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Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 28 March 2025

Content: Should the free movement regime between India and Myanmar remain? The flawed push for a third language Integrated tri-service exercise held in Arunachal Centre tells States to be prepared to tackle heat-related ailments House Standing Committee concerned over vacancies in nuclear and research projects Access to abortion, foetal viability, and laws thereof: women are caught in the crossfire Should the free movement regime between India and Myanmar remain? Context and Background Free Movement Regime (FMR): Introduced in 1968 to allow unrestricted movement of border communities (40 km initially, reduced to 16 km in 2004). Government’s Plan: Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced in February 2024 that FMR would be scrapped, but no official notification or bilateral agreement has been made. State Responses: Manipur: Former CM N. Biren Singh pushed for scrapping, citing ethnic conflict and illegal migration concerns. Mizoram & Nagaland: Opposed the decision, highlighting socio-economic and ethnic ties across the border. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Impact of FMR on Border Communities Economic & Social Ties: Border communities historically traded and interacted freely even before FMR. Movement of goods and people has strengthened local economies. Ethnic & Familial Connections: The border was drawn without local consent; many communities share ancestry and cultural heritage across the border. Security Concerns & Cross-Border Crimes Government’s Justification for Scrapping FMR: To curb illegal migration and cross-border crimes (drugs, gold, areca nuts smuggling). Criticism of This Approach: Border Area Development Programme (BADP) increased military presence, but smuggling persists. Scrapping FMR may not significantly impact security concerns. Feasibility of Border Fencing Challenges: Geographical Complexity: Myanmar-India border is ~1,700 km long, with difficult terrain. Community Resistance: Many border residents oppose fencing, fearing loss of access and livelihoods. Historical Parallels: Similar fencing in advanced nations like the US has proven ineffective. Alternative Approach Suggested: Strengthening customs and local monitoring mechanisms rather than fencing. Potential Political Fallout Threat of Renewed Homeland Demands: Fencing could reignite separatist demands in border states (e.g., Frontier Nagaland, ethnic Chin-Mizo unity aspirations). Fear of land alienation due to Forest (Conservation) Amendment Act, 2023, which allows strategic projects within 100 km of borders. Possible Alternatives & Way Forward Henry Zodinliana Pachuau’s View: Fencing is not a practical solution; better border monitoring is needed. Legalizing border trade could benefit India economically while regulating goods movement. Likhase Sangtam’s View: FMR in its current form cannot continue indefinitely, given Myanmar’s instability. Public awareness & consensus-building are crucial before implementing major policy shifts. Conclusion Scrapping FMR without a robust alternative could disrupt ethnic ties, trade, and stability. A balanced approach: Regulate rather than eliminate FMR. Enhance border monitoring. Strengthen legal trade to curb smuggling. Involve local communities in decision-making. The flawed push for a third language Context & Policy Concerns NEP 2020 enforces a three–language policy, but India’s school system struggles with even two languages. Evidence-based policymaking should guide decisions, yet data on third-language learning outcomes is absent. Instead of strengthening math, science, and emerging fields like AI, resources are being diverted to an unproven linguistic policy. Relevance : GS 2(Education) Surveys & Learning Outcomes PISA 2009: India ranked 73/74, withdrew from the test afterward. NAS 2017 & 2021: Class 8 (2017): Only 48% could read, 47% could write, 42% grasped grammar. Class 8 (2021): 56% could read, 49% could write, 44% had grammar skills (marginal improvement). ASER 2018 & 2022: 2018: 27% of Class 8 students couldn’t read a Class 2-level text. 2022: This worsened to 30.4%. English Proficiency (2016 vs. 2022): 2016: 73.8% of Class 8 students couldn’t read simple English sentences. 2022: Still 53.3% struggled with basic English. Schools are failing to ensure proficiency in two languages, making a third language redundant. Cognitive & Pedagogical Challenges Cognitive Load Theory: Learning an L3 strains cognitive capacity, reducing efficiency in L1 & L2. Language Similarity Impact: Indo-Aryan languages (Marathi, Punjabi, Odia) → Facilitative learning of Hindi. Dravidian & Sino-Tibetan languages (Tamil, Santali, Mizo) → Difficult, asymmetric learning burden. NEP 2020 ignores linguistic diversity and cognitive limitations. Implementation Challenges Teacher Shortages & Resource Allocation: Rural schools lack teachers for core subjects, let alone three languages. Budget constraints make it impractical for States to fund additional language teachers. Illusory Choice: The policy states students can choose any three languages, but in practice, schools will default to Hindi or Sanskrit due to teacher availability. This creates an indirect push for Hindi, especially in non-Hindi-speaking States. AI & Language Learning NEP 2020 overlooks AI-driven language tools like real-time translation, voice-to-text conversion. Instead of classroom instruction, students could use AI for additional language learning at their own pace. A flexible AI-based approach would be more cost-effective and inclusive. Lessons from Singapore Bilingual Policy: English (neutral global language) + mother tongue (Mandarin, Malay, or Tamil). Results: PISA 2015 & 2022: Singapore ranked 1st in the world. Social harmony & economic success due to English proficiency.  India should prioritize English and regional languages, not force a third language. Why Hindi Can’t Be a National Unifier 2011 Census: 43.63% Indians are classified as Hindi speakers, but this includes 53 other languages as “Hindi dialects.” Actual Hindi speakers: ~25% of the population. Migration patterns: 95.28% of Indians never migrate outside their home States → They do not require Hindi for survival. Forcing Hindi ignores India’s linguistic diversity and federal structure. Conclusion: Evidence Over Ideology India struggles with basic literacy in two languages, enforcing a third is impractical and unnecessary. NEP 2020 prioritizes ideology over data-driven policymaking. Investments should focus on STEM education, AI, and real-world skills instead of an unproven trilingual model. Integrated tri-service exercise held in Arunachal India conducted the tri-service exercise ‘Prachand Prahaar’ in Arunachal Pradesh to enhance integrated warfare capabilities amid ongoing border tensions with China. Exercise Name: ‘Prachand Prahaar’ Location: High-altitude terrain, Arunachal Pradesh Duration: March 25-27, 2024 Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Objective: Validate an integrated multi-domain warfare approach involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Enhance synergized combat drills for future warfare scenarios. Strengthen surveillance, command & control, and precision firepower capabilities across the three services. Technological and Tactical Aspects: Deployment of cutting-edge platforms, including: Long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft – For extended surveillance capabilities. Armed helicopters & UAVs – Providing tactical support and aerial superiority. Loitering munitions – Enabling rapid and precision strikes. Space-based assets – Enhancing situational awareness and strategic communication. Strategic Significance: Operational Readiness: Ensures preparedness for high-altitude warfare and integrated tri-service operations. Border Security: The location in Arunachal Pradesh, near the India-China border, underscores India’s focus on strengthening defenses against potential threats. Future Warfare Simulation: The exercise simulates modern combat scenarios, integrating advanced warfare techniques and technology. Linked Developments & Context: India-China Border Tensions: Arunachal Pradesh has been a contentious region in India-China relations. Recent renaming of places by China in Arunachal Pradesh and India’s strong response. Increased infrastructure development along the LAC (Line of Actual Control). Previous Military Drills: Exercise Astrashakti (2023) – Focused on Indian Air Force’s integrated strike capabilities. Exercise Sangam (India-US tri-service exercise, 2023) – Highlighted interoperability with global partners. Exercise Vayu Shakti (2024) – Showcased aerial combat readiness in Rajasthan. India’s Defense Modernization: Indigenous military hardware development under Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). Growing integration of AI, cyber warfare, and space-based technologies in defense strategy. Conclusion: The ‘Prachand Prahaar’ exercise reinforces India’s commitment to a fully integrated and modernized defense strategy. With increasing geopolitical challenges, such joint operations enhance inter-service coordination, strategic deterrence, and operational readiness in sensitive border regions. Centre tells States to be prepared to tackle heat-related ailments Context : Government Directive: The Union government has instructed States to assess and enhance health facility preparedness for managing heat-related illnesses. Health Risks Due to Rising Temperatures: With the onset of summer, exposure to extreme heat is expected to rise, necessitating proactive health measures. Union Health Secretary’s Advisory: Punya Salila Srivastava emphasized the need for uninterrupted power supply, cooling appliances, solar panels, and NDMA-recommended heat mitigation measures. Relevance : GS 2(Governance & Health Policy) ,GS 3(Disaster  Management) Measures Suggested for Health Facility Preparedness Medical Infrastructure: Ensure adequate stock of essential medicines, IV fluids, ice packs, and oral rehydration solutions. Maintain necessary emergency cooling equipment. Sustainability Measures: Install solar panels where feasible. Implement rainwater harvesting and recycling plants to ensure water self-sufficiency. Adopt energy conservation techniques and cooling solutions such as green roofs and window shades. Public Health Strategy: Dissemination of public health and clinical guidelines on heat-related illnesses (available on the National Centre for Disease Control website). Daily surveillance and monitoring of heatstroke cases on the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) from March 1. Broader Context and Linked Issues Rising Temperature Trends: India has witnessed early heatwaves in recent years, with March and April recording above-normal temperatures in several regions. IMD’s forecast suggests higher-than-normal temperatures in 2024, increasing vulnerability to heat-related illnesses. Previous Heatwave Impact: 2023 Heatwave Impact: India recorded over 110 heatwave days across multiple states, leading to increased hospitalizations and fatalities. Occupational Health Risks: Vulnerable groups such as outdoor workers, construction laborers, and farmers face the highest exposure risks. Policy and Institutional Measures: National Action Plan on Heat-Related Illnesses: Guidelines by NDMA and State-specific heat action plans in place, but their implementation remains uneven. Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities like Delhi and Mumbai experience higher localized temperatures, worsening health impacts. International Best Practices: Countries like Spain and France have implemented cooling shelters, awareness campaigns, and early warning systems to reduce heat-related mortality. Way Forward Strengthening Heat Action Plans across all states with localized risk assessment. Enhancing Awareness Campaigns to educate vulnerable populations on heat safety measures. Expanding Infrastructure Support in rural and urban areas, ensuring access to cooling shelters and emergency medical aid. Leveraging Technology to improve real–time monitoring and predictive analysis for extreme heat events. House Standing Committee concerned over vacancies in nuclear and research projects The Parliamentary Standing Committee has raised concerns over significant vacancies in India’s premier nuclear and research institutions, potentially impacting the country’s scientific and energy ambitions. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) ,GS 3(Research , Development) Key Findings from the Parliamentary Standing Committee Report Vacancy Crisis in Research and Nuclear Institutions TIFR: 839 out of 1,448 posts vacant (58%). BARC: 3,841 out of 14,445 posts vacant (26%). IGCAR: 596 out of 2,730 posts vacant (22%). NPCIL: 4,343 out of 15,088 posts vacant (28%). Overall: 13,449 out of 46,307 posts under the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) remain unfilled (30%). Committee’s Observations Workforce Planning Issues: Inefficient recruitment processes and mismanagement in workforce planning. Impact on Research & Nuclear Programmes: Delays in R&D and fundamental research. Inefficiencies in nuclear power plant operations. Constraints in nuclear fuel production. Adverse effects on India’s nuclear energy goals. TIFR’s Unique Challenge The institute appears to rely more on contractual and research-based staff rather than permanent employees. The 58% vacancy rate threatens long-term stability in fundamental research. DAE’s Response Claims to have launched a recruitment drive to address vacancies. Unclear whether the vacancies include non-technical roles or only scientific personnel. Related Developments Government’s ₹20,000 Crore Push for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) The massive investment in nuclear energy contrasts sharply with workforce shortages. Without adequate scientific manpower, project execution and operational efficiency could be compromised. Previous Concerns Over India’s Scientific Workforce Reports from the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) have highlighted: A declining interest in fundamental research among students. Brain drain due to better opportunities abroad. Delays in recruitment due to bureaucratic hurdles in scientific institutions. Global Comparison: How Other Nations Handle Scientific Workforce Planning China: Aggressive recruitment of global talent, better funding, and streamlined hiring processes. USA: Stronger collaborations between universities and national laboratories to ensure a steady influx of researchers. France & Russia: Government-backed workforce development programmes aligned with nuclear expansion plans. Policy Implications & Recommendations Urgent Hiring & Streamlined Recruitment Reduce bureaucratic delays in scientist recruitment. Develop a fast-track hiring process for key research positions. Improve Pay & Incentives for Scientists Address wage gaps and improve working conditions to retain talent. Encourage Young Talent in Fundamental Research Expand PhD fellowships and research grants to attract fresh talent. Strategic Workforce Planning Align recruitment plans with the nuclear energy roadmap and R&D goals. Conclusion The massive vacancies in scientific institutions pose a serious challenge to India’s research and nuclear ambitions. While the government has committed huge investments in nuclear energy, a lack of skilled manpower could delay or derail key projects. Urgent interventions are needed in workforce planning, recruitment processes, and incentives for scientists to ensure India remains competitive in research and nuclear technology. Access to abortion, foetal viability, and laws thereof: women are caught in the crossfire Context : Supreme Court Ruling on Abortion Rights SC ruled that all women, regardless of marital status, have the right to abortion up to 24 weeks. Struck down the distinction between married and unmarried women in the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Act. Strengthened bodily autonomy and reproductive choice for women. Relevance : GS 2(Social Issues ,Health ,Judiciary ,Governance ) Foetal Viability and Ethical Dilemmas Foetal viability refers to the point at which a foetus can survive outside the womb, but it lacks a universal definition. Courts and medical ethics recognize that a foetus’ right to life strengthens as the pregnancy progresses. Advanced gestation increases ethical conflicts for medical professionals performing abortions. India’s Legal Framework on Abortion The MTP Act (1971, amended in 2021) allows: Abortions up to 20 weeks with one Registered Medical Practitioner (RMP). Abortions up to 24 weeks with two RMPs. Beyond 24 weeks, cases are reviewed by a medical board. Medical boards only approve abortions if: The foetus has fatal abnormalities. The pregnancy endangers the woman’s physical health. Sanctity of life often outweighs quality of life considerations in decision-making. Late-Term Abortions and Legal Challenges Post-24-week abortions are rarely granted unless the foetus has severe abnormalities. Case study (2023): A woman with severe postpartum depression and an unwanted 25-week pregnancy was initially granted an abortion. Later, a medical board member raised concerns over “stopping the heartbeat,” leading to revocation of permission. The court ruled that she must b Medicolegal Barriers and Provider Perspectives Medical professionals often resist late-term abortions due to: Legal liability risks. Personal ethical conflicts (e.g., equating abortion with murder). Lack of legal protection for doctors. Many women seeking MTP face stigma from healthcare providers, despite legal protections. Precedent of Prioritizing Foetal Life Over Women’s Rights Judicial rulings suggest an increasing tendency to prioritize foetal rights over maternal well-being. Women may be compelled to carry pregnancies, even if they are medically or emotionally unprepared. Raises concerns about women’s autonomy and mental health risks in restrictive abortion policies. Ethical and Legal Implications As neonatal medicine advances, viability limits may shift further back, impacting abortion rights. The principle of “Primum Non Nocere” (First, do no harm) should ideally prioritize women’s well-being. The MTP Act provides abortion as an exception, not an absolute right—leaving scope for restrictive interpretations. Conclusion India’s legal framework offers progressive abortion rights compared to many nations but retains medicolegal barriers. The judiciary and medical community often lean towards protecting foetal rights over maternal choice. The evolving debate on foetal viability vs. reproductive autonomy will continue to shape women’s rights and healthcare policies.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 27 March 2025

