Govind Ballabh Pant

Govind Ballabh Pant

On 7th March, the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh paid tribute to Govind Ballabh (G.B.) Pant (1887-1961), a prominent freedom fighter and the first Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, on his death anniversary.

Early Life of GB Pant:
Born in Almora, Uttarakhand, Pant was influenced by prominent leaders like Gopal Krishna Gokhale and Madan Mohan Malaviya.

Role in the Freedom Struggle:
Pant was an active participant in the Salt March (1930), the Civil Disobedience Movement (1930), and the Quit India Movement (1942).

Political Career:

Namami Gange Programme

 Namami Gange Programme

Why in News?
The Namami Gange Programme (NGP) has made significant strides in its goal to rejuvenate the holy River Ganga.

Initially launched in 2014 with a budget of Rs 20,000 crore until 2021, the program has now been extended to March 2026 with an additional Rs 22,500 crore, bringing the total budget to Rs 42,500 crore.

What is the Namami Gange Programme?
About:
Namami Gange is a flagship initiative aimed at revitalizing the Ganga River and its tributaries by reducing pollution, enhancing water quality, and restoring the river’s ecosystem.

Implementation:
The program operates through a Five-Tier Structure for Ganga rejuvenation, with eight strategic pillars that guide its execution.

Key Interventions:

1. Pollution Abatement (Nirmal Ganga): Establishing sewage treatment plants (STPs) and reducing the discharge of industrial and domestic waste.
2. Ecology and Flow Improvement (Aviral Ganga): Restoring the natural flow of the river and enhancing biodiversity, alongside implementing water conservation measures.
3. Strengthening People-River Connect (Jan Ganga): Encouraging community participation and raising awareness while involving local stakeholders in conservation activities.
4. Facilitating Research and Policy (Gyan Ganga): Promoting scientific research, studies, and the development of evidence-based policies.

Implementation Model:
The Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) is used for the development, operation, and maintenance of STPs. An Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) formed by the winning bidder manages these tasks. The payment is split with 40% paid after construction and 60% over the project’s lifespan.

Key Achievements:

• Pollution Abatement: The sewage treatment capacity has been increased by over 30 times since before 2014.
• Water Quality Improvement:
  • In Uttar Pradesh, BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) reduced from 10-20 mg/l (2015) to 3-6 mg/l (2022).
  • In Bihar, it dropped from 20-30 mg/l (2015) to 6-10 mg/l (2022).
  • In West Bengal, BOD decreased from 10-20 mg/l (2018) to 6-10 mg/l (2022).
• Biodiversity Impact: The Gangetic river dolphin population rose from 3,330 in 2018 to 3,936 in 2024, with sightings extending to new regions like Bithura to Rasula Ghat (Prayagraj), Babai, and Bagmati Rivers.
• Global Recognition:
  • In December 2022, the UN Decade on Ecosystem Restoration recognized NGP as one of the Top 10 World Restoration Flagship Initiatives.
  • The International Water Association awarded NGP the title of Climate Smart Utility.

Importance of River Ganga:

• Lifeline of India: The Ganga supports 47% of India’s population across 11 states.
• Agriculture & Economy: 65.57% of the river basin is used for agricultural purposes.
• Cultural & Religious Significance: The Ganga holds sacred value for millions across various religions.
• Water Scarcity: The Ganga River Basin is the second most water-stressed area in India, with only 39% of the average per capita annual rainfall input.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQ)

Prelims

1. Which of the following are the key features of the ‘National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA)’? (2016)

   • The river basin is the unit for planning and management.
   • It leads the national efforts for river conservation.
   • One of the Chief Ministers from states through which the Ganga flows serves as Chairman of NGRBA on a rotating basis.
     Select the correct answer using the code below:
     (a) 1 and 2 only
     (b) 2 and 3 only
     (c) 1 and 3 only
     (d) 1, 2, and 3

   Answer: (d)

2. Consider the following statements: (2014)

   • The Animal Welfare Board of India was established under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.
   • The National Tiger Conservation Authority is a statutory body.
   • The National Ganga River Basin Authority is chaired by the Prime Minister.

   Which of the statements above are correct?
   (a) 1 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 2 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

   Answer: (b)

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Poshan Abhiyan

 Important Facts for Prelims

Poshan Abhiyan

Why in News?
Poshan Abhiyan seeks to enhance nutritional outcomes through technology, cross-sectoral collaboration, and community participation.

