling can reduce disability, improve productivity, and strengthen social cohesion. Conclusion India faces a profoundly unmet mental health need. Current programs show promise but are underfunded, understaffed, and fragmented. Comprehensive reforms — budget, workforce, policy updates, stigma reduction, and integrated monitoring — are essential to create an accessible, equitable, and effective mental health system

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 10 October 2025

Content India inks £350-mn deal with U.K. to buy missiles of global stability Are women deciding Assembly elections? What are the various electoral forms? Why we need to change the way we talk about antibiotic resistance Prioritising mental health during emergencies is essential: experts Red List initiative India inks £350-mn deal with U.K. to buy missiles of global stability’ Why in News ? India and the U.K. have signed a £350-million defence deal for missiles, marking a strategic milestone in India-U.K. defence cooperation. The agreement includes procurement of Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) for the Indian Army and collaboration on electric-powered naval engines. This follows high-level discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.K. PM Keir Starmer in Mumbai, highlighting expanding bilateral ties across defence, technology, and education. Relevance GS II – International Relations: Bilateral defence and technology partnership with the U.K. Strategic cooperation in education and research sectors. GS III – Defence & Economy: Modernisation of armed forces and advanced weapons acquisition. Boost to defence manufacturing, Make in India, and technology transfers. Economic diplomacy via investment flows and educational partnerships. Context and Background Part of broader India-U.K. strategic partnership, described as an “important pillar of global stability.” Defence deal aligns with India’s modernisation of armed forces and push for domestic and international collaboration. U.K. universities (Lancaster & Surrey) approved to open campuses in India, reflecting increasing education and technology cooperation. 64 Indian companies committed £1.3 billion (~₹15,430 crore) investment in the U.K., showing strengthened economic ties post trade deal. Details of the Defence Deal Value: £350 million (missiles) + £250 million for electric-powered naval engines. Procurement: Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) manufactured in Belfast. Purpose: Strengthen Indian Army’s missile capabilities. Broaden defence partnership towards “complex weapons collaboration.” Boost bilateral defence R&D and industrial linkages. Strategic Objective: Enhance interoperability and technology exchange. Support Make in India by leveraging foreign technology and investment. Strategic and Geopolitical Significance Global Stability: Strengthens India-U.K. defence alignment amid turbulent global scenario. Regional Security: Enhances India’s deterrence posture in the Indo-Pacific region. Technology Collaboration: Paves way for joint development of advanced missile systems and naval technology. Defence Industry Boost: Encourages investments, technology transfer, and R&D in India’s defence sector. Economic and Industrial Implications Indian firms invest £1.3 billion in U.K., enhancing bilateral trade confidence. Defence procurement fosters indigenous supply chains via Make in India initiative. Joint ventures in defence manufacturing can create jobs and skill development opportunities. Electric naval engine collaboration supports green technology adoption in defence. Conclusion The defence deal enhances India-U.K. strategic and technological cooperation while modernising India’s armed forces. It also strengthens regional security and boosts Make in India through joint R&D and industrial linkages. Are women deciding Assembly elections? Why in News ? In the run-up to the Bihar Assembly elections, direct cash transfer schemes like the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana have targeted women voters. This has revived the debate on whether women are becoming a decisive electoral force, reflecting increasing political focus on gender as an identity in voting behaviour. Relevance GS II – Governance & Social Justice: Gender-responsive policy formulation and evaluation. Electoral inclusion and institutional mechanisms for women’s political participation. Intersectionality in policy design. GS II/III – Polity & Economy: Welfare schemes and direct benefit transfers as tools of social empowerment. Clientelism vs. inclusive policy delivery. Socio-economic empowerment of women as a driver of development. Context and Background Bihar CM Nitish Kumar transferred ₹10,000 to 25 lakh women (Oct 3, 2025) under Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana. PM