Posts

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 30 April 2025

Content: Expanding Tree Cover is Crucial High temperatures and mango production Ax-4 mission: Indian astronaut Shukla to fly to ISS on May 29 Insufficient support for deep tech start-ups in India: study Changes in monsoon affect marine productivity in Bay of Bengal: study U.S. puts India back on IPR watch list New Model Finds Locusts Making Complex Decisions in Deadly Swarms Expanding tree cover is crucial Introduction :Expanding tree cover in India is crucial for mitigating climate change, supporting industrial growth, and enhancing rural livelihoods through afforestation and carbon sequestration efforts. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Climate Change Mitigation: Tree plantations and carbon sequestration essential for reducing atmospheric CO₂. Expanding tree cover crucial for India’s climate strategy amidst industrial growth. India’s Current Forest Cover: Forest and tree cover in India at 25.17%, falling short of the 33% target from the 1988 National Forest Policy. Deforestation, urbanisation, and industrial emissions continue to degrade ecosystems. Afforestation Efforts: Tree plantations act as carbon sinks, improving soil health, groundwater recharge, erosion control, and climate resilience. Large-scale afforestation needed to enhance carbon sequestration potential. Government Initiatives: National Agroforestry Policy (2014) and Trees Outside Forests Program promote private sector involvement. Green India Mission (GIM) has helped increase forest cover by 0.56% from 2017-2021. Corporate Role: Corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives contribute to large-scale tree plantations. Industries integrate afforestation with carbon offset strategies, earning carbon credits to meet emissions reduction targets. Global Market Pressure: Stricter global regulations, like the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, force industries to reduce carbon footprints. Indian companies must invest in carbon-offset projects, including tree plantations, to remain competitive. Economic and Social Benefits: Afforestation creates millions of jobs, especially in rural areas through agroforestry and forest conservation. Agroforestry increases farm incomes by 20-30% through improved soil fertility and additional income from timber and crops. Government Support: Financial incentives, training, and market linkages provided to support community-led afforestation. Empowerment of rural communities through ownership of afforestation projects. Challenges and Policy Recommendations: Rising costs of carbon credits push businesses to prefer afforestation for cost-effectiveness. Need for a robust carbon trading policy in India to tap into global carbon markets. Recommendations include establishing a national carbon credit registry and providing financial incentives for private-sector investment. Long-Term Vision: Tree plantations and carbon sequestration are critical to India’s net-zero emissions goal by 2070. Inaction poses significant risks to environmental sustainability and economic growth. High temperatures and mango production Context: India is the world’s largest producer of mangoes, known for its rich genetic diversity and vast cultivation across tropical and subtropical regions. Despite rising temperatures, India’s mango productivity has remained resilient due to adaptive traits and large-scale cultivation efforts. The country produces iconic varieties like Alphonso, Dasheri, Kesar, and Banganapalli, and maintains a strong export presence. Relevance : GS 3(Agriculture ,Environment and Ecology) High Temperatures and Mango Production Record Heat: 2024 was India’s warmest year since 1901, with +0.65°C above average temperatures (IMD, 2024). Anecdotal Concerns: Farmers report early flowering, reduced sweetness, lower yield, and shorter pickle shelf-life—pointing to climate stress. Productivity Trend: Despite heat concerns, mango productivity remains strong—9.4 MT/ha (2024-25) vs average 7.9 MT/ha over 25 years. Global Comparison: India outperforms China (8.74 MT/ha) and Thailand (8.36 MT/ha) in mango productivity. States leading in production: Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Bihar, Gujarat. Cultivation Expansion: Area under mango cultivation rose by 2.34% in 2023–24, reaching 24.01 lakh hectares. Heatwave Effects on Trees: Higher temperatures can cause fruit drop, early maturity, sun scalding, and spongy tissue (esp. in Alphonso). Climate Sensitivity: Mango plants require stable pollination conditions—extreme rain, hail, or wind during budding/flowering disrupt yields. Role of Genetic Diversity: Mango’s genetic variability enhances resilience, supporting adaptation to drought and heat. Physiological Adaptability: Mango trees exhibit built-in mechanisms to adjust to environmental stress—key for future climate resilience. Breeding Potential: Rich genetic diversity enables modern breeding interventions to improve climate tolerance and productivity. Conclusion: While climate change poses risks, India’s mango sector remains robust due to increased acreage, adaptive traits, and genetic diversity. Ax-4 mission: Indian astronaut Shukla to fly to ISS on May 29 Context : Indian Air Force Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is set to make history as the first Indian astronaut to visit the International Space Station (ISS). He will serve as the pilot for Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4), scheduled to launch on May 29, 2025, from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission, operated by Axiom Space in collaboration with SpaceX and NASA, will utilize the new Crew Dragon C213 spacecraft and is expected to last up to 14 days in low Earth orbit. Relevance : GS 3(Space ,Science and Technology) Mission Highlights Crew Composition: Shukla will be joined by Commander Peggy Whitson (USA), Mission Specialist Sławosz Uznański (Poland/ESA), and Mission Specialist Tibor Kapu (Hungary). Scientific Objectives: The crew will conduct approximately 60 scientific studies, including seven experiments from India focusing on: Microalgae growth Cyanobacteria behavior Muscle loss in microgravity Cognitive effects of screen use Salad seed cultivation Water bear (tardigrade) resilience Microbial adaptation Significance for India: This mission marks India’s return to human spaceflight after more than four decades, following Rakesh Sharma’s 1984 mission aboard a Soviet Soyuz spacecraft. It also serves as a precursor to ISRO’s upcoming Gaganyaan mission, for which Shukla is one of the designated astronauts. International Collaboration: Ax-4 exemplifies global cooperation in space exploration, with astronauts from India, the USA, Poland, and Hungary participating. The mission aims to advance scientific research and foster international partnerships in space endeavors. Conclusion : Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla’s participation in Ax-4 not only represents a significant achievement for India’s space program but also contributes to the broader goals of international collaboration and scientific advancement in human spaceflight. Insufficient support for deep tech start-ups in India: study Introduction Deep tech start-ups—working in cutting-edge fields like artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing—are vital for India’s ambition to become a global innovation hub. However, a recent study highlights significant gaps in institutional support from public-funded research and development (R&D) organisations, impeding deep tech incubation and scaling. Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy) Key Findings of the Study Source: A study commissioned by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser (PSA) to the Government of India and conducted by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Centre for Technology, Innovation, and Economic Research (CTIER). Limited Support to Start-ups: Only 25% of public-funded R&D organisations offer incubation support to start-ups. A mere 16% support deep tech start-ups (advanced technologies like AI, quantum tech, etc.). Low Industry Collaboration: Only 15% of the organisations collaborated with overseas industries. Restricted Access to Infrastructure: Only 50% of labs opened their facilities to external researchers or students. Expenditure on R&D: 25% of institutions reported spending 75%-100% of their budget on R&D. Median spending on R&D was relatively low in ICAR, CSIR, ICMR, AYUSH, and DST labs. Strategic Sectors Excluded: Defence, Space, and Atomic Energy labs (major contributors to India’s R&D spend) were excluded due to sensitivity. Government Spending Overview: Total Union govt. R&D expenditure in 2020-21: ₹55,685 crore. Excluding strategic sectors: ₹24,587 crore by key scientific agencies. Human Resource Trends Staffing Patterns: Many labs reported a decline in permanent staff and growing dependence on contractual workers. Youth Participation: Share of young researchers rose to 58% in 2022-23 from 54% in 2021-22. Gender and Mission Contributions: Labs were asked to report on women scientists and their roles in national missions (e.g., Deep Ocean Mission, National Quantum Mission). Institutional Behaviour and Orientation Shift observed from being pure research centres to innovation hubs, blending academia and product innovation. Dr. Ajay Sood emphasized need for data-driven institutional introspection to identify gaps and realign mandates. Recommendations All labs should be mandated to review their existing mandates for better alignment with current innovation needs. Changes in monsoon affect marine productivity in Bay of Bengal: study Introduction Source: Study published in Nature Geoscience, led by scientists from India, China, Europe, and the U.S., including researchers from the University of Texas at Austin and Rutgers University. The Indian Summer Monsoon significantly influences marine productivity in the Bay of Bengal (BoB). The study reconstructs 22,000 years of monsoon variability and its link with plankton growth, a key indicator of marine ecosystem health. BoB, despite covering <1% of global ocean area, contributes nearly 8% to global fishery production. Relevance : GS3 (Environment ,Food Security and Climate Change) Key Findings of the Study Marine Productivity Fluctuates with Monsoon Intensity: Both strong and weak monsoon events disrupt vertical ocean mixing. Result: Up to 50% reduction in plankton food availability in surface waters. Mechanism of Disruption: Monsoon extremes hamper nutrient upwelling from deeper ocean layers. This affects phytoplankton, which forms the base of the marine food web. Historical Climate Evidence: Marine sediments were chemically analysed to reconstruct past ocean temperatures, monsoon strength, and biological productivity. Climate Models and Modern Parallels: Present-day observations show alarming similarities with past extreme disruptions. Suggests human-induced climate change could destabilise BoB’s marine ecosystem in the coming decades. Socio-Economic & Ecological Implications Food Security Threat: Millions living along BoB coasts depend on fisheries for protein and livelihood. Productivity decline could severely impact coastal economies and nutrition security. High Output, High Vulnerability: BoB’s disproportionate share in global fisheries makes it uniquely productive yet fragile. U.S. puts India back on IPR watch list Introduction India has been re-added to the U.S. ‘Priority Watch List’ for inadequate IP protection and enforcement. The Special 301 Report assesses global IPR protection impacting U.S. trade interests. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations),GS 3(Indian Economy) Key Concerns Highlighted by USTR Inconsistency in IP Enforcement: Despite some progress, India’s overall enforcement of IPR is termed inadequate. Patent-Related Issues: Persistent complaints about ambiguity in the Indian Patents Act. Stakeholders are concerned about vague interpretations and delayed approvals. Weak Trade Secret Protection: Limited legal mechanisms to safeguard trade secrets in India. High Customs Dutieson IP-intensive goods: Affects products like ICT goods, solar equipment, medical devices, pharma, and capital goods. Piracy & Unauthorised Use: Ongoing issues with: Video game piracy Signal theft by cable operators Commercial photocopying of academic content Unauthorised reprints Technological protection circumvention Other Countries on the List Alongside India: China, Indonesia, Russia, Argentina, Venezuela On regular watch list: 25 countries, including Pakistan and Turkey Economic and Strategic Implications Could impact foreign investment and trade relations, especially in sectors reliant on IP like pharma and tech. May influence ongoing tariff and non-tariff negotiations with the U.S. New model finds locusts making complex decisions in deadly swarms Background: Locust Swarms Locusts are a type of grasshopper that undergo “gregarisation” — transitioning from solitary to swarm behaviour under specific environmental triggers. Swarms can travel vast distances and cause large-scale agricultural devastation. The 2019–2022 outbreak severely affected East Africa, the Middle East, and India — destroying over 2 lakh hectares of crops. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Shift in Scientific Understanding Old model: Locusts were modeled like self-propelled particles, similar to gas molecules, aligning with nearest neighbors. New model: Proposes that locusts make cognitive decisions based on visual perception of motion, not just physical alignment  Key Findings of the New Study Conducted by researchers from Max Planck Institute and University of Konstanz. Field observations in Kenya revealed: Locusts do not align simply with neighbors. Vision, not touch or smell, plays the dominant role in swarm movement. Use of holographic virtual reality showed: Even in sparse swarms, motion coherence (not crowd density) drives alignment. Locusts are capable of integrating multiple visual inputs to decide direction. New Model: Neural Ring Attractor Network Adopts a neuroscience-based model over physics-based ones. Locusts are seen as decision-making agents, not random particles. Swarm motion is an emergent phenomenon — large-scale coordination arises from individual decisions without central control. Climate Change Link Unusual rainfall and cyclones in desert regions (e.g., Mekunu and Luban in 2018) enhanced breeding conditions. Climate variability, especially stronger monsoons, made swarms larger and more unpredictable. 2019–2022 outbreak was among the worst in decades, showing the urgency of updated models. Implications and Next Steps Old models failed to predict swarm behavior accurately. Understanding initial direction selection and decision maintenance is the next frontier. Future research needs to be multidisciplinary — involving climate scientists and ecologists. Improved predictive models are essential to manage future outbreaks in a warming world.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 29 April 2025