What is Poshan Abhiyan?
About:
Poshan Abhiyan is a flagship program of the Ministry of Women and Child Development, launched on March 8, 2018, in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan. The initiative focuses on addressing the nutrition needs of adolescent girls, pregnant women, lactating mothers, and children (0-6 years) using a targeted and integrated approach.

Objectives:
The program aims to reduce stunting, undernutrition, anaemia (among young children, women, and adolescent girls), and low birth weight by 2%, 2%, 3%, and 2% annually, respectively.

Strategic Pillars:
Poshan Abhiyan operates under four main strategic pillars:

1. Quality Services: Strengthening health services through schemes like ICDS, NHM, and PMMVY, with a focus on a child's first 1,000 days.
2. Cross-Sectoral Convergence: Integrating ministries, such as Water & Sanitation, for comprehensive nutritional support.
3. Technology: Utilizing the Poshan Tracker for real-time data monitoring and ICDS-Common Application Software to improve Anganwadi Services.
4. Jan Andolan: Encouraging community-driven nutrition awareness and behavior change.

Nutritional Improvement (NFHS-5 Data):
According to NFHS-5 (2019-21), there has been notable improvement in nutrition indicators for children under 5 years:

• Wasting (Low weight-for-height): Decreased from 21% (NFHS-4) to 19.3% (NFHS-5).
• Undernutrition (Low weight-for-age): Reduced from 35.7% (NFHS-4) to 32.1% (NFHS-5).
• Stunting (Low height-for-age): Fell from 38.4% (NFHS-4) to 35.5% (NFHS-5).

Mission Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0:
Mission Poshan 2.0, also known as Mission Saksham Anganwadi, aims to enhance health, wellness, immunity, and upgrade infrastructure for Anganwadi Centers (AWCs), including dedicated buildings, functional toilets, and access to drinking water.

India’s Nutritional Status (Global Hunger Index 2024):
India's performance in addressing hunger and malnutrition is tracked by the Global Hunger Index, which helps monitor the effectiveness of initiatives like Poshan Abhiyan.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Prelims

1. Which of the following are the objectives of the ‘National Nutrition Mission’? (2017)

   • To create awareness about malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers.
   • To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls, and women.
   • To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals, and unpolished rice.
   • To promote the consumption of poultry eggs.

   Select the correct answer using the code below:
   (a) 1 and 2 only
   (b) 1, 2, and 3 only
   (c) 1, 2, and 4 only
   (d) 3 and 4 only

   Answer: (a)

2. Which of the following is/are the indicator/indicators used by IFPRI to compute the Global Hunger Index Report? (2016)

   • Undernourishment
   • Child stunting
   • Child mortality

   Select the correct answer using the code below:
   (a) 1 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 1, 2, and 3
   (d) 1 and 3 only

   Answer: (c)

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India: Second Largest Arms Importer, SIPRI Report Reveals

India: Second Largest Arms Importer, SIPRI Report Reveals

Why in News?
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report, India's share of global arms imports has decreased to 8.3% between 2020 and 2024, making it the second-largest arms importer globally, following Ukraine.

Key Findings from the Report on Global Arms Trade:

• India:
  India’s arms imports have decreased by 9.3% compared to the 2015-19 period. Russia remains India’s primary supplier, but its share has dropped from 72% (2010-14) to 36% (2020-24).
  France has emerged as India’s second-largest supplier, accounting for 28% of its total arms imports.

• India’s Neighbors:
  Pakistan's arms imports have increased by 61%, with China supplying 81% of Pakistan’s arms.
  For the first time since 1990-94, China has fallen out of the top 10 arms importers, with a 64% decline in its arms imports, signaling the growth of its domestic defense industry.

• Regional Insights:
  India, Pakistan, Japan, and Australia are among the top 10 largest arms importers in the 2020-24 period.
  The United States remains the largest arms exporter, supplying weapons to Ukraine, NATO allies, and Asia-Pacific nations.
  Europe saw a 155% increase in arms imports, particularly due to defense spending spurred by Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
  France has overtaken Russia as the second-largest arms exporter, with India being its top buyer, followed by Qatar.

• Other Global Insights:
  Ukraine’s arms imports increased by 100-fold due to the war with Russia, receiving 8.8% of global arms imports, with the U.S., Germany, and Poland being its main suppliers.
  Russia's arms exports fell by 64%, dropping to 7.8% of global exports, primarily due to Western sanctions and production limitations.
  In the Middle East, arms imports decreased by 20%, but the region still remains a major arms importer, with Qatar becoming the third-largest arms importer globally.