Content: The issue is about the ‘quality’ of India’s publications Going electric The issue is about the ‘quality’ of India’s publications Context and Key Concerns The Union Minister for Science and Technology claimed that India would surpass the U.S. in the number of scientific publications by 2029. India’s current research output is significant in volume but lacks the quality to compete globally. A major gap exists between India’s scientific productivity and its actual impact on global research. Relevance : GS 3 (Science & Technology, Economic Development). Practice Question : Critically analyze the quality of India’s scientific research output in comparison to global benchmarks. Discuss the structural issues affecting research quality and suggest measures to enhance India’s position in the global scientific community. (250 words) International Comparison of Research Investment and Output Investment in R&D as a Percentage of GDP India: 0.67% (one of the lowest among major economies). Comparisons: Israel (6.3%), South Korea (4.9%), U.S. (3.46%), China (2.4%). Low investment directly affects research quality, infrastructure, and output. Without significant investment, research quality will not improve, hindering India’s progress toward Viksit Bharat 2047. Scholarly Publications & Citation Quality India’s total publications (2024): 1,91,703 (Clarivate). U.S. publications: 6,48,905 – over three times that of India. CNCI value (quality indicator of citations): China: 1.12, U.S.: 1.25, India: 0.879 (Ranked 28th out of 30 countries).  Without quality citations, India’s research will have minimal global impact. The existing focus on increasing the number of papers rather than their impact perpetuates mediocrity. The Real Benchmark – Quality over Quantity Hirsch Index (H-Index) & Impact Factor (IF) of Journals Highly cited papers and high-impact journals indicate meaningful research contributions. India’s contribution to top-tier journals is alarmingly low compared to China and the U.S. Example: Journal of the American Chemical Society (JACS) (2017–2024) Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS): 444 papers All CSIR labs in India combined: 29 papers All IITs combined: 68 papers (lower than individual mid-tier Chinese universities).  Unless India strengthens fundamental research and university training, contributions to high-impact journals will remain low. Without addressing structural deficiencies, India will continue to fall behind in global research rankings. Unethical Practices & Fraudulent Research in India Systemic Issues Fake journals, paid publications, and retractions have damaged India’s scientific credibility. 2018 study: 62% of the world’s standalone fake journals were from India. 10% of India’s total research output is estimated to be fake. Omics Group Case (2019) Hyderabad-based Omics Group fined $50 million by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Violations: Fake peer review, deceptive impact factors, predatory journal practices. 69,000 fraudulent papers polluted global research.  Weak regulations allow low-quality research to flourish, harming India’s global scientific reputation. Without strict academic integrity, India’s research ecosystem will continue to degrade. The Chinese Model – Strategic Investments for Research Excellence China’s Medium-to-Long-Term Plan (MLP) for Science & Technology (2006–present) Heavy investments in universities, R&D, and technology-driven industries. Higher spending = Higher-quality output. Chinese universities vs Indian universities Peking University, Tsinghua University, Fudan University, etc., publish significantly more high-impact research than IITs or CSIR.  India must invest heavily in higher education, R&D, and university infrastructure to replicate China’s success. Without long-term policy reforms and funding, India’s scientific progress will remain limited. Structural Reforms Needed for Scientific Excellence Increase Public & Private Funding for R&D Raise investment in research from 0.67% to at least 2–3% of GDP. Encourage corporate sector funding and industry-academia collaboration. Strict Regulations Against Fake Journals & Plagiarism Strengthen peer-review mechanisms to curb predatory publications. Mandatory quality audits for research papers in Indian universities. Focus on Fundamental Research & High-Impact Publications Shift emphasis from “number of papers” to citations and quality journals. Strengthen STEM education, university research programs, and faculty quality. Global Collaboration & Research Ecosystem Development Establish joint research centers with top global institutions. Provide competitive grants, postdoctoral fellowships, and incentives for innovation. Conclusion: The Way Forward Mere increase in quantity of research publications is meaningless without quality. India must move away from self-congratulatory statements and focus on structural reforms. Investing in higher education, fundamental research, and academic integrity will be crucial for scientific progress. Einstein’s principle holds true: “Not everything that can be counted counts. Not everything that counts can be counted.” Going electric Policy Shifts and Market Developments Import Duty Exemptions: Union Budget 2025-26 introduces duty waivers on 35 capital goods for EV battery production and 28 for mobile phone batteries. Strategic Significance: Boosts domestic manufacturing and clean energy transition, reducing dependence on costly imports. Finance Bill 2025: Institutionalizes this shift, aligning fiscal policy with India’s EV ambitions. Relevance : GS Paper 3 (Economy, Infrastructure, Science & Technology, Environment) Practice Question : India has taken steps to boost domestic EV battery manufacturing through policy interventions. However, challenges such as high battery costs, supply chain dependencies, and technological gaps persist. Analyze the measures needed to position India as a global leader in the EV value chain. (250 words) Global Innovations and Competitive Challenges BYD’s Super E-Platform: Offers 500-km range with a 5-minute charge, addressing range anxiety—a key barrier to EV adoption. China’s Dominance: Produces over 70% of global EV batteries, particularly lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) variants, which offer cost and performance advantages. India’s Market Share: EVs account for 2% of India’s passenger car sales vs. 45% in China (2024). Electric Two-Wheelers (E2W): 1.14 million units sold in 2024, comprising 60% of total EV sales. Key Bottlenecks in India’s EV Transition High Battery Costs: Batteries contribute 40% to EV cost, slowing mass adoption, particularly in price-sensitive markets like India. Lack of Indigenous Battery Manufacturing: Dependence on imports, particularly from China, limits strategic autonomy. Absence of large-scale mining, refining, and cell production infrastructure. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities: India lacks robust control over critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel. Global supply chain disruptions (e.g., geopolitical tensions) impact battery availability and costs. Integrating into the Global EV Ecosystem Upstream Integration: Investment in lithium, nickel, and cobalt mining, with potential collaborations in Latin America and Australia. Domestic refining capabilities for key minerals to reduce dependence on China. Midstream Expansion: Scaling up battery cell manufacturing to reduce reliance on imports. R&D focus on next-gen batteries (solid-state, sodium-ion) for cost and performance gains. Downstream Strengthening: Expansion of EV manufacturing and assembly, leveraging duty exemptions and FDI incentives. Building a robust domestic charging infrastructure network for seamless adoption. Strengthening Trade and Industrial Policy Trade Diversification: Strengthening bilateral ties with the U.S. and Europe to access technology, capital, and markets. Strategic positioning as a China-alternative for global supply chains. Industrial Growth: Incentivizing private sector participation in EV manufacturing via PLI (Production Linked Incentive) schemes. Collaboration between industry and academia for indigenous battery research. Sustainability Focus: Circular economy approach: Battery recycling initiatives to extract valuable minerals. Renewable energy integration to power EV charging stations. Conclusion: Roadmap for Long-Term EV Competitiveness A multi-pronged strategy—focusing on trade, R&D, and infrastructure—can position India as a reliable EV hub, ensuring economic growth and energy security. India must reduce cost barriers, enhance domestic production, and integrate into the global battery value chain to compete with China and accelerate EV adoption.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 27 March 2025

Content: PM-WANI Scheme DECLINE IN NAXALIST ACTIVITIES PM-WANI Scheme Overview of PM-WANI Scheme The Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface (PM-WANI) is an initiative aimed at boosting internet penetration through public Wi-Fi hotspots across India. By enabling a decentralized and market–driven approach, PM-WANI enhances digital connectivity, particularly in underserved rural and semi-urban areas. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Technology) Components of PM-WANI Framework Public Data Offices (PDOs): Small businesses or shop owners who install and operate Wi-Fi hotspots to provide internet access. Public Data Office Aggregators (PDOAs): Entities that manage multiple PDOs and facilitate internet services without requiring an ISP license. App Providers: Develop applications that enable users to discover and access PM-WANI hotspots. Central Registry: Maintained by the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT) to register all stakeholders. Current Status and Implementation As of March 20, 2025, India has 2,78,439 PM-WANI hotspots operational nationwide. PM-WANI-compliant Wi-Fi hardware is readily available and also supplied by C-DOT’s ToT (Transfer of Technology) partners. It follows an unlicensed model, removing bureaucratic barriers and fostering entrepreneurship. Preceding Developments & Related Policies Historical Digital Connectivity Policies BharatNet (2011): Aimed at connecting Gram Panchayats via fiber-optic networks. PM-WANI leverages BharatNet’s infrastructure for last-mile connectivity. Digital India (2015): Strengthened broadband access and digital literacy, laying the groundwork for PM-WANI. National Digital Communications Policy (2018): Set targets for internet penetration and public Wi-Fi expansion. Policy & Regulatory Framework Liberalized Licensing: PM-WANI removes the need for PDOs to get an ISP license, reducing compliance costs. C-DOT’s Role: As a government body, it provides technical support and helps in maintaining interoperability between different vendors. Impact & Future Prospects Socio-Economic Impact Boost to Digital Inclusion: Enhances internet access, particularly in rural India, reducing the digital divide. Employment Generation: Small businesses can set up PDOs with minimal investment, fostering micro-entrepreneurship. E-Governance & Online Services: Supports initiatives like DigiLocker, telemedicine, online education, and UPI payments. Future Expansion & Challenges Integration with 5G Networks: PM-WANI hotspots can complement 5G rollouts by offloading mobile data traffic. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging private investments for scaling infrastructure. Cybersecurity & Privacy Concerns: The government needs to strengthen data protection mechanisms for secure public Wi-Fi usage. Conclusion PM-WANI represents a transformative step in India’s digital connectivity journey. By leveraging existing telecom infrastructure and reducing regulatory hurdles, it has the potential to bring millions of Indians online, boost the digital economy, and enhance socio-economic development. However, its long-term success depends on sustained government support, private sector participation, and cybersecurity measures. DECLINE IN NAXALIST ACTIVITIES Evolution of Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Origins: The Naxalite movement began in 1967 in Naxalbari, West Bengal, as a peasant uprising led by Charu Majumdar and Kanu Sanyal, inspired by Maoist ideology. Expansion: Over the decades, LWE spread to the “Red Corridor,” covering parts of Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, Odisha, Maharashtra, and Telangana. Peak Activity: Violence peaked in 2010 with 1,936 violent incidents and 1,005 deaths. Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security ) Government Strategy: National Policy and Action Plan (2015) Multi-Pronged Approach: Security measures, developmental initiatives, and ensuring rights of tribal communities. Impact: 81% decline in violence (2010–2024) and 85% reduction in casualties. Security Interventions Decline in Affected Districts: Reduced from 126 districts in 2010 to 38 in 2024. Capacity Building: Deployment of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). Training and modernization of state police. Construction of Fortified Police Stations (FPSs) (626 constructed). Special Intelligence Branches (SIBs) for intelligence gathering. Security Related Expenditure (SRE) Scheme: ₹3,260.37 crore disbursed (2014-25). Special Infrastructure Scheme (SIS): ₹1,741 crore allocated. Developmental Interventions Infrastructure Expansion: Road Connectivity: 14,618 km of roads constructed. Telecommunication: 7,768 mobile towers installed. Skill Development and Education: 46 ITIs & 49 Skill Development Centres (SDCs) operational. 178 Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) for tribal children. Financial Inclusion: 5,731 Post Offices with banking services. 1,007 Bank Branches & 937 ATMs opened. 37,850 Banking Correspondents deployed. State-Wise Trends (2019–2024) Reduction in Violence: Overall decline from 501 incidents in 2019 to 374 in 2024. Key Observations: Chhattisgarh remains the hotspot with the highest number of incidents (267 in 2024). Significant improvement in Jharkhand, reducing from 166 incidents (2019) to 69 (2024). Marginal presence in Kerala, Telangana, Maharashtra, Odisha. Challenges and Forward Linkages Challenges: Resurgence in 2022-23 due to intensified counter-operations. Remaining strongholds in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. Root Causes Persist: Land alienation, lack of employment, governance deficit in tribal regions. Future Strategies: Deeper penetration of governance in LWE areas. Enhanced community policing and intelligence-based operations. Strengthening development schemes with local participation. Ensuring political representation and democratic engagement. Impact on Governance and Internal Security Improved Law & Order: Reduced LWE activity enables better governance. Increased Investment Potential: Infrastructure development encourages private sector participation. Enhanced Tribal Welfare: Government schemes directly impact marginalized communities.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 27 March 2025