Content: National Supercomputing Mission Aadhaar authentication surges past 2,707 crore in 2024-25; UIDAI’s face authentication gains momentum  National Supercomputing Mission Overview and Objectives Launched in 2015 as a flagship initiative to enhance High-Performance Computing (HPC) capability in India. Aims for Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in supercomputing by indigenously developing critical hardware and software. Supports academic institutions, R&D labs, industries, and government departments via access to supercomputing resources. Connected through the National Knowledge Network (NKN) to enable high-speed, collaborative research. Relevance : GS 3(Technology) Key Features Three-phase mission structure focusing on: Phase I: Basic supercomputing infrastructure, mostly imported components, domestic assembly. Phase II: Indigenous software stack and increased Indian value addition (up to 40%). Phase III: Complete indigenization – design, development, manufacturing within India. Jointly steered by DST and MeitY; implemented by C-DAC and IISc. Achievements (as of March 2025) 34 supercomputers deployed with combined capacity of 35 Petaflops. Over 85% utilization, with many systems exceeding 95% usage. Supported 10,000+ researchers, including 1,700+ PhD scholars from 200+ institutions. Enabled completion of 1 crore+ compute jobs and 1,500+ publications in leading journals. 22,000+ individuals trained in HPC and AI. Start-ups and MSMEs using HPC for innovation and development. Notable Installations and Innovations Param Pravega at IISc Bengaluru (3.3 Petaflops) – India’s most powerful academic supercomputer. Param Shivay at IIT BHU (2019) – first indigenous supercomputer under NSM. Param Rudra Series (2024): Pune, Delhi, Kolkata – built using indigenous Rudra servers and software stack. Deployment of 45 Petaflops additional capacity using domestic technologies in 2024-25. Trinetra Network – Indigenous HPC Interconnect Developed by C-DAC for high-speed data transfer between computing nodes. Phased development: Trinetra-POC (proof of concept) Trinetra-A (100 Gbps, deployed in 1PF PARAM Rudra) Trinetra-B (200 Gbps, upcoming in 20PF PARAM Rudra) AIRAWAT – AI Supercomputing Initiative Aims to create common AI compute platform for academia, research hubs, and industry. POC: 200 AI Petaflops; scalable to 790 AI Petaflops. Secured 75th rank in the Top 500 Global Supercomputing List (ISC 2023). Budget and Expansion Plans Budget allocation/utilization: ₹1874 crore for infrastructure, R&D, HRD, and mission operations. Future plan: Install more 20 PetaFlop systems at IITs and major institutions. Synergy with India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) ISM to enable domestic manufacturing of HPC-critical components like processors, accelerators, memory chips. Reduces dependency on imports and enhances affordability, customization, and performance of supercomputers. Helps NSM achieve complete self-reliance and global competitiveness. Societal and Scientific Impact Facilitated R&D in Drug Discovery, Climate Modeling, Disaster Management, Energy Security, etc. Bridged regional disparity by empowering Tier-II & Tier-III institutions. Strengthened India’s research base, innovation ecosystem, and global HPC ranking. Conclusion NSM is a game-changer in India’s digital and scientific ecosystem. Supports research excellence, technological self-reliance, and global supercomputing leadership. Combined with ISM and AIRAWAT, NSM prepares India for the next generation of scientific and industrial challenges. Aadhaar authentication surges past 2,707 crore in 2024-25; UIDAI’s face authentication gains momentum Context: Aadhaar authentication and e-KYC usage have surged to record levels in FY 2024–25, driven by AI-powered face authentication, expanding digital access and ease of service delivery across sectors. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Technology) Key Highlights (2024–25) 2,707 crore Aadhaar authentication transactions in FY 2024–25; 247 crore in March 2025 alone. Cumulative Aadhaar authentications cross 14,800 crore since inception. 15 crore face authentications in March 2025 — showing sharp adoption. Aadhaar e-KYC crossed 44.63 crore in March 2025 (6% YoY growth). Prime Minister’s Award conferred to UIDAI for Face Authentication innovation. 100+ public and private entities actively using Aadhaar Face Authentication. 1.91 crore Aadhaar updates and 20 lakh new Aadhaar issuances in March 2025. Foundational Drivers Digital India push: Aadhaar is a critical infrastructure for e-Governance and public service delivery. Legislative and policy support: Aadhaar Act 2016 and subsequent SC judgments have provided regulated backing. ICT growth: Proliferation of smartphones, internet, and AI/ML capabilities enabling facial biometric authentication. Banking/Telecom reforms: Aadhaar e-KYC has been a game changer for onboarding and verification processes. Data architecture: Aadhaar database is now integrated with multiple service delivery mechanisms (e.g., DBT, PDS, LPG). Impact and Future Potential Ease of Doing Business: Quick customer verification in BFSI, NBFCs, fintech, and telecom. Welfare Delivery: Seamless, leak-proof access to subsidies, pensions, scholarships, and food rations. Facial Authentication Scalability: Expected to become mainstream in contactless public authentication, especially post-COVID. AI-powered Governance: Face Authentication showcases how AI/ML can streamline public services with low friction. Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Aadhaar remains the backbone for India Stack, ONDC, Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, and more. Financial Inclusion: Aadhaar-linked bank accounts and e-KYC push help expand access to formal credit. Interoperability Boost: UIDAI’s systems set global benchmarks for population-scale authentication. Strategic Implications Strengthens India’s global image as a leader in Digital Public Goods (DPGs). Bridges the inclusion divide, enabling Tier II/III cities and rural areas to access formal systems. Enhances data-driven policymaking by tracking service usage in real time. Raises need for robust data protection and privacy frameworks amid rising digital footprint.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 29 April 2025

Content: The post of Deputy Speaker is not symbolic or optional India’s urban future is at a crossroads The post of Deputy Speaker is not symbolic or optional Constitutional Mandate The office of Deputy Speaker is mandated under Article 93 of the Constitution. The phrase “as soon as may be” implies urgency, not discretion, in electing both Speaker and Deputy Speaker. Article 94 ensures the Deputy Speaker remains until resignation, removal, or disqualification. Relevance : GS 2(Polity ,Constitution) Practice Question : “The Office of the Deputy Speaker of the Lok Sabha is not merely symbolic but a constitutional necessity.” In the light of recent developments, critically examine the significance of this office and the implications of its prolonged vacancy.(250 Words) Not Merely Ceremonial The Deputy Speaker’s role is not symbolic or optional; it ensures continuity and stability in Lok Sabha proceedings. Acts as second-in-command, especially crucial during the Speaker’s absence or emergencies. Historical and Institutional Importance The post evolved from the colonial-era Deputy President of the Central Legislative Assembly (first held by Sachidanand Sinha in 1921). Institutionalised even before the Constitution came into force; M.A. Ayyangar was the first elected Deputy Speaker post-independence. Played a key role during Speaker G.V. Mavalankar’s death (1956), proving its necessity. Functional Relevance Ensures uninterrupted proceedings when Speaker is unavailable. Can preside over important committees and sensitive debates. Expected to act with neutrality and impartiality, like the Speaker. Tradition of Bipartisanship Conventionally offered to the Opposition, fostering cross-party cooperation. Reinforces the non-partisan ethos of the legislative process. This convention, though unwritten, is central to democratic consensus. Constitutional Neglect and Anomaly Office has been vacant for entire 17th Lok Sabha (2019–2024) and remains so even in the 18th Lok Sabha (2024–present). This prolonged vacancy is unprecedented in Indian parliamentary history. The delay violates constitutional spirit and centralises power in the ruling party via the Speaker. Risks and Implications Absence of Deputy Speaker may lead to leadership vacuum in emergencies. Undermines institutional checks and balances. Erodes public trust in parliamentary norms and practices. Need for Reform Suggests amending Article 93 to include a fixed timeline (e.g., within 60 days of first sitting). Alternatively, a statutory mechanism empowering the President to act on advice could ensure compliance. Reform is essential to prevent executive overreach and promote rule-based governance. Conclusion The Deputy Speaker’s role is constitutionally essential for legislative integrity and democratic resilience. The current vacancy is not passive delay but active sidelining of consensus politics. Parliament must act to restore institutional credibility and uphold constitutional obligations. India’s urban future is at a crossroads Context & Current Urban Crisis Indian cities face acute water shortages and rising electricity demands amid increasing summer temperatures. Examples: Bengaluru and Hyderabad witnessing spikes in water tanker bookings; power outages due to surging AC usage. Highlights urban vulnerability to climate extremes and infrastructural inadequacy. Relevance : GS 1(Urbanisation) Practice Question: Urbanisation in India has led to growth and opportunities but also poses significant challenges, including environmental degradation, pollution, and inadequate infrastructure. With more than 30% of India’s population living in cities, it is crucial to assess whether Indian cities are prepared to tackle climate extremes and sustainable urbanisation.(250 Words) Urbanisation: Opportunities & Threats Urbanisation promotes growth and development but also worsens: Pollution Congestion Environmental degradation Impacts disproportionately affect the urban poor, worsening inequality. SDG-11 and India’s Urban Readiness SDG-11: “Make cities inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable” by 2030. India is far from this target due to: Inadequate planning for climate resilience Poor handling of the urban heat island effect Limited institutional preparedness Limitations of Current Indices NITI Aayog’s SDG Urban Index: Covers 56 cities but SDG-11 based on only 4 indicators. Ease of Living Index: Broader coverage (111 cities) but lacks focused SDG-11 assessment. Global indices (Mercer, Economist): Miss India-specific urban ground realities. New Research-Based Index Approach Developed four SDG-11 indices for 10 major Indian cities: Safety (9 indicators) Inclusivity (19 indicators) Sustainability (15 indicators) Resilience Used Shannon Entropy Weighting for objectivity. Data Sources: Census 2011, NCRB, NFHS-5, PLFS, IMD, etc. Key Findings from the Indices Inclusivity: Best: Ahmedabad Worst: Jaipur Safety: Best: Bengaluru Worst: Kolkata Sustainability: Best: Surat Worst: Kolkata Resilience: Best: Chennai Worst: Jaipur Contrast with NITI Aayog rankings: Cities labelled as “front-runners” performed poorly in new indices. Insights and Gaps Identified Inclusivity gaps: Unequal access to jobs, housing, mobility. Safety disparities: Variations in law enforcement effectiveness. Sustainability deficits: Poor waste, pollution, and environmental planning. Resilience shortfalls: Only 16 cities have city sustainability plans. Only 17 have city resilience strategies. Policy Recommendations & Way Forward Empower Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) for localized data collection and planning. Utilize Smart Cities Mission’s ICCCs for real-time urban governance. Introduce Urban Poor Quality of Living Surveys to update outdated poverty data (still based on Census 2011). Move towards city-specific, data-driven planning acknowledging regional uniqueness. Prioritise resilience-building and climate adaptation strategies in city budgets and planning. Conclusion India’s urban transition is at a critical inflection point. Without bold, data-backed, localised interventions, cities risk becoming more unlivable and unequal. Achieving SDG-11 requires systemic reforms, sustained political will, and empowered city-level institutions.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 29 April 2025