• Global Arms Transfers:
  Overall global arms transfers have remained stable compared to previous periods but have increased by 18% since 2005–09, with a rise in imports from Europe and the Americas, counterbalanced by a decline in regions like China.

India’s Initiatives to Reduce Arms Imports:

• Budget:
  The 2024-25 defense budget allocates Rs 6.21 lakh crore, with 75% of capital procurement reserved for domestic manufacturers.

• Self-Reliant Initiatives:
  The SRIJAN portal was launched to promote procurement from Indian vendors, encouraging self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

India’s AI Revolution Why in News?

India’s AI Revolution

Why in News?

India is undergoing a comprehensive transformation in Artificial Intelligence (AI), propelled by proactive government policies under the IndiaAI Mission. This initiative aligns with the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) by 2047, positioning India as a global leader in AI.

How is India Transforming into a Global AI Powerhouse?

Strengthening AI Infrastructure:

• The government is establishing a state-of-the-art computing center featuring 18,693 Graphics Processing Units (GPUs), nearly nine times more than DeepSeek and two-thirds of ChatGPT's processing power.
• The Open GPU Marketplace allows startups, researchers, and students to access affordable high-performance computing.
• India aims to develop its own GPUs within 3 to 5 years, reducing reliance on foreign technologies like Quantum chips.
• The IndiaAI Dataset Platform provides high-quality, anonymized datasets to support AI research and development.
• India has set up AI Centres of Excellence (CoEs) in sectors like Healthcare, Agriculture, and Sustainable Cities, with a new AI CoE in Education funded by Rs 500 crore in the 2025 Union Budget.

AI Skilling:

• Five National AI Skilling Centres are being established to train youth for careers in AI, aligning with the "Make for India, Make for the World" vision.
• The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 integrates AI education at all levels.
• India ranks first globally in AI skill penetration (Stanford AI Index 2024), with a 263% increase in AI talent since 2016 and a fourteen-fold rise in AI-skilled workforce (2016-2023).
• India has approximately 520 tech incubators and accelerators, making it the third-largest startup ecosystem in the world.

Indigenous AI Models:

• BharatGen is the world’s first government-funded multimodal Large Language Model (LLM) initiative aimed at delivering AI-driven public services.
• Sarvam-1 is a 2-billion-parameter model that supports 10 Indian languages for translation and content generation.
• AI Kosha is a government-backed platform that provides non-personal datasets to assist businesses, researchers, and startups in developing AI solutions.
• Digital India BHASHINI is an AI-powered language translation platform for improved digital accessibility.
• Chitralekha is an open-source video transcreation tool designed for Indic languages.

AI with Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI):

• AI is integrated with Aadhaar, Unified Payments Interface (UPI), and DigiLocker to enhance efficiency.
• AI-driven crowd monitoring systems optimize railway passenger movement, and MuleHunter.AI, developed by the Reserve Bank of India, detects mule bank accounts used for fraud and money laundering.

AI-Driven Economic Growth:

• 80% of Indian companies prioritize AI as a key strategic goal, with 69% planning to increase AI investments in 2025.
• Funding for Indian Generative AI (GenAI) startups surged sixfold, reaching USD 51 million in FY2025 (NASSCOM Report).
• India holds 16% of the world’s AI talent, driving AI-powered automation in sectors such as fintech and healthcare.
• 78% of Small & Medium Businesses (SMBs) using AI have reported revenue growth.
• India's AI market is projected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 25-35%, with AI talent demand expected to reach 1 million by 2026.

AI Regulation:

• India’s AI regulatory framework includes the Information Technology Act of 2000, Principles for Responsible AI (2021), and the National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2018) to ensure safety, transparency, and accountability.
• The country is focusing on avoiding overregulation while addressing risks like deep fakes, privacy concerns, and cybersecurity threats.

Global AI Governance Leadership:

• India is playing an active role in shaping global AI regulatory frameworks, hosting the Global INDIAai Summit 2024 and showcasing its AI initiatives at forums like the G20, Paris AI Summit 2025, and the Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI) Summit.

What is the IndiaAI Mission?

Click here to Read: IndiaAI Mission

What are the Concerns in India’s AI Transformation?