Content: The role of communities in conserving water Panel seeks comprehensive review of GST framework LS passes law to set up Tribhuvan University Non-performing assets of banks at multi-year low, profits up: Finance Minister DRDO test-fires vertically launched SAM for Navy The role of communities in conserving water Context : Community-led water conservation is vital for sustainable management, yet policies often limit their decision-making role. Strengthening traditional practices, integrating ecological perspectives, and ensuring climate resilience can enhance water governance. Relevance : GS 1(Society ) ,GS 2(Governance) ,GS 3(Environment ) Importance of Community Participation in Water Conservation Traditional Knowledge: Indigenous and rural communities possess deep ecological knowledge about water conservation. Policy Gap: Existing policies emphasize participation but limit decision-making power. Example – Water User Associations (WUAs): Farmers manage irrigation but lack control over governance decisions. Addressing Vulnerability in Water Policies Social and Economic Disparities: Marginalized groups face disproportionate water crises. Intersectionality: Women, landless laborers, and SC/ST communities bear the highest burden. Empowerment in Decision-Making: Policies must ensure their agency is acknowledged. Overcoming Fragmentation in Water Management Current Issues: Water, land, and biodiversity are governed separately, reducing efficiency. Need for an Integrated Approach: Policies must reflect ecosystem interdependence. Example – Orans in Western India: Sacred forests that enhance water conservation through natural rainwater harvesting. Recognizing the Rights of Nature in Water Policies Global Trend: Environmental governance is shifting towards a more-than-human perspective. Judicial Interventions: Courts have upheld the intrinsic value of nature, but water policies remain human-centric. Example – Traditional Practices: Certain communities allocate water to animals before irrigation, recognizing ecological balance. Climate Change and Water Scarcity Impact on Water Availability: Rising global temperatures exacerbate water gaps. Policy Integration Needed: Water and climate policies must align to create resilient ecosystems. Adaptation Strategies: Focus on climate-resilient water management techniques. Moving Beyond Rhetoric: Strengthening Community-Centered Policies Beyond Token Participation: Ensure communities play a central role in decision-making. Sensitization and Capacity Building: Address knowledge gaps without undermining traditional wisdom. Forward and Backward Linkages: Forward Linkages: Community-led conservation can inform national water governance strategies. Backward Linkages: Policies should recognize historical and cultural conservation efforts. Conclusion For effective water conservation, India must shift from a top-down, bureaucratic approach to a community-led, decentralized model that integrates traditional wisdom, ecological interdependence, and climate resilience. Panel seeks comprehensive review of GST framework Context : The PAC has urged the Finance Ministry to simplify the GST regime by eliminating unnecessary compliance burdens, improving the refund mechanism, and leveraging AI for better revenue forecasting. Key recommendations focus on easing MSME compliance, ensuring fair penalties, and streamlining the GST portal for user-friendliness. Relevance : GS 2 (Governance & Transparency) ,GS 3 (Indian Economy & Taxation) Need for Comprehensive GST Reform Simplification of Compliance Procedures PAC recommends eliminating unnecessary procedures and requirements. Calls for streamlining the GST return filing process by consolidating forms. Advocates for reducing the frequency of filing returns where feasible. Proposes a tiered compliance approach to ease the burden on MSMEs. Enhancing GST Portal User-Friendliness PAC stresses the need for an intuitive digital interface for taxpayers. Ensuring real-time guidance and support at every step.  Addressing Compliance Challenges Unfair Penalty Structure Highlights disproportionate penalties for compliance failures. Recommends a fairer penalty system to differentiate between intentional fraud and unintentional errors. Calls for decriminalization of minor procedural errors in tax filing. Aadhaar-Based Registration Issues Identifies inefficiencies in biometric-based Aadhaar authentication. Warns that current implementation flaws could hinder the “One Nation, One Tax” vision. Calls for a more efficient and foolproof registration mechanism. Revenue Projections & AI Integration Declining Share of Indirect Taxes Share of indirect taxes in total revenue fell from 38.76% (2017-18) to 36.92% (2019-20). Calls for improving revenue forecasting to ensure tax stability. Use of AI and Data Analytics Recommends leveraging AI and big data for accurate revenue projections. Ensuring efficient tracking of tax collection trends and addressing revenue leakages. Transparent and Efficient Refund Mechanism Issues with GST Refunds Recommends clear timelines for refund processing to avoid delays. Calls for a dedicated grievance redressal mechanism for refund-related disputes. Suggests an automated tracking system to keep taxpayers informed about refund status. Special Focus on MSMEs Simplified Compliance for Small Businesses Recommends a special compliance framework for MSMEs. Automated return filing and refund processing for ease of business. Reducing filing frequency and enabling a more streamlined online reporting system. Potential Impacts Economic Growth & Ease of Doing Business Simplification of GST compliance will reduce business costs. MSMEs will benefit from lower compliance burdens, improving their competitiveness. Efficient refund mechanisms will ensure better liquidity for businesses. Increased Taxpayer Trust & Compliance A fairer penalty structure will encourage voluntary compliance. Better user experience on GST portal will reduce procedural hurdles. AI-driven revenue forecasting will enhance government’s fiscal planning. Root Causes & Past Issues Initial GST Implementation Challenges Frequent changes in GST rates created uncertainty for businesses. Complex return filing system made compliance difficult, especially for MSMEs. Refund delays led to working capital issues for exporters. Previous Reforms & Their Limitations E-invoicing and QRMP (Quarterly Return Monthly Payment) attempted to simplify compliance but still required further ease of access. Introduction of faceless assessment aimed at reducing human intervention but needed better execution. Conclusion The PAC’s recommendations aim to transform GST into a truly business-friendly and efficient tax regime. Implementing simplified compliance, AI-driven revenue estimation, and a transparent refund system will strengthen India’s indirect tax structure while fostering economic growth and ease of doing business. LS passes law to set up Tribhuvan University Key Provisions of the Bill Establishes Tribhuvan Sahkari University as India’s first national cooperative university. Location: Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA), Gujarat. Operates on a hub-and-spoke model, integrating cooperative training institutes across all States. Offers degree, diploma, and PhD courses focused on cooperatives. Estimated to provide certification to around 8 lakh individuals annually. Named after Tribhuvan Kashibhai Patel, founder of Amul and a key figure in India’s cooperative movement. Relevance: GS 2 (Governance), GS 3 (Economy) Future Implications & Impact Strengthening the Cooperative Sector Will create a skilled workforce to manage and modernize cooperatives. Expected to enhance efficiency and governance in cooperative societies. Rural Development & Economic Growth Cooperatives are vital for rural India, supporting farmers, artisans, and small businesses. The university will provide technical and managerial knowledge to improve cooperative enterprises. Integration with Digital and Financial Inclusion Courses may cover financial literacy, digital payment systems, and cooperative banking, aiding in the digital transformation of cooperatives. Can strengthen linkages with institutions like NABARD, State Cooperative Banks, and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations). Potential Model for Other Sectors If successful, similar universities can be established for sectors like agriculture, dairy, fisheries, and microfinance. May lead to the formation of a cooperative-driven knowledge economy. Context & Historical Relevance Legacy of the Cooperative Movement in India Inspired by Verghese Kurien’s White Revolution, which made India a global leader in dairy production. Amul, IFFCO, KRIBHCO, and other cooperatives have played a key role in economic self-sufficiency. Policy & Legislative Background Aligns with the National Cooperative Policy, which emphasizes capacity-building. Follows the establishment of the Ministry of Cooperation (2021), signaling renewed focus on cooperatives. Link to Previous Educational Initiatives Builds on existing cooperative training institutes, consolidating them under a national framework. Similar to past initiatives like IRMA’s cooperative management programs. Challenges & Concerns Effective Implementation & Outreach Ensuring quality faculty, updated curricula, and practical training will be crucial. Need to engage rural and tribal cooperatives, which may face barriers to higher education. Autonomy & Governance Must maintain academic independence while aligning with government policies. Potential risk of politicization or bureaucratic inefficiencies. Financial Sustainability Requires strong funding mechanisms to support infrastructure, faculty, and scholarships. Cooperative businesses must actively contribute to the university’s development. Conclusion The Tribhuvan Sahkari University marks a major milestone in institutionalizing cooperative education. If implemented effectively, it can bridge knowledge gaps, enhance rural livelihoods, and contribute to India’s economic self-reliance through a well-trained cooperative workforce. However, sustained policy support, financial backing, and industry collaboration will be key to its success. Non-performing assets of banks at multi-year low, profits up: Finance Minister Context : The Banking Regulation Bill and financial reforms have led to record-low NPAs, high PSB profits, and expanded financial inclusion. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) ,GS 3(Economy ) Banking Regulation Bill: Key Amendments Scope: Amends provisions across five banking-related Acts, impacting 19 sections. Objectives: Strengthens governance in the banking sector. Standardizes reporting to the RBI. Enhances depositor and investor protection. Improves audit quality in public sector banks. Simplifies nomination procedures, allowing up to four nominees per account. Extends the tenure of directors in cooperative banks. Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) at Multi-Year Low Current Status: Gross NPAs of scheduled commercial banks fell to 2.5% (Sept 2024)—a significant decline over the years. Contributing Factors: Strengthened governance and risk assessment frameworks. Better loan monitoring and recovery mechanisms. Implementation of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) reforms. Stringent action against willful defaulters. Record Profitability of Public Sector Banks (PSBs) Financial Performance: Public sector banks (PSBs) posted ₹1.41 lakh crore in net profits in the previous fiscal year. Reflects improved efficiency, asset quality, and loan recovery strategies. Government Stance on Wilful Defaulters Opposition Criticism: Allegations that the government allowed defaulters to flee abroad. Government Response: Commitment to strict action, aided by measures like: Strengthened Fugitive Economic Offenders Act. Coordination with foreign governments for extradition and asset recovery. Increasing accountability in loan disbursement processes. Debt Waivers and Alternative Support for Farmers No Blanket Debt Waivers: Government opposes large-scale debt waivers, citing fiscal discipline. Instead, direct cash transfers through PM Kisan Samman Nidhi provide targeted assistance. Financial Inclusion and Banking Expansion Support for Small Entrepreneurs & Vendors: PM SVANidhi: Helped 68 lakh street vendors with micro-loans. PM Mudra Yojana: Over 50 crore loans sanctioned, promoting self-employment. Banking Infrastructure Growth: 98% of villages (6.01 lakh villages) now have a bank or post office with banking services. Employment in PSBs: 3.9 lakh posts filled over the last decade, strengthening manpower. Conclusion The banking sector has witnessed major improvements in governance, financial health, and inclusion under recent reforms. Challenges remain in handling stressed assets, wilful defaults, and ensuring equitable credit access. Future focus should be on further strengthening regulatory oversight, digital banking expansion, and reducing informal credit dependency in rural areas. DRDO test-fires vertically launched SAM for Navy  Overview of the Test DRDO successfully tested the Vertically Launched Short-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VLSRSAM) for the Indian Navy. The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, Odisha. It was launched from a land-based vertical launcher at around noon. The missile successfully intercepted a high-speed aerial target at very close range and low altitude. Relevance : GS 3(Science and Technology) Significance for Indian Navy Enhanced Air Defence Capability: Provides the Navy with an advanced air defence system against aerial threats like fighter jets, UAVs, and cruise missiles. Force Multiplier: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh called it a “force multiplier”, indicating its strategic importance in naval warfare. Protection of Naval Assets: Strengthens India’s maritime security by protecting warships, aircraft carriers, and other naval assets from aerial attacks. Indigenous Defence Development: Aligns with Aatmanirbhar Bharat, reducing dependence on foreign missile systems. Technical Aspects of VLSRSAM Type: Short-range, surface-to-air missile (SAM). Launch System: Vertically launched, allowing 360-degree engagement. Targeting Capability: Designed to neutralize high-speed aerial threats at low altitudes. Operational Environment: Can be deployed on both land-based and sea-based platforms. Guidance System: Likely to include active radar homing and advanced navigation for precise interception. Strategic Implications Strengthening Maritime Security: Enhances India’s ability to counter air threats in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Deterrence Against Hostile Forces: Improves the Navy’s defence against potential aerial attacks from adversarial forces. Integration with Naval Platforms: Expected to be deployed on destroyers, frigates, and aircraft carriers for layered defence. Global Comparisons: Comparable to Barak-1 (Israel) and RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (USA) in terms of capabilities. Way Forward Further Testing: More trials needed to validate operational efficiency in diverse conditions. Integration with Warships: Seamless integration with Indian Navy’s existing weapon systems. Production and Deployment: Scaling up mass production for deployment across the fleet. Export Potential: Possibility of exporting the system to friendly nations under Defence Export Policy.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 26 March 2025