Content: India and France Finalise Agreement for 26 Rafale-Ms Role in a Risk Society: How Women Bear a Disproportionate Burden In 2024, India’s Military Expenditure Was 9 Times That of Pakistan: SIPRI UN Statement a ‘Strong Win’ Despite ‘Dilution’: Officials New Initiative Launched to Revive Oceans Through Community-Led Protection India and France finalise agreement for 26 Rafale-Ms Agreement Details: India and France have finalized an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) for the procurement of 26 Rafale-M fighter jets for the Indian Navy. The total value of the agreement is approximately₹64,000 crore. Deliveries are expected to start from mid-2028 and will be completed by 2030. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence) Key Components of the Deal: Aircraft Package: 22 single-seater jets for aircraft carrier operations and 4 twin-seater trainer jets (not carrier-compatible). Additional Equipment: Includes weapons, simulator, performance-based logistics, and associated equipment for the existing Indian Air Force Rafale fleet. Training: Crew training will take place both in France and India. Transfer of Technology: The deal includes transferring technology for integrating indigenous weapons, such as the Astra missile, onto the Rafale aircraft. Economic and Employment Impact: Job Creation: The deal is expected to generate thousands of jobs, including for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Local Manufacturing: The establishment of a production facility for Rafale fuselage and Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities in India for aircraft engines, sensors, and weapons. Defense and Strategic Importance: Navy Capability: The Rafale-M jets will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy, particularly in terms of air superiority and defense on aircraft carriers. Aircraft Carrier Operations: The deal includes 22 jets capable of operating from aircraft carriers, strengthening India’s naval aviation. Strategic Indo-French Ties: The IGA strengthens the defense relationship between India and France, with both nations investing in long-term defense cooperation. Several government-to-business agreements were concluded alongside the IGA. Operational Considerations: Timeline: Deliveries will begin 37 months after the signing of the contract, with completion within 66 months. Existing Fleet Integration: The deal also aims to enhance the capabilities of the existing Rafale fleet of the Indian Air Force, ensuring better interoperability and operational flexibility. Significance for Indian Navy’s Future: With the INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant currently in operation, the addition of Rafale-M jets will significantly boost the Indian Navy’s air capabilities, particularly in terms of modernizing its aircraft carrier-based aviation fleet. Role in a risk society: how women bear a disproportionate burden Risk Society Concept: Coined by Ulrich Beck, describes a shift from industrial society to one shaped by uncertainty and risks created by modern technological and environmental developments. Focus on managing risks like health crises, pollution, and environmental degradation instead of wealth distribution. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Social Issues) Technological and Environmental Risks: Examples like Chernobyl, Fukushima, and COVID-19 highlight how modernisation can amplify risks with devastating consequences. Modernisation introduces new risks, including pollution, depletion of natural resources, and global-scale technological hazards. Stages of Modernity: Pre-industrial Society: Risks were natural and localised (e.g., famine, epidemics) managed through social order. Industrial Society: Introduced new risks such as pollution and resource depletion from technological advances. Risk Society: Risks are no longer external but generated by the very systems meant to ensure security and development. Natural vs. Manufactured Risks: Natural Risks: Unpredictable, localised (e.g., earthquakes, floods). Manufactured Risks: Arise from human activities (e.g., nuclear accidents, environmental degradation, pandemics), often global and difficult to predict or control. Global Impact of Manufactured Risks: Risks like climate change disproportionately affect poorer nations, making them more vulnerable due to limited resources. Gendered Dimension of Risk: Women, especially in developing countries, are disproportionately burdened by risks due to gender roles (e.g., caregiving, water collection). Unpaid domestic labour and informal sector roles contribute to women’s vulnerability. Women are more susceptible to health risks (e.g., water pollution, air quality) due to their roles in household management. Health and Economic Inequality: Women face worse health outcomes due to environmental risks (e.g., respiratory diseases, food scarcity). Economic vulnerability: Limited access to resources, land, and property further exacerbates their ability to recover from environmental or economic disasters. Gendered caregiving roles contribute to the emotional and physical burden women face in managing risks. Conclusion: Beck’s theory of a risk society highlights the unequal distribution of risks and their gendered impacts, showing how women bear a disproportionate burden of modern risks and crises. In 2024, India’s military expenditure was 9 times that of Pakistan: SIPRI Context : India’s Military Expenditure In 2024, India spent $86.1 billion on its military. This marked a 1.6% increase from the previous year. India ranked as the 5th largest military spender globally. Its spending was almost 9 times higher than Pakistan’s. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security , Defence) Pakistan’s Military Expenditure Pakistan’s military spending stood at $10.2 billion. Despite regional tensions, Pakistan’s defence budget remained far below India’s. Highlights the asymmetry in military capability and funding between the two nations. Global Trends (as per SIPRI) Top 5 spenders: United States, China, Russia, Germany, and India — together accounting for 60% of global military spending. Total spending by these countries: $1,635 billion. China’s Position China’s military spending reached $314 billion (7% increase). 30th consecutive year of increase. Makes up 50% of all military expenditure in Asia and Oceania. Focus: Military modernisation, cyberwarfare, and nuclear arsenal expansion. Russia and Ukraine Russia: $149 billion (↑38% from 2023), 7.1% of GDP, 19% of government spending. Ukraine: $64.7 billion (↑2.9%), equivalent to 34% of GDP, the highest military burden globally. Reflects the sustained and escalating nature of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. European Military Spending Military expenditure in Europe (incl. Russia): $693 billion (↑17%). Driven by the war in Ukraine and regional insecurity. Surpassed Cold War levels of spending. Strategic Implications for India India remains focused on military parity with regional powers like China. Growing defence budget indicates concern over regional instability, including: Border tensions with China. Terror threats from across the Pakistan border (e.g., Pahalgam attack). Despite being 5th globally, India faces dual-front threats, necessitating sustained investment. UN statement a ‘strong win’ despite ‘dilution’: officials Context : UNSC Statement on Pahalgam Attack The UN Security Council condemned the Pahalgam terror attack. However, the final statement omitted any mention of: The Resistance Front (TRF) – a proxy terror group. Cross-border linkages to Pakistan. The language was diluted due to objections by China and Pakistan, citing the “disputed nature” of Kashmir. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) India’s Position Directly blamed Pakistan for the attack, citing cross-border terrorism. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri briefed over 20 envoys, including China’s ambassador, with evidence including digital communications. Indian officials called the statement a “strong win”, as: It was issued despite Pakistan’s UNSC membership. It overcame China’s efforts to block/modify language. Majority of UNSC members supported the original U.S.-drafted condemnation. China’s Role and Response China supported diluting references to TRF and cross-border terrorism. Publicly stated it “welcomes any steps to cool down the situation”. Reaffirmed its support for Pakistan as an “ironclad friend” and backed an “impartial investigation”. China is aligning strategically with Pakistan, particularly on security issues. Pakistan’s Reaction Called for an international investigation (possibly by China and Russia). Continued to deny direct involvement, despite India’s claims and evidence. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif earlier admitted to Pakistan’s history of sponsoring terror, strengthening India’s case globally. Diplomatic Implications UNSC language compromise shows persistent international division on Kashmir. India’s aggressive diplomacy signals intent to globalise the issue of cross-border terrorism. China’s actions underscore its strategic shielding of Pakistan at multilateral platforms. India’s Strategic Gains Despite dilution, international condemnation was secured. Raised awareness of Pakistan’s terror links at global platforms. Positioned Pakistan as a “rogue state”, citing even internal confessions. Reinforced India’s narrative on state-sponsored terrorism and need for accountability. New initiative launched to revive oceans through community-led protection Overview and Goals Launched on April 24, 2025, the Revive Our Ocean initiative aims to scale up community-led Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). Its core mission: end destructive fishing practices (especially bottom trawling) and empower coastal communities to protect ocean ecosystems. Aligns with the 30×30 target of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework: protect 30% of oceans by 2030. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Geographical Focus Initial implementation in seven countries: UK, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Philippines, Indonesia, and Mexico. Builds on successful community-led conservation models across these regions. Need for Community-led MPAs Globally, only 3% of oceans are under full protection, despite 16,000+ MPAs being established. Many MPAs are poorly managed or permit harmful activities like bottom trawling. Community governance leads to better ecological and economic outcomes. Success Stories Medes Island, Spain: €16 million annual revenue from diving tourism vs. low returns from fishing. Isle of Arran, Scotland: Marine biodiversity doubled after establishing no-fishing zones. RARE’s Fish Forever (Philippines): 2,000+ communities created zones where fish stocks doubled in 5 years. Coastal 500 network: 350+ local leaders advocating marine protection and policy reforms. Key Barriers Identified Lack of awareness about community benefits of MPAs. Restrictive national policies that limit local authority. Limited access to tools, funding, and capacity-building. Revive Our Ocean Collective A support network bringing together proven local leaders and conservation practitioners. Focuses on knowledge-sharing, policy advocacy, and training. Led by Kristin Rechberger (Dynamic Planet) and Enric Sala (Pristine Seas, National Geographic). Financing and Sustainability Plans to launch a microfinance program for community-led MPAs. Aims to prove that MPAs are financially self-sustaining: via tourism, sustainable fishing, and carbon capture. Example: Spain’s reserve costs €2 million annually but yields €16 million in returns. Environmental and Climate Benefits MPAs restore biodiversity, improve fisheries, and enhance food security. Capture carbon and help mitigate climate change. Combat practices like bottom trawling, which causes €11 billion losses/year in Europe and disturbs oceanic carbon beds.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 28 April 2025