Limited AI Hardware Capabilities:

• India remains dependent on foreign-made GPUs and semiconductor technologies. Many AI startups rely on cloud computing services from global tech giants like AWS, Google, and Microsoft.
• The lack of indigenous AI chip manufacturing means startups must rely on foreign-made AI chips.

Skilling Challenges:

• Despite leading in AI skill penetration, there is a shortage of highly specialized AI researchers. Most AI professionals are engaged in service-based roles rather than in deep-tech innovation.
• Automation is projected to displace up to 60 million workers in India’s manufacturing sector by 2030, and uneven AI adoption across rural and Tier-2/Tier-3 cities is exacerbating the digital divide.

Ethical Concerns:

• Risks of bias in AI models due to insufficiently diverse datasets.
• The absence of a dedicated AI law to regulate data usage, facial recognition, and deepfake technologies.

Regulatory Uncertainty:

• India currently lacks a dedicated AI regulatory framework, with policies fragmented across different ministries. Comprehensive AI ethics guidelines are also lacking, leaving key issues like bias, accountability, and transparency unaddressed.

Environmental Impact:

• AI hardware and data centers contribute to 1% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with that figure expected to double by 2026. India also lacks regulations on the water usage and carbon footprint of AI data centers.

What Steps Can India Take to Address AI Transformation Challenges?

Strengthening AI Hardware:

• India should focus on boosting domestic AI chip manufacturing through the Semicon India Programme and incentivize fabless chip design startups and AI hardware R&D.
• Support for the development of quantum AI processors should be enhanced through the National Quantum Mission.

AI Workforce Development:

• Expanding the FutureSkills Prime initiative to train youth in AI and digital technologies will help reinforce India’s position as a global digital talent hub.

AI Regulatory Framework:

• India should enact a dedicated AI & Quantum Act to regulate AI development and mitigate its environmental impact, drawing inspiration from international frameworks like the EU AI Act (2024) and the US Artificial Intelligence Environmental Impacts Act (2024).

Ensuring Inclusive AI Growth:

• The RAISE 2020 initiative should promote AI as a tool for social transformation, inclusion, and empowerment through responsible development.

Sustainable AI Development:

• India should focus on designing energy-efficient AI algorithms and infrastructures, integrating AI into smart grids to optimize power usage.
  

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India’s Energy Strategy

India’s Energy Strategy

Why in News?

India has committed to increasing its oil and natural gas imports from the US, with energy trade projected to rise from USD 15 billion to USD 25 billion in the near future. This move is part of a broader objective to double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion.

The decision is aimed at enhancing India’s energy security while also strengthening economic relations amid global geopolitical shifts.

Why is India Expanding Energy Trade with the US?

Energy Security:
India, the third-largest oil importer and consumer in the world, depends on imports for over 85% of its crude oil requirements. With projected energy demand set to nearly double by 2040 due to rising GDP, supply stability is crucial. Expanding energy trade with the US reduces India’s reliance on West Asia and Russia and diversifies sources, minimizing risks from geopolitical disruptions.

Bilateral Trade Growth:
Increasing energy imports from the US helps balance India's USD 45.7 billion trade surplus with the US in 2024, while supporting the ‘Mission 500’ initiative, which aims to double bilateral trade to USD 500 billion by 2030.

Infrastructure Development:
The availability of competitively priced US crude oil and LNG could make the US a key supplier to India, promoting industrial growth, refining expansion, and petrochemical investments.

Geopolitical Benefits:
Stronger energy ties with the US support India’s bid for full membership in the International Energy Agency (IEA) and can act as a counterbalance to China’s influence in global energy markets.

What is the State of India’s Energy Consumption?

Crude Oil:

• Imports (2023-24): 234.26 million tonnes of crude oil.
• Import Dependence: India's crude oil import dependence rose to 87.8% in 2023-24, with domestic production meeting less than 13% of total demand.
• Future Projection: Crude oil consumption is expected to grow at a CAGR of 4.59% to 500 million tonnes by FY40.

Petroleum Products and Diesel:

• Continued reliance on petroleum products, with efforts to increase energy efficiency and reduce emissions.

Natural Gas and Cleaner Fuels:

• India aims to increase natural gas's share in its energy mix to 15% by 2030, up from around 6% currently.
• LNG Imports (2023-24): 31.80 billion cubic meters (bcm), worth USD 13.405 billion.
• Ethanol Blending Target: Set to increase to 20% by 2025-26, with ethanol production capacity reaching approximately 1,600 crore litres by September 2024.
• Impact of Ethanol Blending: This initiative has reduced CO₂ emissions by 544 lakh metric tons and replaced 181 lakh metric tons of crude oil.