Content: PROGRESS OF DOUBLING THE FARMERS’ INCOME Steps taken on Mental Health PROGRESS OF DOUBLING THE FARMERS’ INCOME Doubling Farmers’ Income (DFI) The goal of Doubling Farmers’ Income (DFI) by 2022 was set by the government in 2016 based on the Ashok Dalwai Committee recommendations. It focused on six key strategies: Enhancing crop productivity Improving livestock productivity Resource use efficiency (cost savings) Increasing cropping intensity Diversification toward high-value crops and enterprises Improving price realization through efficient marketing The present schemes and budget allocations indicate the continued pursuit of this objective beyond 2022. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Agriculture) Key Developments in Farmers’ Income Growth Policy & Budgetary Support Budget allocation for DA&FW increased from ₹21,933.50 crore (2013-14) to ₹1,22,528.77 crore (2024-25). Integrated approach involving multiple schemes from agriculture, rural development, irrigation, and allied ministries. Convergence of schemes played a critical role in farmer welfare (ICAR’s study of 75,000 successful farmers). Key Government Schemes for Farmers’ Income Growth These schemes address income support, risk mitigation, technological adoption, and marketing support: A. Direct Income Support & Financial Security Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) – ₹6,000 annually to small farmers. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY) – Pension scheme for farmers. Modified Interest Subvention Scheme (MISS) – Cheaper credit for farmers. Agri Fund for Start-Ups & Rural Enterprises (AgriSURE) – Financial assistance for agri-startups. B. Risk Mitigation & Insurance Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) – Crop insurance for risk coverage. Restructured Weather-Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS) – Covers climate risks. C. Agricultural Infrastructure & Mechanization Agriculture Infrastructure Fund (AIF) – ₹1 lakh crore funding for post-harvest infrastructure. Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization (SMAM) – Boosting mechanization among small farmers. Namo Drone Didi – Drone technology for spraying fertilizers/pesticides. D. Sustainable & Climate-Resilient Farming National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) – Promotion of chemical-free farming. Per Drop More Crop (PDMC) – Micro-irrigation to improve water-use efficiency. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) – Organic farming promotion. Soil Health & Fertility (SH&F) – Enhancing soil productivity. Rainfed Area Development (RAD) – Special support for rain-fed farming. E. Diversification & High-Value Farming National Bee Keeping and Honey Mission (NBHM) – Promotes beekeeping for additional farmer income. National Mission on Edible Oils (NMEO) – Boosting domestic oilseed production. Crop Diversification Programme (CDP) – Encouraging farmers to move beyond traditional crops. Agroforestry Mission – Tree-based farming for additional revenue. F. Market Linkages & Value Addition Formation of 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) – Strengthening farmers’ bargaining power. Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) – Ensuring Minimum Support Price (MSP) benefits. Integrated Scheme for Agriculture Marketing (ISAM) – Marketing reforms for better price realization. Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region – Developing organic supply chains. Digital Agriculture Mission – Leveraging AI, IoT, and blockchain in agriculture. National Bamboo Mission – Encouraging bamboo farming for income diversification. Impact Assessment Based on NSSO & MoSPI Data A. Growth in Farmers’ Income (2012-13 to 2018-19) NSS 70th round (2012-13): ₹6,426/month NSS 77th round (2018-19): ₹10,218/month Increase: ~59% growth in six years, indicating progress but falling short of doubling income in real terms. B. Household Consumption Expenditure (2011-12 to 2023-24) Rural MPCE increased from ₹1,430 (2011-12) to ₹4,122 (2023-24) (~2.88x increase). Urban MPCE increased from ₹2,630 to ₹6,996 (~2.66x increase). Urban-rural disparity reduced from 83.9% (2011-12) to 69.7% (2023-24), showing improved rural prosperity. Challenges & Bottlenecks Despite progress, several structural challenges persist: A. Income Disparity & Cost Burden Inflation-adjusted income growth is not proportional to input cost rise (fertilizers, diesel, labor). Farm size shrinkage due to population growth limits per capita earnings. B. Structural Weaknesses in Markets Low MSP procurement in non-wheat/rice crops reduces price benefits. Weak linkages to food processing and export markets. C. Climate & Resource Challenges Erratic monsoons & climate change affecting yield stability. Water stress in major agricultural belts. D. Implementation Gaps Technology adoption still low due to small landholdings. Digital Agriculture yet to reach grassroots levels. Cooperative model (FPOs) needs stronger financial and marketing support. Way Forward To sustainably enhance farmers’ income, the following reforms are necessary: A. Market & MSP Reforms Strengthen e-NAM and warehouse receipt systems. Expand MSP procurement beyond wheat & rice. B. Crop Diversification & High-Value Agriculture Promote horticulture, floriculture, and medicinal plants for higher returns. Integrate livestock, fisheries, and agroforestry with farming. C. Technological & Financial Inclusion AI-driven precision farming, Agri-tech start-ups to optimize input use. Expand Kisan Credit Card (KCC) penetration to all farmers D. Resilience & Climate Adaptation Scale up rainwater harvesting, micro-irrigation, and climate-resilient seed varieties. Expand natural & regenerative farming under NMNF & PKVY. E. Rural Value Chains & Processing Develop agri-clusters and food parks for processing and export. Strengthen cold storage & logistics infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses. Steps taken on Mental Health Background and Evolution Pre-2017 Era: Mental health in India was largely neglected, with limited policy interventions. Mental health coverage under insurance was almost non-existent. Mental Healthcare Act, 2017: Marked a paradigm shift, recognizing mental healthcare as a legal right, ensuring non-discriminatory access, and mandating insurance coverage. National Tele Mental Health Programme (2022): Introduced to bridge accessibility gaps, particularly in remote areas. Tele MANAS (2022-Present): Strengthened digital interventions in mental healthcare. IRDAI Regulations (2024): Enforced mandatory insurance coverage for mental health treatment. Relevance : GS 1(Society) ,GS 2(Health ,Social Issues) Current Policy and Implementation Initiatives Insurance and Financial Access AB PM-JAY: Provides cashless healthcare services covering 22 procedures under Mental Disorder Speciality. Includes treatment for Schizophrenia, Intellectual Disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Delusional Disorders, etc. 77,634 hospital admissions worth ₹87 Crore have been authorized as of March 2025. States have flexibility to customize mental health benefit packages. IRDAI Master Circular on Health Insurance (2024): Mandates insurance coverage for mental illness, aligning with the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Requires insurers to offer inclusive products covering pre-existing mental health conditions. Strengthening Institutional Framework National Mental Health Programme (NMHP): District Mental Health Programme (DMHP) implemented in 767 districts under NHM. Provides mental health services at Community Health Centres (CHCs) and Primary Health Centres (PHCs). Services include: Outpatient care, counseling, and psycho-social interventions. Free drug distribution, emergency care, and outreach services. 10-bedded inpatient facilities at the district level. Tertiary Care Expansion: 25 Centres of Excellence established to strengthen mental health PG programs. 47 Government-run mental hospitals, including 3 Central Mental Health Institutions: NIMHANS, Bengaluru LGBRIMH, Tezpur CIP, Ranchi Mental Health in AIIMS & Medical Colleges: Mental health services expanded across all AIIMS institutes. 19 Government medical colleges supported to strengthen 47 PG departments in mental health specialities. Digital and Telemedicine Interventions National Tele Mental Health Programme (2022): Aims to provide quality mental health care in remote and underserved regions. 53 Tele MANAS Cells operational across 36 States/UTs. Over 19.67 lakh calls handled on the helpline by March 2025. Tele MANAS Mobile Application (2024): Launched on World Mental Health Day (Oct 10, 2024). Provides mental health support from general well-being to severe disorders. Digital Training for Mental Health Professionals: 42,488 healthcare professionals trained via Digital Academies at NIMHANS, CIP Ranchi, and LGBRIMH, Tezpur. Mental Health at Primary Healthcare Level Ayushman Arogya Mandirs: 1.75 lakh+ SHCs & PHCs upgraded under this initiative. Mental, Neurological, and Substance Use (MNS) disorders added in the comprehensive primary healthcare packages. Forward Linkages Implementation of National Suicide Prevention Strategy (2022-2030). Integration of AI-based mental health diagnosis tools in healthcare delivery. Expansion of Digital Mental Health Interventions via Tele MANAS 2.0. Challenges and Way Forward Low Mental Health Budget Allocation (Only 1% of total health budget). Stigma and Lack of Awareness remain key barriers to seeking treatment. Shortage of Mental Health Professionals (Only 0.75 psychiatrists per 100,000 population). Need for Community-Based Rehabilitation to integrate recovered individuals into society. Conclusion The Government has significantly expanded mental healthcare services through policy reforms, institutional strengthening, telemedicine, and financial inclusion. However, enhancing budget allocation, tackling stigma, and increasing skilled workforce are essential to achieve universal mental health coverage.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 26 March 2025