Content: UDAN Scheme India’s Triumph in Combating Poverty UDAN Scheme Introduction UDAN (“Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik”) launched on 21 October 2016 under National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2016. Aims to democratize air travel by making it affordable and accessible. Implemented by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. First UDAN flight: Shimla to Delhi, on 27 April 2017. Relevance :GS 2(Schemes) , GS 3(Infrastructure) Achievements 625 UDAN routes operationalized connecting 90 airports (including 2 water aerodromes and 15 heliports). Over 1.49 crore passengers benefitted through affordable air travel. Airport network expanded from 74 airports (2014) to 159 airports (2024). ₹4,023.37 crore disbursed as Viability Gap Funding (VGF) to support airlines. Boosted regional tourism, healthcare access, trade, and economic growth in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. Key Components Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Financial assistance to airlines to maintain affordable fares. Airfare Caps: Upper limits on ticket pricing to ensure affordability. Collaborative Governance: Centre, States, AAI, and private operators working together. Stakeholder Incentives: Airport Operators: Waiver of landing, parking charges, TNLC exemption, reduced RNFC. Central Government: Excise duty on ATF capped at 2% for 3 years; code-sharing encouraged. State Governments: VAT on ATF reduced to 1% or less; provision of essential services at lower cost. Evolution of UDAN Scheme UDAN 1.0 (2017): 128 routes awarded to 5 airlines. Connected 70 airports, including 36 new ones. UDAN 2.0 (2018): Included 73 underserved/unserved airports. Added heliports into the network. UDAN 3.0 (2019): Launched Tourism Routes and Seaplane operations. Focused on North-East connectivity. UDAN 4.0 (2020): Special focus on hilly areas, NE states, and island territories. Increased emphasis on helicopter and seaplane services. Key Innovations and Future Plans UDAN Yatri Cafes: Affordable food outlets at airports (e.g., Kolkata, Chennai). Seaplane Operations: New guidelines released; Round 5.5 bids invited for 50+ water bodies. Revamped UDAN Initiative: Plan to add 120 new destinations. Aim to serve 4 crore more passengers over the next decade. Focus on remote, hilly, aspirational districts. Krishi UDAN Scheme: Supports farmers by providing air logistics for agri-produce. Covers 58 airports (25 priority airports + 33 others). Airport Infrastructure Development: 50 new airports planned over 5 years (e.g., new airports in Bihar, expansion of Patna Airport). Conclusion UDAN is a transformative movement, not just a policy. Successfully connected Bharat and India through affordable air travel. Boosted local economies, tourism, trade, and employment. Symbolizes inclusive growth, visionary governance, and India’s march towards becoming a global aviation hub. India’s Triumph in Combating Poverty Introduction India lifted 171 million people out of extreme poverty over the last decade. Extreme poverty rate fell from 16.2% (2011-12) to 2.3% (2022-23). Recognized by the World Bank’s Spring 2025 Poverty and Equity Brief. Achievement driven by targeted welfare schemes, economic reforms, and improved access to services. Relevance : GS 2(Poverty, Schemes, Governance) About World Bank’s Poverty and Equity Briefs (PEBs) PEBs provide snapshots of poverty, shared prosperity, and inequality for 100+ countries. Published twice a year during World Bank and IMF meetings. Indicators include: Extreme poverty ($2.15/day), Lower-middle-income poverty ($3.65/day), Upper-middle-income poverty ($6.85/day), Multidimensional Poverty and Gini Index for inequality. Rural and Urban Poverty Reduction Rural extreme poverty: Fell from 18.4% to 2.8% (2011-12 to 2022-23). Urban extreme poverty: Reduced from 10.7% to 1.1%. Rural-urban poverty gap: Narrowed from 7.7% points to 1.7% points. Annual decline rate: Around 16% between 2011-12 and 2022-23. Gains at Lower-Middle-Income Poverty Line ($3.65/day) Poverty rate fell from 61.8% to 28.1%. 378 million people lifted from poverty. Rural poverty: Dropped from 69% to 32.5%. Urban poverty: Dropped from 43.5% to 17.2%. Rural-urban gap: Reduced from 25% to 15% points. Annual decline: About 7% between 2011-12 and 2022-23. Key States Leading Poverty Reduction Five states — Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh — had 65% of extreme poor in 2011-12. These states contributed to two-thirds of the overall decline by 2022-23. Multidimensional Poverty and Revised Estimates MPI (Multidimensional Poverty Index) declined from 53.8% (2005-06) to 16.4% (2019-21). World Bank’s Multidimensional Poverty estimate at 15.5% in 2022-23. New revised poverty rates (after updating PPP 2021): Extreme poverty: Estimated at 5.3%. Lower-middle-income poverty: Estimated at 23.9%. Gini Index (income inequality): Improved from 28.8 to 25.5. Employment Growth and Workforce Shifts Employment growth outpaced working-age population since 2021-22. Urban unemployment dropped to 6.6% in Q1 FY24/25 (lowest since 2017-18). Male workers moving from rural to urban areas; female employment in rural agriculture rising. Increase in self-employment, especially among rural women. Conclusion India’s decade-long poverty reduction is one of the largest globally. Achievements reflect inclusive development strategies and effective governance. Positive trends in employment, gender participation, and inequality reduction offer a strong foundation for further progress.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 28 April 2025

Content: The ‘political trilemma’ and the crisis in the West The real Indian arbitrator needs to stand up Clean AI Gender and space The ‘political trilemma’ and the crisis in the West Context of Crisis Western democracies are facing crises marked by deepening polarisation, mistrust in democratic institutions, and rising populism. Countries are becoming more insular and protectionist. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Critically examine the relevance of Dani Rodrik’s political trilemma in the context of the current political crisis in the West. How does it impact democratic institutions and national sovereignty?” Rodrik’s Political Trilemma (2000) Dani Rodrik’s Political Trilemma explains the inherent conflict between three key objectives in global politics:Countries can only simultaneously achieve two of three goals: Democracy: The right of people to self-govern and make decisions through political processes. National Sovereignty: The ability of countries to independently manage their own economic policies and control their borders. Globalization: The increasing integration of global markets, international trade, and capital flows. Reality vs Theory The trilemma is no longer theoretical — it is actively playing out in the real world, especially in the West. First Combination: Democracy + Globalisation (EU Example) Sacrifice sovereignty to integrate economically (e.g., EU member nations). Led to economic success but also resentment over perceived loss of control and unequal economic gains. Rise of nationalism and far-right movements (e.g., Brexit). Second Combination: Globalisation + Sovereignty (Technocratic Governance) Sacrifice mass democracy by insulating economic policy from popular pressures (e.g., independent central banks, IMF interventions). Example: Kenya facing backlash against IMF-mandated fiscal reforms. Result: Erosion of both democracy and sovereignty, with limited benefits from globalisation. Third Combination: Democracy + Sovereignty (Restrict Globalisation) Limit globalisation while protecting national democracy and sovereignty. Example: India, China, and East Asian Tigers using selective globalisation with domestic control. Success in economic growth but often at the cost of political freedoms and openness. Backlash in the West Globalisation created winners and losers; many workers lost jobs to outsourcing. Populist leaders (e.g., Trump, Orbán, Wilders) have capitalised on economic grievances. Protectionism, immigration controls, and withdrawal from global initiatives have intensified. Current Relevance of Trilemma Countries cannot achieve all three — must make tough choices and trade-offs. Without careful navigation, risks include social unrest, weakened democracies, and economic decline. Conclusion A balanced approach is needed: spreading economic gains more equally and strengthening democratic responsiveness. Populism and dismantling institutions are not sustainable solutions. The real Indian arbitrator needs to stand up India’s growing economic prominence has led to a surge in domestic and cross-border commercial disputes, necessitating an effective mechanism for dispute resolution. While the country has adopted arbitration as a key alternative to overburdened judicial systems, the effectiveness of Indian arbitration remains largely dependent on the quality and expertise of its arbitrators. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Dispute Resolution ) , GS 3(Economic Development) Practice Question:“India has the potential to become a global hub for arbitration. Discuss the role of skilled arbitrators in achieving this goal and the challenges faced in developing a competent arbitration ecosystem in India.”(250 words) Economic Growth and Arbitration: India’s growing economy has resulted in more domestic and cross-border commerce, increasing the likelihood of commercial disputes. With an overburdened judicial system, arbitration becomes a vital alternative for resolving complex, time-sensitive disputes. The Role of Arbitrators: Arbitrators are central to the success of any arbitration system, as they influence procedural frameworks, timelines, and the quality of the final award. Arbitrators’ decisions are pivotal, as they can be contested in courts, making their credibility and efficiency key to India’s arbitration reputation. Overlooked Aspect: Development of Indian Arbitrators: While discussions about improving Indian arbitration usually focus on legislative reforms and judicial intervention, the focus on developing skilled arbitrators is missing. Indian arbitration is still underrepresented in international disputes, particularly those without any domestic element. Problematic Appointment Practices: India predominantly appoints retired Supreme Court or High Court judges as arbitrators, assuming their judicial experience will enhance arbitration quality. However, this practice has led to lengthy, expensive procedures that resemble court proceedings, resulting in poorly reasoned awards that are often overturned. Need for Specialized Arbitrators: Arbitrators must possess skills beyond legal knowledge, including dispute management, global best practices, and soft skills for cross-cultural deliberations. Training in arbitration-specific techniques, such as financial analysis and handling evidence, is essential to differentiate arbitration from traditional judicial proceedings. Improvements Needed in Indian Arbitration Ecosystem: Diversification: The pool of Indian arbitrators should include professionals from diverse fields (e.g., finance, technology, etc.), not just legal experts or retired judges. Rigorous Training: Arbitrators should undergo specialized training programs to enhance their skills and understanding of global arbitration standards. Cultural Shift: There is a need to elevate arbitration from being a secondary option to litigation, positioning it as a primary dispute resolution mechanism. Conclusion: For India to become a global arbitration hub, it must develop a strong, diverse, and well-trained community of arbitrators, who can deliver efficient and credible dispute resolutions. Only then can India secure its place in the international arbitration community. Clean AI The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in India promises significant economic benefits, but it also brings environmental challenges, particularly related to energy consumption. To harness AI’s potential sustainably, India must integrate renewable energy into its infrastructure and manufacturing practices. Relevance : GS Paper 3 (Technology, Economic Development) Practice Question:“Discuss the environmental challenges posed by the rapid expansion of Artificial Intelligence in India and suggest sustainable solutions to mitigate these impacts while pursuing technological growth.”(250 Words) Economic Gains vs. Environmental Costs: AI applications hold the potential to deliver significant economic benefits that may outweigh their environmental costs, primarily due to the increased energy demand from AI data centers. The IMF’s report emphasizes that AI’s benefits do not necessarily conflict with global sustainability efforts if renewable energy is used effectively. Renewable Energy as a Solution: Countries with advanced renewable energy infrastructure are better positioned to pursue AI ambitions with lower social and environmental costs. For India, it is essential to focus on incorporating renewable energy specifically for powering AI infrastructure, aligning with the government’s broader sustainability goals. IndiaAI Mission and Infrastructure: India’s AI infrastructure, supported by the IndiaAI Mission, has not yet reached a scale that significantly impacts the country’s energy mix. Nonetheless, there is a clear need for renewable energy adoption within India’s AI sector to ensure sustainable growth. Government Approach and Global Alignment: India has indicated its commitment to sustainable AI development through its AI Action Summit in Paris, which highlights the importance of renewable energy and eco-friendly practices in AI advancements. AI’s Energy Consumption and Global Impact: The United States’ AI infrastructure is already driving up electricity demand and prices; AI’s expansion could contribute to a 9% increase in electricity costs. Renewable energy sources can mitigate the rise in emissions caused by traditional energy methods, offering a solution to the growing energy demands of AI. Data Centers and Renewable Infrastructure: Data centers, which consume significant energy, can be designed with renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar cells, making them ideal candidates for sustainable energy practices. India has companies taking steps to integrate renewable energy into their data center operations, signaling a shift towards more sustainable AI growth. Nuclear Energy as a Complementary Source: Small modular reactors at data center clusters could further support sustainable energy use, complementing solar and other renewable sources, reducing emissions in the long term. Environmental Footprints Beyond Energy: AI’s environmental impact extends beyond electricity usage, including mineral mining, water consumption, and effluent production in electronics manufacturing. As India seeks to expand its electronics manufacturing sector, it must also address these environmental challenges to ensure sustainability. India’s Net Zero Target and AI: India’s net zero target by 2070 necessitates reducing emissions from conventional energy sources and managing the rise of energy-intensive industries like AI. Scaling up renewable energy in the AI sector will be critical to achieving this target while pursuing global competitiveness in technology. Gender and space The recent U.K. Supreme Court ruling on the definition of “woman” under the Equality Act 2010 has stirred a global debate on the rights of transgender individuals. It has raised important questions about the inclusion of transwomen in gender-specific spaces and the legal recognition of their identity. Relevance : GS Paper 2 (Governance, Social Justice) Practice Question :Critically analyze the implications of the recent U.K. Supreme Court ruling which excludes transwomen from the definition of “woman” under the Equality Act 2010. How can India’s legal framework better address the rights of transgender individuals while ensuring gender equality in public spaces?