What is India Doing to Meet the Energy Needs?

Increasing Domestic Production:
India aims to double its oil and gas exploration area from 0.5 million sq. km by 2025 to 1 million sq. km by 2030. New projects in the Krishna-Godavari (KG) Basin and offshore exploration efforts are expected to enhance domestic production.

Global Energy Partnerships:
India’s diversified import strategy, which includes sources like the US, Russia, Brazil, Canada, and Africa, ensures security amid geopolitical instability. Russia now supplies 40% of India’s crude oil, up from less than 1% before 2022. India is also strengthening its relationships with the IEA and OPEC+ for long-term contracts.

LNG and Gas Pipeline Expansion:
The Unified Pipeline Tariff aims for a "One Nation, One Grid, One Tariff" system, which will benefit remote consumers and boost gas market growth. India is expanding city gas distribution networks and import terminals to support increasing demand.

Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR):
The SPR Program acts as a safeguard against supply disruptions and price volatility in global markets. India aims to commercialize 50% of its SPR to raise funds and build additional storage tanks to buffer high oil prices.

Clean and Renewable Energy:
India has set a target of 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, with a focus on expanding solar, wind, and hydro power projects to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, the government is encouraging ethanol blending, biodiesel, and compressed biogas (CBG), alongside a USD 67 billion investment in hydrogen energy projects in 2024.

Policy Reforms:
India allows 100% FDI under the automatic route for oil and gas PSUs, upstream, and private sector refining projects, boosting investment and energy sector growth. The Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy aims to increase domestic oil and gas production. Subsidies for electric vehicles (EVs), green hydrogen, and biofuels are also being provided to reduce dependence on crude oil.

Conclusion

India’s growing oil and gas requirements are driven by economic growth, rising demand, and a high level of import dependence. To ensure energy security, India is expanding refining capacity, investing in natural gas, diversifying imports, and transitioning to cleaner energy sources.

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Drishti Mains Question:
How does India's strategy of diversifying its oil and gas imports impact its energy security?

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs):

Prelims: Q1. With reference to furnace oil, consider the following statements: (2020)

• It is a product of oil refineries.
• Some industries use it to generate power.
• Its use causes sulphur emissions into the environment.
  Which of the statements given above are correct?
  (a) 1 and 2 only
  (b) 2 and 3 only
  (c) 1 and 3 only
  (d) 1, 2 and 3

Ans: (d)

Q2. The term ‘West Texas Intermediate’, sometimes found in news, refers to a grade of (2020)
(a) Crude oil
(b) Bullion
(c) Rare earth elements
(d) Uranium

Ans: (a)

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Mains: Q. The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian countries. (2017)

Q. “Access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy is the sine qua non to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)”. Comment on the progress made in India in this regard. (2018)

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Pelicans and Painted Stork

Pelicans and Painted Stork

Pelicans and painted storks have been observed at the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in Visakhapatnam.

About Pelicans:

• Pelicans (genus Pelecanus) are large water birds recognized for their long beaks and sizable throat pouches, which they use to catch fish.
• They are highly social and typically live in colonies of hundreds.
• These carnivorous birds primarily feed on fish but also consume amphibians, crustaceans, insects, birds, and small mammals.
• Pelicans are found on all continents except Antarctica, favoring warm coastal and inland waters such as lakes and rivers.

About Painted Stork (Mycteria leucocephala):

Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program

Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment Program

Vanuatu’s Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program, often referred to as the “golden passport,” allows wealthy individuals to purchase citizenship, raising concerns about security and transparency.

About Vanuatu’s CBI Program:

• The program enables individuals to gain citizenship by making significant financial contributions to the country’s economy.
• According to the Henley Passport Index 2025, Vanuatu's passport ranks 53rd globally, offering visa-free access to 113 countries, ahead of China (ranked 59th) and India (ranked 80th).
• As a tax haven, Vanuatu imposes no personal income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax, making it appealing to high-net-worth individuals.
• Vanuatu is an island nation located in the South Pacific, consisting of 83 islands and situated to the east of Australia and north of New Zealand. Its capital is Port Vila and it is known for active volcanoes, including Mount Yasur.