Content: The ‘Great Abandonment’ of Afghanistan A bad omen for public trust in vaccines The ‘Great Abandonment’ of Afghanistan Introduction The U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021, culminating in the Taliban’s return to power, has been described as the “Great Abandonment.” This geopolitical shift has had far-reaching consequences for Afghanistan and its international engagements. The unfolding developments in Afghanistan and the region highlight India’s evolving policy stance towards the Taliban, juxtaposed against its past strategic alignments with the Republic-led Afghanistan. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : Critically analyze India’s evolving engagement with the Taliban-led Afghanistan. What are the key strategic considerations and challenges India faces in balancing pragmatism with its long-term interests in the region? (250 words) The Historical Context To understand the present scenario, it is crucial to analyze the historical backdrop that led to the Taliban’s resurgence: U.S. Engagement and Withdrawal Cold War Era: The U.S. and Pakistan supported the Mujahideen against the Soviet-backed Afghan government (1979-1989). Taliban Rule (1996-2001): The Taliban emerged victorious after the Afghan Civil War, establishing an Islamic Emirate. Post-9/11 War on Terror: The U.S.-led invasion (2001) toppled the Taliban, installing a democratic government. 2018-2021: U.S.-Taliban Negotiations: The Trump administration initiated direct talks with the Taliban, sidelining the Afghan government. The Doha Accord (2020) led to the conditional withdrawal of U.S. troops. 2021 Taliban Takeover: The hasty exit of U.S. forces and the rapid collapse of the Afghan government led to a complete Taliban takeover. India’s Role in Afghanistan (2001-2021) Strategic investments: India provided $3 billion in developmental aid, including the construction of the Parliament building, roads, dams, and hospitals. Security cooperation: Intelligence-sharing with Afghan agencies, support to the Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF). Northern Alliance: India maintained historical ties with anti-Taliban groups such as Ahmad Shah Massoud’s faction. The Present Scenario: The ‘Great Abandonment’ With the Taliban’s consolidation of power, multiple geopolitical shifts have occurred: Taliban’s Stranglehold on Afghanistan Suppression of women’s rights: Ban on girls’ education and employment. Political and economic instability: Dependence on limited international aid and lack of recognition from major powers. Factional tensions within the Taliban: Rivalries between Haqqani factions and Kandahari clerics over governance issues. Refugee crisis: Pakistan’s expulsion of Afghan refugees, worsening the humanitarian situation. India’s Dilemma in Engaging the Taliban Limited diplomatic engagement: India maintains a technical mission but hesitates to recognize the Taliban regime. Balancing strategic interests: Engaging the Taliban to protect investments while avoiding legitimization of their rule. Security concerns: Past Taliban hostility towards India, including attacks on Indian assets and personnel. Global Reactions Western disengagement: The U.S. and EU have largely withdrawn from Afghan affairs. Regional realignment: China, Russia, Iran, and Pakistan have deepened engagements with the Taliban. India’s cautious approach: Engaging informally while keeping options open for future Afghan political developments. India’s Evolving Afghanistan Policy Given Afghanistan’s strategic significance, India must recalibrate its approach through multiple dimensions: Strategic Realignment Engaging All Stakeholders: India should engage not only the Taliban but also exiled Afghan leaders, women’s groups, and the resistance forces. Leveraging Regional Partnerships: India must collaborate with Iran (via Chabahar Port) and Central Asian nations to counterbalance Pakistan’s influence. Humanitarian Diplomacy: Expanding aid and educational support for Afghan refugees and dissidents. Security and Counterterrorism Monitoring Pakistan-backed extremist elements within Afghanistan. Strengthening intelligence-sharing mechanisms with partners like the U.S. and Russia. Keeping a strategic presence in Afghanistan while ensuring Indian assets are not vulnerable to Taliban hostility. Soft Power Engagement Rebuilding India’s lost goodwill among Afghan civilians. Advocating for women’s rights and offering asylum to persecuted individuals. Strengthening cultural and educational ties with the Afghan diaspora. Conclusion The U.S. withdrawal and the Taliban’s return have left Afghanistan in a precarious state, forcing India to rethink its Afghan policy. While engaging with the Taliban is a pragmatic necessity, India must not alienate the broader Afghan populace, especially those resisting Taliban rule. A balanced policy—engaging the regime while supporting democratic and humanitarian efforts—will ensure India’s long-term strategic relevance in Afghanistan. A bad omen for public trust in vaccines Context : Historical Distrust in Drug Regulation: India has witnessed regulatorylapses in the past (e.g., Ranbaxy scandal, Gennova case) that have weakened public trust. The lack of transparency in the approval process has led to skepticism Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Health) Practice Question : Public trust in vaccines is crucial for the success of immunization programs. Discuss the challenges posed by the lack of transparency in vaccine approvals, adverse event monitoring, and compensation mechanisms in India. Suggest policy measures to address these concerns. (250 words, 15 marks) Concerns Raised in Petitions: Alleged failures of vaccines (e.g., anti-rabies vaccine deaths). Lack of transparency in clinical trial data and regulatory approval. Absence of clear disclosure of side effects for informed consent. Deficient pharmacovigilance and monitoring of adverse effects. Absence of a structured compensation mechanism for vaccine-related injuries. Judicial Role & Limitations: Indian courts are slow in adjudicating complex scientific matters. Defamation suits by vaccine manufacturers (e.g., Serum Institute, Bharat Biotech) add to public skepticism. Policy Imperatives and Systemic Reforms Enhancing Transparency in Vaccine Approvals: CDSCO must disclose names, affiliations, and conflicts of interest of experts involved. Raw clinical trial data should be accessible for independent verification. Strengthening the Pharmacovigilance System: A legally mandated and independent ‘Adverse Event Following Immunisation’ (AEFI) system. Real-time monitoring and public reporting of vaccine-related adverse events. Ensuring Informed Consent: Clear and accessible disclosure of risks, rather than obscure website notices. Legislative framework for informed consent outside clinical trials. Establishing a Compensation Framework: Defining liability of vaccine manufacturers under tort law. Transparency in government indemnification clauses in vaccine procurement. Dedicated compensation fund for vaccine-related adverse effects. Moving from Litigation to Policy Action: The Ministry of Health should proactively engage with stakeholders. A legislative framework is needed to address concerns beyond judicial interventions. Conclusion Addressing these concerns through policy measures rather than litigation is crucial for restoring public trust. Transparency, accountability, and robust monitoring mechanisms will ensure vaccine safety without compromising immunization efforts. A proactive approach from the government can prevent further erosion of confidence in public health initiatives.

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 26 March 2025

Content: Cannot be compelled to join the SAHYOG portal: X to Delhi HC How is an in-house inquiry conducted? SC considers question of timeline for Speakers to decide on defections Easing FPI threshold can induce capital inflow, say experts BHIM 3.0 launched with option to track shared expenses ‘Social protection coverage doubled to 48.8% in 2024’ Cannot be compelled to join the SAHYOG portal: X to Delhi HC Background and Context The Centre’s SAHYOG portal is designed as a unified framework to combat cybercrime, aiming to streamline legal requests related to online content regulation. X (formerly Twitter) has refused to join the portal, citing its own independent mechanism for handling legal requests. The platform has also challenged the legality of the portal in the Karnataka High Court, alleging that it acts as a “censorship” tool. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Judiciary) Legal Precedents and Statutory Framework 1. Section 69A of the IT Act, 2000 Legal Basis for Blocking Content: Section 69A empowers the government to direct intermediaries (social media platforms) to block information in specific circumstances like national security, public order, or sovereignty concerns. Established Procedures and Safeguards: Blocking orders are issued with due process, including approval from a review committee. 2. Shreya Singhal vs Union of India (2015) Judgment The Supreme Court struck down Section 66A of the IT Act for violating freedom of speech but upheld Section 69A, provided that its safeguards were followed. X argues that SAHYOG lacks statutory backing and does not align with the Supreme Court’s interpretation of the law in this landmark case. 3. Government vs Big Tech: Ongoing Conflicts Similar cases of government vs social media platforms: WhatsApp’s challenge to IT Rules, 2021, over traceability mandates. Twitter’s (now X) lawsuit against blocking orders issued by the government in 2022. Facebook’s legal battle over content takedown requests. Policy and Governance Implications 1. Digital Regulation vs Freedom of Speech X’s argument: The portal creates a parallel mechanism outside the established 69A framework, potentially enabling censorship without procedural safeguards. Government’s stance: A centralized portal ensures transparency, efficiency, and compliance in addressing cybercrime and unlawful content. Global Parallel: EU’s Digital Services Act (DSA) mandates similar oversight, but with independent regulators ensuring checks and balances. 2. Big Tech’s Autonomy vs State Oversight X’s resistance highlights growing concerns over how much control governments should exert over digital platforms. Policy Question: Should global tech companies be bound by domestic regulatory frameworks, or should they retain independent content moderation mechanisms? 3. Cybersecurity and National Interest The SAHYOG portal is part of India’s broader cybersecurity strategy, ensuring quick responses to terror-related content, misinformation, and cybercrime. A refusal to join could impact law enforcement cooperation, potentially creating delays in investigations involving digital evidence. Conclusion: Balancing Regulation and Digital Rights Legal Angle: The case will determine if SAHYOG complies with existing IT laws or oversteps them. Policy Perspective: It raises questions about governmental oversight vs platform autonomy. Global Context: India’s approach will be closely watched as countries navigate social media regulation vs freedom of speech. How is an in-house inquiry conducted? Current Issue and Its Implications The allegations of misconduct against Justice Yashwant Varma and the in-house inquiry raise fundamental concerns about judicial accountability and the mechanism of judicial oversight in India. The discovery of burnt currency notes at his residence has triggered deeper scrutiny, leading to his transfer to the Allahabad High Court and suspension of judicial work. Relevance : GS 2(Judiciary ,Governance) Institutional and Legal Context In-House Inquiry Mechanism (1999 Resolution, Public in 2014) Established to self-regulate the judiciary without external interference. Follows a confidential process where an inquiry committee of senior judges reviews allegations and recommends action. If serious misconduct is found, the judge is requested to resign; if not, the matter is closed. Judicial Accountability in India Collegium System (Post-1993): Judges appoint judges, ensuring judicial independence but raising concerns about lack of transparency. Impeachment Process (Article 124 & 217 of the Constitution): Removal of judges via parliamentary process is rare and cumbersome, with only one judge (Justice V. Ramaswami) facing impeachment proceedings in 1993, which eventually failed. Judicial Misconduct Cases in the Past Justice Soumitra Sen (2011): Rajya Sabha passed an impeachment motion, but he resigned before Lok Sabha could act. Justice P.D. Dinakaran (2011): Accused of corruption, he resigned before impeachment could proceed. Justice C.S. Karnan (2017): Sentenced to jail for contempt, a rare instance of a sitting judge facing criminal conviction. Reforms and the Road Ahead Transparency in Judicial Inquiries The in-house mechanism is currently opaque; only the President and PM are informed if serious misconduct is found. There is a need for public disclosure of key findings while maintaining judicial independence. Criminal Liability for Judges No criminal punishment has ever been imposed even when judges were found guilty of misconduct. Strengthening investigative autonomy for serious offenses (e.g., financial corruption, bribery) is crucial. Comparison with the UK Model: Judicial Conduct Investigations Office (JCIO) independently probes misconduct. A similar statutory body in India could make investigations more credible and impartial. Revival of the NJAC Debate NJAC (2014) aimed at transparency but was struck down in 2015 for violating judicial independence. A modified NJAC 2.0 could ensure a broad-based selection committee with final veto power resting with the CJI. Comparing South Africa’s Judicial Service Commission: Includes judges, legal professionals, and legislators in judicial appointments. Balances accountability with judicial independence. SC considers question of timeline for Speakers to decide on defections Background: Tenth Schedule and Role of Speaker The Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, introduced by the 52nd Constitutional Amendment (1985), aims to curb political defections by disqualifying legislators who switch parties under certain conditions. The Speaker of the House is the designated authority to decide on disqualification petitions under this law. However, there is no fixed timeline within which the Speaker must decide, leading to frequent delays—often politically motivated. Relevance : GS 2(Polity , Governance) Issue at Hand: Timeline for Disqualification Petitions The Supreme Court (SC) is examining whether constitutional courts (SC and High Courts) can direct Speakers to decide disqualification petitions within a specified period. Traditionally, the court has only advised Speakers to act within a “reasonable time”, without defining what “reasonable” means. The petitions in this case involve 10 MLAs in Telangana who defected to the ruling Congress from the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS). Legal and Constitutional Questions Raised Can Constitutional Courts Direct the Speaker? The Speaker acts as a quasi-judicial tribunal under the anti-defection law. Courts have power of judicial review but must balance this with the separation of powers principle. There is ambiguity in whether courts can mandate a specific timeline for Speakers. Is There an Implied Obligation for Timely Decision-Making? The Tenth Schedule does not specify a timeline, but the spirit of the law demands timely action to prevent defection–related instability. The delay in deciding cases allows political maneuvering, effectively nullifying the purpose of the anti-defection law. Should a Fixed Timeline Be Imposed? Petitioners argue for a four-week deadline for Speakers to decide disqualification petitions. Precedents indicate that courts have urged Speakers to act swiftly but have not imposed a rigid timeline. Potential Impact on Indian Polity Stronger Anti-Defection Law Implementation: A defined timeline would prevent deliberate delays, making anti-defection provisions more effective. Judicial Precedent for Future Cases: If the SC rules in favor of setting a time limit, it will establish a binding precedent for future defection cases across India. Balance Between Judiciary and Legislature: The case could redefine the extent of judicial intervention in legislative matters, especially in quasi-judicial functions of the Speaker. Past Judicial Observations and Political Trends Kihoto Hollohan v. Zachillhu (1992): SC upheld the constitutional validity of the Tenth Schedule but clarified that the Speaker’s decisions are subject to judicial review. Manipur (2020) Case: SC directed the Speaker to decide on a disqualification plea within four weeks, though it was not a general rule. Maharashtra Political Crisis (2022-23): Delays in Speaker’s decision-making led to prolonged political instability, highlighting the need for time-bound rulings. Conclusion The Supreme Court’s ruling in this case could significantly shape the enforcement of anti-defection provisions, ensuring timely decision-making and reducing political uncertainty. However, it must balance judicial oversight with legislative independence, avoiding undue interference in the Speaker’s powers. Easing FPI threshold can induce capital inflow, say experts Background & Context SEBI has raised the Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPI) investment threshold for granular disclosures from ₹25,000 crore to ₹50,000 crore. This decision comes amid persistent FPI outflows and aims to reduce compliance burdens while maintaining regulatory oversight. The move follows the August 24, 2023 circular, which introduced stricter disclosure norms after allegations of stock manipulation using FPI structures (e.g., Hindenburg-Adani case). Relevance : GS 3(Indian Economy ) A. Backward Linkages (Causes & Historical Context) Hindenburg Report & Market Integrity: The 2023 SEBI circular was introduced to curb misuse of FPI routes in stock price manipulation and non-compliance with minimum public shareholding norms. Allegations of opaque ownership structures led to regulatory tightening. FPI Outflows & Market Volatility: High compliance costs for large FPIs (above ₹25,000 crore) led some funds to reduce their exposure, contributing to recent outflows. India had some of the most stringent granular disclosure norms among emerging markets, discouraging investment. Equity Market Growth: India’s cash equity markets have doubled in size in the last few years, warranting an adjustment in regulatory thresholds. Raising the threshold to ₹50,000 crore aligns with this expansion, reducing regulatory burdens for mid-sized FPIs. B. Forward Linkages (Impacts & Future Prospects) Increased Capital Inflows & Market Depth: Relaxed compliance norms may attract larger foreign funds, reversing the recent FPI outflows. Improved liquidity in equity markets may enhance stability and valuation. Boost to Investor Confidence & Participation: Mid-sized FPIs now face less regulatory burden, encouraging greater foreign participation in Indian equities. Institutional investors will find Indian markets more attractive due to reduced compliance complexities. Regulatory Balancing & Market Oversight: SEBI has maintained oversight for FPIs investing over ₹50,000 crore, ensuring transparency while easing burdens. The move indicates flexibility in policymaking, adapting to market realities without compromising accountability. Comparative Positioning in Emerging Markets: India was among the few markets with such detailed beneficial ownership disclosures for FPIs. The revised norms make India more competitive vis-à-vis markets like Brazil, South Korea, and Taiwan, which have relatively relaxed FPI regulations. BHIM 3.0 launched with option to track shared expenses Introduction Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) 3.0, launched by NPCI BHIM Services Ltd. (NBSL), introduces advanced features to enhance user experience and financial planning. The key highlight is its ability to track shared expenses, making digital transactions more transparent and user-friendly. Relevance : GS 2(Governance, Digital India, and Financial Inclusion) , GS 3(Indian Economy, Fintech, and Cybersecurity) Evolution of BHIM and Digital Payments in India Pre-UPI Digital Payment Ecosystem: Prior to UPI, digital payments in India were fragmented, relying on NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS. Limited interoperability and dependency on banking hours hindered financial inclusion. Launch of BHIM & UPI Revolution (2016-Present): BHIM was introduced in 2016 post-demonetization to simplify peer-to-peer transactions via UPI. UPI’s exponential growth, with over 14 billion transactions monthly (2024), has made it India’s primary digital payment mode. BHIM lagged behind third-party UPI apps like Google Pay and PhonePe but retained its relevance through government backing. Key Features of Earlier BHIM Versions: BHIM 1.0: Launched in 2016, focused on simple UPI-based transactions. BHIM 2.0 (2019): Introduced donation links, increased transaction limits, and support for multiple accounts. BHIM 3.0 (2024): Adds expense tracking, bill splitting, and family account features. Core Features & Significance of BHIM 3.0 1. Expense Tracking & Bill Splitting Users can now split bills with friends/family for rent, dining, shopping, etc. Financial Planning Impact: Provides a consolidated view of household/group expenses, promoting budgetary discipline. 2. Family Account Management Onboarding of family members to monitor shared expenses. Significance: Enhances financial inclusion by allowing better household budget tracking. 3. Enhanced Business Offerings New tools for merchants, businesses, and banks to streamline transactions. Potential integration with accounting software for small businesses. Potential Impact and Future Trends 1. Strengthening Digital Financial Inclusion Bridging the Urban-Rural Digital Divide: BHIM’s accessibility in multiple regional languages ensures deeper penetration in Tier-2 & Tier-3 cities. Financial Empowerment for Women & Senior Citizens: Shared expense tracking could help in better money management in families. 2. Integration with Fintech and AI Future updates could include AI-driven spending analysis. Potential for linking BHIM with personal finance management tools. 3. Role in India’s Digital Economy Roadmap Supports India’s goal of a cashless economy under Digital India Mission. Strengthens UPI Lite and Offline Payments for deeper financial access. Challenges and Concerns Market Competition: Private UPI apps (Google Pay, PhonePe, Paytm) dominate the sector. Cybersecurity Risks: Increased digital transactions necessitate robust fraud prevention mechanisms. User Adoption Barriers: Many still prefer third-party apps over BHIM due to better UI/UX. ‘Social protection coverage doubled to 48.8% in 2024’ Overview of Social Protection Expansion India’s social protection coverage has doubled from 24.4% in 2021 to 48.8% in 2024, according to the ILO’s World Social Protection Report (2024-26). The Union Labour Ministry, in collaboration with the ILO, pooled data from 34 major Central schemes and identified 92 crore people receiving at least one form of social protection. Cash benefits cover 48.8% of the population, while additional in-kind benefits like food security and housing have not been fully accounted for in the ILO report. Relevance : GS 2(Governance ,Social Issues, Welfare Schemes) Historical Context & Challenges 1. Evolution of Social Protection in India Pre-Independence Phase: Welfare initiatives were largely employer-driven, covering only industrial workers under schemes like the Workmen’s Compensation Act, 1923. Post-Independence Reforms: Introduction of EPF (1952), ESI (1952), MGNREGA (2005), and expansion of Food Security through PDS, NFSA (2013). Labour Code Reforms (2020): Aimed at universalizing social security to gig workers and unorganized sectors. 2. Gaps in Coverage Before 2021 Fragmented Implementation: Different social security schemes operated in silos, leading to duplication and inefficiencies. Low Awareness & Accessibility: Many eligible beneficiaries remained outside the safety net due to lack of awareness and documentation. Exclusion of Gig and Informal Workers: Unorganized workers (80% of India’s workforce) had limited coverage before the E-Shram initiative. Implications and Future Prospects 1. Strengthening Universal Social Security Formalization of Labour Force: Expansion of ESIC to 15 more districts in Uttar Pradesh indicates a move towards universal health and employment security. Integration of State Schemes: Central data pooling will help reduce redundancy and improve beneficiary tracking. 2. Economic and Social Impact Poverty Reduction: Increased cash transfers improve consumption levels, reducing multidimensional poverty. Better Health and Productivity: Expansion of ESIC and Ayushman Bharat enhances workforce efficiency and reduces out-of-pocket expenditure. Rural and Urban Convergence: MGNREGA, food security, and urban employment schemes create a comprehensive safety net for diverse socio-economic groups. 3. Challenges and Policy Recommendations Addressing Underestimation by ILO: India must push for international recognition of its in-kind benefits and state-level social protection measures. Digital Inclusion & Aadhaar Integration: Ensure seamless delivery while safeguarding privacy concerns in data pooling initiatives. Expanding Gig Worker Coverage: Strengthen implementation of Social Security Code (2020) and E-Shram portal benefits.