(250 Words) Rising Polarization on Gender Issues: The U.K. Supreme Court ruling has further polarized the debate on gender rights, particularly concerning transgender individuals. It restricts the definition of “woman” to biological females, excluding transwomen, even if they have undergone gender reassignment surgery and hold a gender recognition certificate. Legal Interpretations and Gender Recognition: The ruling limits the scope of the Equality Act 2010 by not recognizing transwomen as women, despite legal recognition of transgender individuals’ rights under the Gender Recognition Act 2004 for issues like marriage and social security. The court upheld that trans individuals are protected against discrimination but refused to extend the same rights for issues like participation in women’s-only spaces or events. Impact on Transgender Rights: Transgender advocates and supporters see this ruling as a setback for inclusion and equality, particularly in the context of gender-specific spaces like bathrooms, changing rooms, and sports. The debate is fueled further by the case of a trans woman being placed in a female prison after committing crimes before transitioning. Need for Inclusive Spaces: The judgment calls for unisex or neutral spaces to be provided for transgender individuals in various public and private institutions, including schools, hospitals, and offices. A clear mandate for such inclusive spaces needs to be established by bodies like the Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) to protect transgender rights. Sports and Public Facilities: The ruling’s impact is significant in sports, where transwomen are banned from participating in women’s events in athletics, cycling, and aquatics. The ruling reinforces the exclusion of transgender women from certain competitions and facilities designated for biological women. Lessons from India’s Transgender Protection Law: India’s Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act 2019 highlights the importance of incorporating basic rights for trans people in legal frameworks to avoid more stringent restrictions or discrimination. India’s approach should factor in equal rights for transgender people without infringing on the rights of biological women. Broader Global Context: This ruling is part of a larger, ongoing global conversation on the rights of transgender individuals, particularly in terms of gender-specific spaces and protections under the law. It reflects the increasing tension between gender equality advocates and those emphasizing biological distinctions in law and policy.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 April 2025

Content: India’s AI compute conundrum Govt. brings cybercrime centre I4C under PMLA ISRO’s second short hot test of semicryogenic engine a success Philippines and U.S. test air defences as China seizes reef RNA-based antiviral offers strong defence against deadly agri virus  India’s AI compute conundrum Current Challenges in the IndiaAI Compute Mission Bureaucratic Hurdles: The ongoing empanelment process for AI compute providers creates administrative delays and obstacles for both providers and users. Qualification criteria for users, including the need for registration with government bodies and meeting revenue requirements, limit access for many potential users, especially startups. Bidding Process and Price Undercutting: The low-price bidding mechanism (up to 89% lower than the market rate) leads to compromises on quality and operational costs. Vendors are forced to operate with slim margins, restricting their ability to invest in R&D and innovate. Government Subsidies: Subsidies (up to 40%) stimulate demand but may create a false sense of market strength. The reduced prices could cap private demand for AI compute, leading to long-term inefficiencies. Relevance :GS 3(Science and Technology) Concerns with Sustainability of the Model Low Private Market Demand: The low demand for AI compute, particularly for Nvidia chips, is highlighted by the fact that only 25% of the demand for these chips comes from India. The current intervention may distort the market and limit the growth of private-sector demand for AI compute, leading to dependency on subsidies. Incentives for Compromising Quality: The bidding process encourages providers to cut corners, impacting the overall quality of services offered, which is not sustainable for long-term growth or innovation. Potential for Innovation and Market Growth Alternative Approaches: Startups like DeepSeek have succeeded without relying on government intervention, by avoiding bureaucratic hurdles and focusing on R&D. This shows that agility and independence in market functioning can lead to innovation and cost-effective solutions. Challenges to Innovation: Bureaucratic processes stifle innovation, as seen in the case of DeepSeek’s success, where operational freedom allowed them to create competitive AI models without facing delays or restrictions. Considerations for Building Sovereign Compute Infrastructure Short-Term vs Long-Term Sustainability: While the IndiaAI initiative aims to foster sovereign computing infrastructure, it is more focused on addressing India-specific use cases rather than developing globally competitive AI models. The lack of sufficient compute resources (19,000 GPUs) compared to global leaders like the US and China suggests a focus on domestic needs rather than becoming a leader in AI innovation. Potential Budget Utilization: There is concern that the ₹4,500 crore allocated to the IndiaAI compute mission over five years may remain underutilized if demand does not meet the subsidy criteria. Future Directions and Priorities Scaling Energy Infrastructure: As the demand for AI compute grows, the energy infrastructure must be scaled up to support this. Adapting to Market Shifts: The shift from training to inference in AI compute, which requires different types of chips, should be a priority. The market needs to remain agile, and interventions should not stifle this adaptability. Private Sector Role: Allowing the private sector to function freely and competitively is essential for innovation and ensuring the sustainability of the market post-IndiaAI mission. Conclusion Sovereign Computing Infrastructure: Building a sovereign compute infrastructure is a valid short-term goal, but its execution through subsidies and bureaucratic processes may hinder long-term market dynamics. Market Flexibility: To ensure sustainable growth and innovation, the government should reduce bureaucratic barriers and allow the private sector to compete freely, especially as the AI chip market evolves and competition increases Govt. brings cybercrime centre I4C under PMLA Objective of the Move Enhancing Cybercrime Detection: The inclusion of the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) will facilitate better coordination between I4C and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in detecting the financial trail of cyberfrauds. Combating Cyberfrauds: The primary goal is to strengthen the government’s ability to detect, investigate, and prosecute cybercrimes, particularly those involving money laundering and financial frauds. Relevance :GS 2(Governance) ,GS 3(Technology) Implications of I4C’s Inclusion under PMLA Information Sharing: I4C can now share and receive vital information from the Enforcement Directorate and other law enforcement agencies, which enhances the collaborative efforts in tracking cybercrime networks. Targeting Masterminds: This move aims at not only identifying the perpetrators but also tracing the masterminds behind cyberfrauds by following the financial trail, which can often be the key to uncovering the full scope of the crime. Benefits of the Inclusion Stronger Legal Framework: By bringing I4C under the PMLA, the government ensures that the Centre can operate within a robust legal framework, strengthening its ability to act against cybercriminals. Improved Accountability: The enforcement of anti-money laundering laws ensures that cybercrime operations are dealt with severely, improving accountability among cybercriminals and potentially reducing the frequency of such crimes. Potential Challenges Coordination Between Agencies: While this move enhances information sharing, effective coordination between I4C, ED, and other law enforcement agencies is critical to prevent delays and ensure smooth operations. Overburdening Enforcement Agencies: The inclusion of I4C could potentially increase the workload of agencies like the Enforcement Directorate, requiring additional resources for tracking and investigating cyberfraud-related money laundering activities. Conclusion Strengthened Cybercrime Combat Mechanism: The government’s decision to bring I4C under PMLA is a positive step towards combating cybercrimes, particularly those related to financial fraud, by creating a more integrated and legally empowered cybercrime detection system. Need for Continued Monitoring: For the initiative to be fully effective, there needs to be continuous monitoring of inter-agency cooperation and timely resolution of cases, along with the necessary resource allocation to avoid overburdening the agencies involved. ISRO’s second short hot test of semicryogenic engine a success Significance of the Achievement Second Milestone: The successful completion of the second short-duration hot test on April 24 is a significant progression in ISRO’s semicryogenic engine development, following the first successful hot test conducted on March 28. Breakthrough: These tests mark a major step in ISRO’s ongoing efforts to develop and validate the semicryogenic engine, a crucial component for future space missions. Relevance : GS 3(Science,Technology ,Space) Details of the Test Test Duration and Conditions: The engine underwent a 3.5-second hot test, focusing on validating the engine’s start-up sequence. The test confirmed stable performance, operating the engine up to 60% of its rated power level. Critical Subsystems Evaluated: The test evaluated key subsystems, including low-pressure and high-pressure turbo pumps, pre-burner, and associated control systems, which are essential for the engine’s overall functioning. Outcomes and Next Steps Design Integrity Validation: The test provided crucial data on the design integrity of the engine systems, which is necessary for fine-tuning the operational sequencing for the full semicryogenic engine. Planned Future Tests: Further qualification tests are planned to comprehensively validate the engine’s performance, bringing it closer to being inducted into ISRO’s launch vehicles. Importance for ISRO’s Future Missions Semicryogenic Engine Development: The success of this hot test paves the way for the semicryogenic engine’s inclusion in ISRO’s upcoming missions, potentially enhancing the performance and capabilities of future launch vehicles. Induction into Launch Vehicles: Once fully validated, the semicryogenic engine will be a critical part of ISRO’s launch vehicles, offering greater efficiency and reliability for space missions. Parallel Launch Activities NISAR Satellite Launch: While the semicryogenic engine tests are ongoing, ISRO is also preparing for the launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite aboard the GSLV-F16. This demonstrates ISRO’s ability to handle multiple high-profile projects simultaneously, reinforcing its capability in space technology development. Conclusion Strategic Milestone: The successful test of the semicryogenic engine reinforces ISRO’s commitment to advancing its propulsion technology, ensuring it remains at the forefront of space exploration. Future Prospects: As qualification tests progress, the engine’s eventual integration into ISRO’s launch vehicles will enhance the country’s space mission capabilities, particularly for heavier payloads and more complex missions. Philippines and U.S. test air defences as China seizes reef Context of the Drills Integrated Defence Exercises: The Philippines and the U.S. conducted their first integrated defense drills, involving live-fire exercises, off the coast of northern Philippines, marking a significant step in their military cooperation. Balikatan Exercises: As many as 17,000 personnel participated in the annual “Balikatan” exercises, simulating a “full-scale battle scenario” aimed at enhancing the readiness and interoperability of both forces to deter external threats. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) China’s Assertive Action Seizure of Tiexian Reef: China’s coast guard reportedly seized control of Tiexian Reef (also known as Sandy Cay) in the Spratly Islands, a strategic location near Philippine-held Thitu Island (Pag-asa), which houses a Philippine military facility. Ongoing Confrontations: The Philippines and China have been in a prolonged confrontation over territorial claims in the South China Sea. China asserts nearly the entire area, despite an international ruling declaring its claim unlawful. Geopolitical Tensions Philippine- China Disputes: The seizure of the reef follows months of rising tensions, where Chinese military and civilian ships have been frequently spotted near Philippine-controlled territories. U.S.-Philippines Alliance: The U.S. continues to support the Philippines, emphasizing its commitment to defending Philippine territories under their mutual defense treaty, underscoring the strategic importance of the region in countering China’s expanding influence. Military Preparations and Reactions Live Fire Exercise: The live-fire drills conducted by the U.S. and Filipino forces demonstrated their readiness to defend against threats in the South China Sea, including potential Chinese aggression. Philippine Navy’s Monitoring: The Philippine Navy has been actively monitoring Chinese activities, including the sighting of Chinese warships near Philippine waters during the Balikatan exercises, signaling a heightened security alert. Strategic Significance of Tiexian Reef Geopolitical Importance: Tiexian Reef’s strategic location near Thitu Island gives China a foothold in the Spratly Islands, which is rich in natural resources and serves as a crucial maritime route. Risk of Escalation: China’s actions in the area risk escalating tensions further, especially with the Philippines’ military presence on nearby islands and growing support from the U.S. Philippine Government’s Response Delayed Official Reaction: While the Chinese claim over the reef was made public, the Philippine government has yet to issue a formal response, suggesting possible internal deliberations or diplomatic efforts to resolve the issue without direct confrontation. Chinese Presence and Military Strategy Continuous Chinese Military Presence: Chinese warships have been consistently spotted near Philippine-controlled areas, reflecting China’s ongoing military and strategic interests in asserting dominance over the South China Sea. Potential Implications for Regional Stability: The presence of Chinese forces near Philippine territory, coupled with the military drills, may heighten regional instability, with implications for other countries’ interests in the area. Broader Implications U.S. Commitment to Regional Security: The U.S. continues to demonstrate its commitment to defending its allies, particularly in light of growing Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea. Tensions with China: The combination of China’s recent actions and the U.S.-Philippines defense cooperation signals a potential flashpoint for broader geopolitical and military tensions in the region, with global implications. Conclusion Escalating Tensions: The integration of U.S. and Filipino forces in defense drills is a clear message of resistance against Chinese expansion, while the seizure of Tiexian Reef adds another layer of complexity to the South China Sea dispute. Regional Stability at Risk: The evolving military dynamics, with heightened naval activity and defense drills, indicate a precarious balance of power in the South China Sea, threatening further instability in the region. RNA-based antiviral offers strong defence against deadly agri virus Impact of Plant Viruses on Agriculture Global Losses: Plant pests and diseases, including viruses, destroy nearly 40% of global crops annually, leading to over $220 billion in losses, with plant viruses contributing $30 billion each year. CMV’s Devastating Effect: Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV) affects over 1,200 plant species, including key crops like cucumbers, pumpkins, and bananas, with infection rates reaching 70% in some crops. In India, CMV causes significant yield losses, particularly in banana plantations (25-30%). Relevance :GS 3(Science and Technology) Traditional Challenges in Virus Control Limited Control Options: Unlike bacterial or fungal infections, plant viruses cannot be controlled through traditional pesticides or fungicides. This creates a major challenge for farmers in protecting their crops from viral infections. Introduction of RNA-Based Technology RNA Silencing Mechanism: Plants have a natural defense mechanism called RNA silencing, where the plant’s immune system recognizes and destroys viral RNA. However, this process is not always effective due to rapid viral mutations. RNA-based Solutions: Researchers have been exploring RNA-based techniques, such as Host-Induced Gene Silencing (HIGS) and Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS), to enhance plant immunity against viruses. Development of “Effective dsRNA” Enhanced RNA Silencing: Researchers at Martin Luther University in Germany have developed a novel approach to RNA silencing by creating “effective dsRNA,” genetically engineered to be enriched with highly functional small interfering RNA (siRNA). This enhances the plant’s ability to target and destroy the viral RNA. Improved Targeting: This method provides a more precise and effective defense, focusing on the virus’s most vulnerable genetic regions, making it harder for the virus to mutate and evade the defense system. Field Trial Potential Lab Success: In laboratory tests, the effective dsRNA formulation showed an almost 80% reduction in viral load, with some plants achieving complete protection. The new method outperformed traditional dsRNA treatments, offering stronger, more durable immunity. Real-World Application: Researchers are working to translate their lab results into practical field applications by developing spray-based solutions and preparing for field trials to assess their performance under natural conditions. Challenges and Limitations Stability in Outdoor Conditions: RNA molecules degrade quickly in sunlight, rain, and soil microbes, which presents a significant challenge for outdoor use. Researchers are focusing on nanoparticle-based delivery systems to improve RNA stability. Cost and Scalability: While production costs are decreasing, large-scale application remains expensive. More innovation is needed to make RNA-based crop protection economically viable for farmers. Regulatory Hurdles: Regulatory approval is a key obstacle, with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency granting the first RNA-based crop protection product approval only in 2023. Approval processes in other countries, including India, may take longer. Broader Implications Cross-Disease Application: The principles of effective dsRNA technology can be extended to other plant viruses, such as tomato yellow leaf curl virus and potato virus Y. Additionally, researchers believe RNA-based methods could be used to target fungal, bacterial diseases, and insect pests. Future Potential: While RNA-based crop protection shows great promise, further development and testing are necessary to address the challenges of stability, cost, and regulatory approval before it becomes widely accessible to farmers. Conclusion Promising Solution: The development of RNA-based antiviral treatments, particularly the effective dsRNA (double-stranded RNA) approach, offers a significant step forward in plant virus protection, potentially revolutionizing how crops are safeguarded from viruses like CMV. Ongoing Research: Despite challenges, continued research and innovation in RNA delivery systems, scalability, and regulatory approvals are crucial to make these solutions practical for widespread agricultural use.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 April 2025

Content : DRDO achieves significant milestone in Scramjet Engine Development World Malaria Day – 2025 DRDO achieves significant milestone in Scramjet Engine Development Context : Technical Achievement Milestone: DRDL (Hyderabad-based lab under DRDO) successfully conducted Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor ground testing for >1,000 seconds. Location: Scramjet Connect Test Facility, Hyderabad. Date of test: 25 April 2025. Significance: This is a continuation of an earlier test (120 seconds) done in January 2025, showing substantial progress. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) About Scramjet & Hypersonic Technology Scramjet (Supersonic Combustion Ramjet): Operates efficiently at hypersonic speeds (Mach 5 and above). Air-breathing engine: Uses atmospheric oxygen, reducing the need to carry oxidizers onboard (unlike rockets). Requires supersonic combustion – extremely challenging due to high temperatures and pressures. Hypersonic Cruise Missiles: Can travel >6,100 kmph (Mach 5+). Maintain sustained cruise capability at extreme speeds. Ideal for penetration of enemy air defences due to low reaction time and high kinetic energy. What Was Tested Active Cooled Combustor: Uses cooling mechanisms to withstand high heat from supersonic combustion. Ensures thermal stability during extended duration tests. Subscale Combustor Test: Validates design before full-scale integration. Proves feasibility of sustained combustion and component durability. Technological Significance Validates both: Design of the long-duration scramjet combustor, and Capabilities of the new Scramjet Connect Test Facility. Essential step toward flight-worthy scramjet integration for missile systems. Collaborative Effort Developed through integrated contributions of: Multiple DRDO laboratories Indian industry partners Academic institutions Symbolic of India’s growing defence R&D ecosystem and technology self-reliance (Atmanirbharta). Strategic & Defence Relevance A cornerstone for India’s Hypersonic Cruise Missile Programme. Enhances next-gen missile capabilities with improved speed, reach, and survivability. Aligns with global race in hypersonic weapons by countries like USA, Russia, China. What’s Next Preparation for full-scale combustor testing in flight conditions. Roadmap towards operational deployment of indigenous hypersonic cruise missiles. Ramjet vs Scramjet – Comparative Value Addition Feature Ramjet Scramjet Full Form Ram-air jet engine Supersonic Combustion Ramjet Airflow Speed at Combustion Subsonic (air slowed down before combustion) Supersonic (air remains at supersonic speed during combustion) Operational Speed Range ~Mach 3 to Mach 6 Mach 5 to Mach 10+ Combustion Efficiency Efficient at lower hypersonic speeds Efficient at higher hypersonic speeds Complexity Relatively simpler design More complex (thermal management, materials, airflow dynamics) Fuel Usage Hydrocarbon or hydrogen-based fuels Same, but must sustain combustion in supersonic air Examples BrahMos missile (with a solid rocket booster) Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV), US X-51 Waverider Limitations Cannot function at zero velocity; limited speed range Only works at extremely high speeds; highly sensitive design World Malaria Day – 2025 Context and Background World Malaria Day is observed annually on 25th April, instituted by the WHO in 2007. It serves to raise awareness, encourage global investment, and foster partnerships to eliminate malaria. Malaria is an age-old disease that has plagued humanity for over 4,000 years, and was a major health burden in post-independence India. Relevance : GS 2(Health ) India’s Progress and Global Recognition Malaria cases declined by 80.5% and deaths by 78.38% between 2015 and 2023. India exited WHO’s High Burden to High Impact (HBHI) group in 2024, a significant global recognition. 122 districts reported zero malaria cases in 2023. Transition reflects a paradigm shift in India’s malaria trajectory and health governance. India’s Elimination Targets Zero indigenous cases by 2027. Full malaria elimination by 2030, aligning with the WHO Global Technical Strategy (2016–2030). India’s national roadmap includes: National Framework for Malaria Elimination (NFME) 2016–2030. National Strategic Plan 2023–2027. Malaria – Disease Overview Caused by Plasmodium parasites, transmitted via infected female Anopheles mosquitoes. Not contagious person-to-person, but can spread via infected blood or needles. Symptoms: Fever, headache, chills (early); confusion, seizures, jaundice, difficulty breathing (severe). Treatment: ACTs for Plasmodium falciparum. Chloroquine + Primaquine for Plasmodium vivax and ovale. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical. Global Burden 597,000 global deaths in 2023, slightly down from 600,000 in 2022. 11 HBHI countries accounted for 66% of cases and 68% of deaths. Despite gains, malaria remains a leading cause of illness and death in tropical regions. India’s Key Strategies & Interventions Core Interventions: Test, Treat, Track strategy: Widespread surveillance, rapid diagnosis, and treatment. Vector control: LLIN (Long-Lasting Insecticidal Nets), insecticide sprays, and larval source management. Data-driven governance: Real-time surveillance, digital tracking systems. Focus Projects: Intensified Malaria Elimination Project – 3 (IMEP-3): Targets 159 high-burden districts across 12 states. Uses customized strategies for vulnerable populations and regional challenges. Behaviour Change & Awareness: Behaviour Change Communication (BCC) using local influencers, media campaigns, and community engagement. Community participation recognised by the PM as key to success (Mann Ki Baat – Dec 2024). Inter-sectoral & Capacity Building: Collaboration across ministries (health, environment, housing, etc.) to address determinants of malaria. Training of 850+ health professionals in 2024. Emphasis on research in insecticide resistance and therapeutic efficacy. Integration with Ayushman Bharat: Malaria services integrated with Ayushman Arogya Mandirs and Community Health Officers. Ensures last-mile delivery and universal health access. District-Level Differentiation NFME categorizes districts into: Category 3 (Intensified Control Phase) for high-transmission areas. Encourages district-specific planning, especially for P. vivax prevalent zones. Lessons from India’s Approach Blend of top-down planning and bottom-up execution. Leveraging community ownership, tech-enabled governance, and public-private coordination. Theme 2025 – “Malaria Ends With Us” Emphasizes collective responsibility and ownership at all levels. Urges the world to reinvest in innovation, reimagine public health systems, and reignite momentum for eradication. Conclusion India is on track to set a global benchmark in disease elimination. The malaria elimination journey underscores the strength of science-led health policy, resilient institutions, and citizen engagement. A malaria-free India by 2030 is not just a health goal, but a symbol of inclusive development and public health leadership.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 April 2025