Concerns:

US Withdrawal from Loss and Damage Fund

US Withdrawal from Loss and Damage Fund

The United States has decided to withdraw from the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF), deepening its disengagement from global climate commitments such as the Paris Agreement and the Green Climate Fund.

About the Loss and Damage Fund (LDF):

Madhav National Park

Madhav National Park

Madhav National Park, situated in the Chambal region of Madhya Pradesh, has been designated as India's 58th Tiger Reserve, and is the 9th Tiger Reserve in the state. The reserve currently houses five tigers.

Key Information about Madhav National Park:

Growth of India’s Biotechnology Sector

Growth of India’s Biotechnology Sector

Why in the News?

At the “Emerging Innovations in Biochemistry and Biotechnology” conference, the Union Minister of Science & Technology discussed the evolution of India’s biotechnology sector, with a special focus on the biotechnology potential of the Himalayan region, particularly Jammu & Kashmir.

Key Facts About India’s Biotechnology Sector:

• About: Biotechnology involves the use of biological systems, organisms, or their components to create products and technologies that benefit agriculture, medicine, industry, and sustainability.
• Types: Various applications span across agriculture, health, industrial biotechnology, and environmental sustainability.

Growth & Potential:

• India’s bioeconomy has expanded over 10 times in a decade, growing from USD 10 billion in 2014 to USD 130 billion in 2024, with a target of reaching USD 300 billion by 2030.
• Potential in Jammu & Kashmir: The region’s rich flora and diverse medicinal plants offer great potential for the pharmaceutical and herbal industries. Biotechnological research can help optimize high-altitude crops for better climate resilience and increased productivity.
• The Aroma Mission and the Floriculture Revolution (commercial flower farming) are significant contributors to the sector's growth.

Key Breakthroughs in 2024:

• Development of the world’s first Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.
• Discovery of Nafithromycin, a groundbreaking indigenous antibiotic.
• India’s first successful gene therapy experiment for Hemophilia.

Government Initiatives:

• BioE3 Policy
• Anusandhan National Research Foundation (NRF)
• Bio-RIDE Scheme: From 50 biotech startups in 2014, the target is to reach 9,000 by 2025.

Progress in Global Innovation:

• India improved its ranking from 80th in 2014 to 39th in the Global Innovation Index 2024.
• India ranks 3rd in the Asia-Pacific region and 12th globally in biomanufacturing.
• More than 5,352 Indian researchers are now among the top 2% of scientists globally.

Aroma Mission (Lavender Revolution):

• About: Launched in Jammu & Kashmir, it aims to boost India's aroma industry by promoting the cultivation of aromatic crops and essential oil production.
• Focus: The cultivation of crops like lemongrass, lavender, vetiver, and palmarosa for fragrant oils used in cosmetics, aromatherapy, and food flavoring.
• Nodal Agency: CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow.
• Potential Impact: Expected to produce over 2,000 tonnes of oils worth Rs 300 crores annually, create 60 lakh rural jobs, and increase farmer incomes by Rs 60,000–70,000 per hectare annually.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ):

Prelims:
Q. Mycorrhizal biotechnology has been used in rehabilitating degraded sites because mycorrhiza enables plants to: (2013)

• (1) Resist drought and increase absorptive area
• (2) Tolerate extremes of pH
• (3) Resist disease infestation
  Select the correct answer using the codes below:

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Ans: (d)

Q. At present, scientists can determine the arrangement or relative positions of genes or DNA sequences on a chromosome. How does this knowledge benefit us?

• It is possible to know the pedigree of livestock.
• It is possible to understand the causes of all human diseases.
• It is possible to develop disease-resistant animal breeds.
  Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

Ans: (c)

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Electors Photo Identity Card Number

Electors Photo Identity Card Number

Why in the News?

The Chief Minister of West Bengal has accused the Election Commission of India (ECI) of enabling voter duplication by assigning the same Electors Photo Identity Card (EPIC) numbers to multiple voters across different states. In response, the ECI denied any electoral malpractice, attributing the issue to errors in legacy data prior to the implementation of ERONET (Electoral Roll Management System).

What is an EPIC Number?