Daily PIB Summaries

PIB Summaries 25 March 2025

Content: Dekho Apna Desh Initiative    National Mission for Manuscripts Dekho Apna Desh Initiative    Background : Launch: January 2020 by the Ministry of Tourism. Objective: Promotion of domestic tourism and enhancement of travel experiences for Indian citizens. Key Features: Encouraging citizens to explore India’s diverse cultural and natural heritage. Engaging the public through Webinars, Quizzes, Pledges, Seminars, Roadshows, Social Media, and Fam Tours. Strengthening tourism-related infrastructure, awareness, and employment generation. Relevance : GS 3(Tourism ,Economy) Key Components of the Initiative Dekho Apna Desh People’s Choice Poll: Public participation in identifying the most preferred tourist destinations. Promotes a bottom-up approach to tourism planning. Revamped Incredible India Website: Provides tour programs and package details in collaboration with stakeholders. Enhances accessibility to travel information and bookings. State-wise Domestic Tourist Visits (DTV) Data: Helps in tracking the impact of the initiative and identifying high-potential tourism areas. Reflects tourism trends and informs policy adjustments. Impact on Domestic Tourism (2020-2023) Steady growth in Domestic Tourist Visits (DTV) post-pandemic, with an exponential increase in 2022 and 2023. DTV in 2020: 610.2 million (pandemic impact). DTV in 2023: 2.5 billion, indicating a strong recovery. States with Highest Domestic Tourist Visits (2023): Uttar Pradesh – 478.5 million Tamil Nadu – 286.0 million Karnataka – 284.1 million Rajasthan – 179.0 million Gujarat – 178.0 million States with Notable Growth Trends: Bihar: From 2.5 million (2021) to 81.5 million (2023). Madhya Pradesh: From 35.8 million (2022) to 111.9 million (2023). Jammu & Kashmir: Significant post-pandemic rebound, reaching 20.6 million in 2023. Future Prospects & Policy Implications Boosting Local Economies & Employment Generation: Increased tourism leads to growth in hospitality, transport, handicrafts, and local businesses. Strengthening of homestay tourism and eco-tourism models. Sustainable Tourism & Infrastructure Development: Emphasis on eco-friendly tourism, rural tourism, and spiritual tourism. Integration with Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and PRASHAD schemes for infrastructure upgrades. Leveraging Digital & Social Media Platforms: Improved online engagement and virtual tourism experiences. Targeted promotion of lesser-known destinations for equitable tourism growth. Skill Development & Capacity Building in Tourism Sector: Expansion of tourism-related training programs under Skill India. Strengthening public-private partnerships (PPP) for quality enhancement. Context & Related Developments Policy Synergies: National Tourism Policy 2022 – Focus on domestic tourism and sustainable practices. Atmanirbhar Bharat & Vocal for Local – Encouraging local handicrafts, cuisines, and cultural tourism. State Tourism Policies – Alignment with states’ strategic tourism plans for better implementation. Lessons from Past Tourism Trends: COVID-19 Impact (2020-2021): Disruptions in travel but led to a renewed focus on domestic tourism. Pre-pandemic boom (2015-2019): Strong domestic tourism growth due to improved connectivity and cultural campaigns. Comparisons with Global Tourism Models: Learning from countries like Thailand and Japan, which successfully boosted domestic tourism through incentives and marketing. Conclusion The Dekho Apna Desh initiative has played a crucial role in reviving domestic tourism post-COVID, contributing to economic growth, employment, and cultural promotion. Moving forward, leveraging technology, sustainable tourism models, and improved infrastructure will be key to ensuring long-term success. National Mission for Manuscripts Introduction & Background India possesses one of the world’s richest manuscript traditions, with texts spanning diverse languages, disciplines, and historical periods. Recognizing the need to preserve this invaluable heritage, the National Mission for Manuscripts (NMM) was launched in 2003 under the Ministry of Culture. In 2024, NMM was restructured and renamed as ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ (2024-31), with an allocation of ₹482.85 crores. The initiative aims to enhance digitization, conservation, and accessibility of India’s manuscript wealth. Relevance : GS 1(Heritage ) ,GS 2(Digitization) Key Objectives and Components of Gyan Bharatam Mission Survey & Documentation Nationwide survey and registration of manuscripts. Creation of a comprehensive database of India’s manuscript wealth. Conservation & Preservation Scientific conservation of fragile and rare manuscripts using advanced techniques. Establishment of Manuscript Conservation Centres (MCCs) across institutions. Digitization & Online Access Large-scale digitization of manuscripts to ensure long-term preservation. Creation of a National Digital Manuscripts Library for public access. As of now: 3.5 lakh manuscripts covering 3.5 crore folios digitized. 1,35,000 manuscripts uploaded on namami.gov.in, with 76,000 available for free access. Aim: Complete digitization of fragile and rare folios within the next five years Publication & Research Editing, translating, and publishing rare manuscripts to promote scholarly research. Encouraging interdisciplinary studies using ancient texts. Capacity Building & Training Training programs in manuscriptology, paleography, and conservation techniques. Creation of a new generation of manuscriptologists through institutional collaborations. Outreach & Awareness Organizing exhibitions, workshops, and manuscript festivals to engage scholars and the public. Special emphasis on regional manuscripts (Sanskrit, Persian, Arabic, etc.). Collaboration with Institutions Partnerships with academic institutions, private collectors, and research organizations. Key contributions from Sampurnanand Sanskrit University, Varanasi, and other reputed institutions in Uttar Pradesh. Future Prospects & Impact Academia & Research Scholarly research on ancient knowledge systems, linguistics, and cultural heritage. Use of manuscripts in historical, philosophical, and literary research. Technology Integration AI-based OCR (Optical Character Recognition) for converting manuscripts into searchable digital text. Use of blockchain technology for authenticity verification. Tourism & Cultural Economy Promotion of heritage tourism through manuscript exhibitions and festivals. Encouragement of public-private partnerships in heritage conservation. Education & Awareness Integration of manuscript studies in school and university curricula. Establishment of regional manuscript resource centers for better access. Historical & Policy Context Ancient Knowledge Systems India’s manuscript tradition dates back to the Vedic era, covering subjects like philosophy, science, mathematics, and medicine. Significant collections in Nalanda, Vikramashila, and Takshashila were lost due to invasions. Past Government Initiatives 2003: Establishment of the National Mission for Manuscripts. 2007: Launch of Manuscript Resource Centres (MRCs) across states. 2017: National Virtual Library of India (NVLI) launched for digital heritage access. Legal & Institutional Framework Manuscripts Act, 1954: Defines conservation and ownership of manuscripts. Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958: Covers heritage protection. Archives and Libraries under ASI & IGNCA contribute to preservation efforts. Challenges & Way Forward Challenges Lack of Awareness: Manuscripts are often seen as relics rather than knowledge sources. Decentralized & Unstructured Collections: Manuscripts scattered across temples, private collections, and institutions. Technological Barriers: Many manuscripts in fragile condition unsuitable for direct scanning. Limited Expert Manpower: Shortage of trained manuscriptologists, conservationists, and linguists. Way Forward Strengthening Institutional Framework: Establishment of regional conservation hubs for systematic preservation. Enhanced Digitization & AI Use: Use of AI-based transcription for automatic text conversion. Public-Private Partnerships: Corporate CSR funding for manuscript conservation projects. Community Participation: Involving local scholars and artisans in preservation. Policy Strengthening: Legislation to mandate digital submission of manuscripts before export/sale.