Modi announced ₹7,500 crore transfer to 75 lakh women under the same scheme (Sept 26, 2025). Women increasingly treated as a “vote bank,” similar to caste or religious groups. Share of women voters rising; women voters outnumber men in several constituencies in recent elections. Key Insights from the Article Agency over freebies: Women seek empowerment, dignity, and autonomy, not just cash schemes. Political parties must internalise women’s aspirations rather than assume them as monolithic beneficiaries (“labharthis”). Intersectionality: Women’s voting preferences are shaped by caste, class, religion, region, and other social identities. Treating women as a homogeneous group risks marginalising their agency and reinforces clientelist politics. Electoral Inclusion and Disadvantages: Documentation issues in exercises like SIR (Bihar) and NRC (Assam) disproportionately affect women. Despite being celebrated as voters, systemic barriers limit women’s political participation. Impact of Welfare Schemes: Schemes like Ladli Behna, Ladki Bahin, and Mahila Rojgar Yojana provide direct cash transfers. Success varies with timing, implementation, conditional clauses (e.g., school education). Evidence shows schemes do not automatically translate into votes for any party; women increasingly exercise independent choice. Evolution of Political Attention to Women: Modern political manifestos include women-centric measures (e.g., free cycles, toilets, cash transfers). These initiatives signal recognition of women’s role, but risks of tokenism and essentialisation remain. Overview Women voters are influential but not decisive: Their importance lies in parity with other voting blocs rather than a monolithic swing factor. Empowerment vs. Clientelism: Schemes can empower women financially and socially if implemented effectively. Pre-election cash transfers risk being perceived as vote-buying rather than empowerment. Policy Design Lessons: Gender-responsive policies must consider intersectional identities. Effective delivery, awareness, and support for independent use of benefits are critical. Conclusion Women’s growing electoral presence highlights their increasing political agency, though they are not a monolithic vote bank. Effective gender-responsive policies and empowerment measures, rather than pre-election cash transfers, can strengthen meaningful participation. What are the various electoral forms? Why in News ? The Election Commission (EC) recently concluded the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar ahead of Assembly elections and plans a phased rollout across other States. The process has sparked debate over voter inclusion, documentation requirements, and electoral fairness. Relevance GS II – Polity & Governance: Role of EC in preparation and revision of electoral rolls. Right to vote, voter inclusion, and clean elections. Judicial oversight in election administration. GS II – Democracy & Accountability: Citizen participation in electoral processes. Challenges in electoral inclusion for marginalized groups. Context & Background Legal Basis: Section 21 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950 (RP Act) allows preparation and revision of electoral rolls. EC can carry out a summary revision before elections and a special revision at any time. SIR in Bihar: EC order dated June 24, 2025 initiated SIR nationwide, starting with Bihar. Bihar Assembly elections due in November 2025; July 1 fixed as qualifying date. Process Steps: Submission of enumeration forms by registered voters. Submission of eligible documents proving citizenship (for voters registered post-2003). Publication of draft electoral rolls. Period for filing claims and objections. Verification and disposal of claims by Electoral Registration Officers (ERO). Publication of final electoral roll (Bihar roll released on Sept 30, 2025). Judicial Intervention: SIR process challenged in the Supreme Court. Court directed EC to accept Aadhaar as proof of identity along with enumeration forms. Forms & Citizen Participation Relevant Forms: Defined in Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 (RER). Include forms for new voter registration, migration, objections, corrections, deletions, etc. Citizens should fill out the relevant forms based on their status. Citizen Responsibility: Verify published draft rolls. Submit forms if new voters or migrated. Seek assistance from political parties, civil society, or EROs, especially for marginalized groups. Significance Clean electoral rolls are vital for free and fair elections. Ensures every eligible citizen can exercise their right to vote without compromise. Phased rollout in other States aims to improve efficiency and inclusivity. Challenges & Concerns Short timelines may disadvantage marginalized