Content : Teaching children to eat well must begin in school A chance for India’s creative ecosystem to make waves Teaching children to eat well must begin in school Global Context and Urgency N4G Summit & UNGA (2024): Renewed global commitment to end malnutrition by extending the UN Decade of Action on Nutrition (2016–2025) to 2030. Beyond access to food: Emphasis on how and why children eat — moving focus from food quantity to food literacy and behavior change. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues ,Health, Government Policies ) Practice Question :“While the first 1,000 days are crucial for child nutrition, the next 4,000 days offer a critical second window.” In this context, critically examine the role of schools in building food literacy among children. Suggest policy measures to institutionalize nutrition education.(250 Words) Childhood Nutrition: Expanding the Window Critical windows: While focus on the first 1,000 days (conception to 2 years) is vital, the next 4,000 days (up to adolescence) are equally critical. Adolescence as second chance: Nutritional education can help adolescents overcome earlier growth deficits and prevent future disease risks. Why Start in Schools? Changing food environment: Easy access to processed, unhealthy food via apps and media makes healthy eating decisions complex for children. Lack of awareness: Children often eat due to habit, peer pressure, or marketing — not based on health or cultural tradition. Schools as change agents: Structured, curriculum-based intervention in schools can build lifelong habits. Alarming Trends in Child Nutrition Minimum Dietary Diversity (UN SDG 2 Indicator): A child should eat from at least 5 out of 10 food groups daily — rarely met in India. Poor diets → triple burden: Links to under-nutrition, obesity, and chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, mental health). 70% of adult diseases: Originate from unhealthy habits formed during childhood — early intervention is crucial. Curriculum Gaps and Implementation Barriers Lack of structured food education: Nutrition lessons, if present, are outdated or superficial. Inadequate teacher training: No formal tools, training, or curriculum guidance provided to educators. Missing links: Disconnect between classroom learning and real-life food choices. What Should a Food Literacy Curriculum Include? Comprehensive and age-appropriate: Starts from preschool, continues through adolescence. Beyond food groups: Human biology and food-body relationship. Environmental sustainability. Cultural identity and local food diversity. Bio-diverse diets: Encouraging local, seasonal, traditional foods. Supports nutrition, local farmers, and the planet. Integration into Daily School Life More than awareness drives: Requires weekly classes, kitchen gardens, cooking sessions, food label reading. Infrastructure support: Healthier canteens. Nutrition-themed campaigns led by students. Weekly nutrition hour as part of academic calendar. Policy Frameworks in India National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Calls for holistic development, includes room for health education. School Health & Wellness Programme (by MoHFW & MoE): Framework exists, but needs proper curriculum and execution. Gap: Still no national-level mandate or uniform curriculum for food literacy. Children as Agents of Change Ripple effect: Informed children can influence families and communities — asking for healthier meals, reducing food waste, spreading awareness. Holistic outcome: Promotes personal health, cultural respect, environmental awareness, and civic responsibility. Conclusion : Food literacy is essential: It’s no longer a luxury — but a necessity in the face of rising NCDs, climate change, and cultural erosion. Call to action: Embed food and nutrition education into mainstream schooling — not tomorrow, but today. A chance for India’s creative ecosystem to make waves India as a Global Creative Powerhouse Resilient amidst global uncertainty: Despite trade tariffs and market volatility, India’s stable economy and youth-driven innovation offer a unique opportunity. Vision: “Create in India, Create for the World” — positioning India as a creative and storytelling hub across media and technology sectors. Relevance :GS 3(Economy) Practice Question : India’s creative economy holds transformative potential for both cultural influence and economic diversification. Discuss the significance of initiatives like WAVES 2025 in boosting India’s media and entertainment startup ecosystem.(250 Words) Rise of Indian Creators on the Global Stage Success Stories: Namit Malhotra’s DNEG: Delivered Oscar-winning VFX for Dune 2 — symbol of India’s global creative potential. Young talent across domains: From film to AI, Indian youth are redefining global content creation. WAVES 2025: A Game-Changer World Audio-Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES): Scheduled May 2025, Mumbai. Focus on building the Media & Entertainment (M&E) startup ecosystem. WAVES Xcelerator (WAVEX): Startup accelerator within WAVES. Offers mentorship, funding, global exposure. Addresses key barriers: capital, access, and market visibility. Sectoral Growth and Innovation Potential M&E industry size: Expected to grow from ₹2,422 billion (2023) to ₹3,067 billion (2027). Emerging areas: AI, AR/VR, gaming, metaverse. Animation, ed-tech, immersive media. Examples: Erucanavis Technologies: AI-driven ads. Offline Human Studios, Amaze Studios: Animation & VR. InscapeXR, Vision Impact: Immersive learning in education. Inclusivity & Cultural Anchoring Women-led startups like Lapwing Studios and Vygr Media included — promoting diversity. Arts + Science synergy: Creativity as a shared space for both — storytelling in labs and studios alike. Cultural legacy: India’s classical traditions blend with digital innovation to tell global stories. Economic and Social Impact Beyond profits: Investing in self-expression, storytelling, and cultural identity. Boosting creative economy alongside tech and biotech sectors. Strategic national value: Creativity as a tool for soft power, economic diversification, and employment generation. Conclusion: India’s moment: A global creative revolution led by Indian creators is unfolding. WAVES 2025: Not just a summit, but a launchpad for a global storytelling future. Call to action: Embrace India’s demographic, cultural, and technological edge — to “Create in India, for the World”.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 April 2025

Content: India, France to finalise ₹63,000-cr. deal for 26 Rafale-M jets on April 28 DRDO makes headway in hypersonic technology Over a dozen annual reports of SC, ST and OBC panels yet to be made public Kasturirangan took space to people, and beyond Over 60% of world may have seen rapid temperature ‘flips’ between extreme heat and cold since 1961 India, France to finalise ₹63,000-cr. deal for 26 Rafale-M jets on April 28 Context :India and France are set to finalize a ₹63,000-crore deal for 26 Rafale-M fighter jets, scheduled for formal announcement on April 28, 2025. Relevance : GS 2(Governance), GS 3(Defence) Agreement Process: The deal, signed through a government-to-government (G-to-G) agreement, will be executed remotely. The French Defence Minister, Sebastien Lecornu, will sign on behalf of France, and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will sign for India. Contract Details: The deal includes 22 single-seat Rafale-M jets capable of operating off aircraft carriers. 4 twin-seat trainer jets that are not carrier-compatible. Delivery of the jets will begin in 3.5 years and conclude within 6.5 years. Previous Rafale Deal: This deal follows the earlier ₹60,000-crore agreement in 2016 for 36 Rafale jets for the Indian Air Force. Aircraft Compatibility: The Indian Navy currently operates two aircraft carriers: INS Vikramaditya (procured from Russia) and INS Vikrant (indigenously built). Indian carriers use a ski-jump for takeoff and arrester cables to recover aircraft with a tail hook. Modifications Required: Minor adjustments will be needed to accommodate Rafale-M jets on the lifts, designed for the MiG-29K jets. Value Addition :Rafale Jets to India’s Defence Capabilities Advanced Combat Capabilities: Rafale jets are equipped with multirole capabilities, allowing them to conduct air-to-air, air-to-ground, and anti-ship missions. The aircraft’s high maneuverability and state-of-the-art avionics make it ideal for combat situations across diverse environments. Cutting-Edge Technology: The Rafale is powered by the M88 engine, offering excellent thrust-to-weight ratio, enhancing its agility and speed. Equipped with RBE2-AA AESA radar, allowing for long-range detection and tracking of enemy aircraft and missiles. The SPECTRA Electronic Warfare (EW) suite provides enhanced protection by detecting and jamming enemy radar and missile systems. Carrier Compatibility: The Rafale-M variant is specifically designed for carrier-based operations, offering India’s Navy enhanced capabilities for air superiority and precision strikes from its aircraft carriers, particularly on INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. This will significantly boost India’s naval strike power, allowing for enhanced flexibility and range of operations. Enhanced Operational Flexibility: The Rafale is capable of carrying a wide variety of smart weapons, such as the SCALP cruise missile and Meteor air-to-air missile, giving the Indian Air Force and Navy a significant edge in terms of offensive strike and defensive air superiority. Interoperability with Existing Fleet: The integration of the Rafale-M with the Indian Navy’s existing fleet of MiG-29K jets will enhance interoperability during joint operations, ensuring greater flexibility in mission planning and execution. Strategic Deterrence: Rafales equipped with nuclear strike capabilities add a strategic deterrent element to India’s defense architecture, ensuring that it can counter nuclear threats with precision strikes. Indigenous Manufacturing Boost: The Rafale deal contributes to India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities. It strengthens the Make in India initiative by encouraging technology transfer, skill development, and setting the stage for future domestic production of advanced fighter aircraft. Operational Synergy: Rafale jets will complement the Su-30MKI fleet and Tejas fighters in the IAF, enhancing force multipliers and providing synergistic effectiveness in multi-layered combat strategies. Pilot Training & Expertise: The acquisition and operational deployment of Rafales will not only enhance the combat effectiveness of Indian forces but also upgrade training and technical expertise for Indian Air Force and Navy personnel, ensuring they remain at the cutting edge of air combat capabilities. DRDO makes headway in hypersonic technology Context : Significant Milestone in Hypersonic Weapon Development: DRDO achieved a key milestone by demonstrating the long-duration Active Cooled Scramjet Subscale Combustor ground testing for over 1,000 seconds. This advancement marks a significant leap in hypersonic technology, which involves speeds greater than Mach 5 (5 times the speed of sound), making it crucial for the development of next-generation weapon systems. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Progress from Previous Test: This test is a continuation of the earlier 120-second test conducted in January 2025, showcasing consistent improvements in the scramjet combustor’s performance and durability. The extended duration (1,000 seconds) further proves the system’s ability to maintain high performance under extreme conditions, a crucial aspect for the reliability of hypersonic weapons. Technology Validation: The successful ground test validates the design of the scramjet combustor, an essential component for hypersonic engines, ensuring the system can withstand high heat and aerodynamic pressures during sustained high-speed flight. The test also validates the active cooling system used to protect the combustor from extreme temperatures, making it suitable for long-duration hypersonic flight. Pathway to Full-Scale Flight Testing: With the successful ground test, DRDO has cleared a major hurdle in the development of flight-worthy scramjet systems. The next step involves the full-scale flight-worthy combustor testing, which will be a critical phase in advancing from laboratory demonstrations to actual operational systems. Strategic and Tactical Importance: Hypersonic technology is a game-changer in defense capabilities due to its speed, maneuverability, and ability to bypass traditional missile defense systems. DRDO’s progress in hypersonic weapons will enhance India’s strategic deterrence, allowing it to develop weapons capable of reaching targets quickly, with the potential to evade interception. Implications for National Security: A successful hypersonic weapon program will greatly enhance India’s ability to project power and secure its borders, particularly in the context of evolving geopolitical tensions and regional security challenges. The technology also aligns with India’s goals to advance self-reliance in defense, reducing dependence on foreign military systems and ensuring the development of cutting-edge indigenous defense technologies. Global Competition in Hypersonic Technology: India joins a select group of countries such as the US, Russia, and China, who are already working on advanced hypersonic systems. As a result, India’s progress in this field is critical for maintaining its competitive edge in the global defense landscape and ensuring its military readiness in the face of emerging technological threats. Future Prospects and Challenges: The successful testing lays the foundation for potential future defense applications, such as hypersonic missiles, boost-glide vehicles, and even space exploration technologies. However, challenges remain, including operationalizing the technology, ensuring scalability, and overcoming technical hurdles related to heat dissipation and materials engineering. Make in India and Technological Advancements: This achievement supports the Make in India initiative, showcasing domestic technological capabilities and positioning DRDO as a key player in the global defense sector. The development of hypersonic technology highlights India’s growing expertise in advanced defense technologies, aligning with the government’s focus on enhancing indigenous defense R&D. Over a dozen annual reports of SC, ST and OBC panels yet to be made public Context : Delay in Transparency of Crucial Reports: Over a dozen annual reports from the National Commissions for Scheduled Castes (NCSC), Scheduled Tribes (NCST), and Other Backward Classes (NCBC) have not been made public for up to seven years. The NCSC and NCST have failed to submit their reports to the President for the past two years, while the NCBC has been unable to submit reports for the past three years. The delay hampers transparency and accountability regarding the implementation of policies aimed at the welfare of these marginalized communities. Relevance : GS 2(Polity,Governance) Constitutional Mandate for Annual Reports: Under the Constitution of India, these commissions are mandated to submit annual reports to the President on the implementation of safeguards for Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs), and Other Backward Classes (OBCs). These reports play a crucial role in assessing and recommending actions for the protection, welfare, and socio-economic development of these communities, as they provide the foundation for policy recommendations at the national and state levels. Impact of Delays on Policy and Governance: The recommendations made in the reports often influence policy decisions on critical issues such as: Reservation policies (for jobs, education, etc.) Criteria for creamy-layer exclusion in OBC communities Categorization of communities Health and infrastructure interventions for marginalized communities. The delay in public disclosure and tabling of these reports in Parliament creates an accountability gap, limiting the ability of lawmakers and the public to assess the effectiveness of government policies aimed at the upliftment of SC, ST, and OBC communities. Constitutional Oversight Mechanism: Regular tabling of these reports in Parliament is essential for parliamentary scrutiny and ensures that appropriate action-taken reports are discussed. The absence of these reports affects the oversight mechanism, preventing transparency in how well the government has acted on the recommendations provided by the commissions. Reasons for Delays: Preparation of Action-Taken Reports: A major reason for delays is the time-consuming process of preparing action-taken reports that assess how the recommendations have been implemented by both Union and State governments. Wide Range of Issues: The reports cover a broad spectrum of issues, many of which require inputs from various State governments, further prolonging the process. Resource Constraints: Reports also face delays due to the limited resources available to the commissions for preparing the reports, as well as the priority given by nodal Ministries to the tabling of these reports. Current Status of Reports: As of now, the NCSC’s 2022-23 report was submitted to the President in February 2024, but has not yet been tabled in Parliament. The NCST has five annual reports pending, ranging from 2018-19 to 2022-23, which have been submitted to the President but are still waiting to be tabled. NCBC reports for 2022-23 and 2023-24 are in the process of being printed and will be submitted to the President soon. Challenges in Efficient Report Preparation: A former official from the NCST highlighted that resource constraints and prioritization issues within the nodal ministries contribute to delays in finalizing and tabling the reports. The lack of adequate resources in the commissions can affect their ability to draft, review, and submit the annual reports in a timely manner. Consequences of Non-Disclosure: The failure to make these reports public undermines the accountability of the government and the commissions themselves, as they play a critical role in shaping policies that directly impact marginalized communities. Non-disclosure creates a lack of public awareness about the government’s actions in these sectors and deprives marginalized communities of the visibility they need for their issues to be addressed. Way Forward: There is a need to streamline the report preparation process by allocating more resources to the commissions and ensuring that action-taken reports are prepared in a timely manner. The government should prioritize accelerating the tabling of pending reports in Parliament to enable proper scrutiny and policy adjustments based on their recommendations. Additionally, the regularity of report submissions and their timely presentation in Parliament should be considered critical to the proper functioning of the commissions and their constitutional mandate. Kasturirangan took space to people, and beyond Early Career and Growth: Dr. K. Kasturirangan began his career as an X-ray astronomer and quickly rose through the ranks, ultimately becoming the Chairman of ISRO from 1994 to 2003. His journey reflected both his scholarly services and his ability to shape the future of science, technology, and education in India. Relevance : GS 4(Ethics and Personalities) India’s National Space Program Under Kasturirangan: India’s space program began modestly in the late 1960s, amidst the dominance of U.S. and Russia in space exploration. Under Dr. Kasturirangan’s leadership, ISRO transitioned from an experimental phase to a fully operational phase, advancing significantly in earth observation satellites, communication satellites, and launch services. Commercializing Space: One of Dr. Kasturirangan’s key initiatives was to venture into commercial space, marking a significant milestone by leasing 10 transponders of the INSAT-2E satellite to INTELSAT in 1999 for $10 million. This deal not only helped generate revenue but also made cable TV programming accessible to Indian households in regional languages, and enabled Indian TV programs to reach 47 countries. Thematic Space Missions: Dr. Kasturirangan’s vision of “Space for Society” led to the introduction of thematic missions designed to serve real-world needs: EDUSAT: Tele-education INSATs/GSATs: Telemedicine and communication RESOURCESAT: Earth resources management METSAT: Meteorology OCEANSAT: Oceanography CARTOSAT: Cartography Meghatropique: Earth science ASTROSAT: Space science Chandrayaan-1: Lunar science National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS): Dr. Kasturirangan championed the development of the National Natural Resource Management System (NNRMS), a system that enabled various government departments (agriculture, forestry, town planning, etc.) to leverage remote sensing data for effective resource management. This system helped the government agencies utilize space technology for on-the-ground applications, impacting sectors like health, education, and fisheries. Launch Vehicle Development and ISRO’s Evolution: During his tenure, the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) and GSLV (Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle) were made operational, positioning ISRO as a complete national space agency capable of conducting complex space missions. These developments mirrored the progress made by more advanced space agencies, making ISRO more self-reliant in satellite launches. Chandrayaan-1: India’s First Lunar Mission: Dr. Kasturirangan’s National Technology Day lecture in 1999 set the foundation for the Chandrayaan-1 mission, where he highlighted the possibility of India placing a satellite around the moon using the PSLV. This visionary lecture evolved into the Chandrayaan-1 project, which was officially announced by Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee on August 15, 2003. Dr. Kasturirangan’s leadership in forming the national task team, which eventually led to the successful Chandrayaan-1 mission, solidified his legacy in space exploration. National Education Policy 2020: Beyond his work in space, Dr. Kasturirangan made significant contributions to India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, demonstrating his continued influence in shaping the nation’s future. Political and Advisory Roles: Dr. Kasturirangan’s tenure as a Rajya Sabha MP from 2003-2009 and his role as the Chairman of the Karnataka Knowledge Commission showcased his ongoing commitment to shaping the country’s educational and technological landscape. ISRO’s Transformation into a Global Player: Under Dr. Kasturirangan’s leadership, ISRO transformed into a global space agency, not only advancing in space science but also contributing to telecommunication, education, and disaster management through its innovations. His efforts in commercializing ISRO’s assets and expanding its mission set established a global reputation for India’s space program. Legacy and Vision: Dr. Kasturirangan’s visionary approach and contributions to ISRO’s operational success, space science, and national development have left an indelible impact. His foresight in connecting space technology to everyday societal needs and making India’s space program self-sufficient and internationally competitive will remain a hallmark of his career. Over 60% of world may have seen rapid temperature ‘flips’ between extreme heat and cold since 1961 Context : Temperature Flips Defined: Sudden shifts between extreme heat and cold over short periods. Widespread Occurrence: Over 60% of the world has likely experienced such events since 1961. Global Risk Zones: Most impacted: Mid-latitudes (East Asia, eastern North America, parts of South America, Africa, and Australia). Lower frequency: Tropics and polar regions. Relevance : GS 3(Environment and Ecology) Scientific Insights Understudied Phenomenon: While heatwaves and cold spells are well-documented, temperature flips are not. Drivers Identified: Rossby (planetary) waves are key atmospheric patterns influencing flip variability. Historical Trend: Intense flips possibly began in the early 20th century and have accelerated recently. Projections for 2071–2100 (vs. 1961–1990 baseline) Frequency: ↑ by 7–8%. Intensity: ↑ by ~7.2%. Transition Duration: ↓ by 2.5–3.2% (i.e., changes become quicker). Human and Ecological Impacts Health & Ecosystem Stress: Sudden changes strain adaptation capacity of humans, plants, and animals. Recent Example: April 2021 – Europe experienced frost damage following an abrupt temperature drop. Energy Demands: Warm winters followed by cold snaps create erratic energy needs, risking shortages, especially in low-income regions. Equity & Exposure Highest Exposure: Asia, particularly South and Southeast Asia. Inequity in Impact: Low-income countries: 4–6.5× higher exposure than global average. Lower-middle-income nations: ~1.3× higher than global average. Policy Implications Urgent Mitigation Needed: To address rising intensity and frequency of flips under climate change. Planning Required: Climate-resilient infrastructure. Strengthening energy systems in vulnerable regions. Health and disaster preparedness systems.

Facebook Instagram YouTube LinkedIn TelegramGroup Website TelegramChat
Terms and Conditions Privacy Refund Policy Learning Management System by Testpress