Daily Editorials Analysis

Editorials/Opinions Analysis For UPSC 25 March 2025

Content: China ties — beware conciliation without deterrence. Colossal wastage that is food for thought China ties — beware conciliation without deterrence. Context and Current Shift India appears to be adopting a more conciliatory stance towards China, evident from PM Narendra Modi’s recent remarks on dialogue and stability. This shift follows a gradual improvement in India-China relations post-2020, despite continued structural rivalry. China reciprocated positively to Modi’s remarks, signaling an openness to diplomacy. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations) Practice Question : India-China relations have witnessed a shift towards conciliation. Analyze the factors behind this shift and discuss the risks of conciliation without deterrence. Suggest a balanced approach for India.(250 Words) Factors Behind the Shift Post-2020 Normalization Efforts The Galwan Valley clashes (2020) resulted in a significant rupture. Despite border tensions, disengagement agreements were reached, and trade between India and China continued to grow. The October 2023 disengagement deal suggested a diplomatic thaw. Economic Considerations China’s economy is over four times larger than India’s, making economic stability a key priority. India seeks a stable and profitable economic relationship without military escalation. U.S. Policy Ambiguity The Modi government is closely watching the evolving U.S. stance, particularly under Trump. Trump’s administration has taken unpredictable positions, including: Tariffs on China but limited military confrontation. Suggesting reduced defense commitments. Pressuring allies like Japan and Taiwan to take more responsibility. India, though not dependent on U.S. military protection, has benefited from intelligence sharing and strategic cooperation. Geopolitical Uncertainties U.S. decisions, such as weakening Ukraine’s position, have raised concerns about the reliability of American commitments. India may view stabilizing ties with China as a hedge against uncertain U.S. support. The Risk of Conciliation Without Deterrence Underinvestment in Military Modernization Despite heightened tensions, India’s defense budget as a percentage of GDP has been declining. A stabilization policy could be misinterpreted as an excuse to delay critical military investments. Modernization of key capabilities (e.g., submarines, fighter jets) requires long-term planning. China’s Consistent Aggression History suggests that China continues assertive actions despite diplomatic engagements (e.g., Doklam 2017, Galwan 2020). Modi-Xi summits in the past did not prevent border incursions. Maintaining Military Readiness and Alliances Operational cooperation with Quad partners (U.S., Japan, Australia) is essential. Joint exercises enhance military preparedness without locking India into rigid alliances. Strengthening deterrence ensures negotiations occur from a position of strength. Way Forward: Balancing Conciliation with Strength Continue diplomatic engagement while ensuring robust military preparedness. Prioritize defense modernization—delayed investments will weaken deterrence over time. Enhance strategic autonomy by maintaining diversified partnerships without over-reliance on any single power. Retain leverage over China—a stabilizing approach should not translate into strategic complacency. Colossal wastage that is food for thought Context : Food wastage in India is a paradox, where surplus food is discarded while millions go hungry, highlighting economic, environmental, and social challenges. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Social Issues ,SDG’s) Practice Question: Food wastage in India is both an economic loss and a moral failure. Discuss the causes, impacts, and possible solutions to tackle this issue in light of SDG 2 and SDG 12.3. (250 words) The Scale of the Problem: Global and Indian Context Global Food Waste (2022): 1.05 billion tonnes wasted (~20% of available food). India’s Contribution: Ranks second after China in total food wastage. Household-Level Wastage: India: 55 kg per capita annually. US: 73 kg per capita annually. Despite lower per capita wastage, India’s large population makes the total waste volume massive. Economic Loss: Global food waste worth $1 trillion annually. India discards 78 million tonnes of food yearly. Hunger Paradox: 783 million people globally face hunger. In India, over 20 crore people sleep hungry daily. Understanding Food Wastage vs. Food Loss Food Wastage (End of Supply Chain): Happens at households, retail, and restaurants. Caused by over-purchasing, improper storage, excessive cooking, and lack of consumer awareness. Food Loss (Beginning of Supply Chain): Due to poor transport, storage, and handling. Affects farmers, wholesalers, and distributors. The Environmental and Climate Impact Resource Wastage: Agriculture requires land, water, and energy. Wasted food = wasted resources. Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions: Food waste = 10%-12% of India’s municipal waste. Landfills produce methane, a greenhouse gas 25 times more potent than CO₂. Food waste alone contributes 8%-10% of global GHG emissions. If food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter (after China and the US). Climate Change & Food Security: Rising temperatures, erratic monsoons, and extreme weather (droughts, floods) disrupt food production. Increased wastage worsens resource scarcity and food insecurity. The Social and Economic Injustice of Food Waste Food Availability vs. Accessibility: India produces enough food, but poor distribution leads to hunger. SDG Targets at Risk: SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) – Wastage prevents food from reaching the needy. SDG 12.3 (Halving Food Waste by 2030) – Requires urgent systemic action. Economic Burden: Wastage increases food prices. Burden on waste management systems. Addressing Food Waste: Actions at Multiple Levels A. Individual-Level Actions Better Meal Planning: Buy only necessary groceries. Efficient Storage: Refrigerate perishables properly, use airtight containers. Creative Use of Leftovers: Repurpose excess food into soups, stir-fries, etc. Composting: Convert organic waste into vermicompost. Donations: Surplus food can be given to food banks or NGOs. B. Systemic and Policy Reforms Cold Storage & Transportation: Improve rural storage to reduce post-harvest losses. Develop efficient logistics for food distribution. Food Redistribution Networks: Expand programmes like “Save Food Share Food”. Incentivize food-sharing apps and platforms. Retail & Hospitality Sector Responsibility: Encourage supermarkets to donate unsold food. Mandate restaurants to reduce plate waste. Public Awareness & Education: Schools and media campaigns to promote mindful consumption. Forward & Backward Linkages Backward Linkages (Root Causes) Inefficient supply chains → Poor storage, transport, and handling. Agricultural overproduction → Leads to unsold stock & wastage. Cultural habits → Excess cooking, wedding & festival feasts. Forward Linkages (Impacts & Solutions) Economic Impact → Increased food prices, higher import dependency. Health Impact → Malnutrition due to food insecurity. Environmental Impact → More landfill waste, increased methane emissions. Policy Impact → Need for stringent food management policies & food security initiatives. Conclusion: A Critical Juncture for India Addressing food wastage is essential for: Reducing carbon footprint. Ensuring food security. Minimizing social and economic inequality. Requires a multi-stakeholder approach: Government: Infrastructure investment, policy frameworks. Businesses: Sustainable retail & supply chain practices. Individuals: Responsible consumption & waste reduction. The solution is not just producing more food but valuing and conserving existing resources. “A nation that wastes its food fails its hungry.”