groups, particularly women, migrants, and those with weak documentation. Political debates about SIR often highlight fears of exclusion or voter manipulation, though EC maintains neutrality. Need for adequate public awareness and facilitation to avoid disenfranchisement. Way Forward Extended timelines for SIR to allow hassle-free participation. Ensure Aadhaar and other accepted documents are widely communicated. Political parties and civil society must assist vulnerable populations in verifying and updating rolls. Phased nationwide SIR can improve the accuracy of rolls for upcoming Assembly elections. Conclusion Special Intensive Revision (SIR) and other electoral processes ensure inclusive and accurate voter registration. Robust citizen participation, timely awareness, and facilitation are essential to maintain free and fair elections. Why we need to change the way we talk about antibiotic resistance Why in News Context: Renewed focus on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) due to stagnation in public awareness despite increasing medical risk. Catalyst: NDM (New Delhi Metallo-beta-lactamase) first reported in 2010, highlighting India as a hotspot for antibiotic resistance. Current Concern: Communication fatigue and public desensitization to alarming AMR statistics; need for a personalized, biology-centered narrative. Relevance GS III – Science & Technology / Health: Antimicrobial resistance, NDM-1, antibiotic stewardship. Public health policies, microbiome science, personalized medicine. GS II – Governance / Policy: Chennai Declaration, G20/G7 AMR policies, India’s national health response. GS III – Economics: Economic burden of AMR, healthcare cost escalation, productivity loss. Understanding AMR & NDM AMR: Occurs when microorganisms evolve to survive exposure to antibiotics. Leads to infections that are harder to treat, increasing morbidity and mortality. NDM-1: A gene producing an enzyme that makes bacteria resistant to nearly all antibiotics, including last-resort drugs. First identified in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, 2010. Sparked political controversy over naming, highlighting global attention to India’s AMR problem. Impact of AMR: Health: Increased treatment failures, prolonged hospital stays, higher mortality. Economy: Predicted $100 trillion global economic loss by 2050 (Lord Jim O’Neill report). Social: Poses a global public health threat, affecting low- and middle-income countries disproportionately. Evolution of Awareness & Policy Initiatives Chennai Declaration (2012): Indian consensus framework to tackle AMR. Global Recognition: G7 and G20 included AMR in their agendas; AMR recognized as a medical, economic, and political issue. Problem: Over time, repeated alarmist messaging led to psychic numbing—public and policymakers became desensitized to statistics. Communication Crisis Traditional messaging relies on large-scale catastrophic forecasts, e.g., 10 million deaths by 2050. Habituation: Repeated exposure to statistics dulls public and policymaker response. Need for personalized storytelling connecting AMR to everyday health impacts. Making AMR Personal Microbiome Concept: Human body hosts trillions of beneficial microbes, essential for digestion, immunity, metabolism, skin health, and even mood regulation. Antibiotics Effects: Disrupt gut microbiome for months; sometimes permanent changes. Linked to anxiety, depression, obesity, diabetes, asthma, eczema. Impacts are present-day, not just future predictions. Positive framing: Microbes are not only harmful; they create individuality, influence experiences (e.g., how perfume smells on different people). Protecting beneficial microbes is a personal responsibility with immediate health consequences. Shift in Messaging From distant catastrophe → personal impact. From fear → responsibility. From statistics → biology. From bad bugs → good bugs. Goal: Sustainable public engagement, keeping AMR on the policy and individual action agenda. Significance & Policy Implications Healthcare: Need for judicious antibiotic use, stewardship programs, and infection control. Education & Awareness: Shift from abstract warnings to practical, relatable impacts on individual health. Research: Encourage studies on microbiome preservation and AMR mitigation. Global Health: India’s AMR crisis is part of a global threat, requiring coordinated national and international response. Conclusion AMR communication must shift from abstract catastrophic statistics to personalized, biology-focused messaging to drive responsible antibiotic use. This approach improves public engagement, policymaking, and sustainable health outcomes. Prioritising mental health during emergencies is essential: experts Why in News Event: World Mental Health Day 2025 (October 10) Theme: “Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies” Relevance: Highlights urgent need for accessible mental health services during disasters, conflicts, climate-induced crises, and pandemics. Context in India: Recurring natural disasters (tsunamis, cyclones), COVID-19 pandemic, and humanitarian emergencies have exposed gaps in mental health response. Relevance GS II – Governance / Social Justice: Mental health policy, integration in disaster management, child and adolescent protection. GS III – Health / Disaster Management: Psychological first aid, crisis mental health services, impact of emergencies on health systems. GS II/III – International Cooperation: WHO guidelines, Inter-Agency Standing Committee recommendations, global frameworks for disaster mental health. Understanding Mental Health in Emergencies Definition: Mental health encompasses emotional, psychological, and social well-being; crucial for coping with stress and disasters. Crisis Impact: WHO estimates ~1 in 5 individuals experience mental health conditions during disasters/conflicts. Common Conditions: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia. Historical Lessons in India: 2004 Tsunami: Recognized need for psychological first-aid alongside physical relief. COVID-19 Pandemic: Highlighted widespread stress, isolation, and anxiety affecting both infected and uninfected individuals. Cyclones & Natural Disasters: e.g., 2018 Gaja cyclone – mental health teams intervened for grief and trauma. Challenges in Mental Health Response Underestimation of Need: Mental health often seen as secondary to physical and economic recovery in emergencies. Accessibility: Services concentrated in urban centers; rural and remote populations underserved. Stigma: Social barriers prevent individuals from seeking care, especially in disaster-affected areas. Long-term Impact: Children and adolescents exposed to trauma face lasting psychological effects. Reactive Approach: Often addressed post-disaster instead of being integrated into initial emergency planning. Key Recommendations & Best Practices Decentralization: Ensure mental health services are available in all districts affected by disasters. Create mobile mental health units in rural or conflict-affected zones. Integration into Emergency Response: Mental health support should be part of initial disaster relief planning along with food, shelter, and medical care. Teams should assess acute stress, grief, and trauma immediately. Child & Adolescent Focus: Prioritize psychosocial support for children exposed to violence, displacement, or loss. Capacity Building: Train first responders, medical staff, and volunteers in psychological first aid. Leverage WHO and Inter-Agency Standing Committee guidelines for mental health in emergencies. Awareness & De-stigmatization: Promote discussions about mental health across all sectors. Encourage community participation to normalize seeking psychological support. Sustainability: Mental health support should not be reactive, but pre-planned, structured, and continuous. Follow-up and long-term care should be incorporated post-crisis. Significance Public Health: Early mental health intervention reduces long-term psychiatric morbidity. Social Stability: Reduces post-disaster social tensions, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Disaster Resilience: Mentally healthy populations are better able to adapt and recover from catastrophes. Global Commitments: Aligns with WHO, Sustainable Development Goal 3 (good health and well-being) and disaster preparedness frameworks. Conclusion Integrating mental health into disaster response reduces long-term psychological impact and strengthens societal resilience. Decentralized, pre-planned, and continuous care is crucial for effective emergency management. Red List initiative Why in News ? India is preparing a national-level ‘Red List’ of species for the first time, assessing 11,000 species (7,000 flora + 4,000 fauna). Announcement made by Union Minister of State for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Kirti Vardhan Singh on the first day of the World Congress of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Abu Dhabi. Initiative aligns with India’s commitments under the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF). Relevance GS III – Environment & Biodiversity: Biodiversity conservation, Red List, endangered species, endemic species. Role of government and international organizations (IUCN, CBD). GS III – Disaster & Ecology Linkages: Understanding species risk contributes to ecosystem-based disaster risk reduction. Understanding the Red List IUCN Red List: Global standard for assessing extinction risk of species. Categories of Assessment: Extinct, Extinct in the Wild, Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable, Near Threatened, Least Concern, Data Deficient, Not Evaluated. Purpose: Helps policymakers and wildlife biologists prioritize conservation actions, allocate resources, and plan recovery for species at risk. Scope in India: 55,726 species recorded. Currently, IUCN assessed only 7,516 species (13.4% are threatened). 