• About: The EPIC number, introduced in 1993 under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960, is a 10-digit alphanumeric voter ID issued by the ECI to each registered voter. Its purpose is to prevent voter impersonation and electoral fraud.
• Issuance and Digital Management: The EPIC number is generated through ERONET, a web-based platform used by election officials to manage voter registration, migration, and deletion of names from electoral rolls. ERONET automates the process in multiple languages and scripts.
• Importance: The EPIC number serves as a unique identifier, linking a voter to their photo, constituency, and polling station. Any mismatch in EPIC records could result in voter disenfranchisement or manipulation.

EPIC Duplication Issue:

Strengthening India's Spice Industry

Strengthening India's Spice Industry

Why in the News?

The World Spice Organisation (WSO) has highlighted that although India is the largest producer of spices globally, it controls only 0.7% of the global seasoning market. The WSO has called for increased production and value addition to help India meet its target of USD 10 billion in spice exports by 2030.

Note: The WSO, based in Kochi, Kerala, is a non-profit organization dedicated to food safety, sustainability, and biodiversity in the spice industry.

Current Status of Spice Production in India

• Production: In 2022-23, India produced 11.14 million tonnes of spices, a slight increase from the 11.12 million tonnes in 2021-22.
• India produces 75 out of 109 spice varieties recognized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Key spices include chilli, cumin, turmeric, ginger, and coriander, which account for 76% of the total spice production.
• In FY23, garlic, ginger, and chilli were the top three most produced spices.
• Major Spices-Producing States: Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Assam, among others.
• Exports: India exports a range of spices, including pepper, cardamom, celery, fennel, fenugreek, garlic, nutmeg, curry powder, and spice oils.
  • In 2023-2024, India exported spices worth USD 4.4 billion (approximately 14 lakh tonnes). Chilli accounted for 31% of the total spice exports.
  • India exports spices to 200 countries, with key markets including China, Bangladesh, West Asia, and the US.

Concerns:
Despite being the leader in raw spice exports, India holds only 0.7% of the global seasoning market, lagging behind China (12%) and the US (11%).
This is largely due to low value addition, with just 48% of exports being processed products.
Additional challenges include:

• Adulteration and pesticide residues, which have led to export rejections, harming India’s reputation in international markets.
• Rising competition from countries like Vietnam, Indonesia, Brazil, China, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
• Traditional crop varieties, poor processing techniques, and inadequate post-harvest handling result in reduced quality and shelf life of spices.
• Limited mechanization increases production costs and lowers efficiency.

Measures to Expand Market Share:
India should aim to increase its share of value-added spices to 70%.

• Agro-climatic Diversity: India’s 15 agro-climatic zones support the cultivation of diverse spice varieties. Developing high-yielding, climate-resistant varieties can help boost production and enhance exports.

Government Initiatives to Promote Spice Production & Exports

• Spices Board of India (SBI): Established under the Spices Board Act 1986, it functions under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The SBI is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala, and promotes 52 spice varieties, ensures quality control, supports research, and connects Indian exporters to global markets.
• National Sustainable Spice Program (NSSP): This initiative, led by the SBI and WSO, brings together stakeholders to address sustainability in India’s spice industry.
• Spices Parks: The SBI has set up eight spice-specific parks across India to support farmers in post-harvest handling, value addition, and ensuring better pricing for their produce.
• Spice Complex in Sikkim: This project is aimed at enhancing spice processing and value addition in the Northeastern region of India.

Drishti Mains Question:
What are the key challenges faced by India’s spice industry in terms of competition, quality control, and processing? Suggest measures to address these issues.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs):
Prelims:
Q. The staple commodities exported by the English East India Company from Bengal in the mid-18th century were: (2018)
(a) Raw cotton, oil-seeds, and opium
(b) Sugar, salt, zinc, and lead
(c) Copper, silver, gold, spices, and tea
(d) Cotton, silk, saltpetre, and opium
Ans: (d)

Q. In the production of saffron, which part of the plant is used? (2009)
(a) Leaf
(b) Petal
(c) Sepal
(d) Stigma
Ans: (d)
Saffron is one of the most expensive spices globally, made from the stigma of the saffron crocus flower. The stigma, part of the female reproductive system of the flower, plays a crucial role in pollination. Therefore, the correct answer is (d).

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Boosting R&D for India's Growth

Boosting R&D for India's Growth

For Prelims: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), Global Innovation Index 2024, Deep-tech Startups, Quantum Computing, Semiconductors, Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF), DRDO, ISRO, BARC.

For Mains: Challenges in India's R&D ecosystem and measures to address them.

Why in the News?