Daily Current Affairs

Current Affairs 25 March 2025

Content: Centre issues guidelines to tackle high rate of job card deletions under MGNREGS The need for a localised urban agenda What are DNA polymorphisms and how do they differentiate between people? Sequencing of 10,000 TB genome samples completed India Navy announces maiden India-African exercise, IOS Sagar Govt. moots abolishing digital tax on online advertisements from April 1 Centre issues guidelines to tackle high rate of job card deletions under MGNREGS Context and Background The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) provides guaranteed employment to rural households. Over the past four years, 10.43 crore job cards have been deleted, raising concerns about procedural transparency. The deletions have coincided with the government’s Aadhaar-based payment system, though authorities deny a direct correlation. New 10-page guidelines have been issued by the Ministry of Rural Development to streamline and regulate deletions. Relevance : GS 2(Governance , Schemes) Key Provisions in the Guidelines Verification Process: Deletions must be approved in a Gram Sabha, social audit Gram Sabha, or a specially convened Gram Sabha. Reasons for Deletion: Permanent migration of households to urban areas or another panchayat. Gram panchayat declared an urban settlement. Duplicate or fraudulent job card registrations. Death of the worker. Transparency Measures: Deleted job cards must be publicly displayed for at least 30 days. Two Gram Sabhas per year will discuss draft lists of deletions and objections. Workers should be informed of their right to appeal with a defined procedure. Pending dues must be cleared before deletion. Impact and Implications Improved Accountability: Strengthens the role of Gram Sabhas and social audits in ensuring fair deletions. Better Transparency: Public display of deleted job cards reduces arbitrary removals. Rights Protection: Clear appeal mechanism prevents wrongful deletions and safeguards workers. Potential Challenges: Administrative burden on local authorities to verify and document each deletion. Risk of political misuse or favoritism at the panchayat level. Causes and Factors Aadhaar-Based Payment Issues: Technical glitches in linking Aadhaar with job cards may have caused wrongful deletions. Exclusion of genuine beneficiaries due to authentication failures. Urbanization: Rising migration trends and conversion of rural panchayats into urban areas. Fraud Prevention: Past irregularities in job card issuance, including ghost workers and duplicate registrations. Way Forward Monitoring & Evaluation: Strengthening social audit mechanisms and third-party verification. Technological Improvements: Ensuring a seamless Aadhaar integration to prevent wrongful exclusions. Capacity Building: Training Gram Panchayat officials on fair and transparent implementation. Grievance Redressal: Establishing timely resolution for wrongful deletions and payment delays. The need for a localised urban agenda Context : India is undergoing rapid urbanisation, set to have the largest urban population globally. However, urban planning remains largely centralised, with limited local autonomy. A one-size-fits-all approach does not align with India’s diverse urban landscape. Decentralisation is crucial to ensure cities receive need-based solutions rather than top-down directives. Relevance : GS 2(Local Governance) India’s Urbanisation Journey and the Role of the Centre Post-1990s Shift: Liberalisation led to increased urban migration and infrastructure development. Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS): Past Initiatives: JNNURM, Indira Awas Yojana, Rajiv Awas Yojana. Current Initiatives: PMAY, AMRUT, Swachh Bharat Mission, Smart Cities Mission. These schemes shaped urbanisation but often imposed a rigid, uniform model. Centrally Planned Mobility Infrastructure: Metro projects receive nearly 30% of the Union budget, leaving less flexibility for local solutions. City mobility plans are heavily influenced by national priorities rather than local needs. Financial Centralisation: Challenges and Implications Cities as Economic Hubs: The Centre sees cities as growth engines, justifying its financial control. Infrastructure investment is considered key to achieving the $5 trillion economy target. Conditional Funding & Limited Autonomy: 15th Finance Commission imposed conditions on cities, such as linking property tax hikes to state GDP. Grants are conditional rather than flexible, forcing cities to follow central guidelines rather than local priorities. Mirroring the Centre at the State Level: State budgets copy central schemes rather than innovating based on regional needs. Results in inefficient allocation, leading to either underutilisation or misutilisation of funds. Case for Decentralisation: Need for a Tailored Approach Regional Variations in Urbanisation: Kerala: Rural-urban continuum; Chief Minister called the state a “single city.” Gujarat: Industry-driven urbanisation with economic segregation. Southern vs. Northern States: Labour migration shifting demographic patterns. Sectoral Diversity in Urban Needs: Some cities may have adequate housing but lack sanitation infrastructure. Others may need decentralised sanitation over centrally determined models. PMAY and SBM fail to address city-specific variations in requirements. Failures of a One-Size-Fits-All Approach: Smart Cities Mission faced fund underutilisation or unplanned spending. Pressure to submit Utilisation Certificates (UCs) led to rushed, low-impact projects. Many projects had no demand from citizens, leading to wasted resources. Alternative Approach: A Localised Fiscal Model Suggested Budgetary Reform: 70% of Union Budget should be transferred directly to States and urban local bodies. 30% of funds should be centrally managed for national priorities like climate resilience. Direct Transfers with Local Priority Setting: Funds should be allocated based on local demands in: Mobility Sanitation Housing Water supply Waste management Local governments should set their own agendas with support from States. Knowledge-Based Urban Planning: Local decision-making should be supported by State Finance Commissions and urban research agencies. National government’s role should be limited to guidance and support, not micro-management. Broader Implications of Decentralisation Strengthening Local Governance: City governments can act as the direct link between people and the state. Enhances tax compliance, conflict resolution, and service delivery at the city level. Preventing Infrastructure Collapse: Unplanned urban expansion without localised planning leads to: Congestion Strained public utilities Poor quality of life Aligning with India’s Democratic Ethos: India’s pluralism requires context-sensitive policies. Decentralisation ensures governance reflects local aspirations. Conclusion: Moving Towards a Localised Urban Future Centrally driven urban policies must shift towards devolution and flexibility. Local urban bodies need greater financial and administrative autonomy. A fiscal realignment with 70% direct transfers to State and local bodies is necessary. The success of urbanisation depends on empowering cities to shape their own development rather than following rigid central directives. What are DNA polymorphisms and how do they differentiate between people? Context : Understanding DNA Polymorphisms Definition: DNA polymorphisms refer to variations in DNA sequences that occur among individuals within a population. Types of Polymorphisms: Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) – Variations at a single base-pair level. Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) – Repeated sequences of base pairs that vary in number among individuals. Insertion/Deletion Polymorphisms (Indels) – Presence or absence of specific DNA sequences. Copy Number Variations (CNVs) – Differences in the number of copies of a particular gene. Relevance : GS 3(Science ) Role in Human Identification and Differentiation Unique DNA Fingerprints: STR variations create unique DNA profiles for individuals. Parentage Testing: DNA polymorphisms help in determining biological relationships by comparing STR patterns between parents and children. Forensic Applications: Used to identify suspects or victims from biological samples like blood, saliva, and hair. Ancestry Tracing: Helps in tracking lineage by distinguishing whether genetic material came from paternal or maternal lineage. Molecular Mechanisms of DNA Polymorphisms Mutation and Variation: Polymorphisms arise due to random mutations during DNA replication. STR Variability: Different individuals have varying numbers of STR repeats at specific loci. Capillary Electrophoresis: Used to measure STR sizes and generate DNA fingerprints. DNA Polymorphisms in Modern Biotechnology Medical Diagnostics: Used to detect genetic disorders and predisposition to diseases. Personalized Medicine: Helps tailor treatments based on individual genetic profiles. Organ Transplant Matching: Ensures compatibility between donors and recipients. Forward and Backward Linkages Future Implications Advancements in DNA Sequencing: Improved accuracy in forensic science and ancestry tracking. Gene Editing Technologies: CRISPR-based modifications rely on understanding DNA polymorphisms. AI Integration in Genetic Studies: Machine learning models to analyze genetic patterns efficiently. Historical Context & Past Developments Discovery of DNA Structure (1953): Watson and Crick’s double-helix model laid the foundation for genetic research. Development of DNA Fingerprinting (1984): Alec Jeffreys introduced DNA profiling for forensic and legal use. Human Genome Project (2003): Provided a reference genome for studying polymorphisms. Ethical and Legal Considerations Privacy Concerns: Potential misuse of genetic data in surveillance and insurance policies. Wrongful Convictions: Errors in DNA profiling may lead to miscarriages of justice. Genetic Discrimination: Employers and insurers might use genetic information unfairly. Conclusion DNA polymorphisms form the genetic basis of individual uniqueness, influencing fields ranging from forensic science to medical research. With evolving technologies, ethical regulations must ensure responsible use of genetic information. Sequencing of 10,000 TB genome samples completed Context and Background Tuberculosis (TB) remains a major public health challenge, with India accounting for 28% of global new TB cases. The Dare2eraD TB initiative was launched in 2022 under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) to sequence 32,500 TB genome samples. 10,000 samples (one-third of the target) have been sequenced so far, with full sequencing expected by October 2025. This initiative aligns with India’s target to eliminate TB by 2025, set at the 2018 End TB Summit, ahead of WHO’s 2030 target. Genome sequencing aims to: Identify drug–resistant TB strains. Capture unique genetic features of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in India. Improve diagnostics and treatment strategies using AI-powered analysis. Relevance : GS 2(Health) ,GS 3(Science )  Key Findings from Sequenced Samples 7% of sequenced TB cases show resistance to a single drug, highlighting the growing challenge of drug-resistant TB (DR-TB). Age Profile: Majority of TB cases are in the 18-45 years age group, indicating a high burden among the working population. Comorbidities: Many TB patients were also diabetic and underweight, reinforcing the link between nutrition, metabolic disorders, and TB susceptibility. Prevalence: India had 1,990 cases per million in 2022, down from 2,370 per million in 2015, but still far from the 1 per million ‘elimination’ benchmark set by WHO. Latent TB Reservoir: The number of undiagnosed, asymptomatic TB carriers could be as high as 3,000 per million, contributing to continued transmission. Impact and Implications Better TB Diagnostics & AI Integration Genome sequencing data, combined with AI models, can help reduce TB diagnosis time from three weeks to one week. Faster identification of drug-resistant strains will improve treatment protocols. Personalized Medicine & Targeted Therapy Understanding genetic variations in TB bacteria will aid in the development of region-specific drug treatments. Potential to develop genome-based rapid diagnostic kits. Public Health Policy & TB Eradication Strategy Data-driven approaches will help in better allocation of resources to high-TB-burden areas. Policy interventions needed to address nutrition and diabetes as risk factors for TB. Challenges in TB Eradication Eliminating TB by 2025 is highly ambitious, given current prevalence rates. The presence of latent TB cases means transmission will continue unless preventive treatment strategies are expanded. Multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) poses a major challenge due to limited treatment options and higher costs. Causes and Factors Delayed Diagnostics & Inconsistent Testing Traditional TB detection methods (sputum tests, X-rays) take weeks and may not detect drug-resistant strains early. Limited availability of advanced molecular diagnostic tools in rural India. Drug-Resistant TB Evolution Inadequate TB treatment adherence leads to MDR-TB, where bacteria develop resistance to key antibiotics like Rifampicin and Isoniazid. Self-medication, improper prescriptions, and interrupted treatments contribute to resistance. Nutritional & Metabolic Linkages High TB burden among diabetics and underweight individuals suggests a nutritional and metabolic component in susceptibility. Poor access to balanced diets and healthcare in rural areas exacerbates TB risks. Urbanization & Migration Patterns Overcrowding in urban slums and migrant worker clusters increases TB transmission rates. Inconsistent access to healthcare among migrant populations reduces early TB detection and treatment compliance. Way Forward Strengthen Genome-Based TB Surveillance Expand TB genome sequencing efforts beyond 32,500 samples for wider genetic mapping. Integrate genome data into national TB control programs for better tracking of resistant strains. Enhance AI-Powered Diagnostic Tools Machine learning models should be developed to analyze genome data and predict drug resistance trends. Promote the use of faster and portable genome-based diagnostic kits at primary health centers. Scale Up Preventive & Early Treatment Measures Mass screening programs targeting high-risk groups (diabetics, undernourished, urban slums). Expand access to preventive therapy for latent TB cases. India Navy announces maiden India-African exercise, IOS Sagar Context and Background Geopolitical Significance: India’s growing strategic engagement with Africa amid China’s rising influence in the region. Maritime Security Concerns: Renewed threats of piracy, Houthi rebel attacks on shipping lanes, and vulnerabilities in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Strengthening Partnerships: India’s focus on consolidating ties with African littoral states for enhanced maritime security. Relevance : GS 2(International Relations)  Key Initiatives & Their Objectives A. AIKEYME (Africa India Key Maritime Engagement) Exercise Aims to enhance: Joint naval training with 10 African nations. Maritime security cooperation and coordinated operations. Strengthening India’s role as a maritime security provider in IOR. Co-hosted by: Indian Navy & Tanzania Peoples’ Defence Force (TPDF). Location: Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. B. IOS Sagar (Indian Ocean Ship Initiative) INS Sunayna Deployment (April 5 – May 8, 2025): Participating Nations: 9 African countries (Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, South Africa). Activities: Joint surveillance of Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, and Seychelles. Port Calls: Dar-es-Salaam, Nacala, Port Louis, Port Victoria, and Male. Training capsule for foreign naval personnel at Kochi. C. MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security Across the Regions) Announced by PM Modi in Mauritius, reinforcing India’s commitment to maritime security cooperation in the IOR. Impact and Implications Enhanced Maritime Security: Strengthening regional cooperation against piracy, smuggling, and maritime terrorism. Strategic Counter to China: India bolsters its naval influence in Africa, challenging China’s String of Pearls strategy. Capacity Building for African Nations: Training and joint operations enhance local maritime security capabilities. Boosting India’s Soft Power: Strengthens diplomatic and defense ties, reinforcing India as the “Preferred Security Partner” in the IOR. Economic & Trade Benefits: Securing key shipping routes ensures unhindered global trade through the Indian Ocean. Causes and Factors China’s Expanding Naval Footprint: China’s base in Djibouti and increasing military presence in Africa’s eastern coast. Infrastructure projects under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) influencing local politics. Piracy & Maritime Crimes: Somali piracy resurgence poses threats to merchant vessels and oil tankers. Drug trafficking & illegal fishing impacting regional economies. Houthi Rebel Threats: Attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea raise global concerns. India’s Prior Engagements: Longstanding naval exercises & defense collaborations with IOR nations. Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) efforts post-natural disasters Govt. moots abolishing digital tax on online advertisements from April 1 Context and Background The equalisation levy (EL) was introduced to tax foreign tech giants benefiting from India’s digital economy without a physical presence. The 6% EL was applied to payments made to non-resident entities for online advertisement services. A 2% EL was imposed on non-resident e-commerce operators in 2020, but it was removed in 2024. The government now proposes abolishing the 6% EL from April 1, 2025, as part of the Finance Bill, 2025. The move is seen as a preemptive measure to avoid retaliatory U.S. tariffs, expected to be imposed on April 2. Relevance : GS 2(Governance) , GS 3(Tax Structure) Implications and Impact Improved US-India Trade Relations: Averts potential retaliatory tariffs by the U.S. on Indian exports. Enhances bilateral trade negotiations and aligns India’s tax policies with global norms. Boost to Foreign Investment in Digital Economy: Makes India a more attractive market for foreign digital companies. Could encourage greater investments in India’s digital infrastructure. Revenue Implications: Potential loss of tax revenue for the government. May necessitate alternative taxation mechanisms, possibly under a global tax framework. Shift Towards OECD-led Global Tax Reforms: Aligns India with the OECD’s Pillar One and Pillar Two framework for global digital taxation. Increases India’s credibility in global tax negotiations. Factors Leading to the Move US Opposition and Retaliatory Tariff Threats: The 2% digital tax previously imposed led to USTR investigations and strong pushback. U.S. threatened trade barriers if digital taxes were not removed. Global Tax Reforms Under OECD Framework: India had agreed to gradually phase out unilateral digital taxes under the OECD’s global tax deal. Removal of EL aligns with the global minimum tax and fair taxation of multinational corporations. Concerns Over Double Taxation: EL created compliance burdens and risked double taxation on non-resident firms. Countries like the U.S. argued that Indian businesses were already benefiting from user-based taxation models. Evolution of India’s Digital Tax Policy: Initially introduced to tax digital services provided by foreign firms in the absence of a physical presence. With global tax cooperation improving, India is moving toward a multilateral framework. Way Forward Strengthening Global Tax Coordination: Continue participating in the OECD Inclusive Framework to secure fair taxation rights. Alternative Tax Measures: Explore corporate tax adjustments or profit-based taxation rather than transaction-based levies. Ensuring a Level Playing Field for Domestic Firms: Consider new policies to protect Indian digital startups from aggressive foreign competition. Monitoring the Impact on Government Revenues: Assess revenue implications and evaluate alternative tax structures if needed.

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