1,012 species threatened; 289 near threatened; 13.8% data deficient. High endemism in amphibians (79%) and reptiles (54.9%) among threatened species. Objectives of the National Red List Assess extinction risk for 11,000 species across India. Establish a participatory, nationally coordinated, and upgradable Red Listing system. Reflect the true conservation status of India’s biodiversity. Track progress of biodiversity protection targets under KM-GBF and SDGs. Integrate expert inputs from taxonomists, conservation biologists, and non-profit organizations. Create a framework for future conservation recovery plans. Key Stakeholders Government Agencies: Union Environment Ministry Botanical Survey of India Zoological Survey of India Non-governmental & Research Organisations: Wildlife Institute of India Taxonomists and conservation biologists across India Global Alignment: Coordinated with IUCN global standards. Significance of the Initiative Biodiversity Conservation: Enables scientific, evidence-based conservation planning. Policy Impact: Helps identify priority species and habitats needing immediate protection. Global Commitment: Strengthens India’s role in CBD and KM-GBF goals. Endemism Protection: Highlights species unique to India, crucial for ecosystem balance and ecological resilience. Awareness & Engagement: Promotes participation of civil society, researchers, and local communities in biodiversity monitoring. Challenges Data Deficiency: Many species lack sufficient information, potentially underestimating threats. Scale: India has ~55,726 documented species, making assessment resource-intensive. Coordination: Requires collaboration across government, academia, NGOs, and international frameworks. Implementation: Translating Red List data into actionable conservation policies and field interventions. Why It Matters Now ? Global Biodiversity Targets: India committed to stop biodiversity loss by 2030 under KM-GBF. Climate Change & Habitat Loss: Rapid environmental change is increasing extinction risk. Awareness & Policy: With this initiative, India strengthens national conservation policies and international credibility. Conclusion India’s National Red List provides evidence-based prioritization for species conservation, aligning with global biodiversity commitments. It enables targeted policies, protects endemic species, and promotes scientific and community engagement in biodiversity preservation.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 09 October 2025

Content Curbing Cyber Frauds in Digital India Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 3.0 Curbing Cyber Frauds in Digital India Why in News The Government released an update (8 Oct 2025) on India’s cyber fraud prevention efforts under the Digital India mission. Coincides with India Mobile Congress 2025, where cybersecurity is a major focus area. Reflects India’s transition from cyber awareness to national-scale cyber resilience. Relevance: GS-3 (Internal Security): Cyber threats, CERT-In, NCIIPC, I4C, national cyber resilience. GS-2 (Governance): Data Protection Act 2023, IT Rules 2021, Online Gaming Bill 2025. GS-3 (S&T): AI-driven frauds, NM-ICPS, digital infrastructure security. Digital India and the Expanding Cyber Landscape Digital India Initiative (2015–): Rapid digitisation of services, e-governance, and financial inclusion. Internet penetration: 86% of households connected (2025). Digital transactions: Massive surge via UPI, Aadhaar-enabled payments, and e-governance platforms. Challenge: The expanded digital ecosystem increases exposure to cyber threats and frauds.       Rising Cyber Threats: Data Trends Cybersecurity incidents: 2022: 10.29 lakh 2024: 22.68 lakh (120% rise) Cyber fraud loss: ₹36.45 lakh reported on NCRP (as of Feb 2025). SIM/IMEI blocking: 9.42 lakh SIMs 2,63,348 IMEIs linked to frauds blocked. Budget allocation 2025–26: ₹782 crore for cybersecurity. Helpline 1930: Centralized, rapid-response channel for cyber fraud victims. Nature of Cyber Frauds Definition: Deceptive online activities aimed at financial or data theft. Common types: Phishing and spoofing (fake identities, emails, URLs). Deepfake scams using AI. UPI payment frauds through compromised SIMs. Online betting and gaming apps promising fake returns (₹400 crore proceeds). Fraud “factories” in Southeast Asia linked to organized cybercrime. Emerging Threat Responses Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI): Launched by DoT; categorizes phone numbers as Medium, High, or Very High risk. Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025: Encourages e-sports/social gaming. Bans money-based gaming and advertisements to curb illegal betting-linked fraud. Cybersecurity Legal & Institutional Framework A. Key Legislations Information Technology Act, 2000 Legal foundation for cybercrime prosecution. Covers identity theft, data breaches, impersonation, online obscenity. Enables blocking of malicious sites/apps. IT (Intermediary Guidelines & Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 Imposes responsibility on social media and digital intermediaries. Mandates removal of unlawful/AI-manipulated content. Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 Data collection only with consent and lawful purpose. Obligates data fiduciaries to ensure security safeguards. Reduces unauthorized access/misuse. Cybersecurity Institutions and Mechanisms A. Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) National nodal agency for cybersecurity response. Functions: Threat monitoring, advisory issuance, vulnerability management. 109 mock drills held (1,438 organizations) to assess cyber readiness. B. National Critical Information Infrastructure Protection Centre (NCIIPC) Protects critical sectors—banking, power, telecom, transport. Operates under Section 70A of IT Act. Conducts sector-specific risk assessments and issue advisories. C. Indian Cybercrime Coordination Centre (I4C) MHA initiative to coordinate LEAs across India. Supports training, R&D, and real-time data sharing. Blocked: 3,962 Skype IDs and 83,668 WhatsApp accounts linked to frauds. Capacity Building and Awareness CyTrain Portal: 1,05,796 police officers registered. 82,704 certificates issued in cybercrime investigation. Cyber Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC) Scheme: Funding: ₹132.93 crore. 33 cyber forensic labs set up. 24,600 officials trained. Cyber Crisis Management Plan (CCMP): Framework for recovery during cyber-attacks. 205 workshops conducted nationwide. Technological & Strategic Tools A. Samanvaya Platform Analytics-based platform linking inter-state cybercrime data. Pratibimb module visualizes criminal networks and geography. Results: 12,987 arrests; 1,51,984 criminal linkages mapped. B. Sahyog Portal Centralized mechanism for removal of unlawful online content. Connects all authorized enforcement agencies under one digital interface. C. Citizen Financial Cyber Fraud Reporting and Management System (CFCFRMS) Enabled saving of ₹5,489 crore in 17.82 lakh complaints. Integrates banks, payment intermediaries, and LEAs for real-time freezing. D. NM-ICPS (National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems) Promotes R&D in cybersecurity, AI, IoT defense mechanisms. Enhances capability for detection and prevention of emerging cyber threats. National Cyber Awareness and Outreach Cyber awareness campaigns: radio, metro, and print media. MyGov Cyber Safety Weeks for community engagement. Handbook for Adolescents and Students: cyber hygiene education. NCCC (National Cyber Coordination Centre): Provides real-time situational awareness of threats. Integrates intelligence from multiple agencies. Social media campaigns to promote safe cyber practices. Cybersecurity Exercises and Global Collaboration Bharat National Cybersecurity Exercise 2025: 21 July–1 Aug 2025; 600+ participants. STRATEX simulation tested national response to large-scale cyber breach. India Mobile Congress 2025 (8–11 Oct): Cybersecurity among six key global summits. Focus on 6G, AI, IoT, Satellite Communication, and Telecom Manufacturing. 1.5 lakh visitors, 7,000+ international delegates, 400+ exhibitors. Financial and Institutional Achievements Cybersecurity Budget (2025–26): ₹782 crore. Blocked fraud infrastructure: 9.42 lakh SIMs, 2.63 lakh IMEIs. Direct savings via cyber intervention: ₹5,489 crore. Inter-agency coordination success: CERT-In, I4C, NCIIPC, CyTrain, Sahyog, Samanvaya. Challenges Ahead Increasing AI-driven frauds (deepfakes, voice cloning). Cross-border syndicates operating via dark web. Need for citizen digital hygiene and strong private-sector compliance. Balancing privacy, innovation, and surveillance in data governance. Forward Path: Building a Cyber-Resilient India Multi-tier cyber architecture: Prevention → Detection → Response → Recovery. Expansion of AI-based fraud detection and threat intelligence networks. Integration of 5G/6G security layers into Digital India infrastructure. Strengthening public-private partnerships and international cooperation. Promoting citizen cyber literacy as a key national asset. Conclusion India’s digital revolution has outpaced most nations, but so have cyber risks. Through laws, technology, inter-agency coordination, and public awareness, India is creating a secure digital ecosystem. Cybersecurity is now central to national security and economic sovereignty. The government’s “whole-of-nation” approach—integrating citizens, institutions, and innovation—marks India’s transition from a Digital India to a Cyber-Secure India. Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 3.0 Why in News The Government of India (Ministry of Education + Ministry of Health & Family Welfare) launched Tobacco Free Youth Campaign 3.0 on 9th October 2025. Aim: To promote a tobacco-free learning environment and move towards a tobacco-free generation under Viksit Bharat@2047 vision. Relevance : GS-2 (Governance & Social Justice): Health policy, inter-ministerial coordination, preventive health campaigns. GS-3 (Health & S&T): Lifestyle diseases, behavioural interventions, awareness mechanisms. Tobacco Burden in India Tobacco kills ~13 lakh people annually in India. Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) 2019: 8.4% of students (aged 13–15 years) currently use tobacco. Average initiation age: 10 years. India is the second-largest consumer of tobacco globally. Youth and adolescents are the most vulnerable group, due to peer influence, advertising, and lack of awareness. Objective of TFYC 3.0 Duration: 60 days (Oct–Dec 2025). Core Goals: Prevent initiation of tobacco use among youth. Support cessation (help students quit). Create awareness about ill-effects of tobacco and substance abuse. Strengthen enforcement of Tobacco-Free Educational Institution (ToFEI) guidelines. Promote physical, mental, and emotional wellness among students. Key Features and Activities Enforcement Drives: Ensure schools, colleges, and universities remain tobacco-free zones. Monitor 100-yard no-tobacco zones around educational campuses. Capacity Building: Training for school heads, NSS/NCC volunteers, and teachers. Focus on peer-led awareness and early detection of substance use. Counselling Support: On-campus sessions and counselling for students willing to quit tobacco. Integration with National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) resources. Community & Institutional Campaigns: Public rallies, competitions, and recognition for ToFEI-compliant institutions. Engage local communities to sustain tobacco-free zones. Digital & Youth Engagement: Awareness videos, posters, and quizzes via MyGov platform. World No Tobacco Day Quiz and School Challenge: Towards a Tobacco-Free Generation. Policy and Legal Framework Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003: Prohibits sale of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. Bans advertisements and sponsorships targeting minors. ToFEI Guidelines (2022, updated 2025): Mandates signage, regular inspections, awareness activities, and reporting mechanisms in institutions. National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP): Operational since 2007–08. Focuses on awareness, cessation services, and enforcement of tobacco laws. Pictorial Health Warnings: 85% of tobacco product packaging must display health warnings under COTPA Rules. Whole-of-Government Approach Ministry of Education: Drives institutional compliance, student sensitization, and integration with school health programs. Ministry of Health & Family Welfare: Leads awareness, cessation support, and data monitoring. Collaboration with: NSS, NCC, CBSE, AICTE, NCERT, and State Education Departments. NGOs and public health institutions for outreach. Significance Addresses public health and educational nexus — linking youth health with learning outcomes. Supports SDG 3 (Good Health & Well-being) and SDG 4 (Quality Education). Contributes to India’s Viksit Bharat@2047 vision through healthy human capital. Reinforces youth empowerment, behavioural change, and preventive health culture. Challenges Ahead Peer pressure and social acceptability of tobacco in some communities. Rise of e-cigarettes and vaping devices despite restrictions. Implementation gaps in rural and semi-urban institutions. Sustained enforcement beyond campaign duration. Forward Path Integrate tobacco-free norms under School Health Programme of Ayushman Bharat. Continuous monitoring through digital reporting platforms. Expansion of cessation services in schools and colleges. Introduce youth ambassadors for peer-led awareness. Periodic national surveys (like GYTS 2.0) to track behaviour trends. Conclusion TFYC 3.0 represents India’s multi-ministerial commitment to safeguard youth health. The campaign shifts focus from prohibition to prevention and empowerment. By promoting awareness, enforcement, and behavioural change, it aims to build a generation that is not only tobacco-free but also physically and mentally resilient — a cornerstone for Viksit Bharat@2047.

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