India is the second-largest producer of STEM graduates after China. However, despite this achievement, India ranks 39th on the Global Innovation Index 2024, far behind China (11th), highlighting the country's insufficient Research and Development (R&D) funding.

Key Highlights of India’s R&D Ecosystem

• R&D Funding Status: India allocated only 0.65% of its GDP to R&D in 2022, compared to China’s 2.43% and Brazil’s 1.15%.
• Need to Prioritize R&D:
  • Economic Growth: R&D is vital for India to move beyond its lower-middle-income status and realize its full productivity potential.
  • Industrial Development: Sectors like pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and automotive require technological advancements to stay competitive with developed and emerging economies.
  • Deep-tech Startups: R&D is essential for startups in fields like quantum computing, biotechnology, robotics, and nanotechnology.
  • Labor-Intensive Sectors: As labor costs rise, innovation such as automation, AI integration, and digital tools becomes necessary to enhance productivity and global competitiveness.

Global R&D Scenario:

• South Korea: In 1970, South Korea had a low income but increased its R&D spending from 0.4% to 2.5% of GDP by 1990, driving its rapid growth.
• China: R&D spending grew from 0.6% of GDP in the late 1990s to 2.4% today, paralleling the country's remarkable growth years.

Challenges in India’s R&D Ecosystem

• Low Investment: India's R&D spending is significantly lower than that of advanced economies like the US (3.46%), Japan (3.30%), Israel (5.56%), and South Korea (4.93%).
• Government-Centric R&D: Indian R&D still depends heavily on government funding and institutions. In 2020-21, the private sector contributed just 36.4% of total R&D funding.
• Weak Academia-Industry Link: Indian research institutions and industries work in silos, limiting innovation and interdisciplinary research. Unlike Stanford’s role in Silicon Valley, India lacks such collaborative models.
• Lack of Diversification: R&D efforts in India have traditionally focused on defense and space sectors, neglecting industrial R&D. For example, while missiles (Agni, BrahMos) have received significant attention, semiconductors remain underfunded.
• Preference for Imported Technology: Indian industries tend to favor importing technology, being risk-averse, while startups focus on IT and e-commerce instead of deep-tech innovation.
• Hurdles in Technology Transfer: Research by organizations like DRDO, ISRO, and BARC often does not translate into commercial products due to bureaucratic obstacles.

India’s R&D Initiatives

• Vigyan Dhara Scheme
• Rashtriya Vigyan Puraskar (RVP)
• Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy 2020
• VAIBHAV Fellowship

Reforms to Strengthen India’s R&D Ecosystem

• Increase R&D Investment: India should raise its R&D spending over the next decade, with a larger portion coming from the private sector.
• Leverage Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF): Encourage private sector and philanthropic investment in R&D.
• Innovation Fund: The Union Budget 2025–26 proposes an innovation fund of Rs 1 lakh crore to support deep-tech R&D, which should be disbursed within 3–5 years.
• University-Led Research Model: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) should lead upstream research and help industries commercialize technologies.
• Efficient Project Management: The ANRF can adopt the model of the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), employing efficient project management and transparent funding.
• Encourage Risk-Taking: Early-stage research often involves open-ended exploration, and while it may not always succeed, it is essential for future breakthroughs. The government should track such projects while allowing for some risk-taking.

Conclusion
India's economic future depends on a robust R&D ecosystem, industry-academia collaboration, and policy reforms. By boosting funding, fostering innovation in universities, and supporting risk-taking, India can escape the middle-income trap and emerge as a global leader in science and technology, driving economic growth and technological self-reliance.

Drishti Mains Question:
Analyze the challenges in India’s R&D ecosystem and suggest measures to enhance innovation-led growth.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ):
Prelims:
Q. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the National Innovation Foundation-India (NIF)? (2015)

• NIF is an autonomous body of the Department of Science and Technology under the Central Government.
• NIF is an initiative to strengthen highly advanced scientific research in India’s premier scientific institutions in collaboration with foreign scientific institutions.
  Select the correct answer using the code given below:
  (a) 1 only
  (b) 2 only
  (c) Both 1 and 2
  (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Ans: (a)

Mains:
Q. Discuss the growth and development of nuclear science and technology in India. What are the advantages of the fast breeder reactor program in India? (2017)

Q. Scientific research in Indian universities is declining because a career in science is not as attractive as business professions, engineering, or administration, and universities are becoming consumer-oriented. Critically comment. (2014)

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