Crop Contingency Plan for Kashmir

Crop Contingency Plan for Kashmir

The Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) has developed a Crop Contingency Plan to address the anticipated drought-like conditions in Kashmir, caused by a predicted 80% rainfall deficit in winter 2024.

Key Aspects of the Crop Contingency Plan:

• Alternative Crop Promotion: To reduce reliance on water-intensive rice, SKUAST is promoting drought-resistant maize hybrids (SMC-8, SMH-5) and pulses, which require less water. The plan also recommends heat-tolerant crops like cowpea, capable of withstanding dry conditions.
• Water Conservation Methods:
  • Mulching: Applying organic materials to cover the topsoil, helping retain moisture and enhance soil health.
  • Micro-Irrigation: Advocating for the use of drip irrigation and mist sprayers to optimize water usage. Additionally, micro-sprinkler systems and organic soil amendments are suggested to support vegetable farming.
  • Anti-Transpirant Agents: Recommending the application of chemicals to reduce water loss from plants through transpiration.
• Resilient Farming Techniques: Suggesting the use of growth regulator sprays to delay early blooming and anti-transpirants for fruit crops to conserve moisture.
• Pest Management: The increasing temperatures have led to a rise in pests such as aphids and leaf miner blotch. SKUAST is providing advisories on chemical pest control measures to mitigate this threat.

Wallace Line

Wallace Line

Why is it in the News?

In the 19th century, Alfred Wallace noticed a distinct change in the species composition between Asia and Australia. This observation later led to the identification of the Wallace Line.

What is the Wallace Line?

• About: The Wallace Line is an imaginary boundary that separates the distinct faunal regions of Asia and Australia. It represents a significant biogeographical division with noticeable differences in species on either side.
• Geographical Location: The line runs through the Makassar Strait, which lies between the eastern coast of Borneo and the western coast of Sulawesi. It also extends between Bali and Lombok, separating the Sunda and Sahul continental shelves.

Species Distribution:

• West of the Wallace Line (including Bali, Borneo, Java, and mainland Asia): The fauna here consists of species such as monkeys, apes, rhinos, squirrels, tigers, and hornbills, which are typical of the Asian ecosystem.
• East of the Wallace Line (including Lombok, Sulawesi, Timor, and Australia): The fauna includes species like tree kangaroos, cockatoos, and honeyeaters, characteristic of the Australian ecosystem.

Wallacea Region:

• This region, located between the Wallace Line and the Weber Line (another faunal boundary to the east), includes islands like Sulawesi, Flores, Lombok, and Timor. These isolated Wallacean islands have lower biodiversity compared to the nearby continents but are home to unique species such as the Komodo dragon, babirusa, and giant bees.
• Sulawesi is notable for having both Asian species, such as tarsiers and anoas, as well as Australian marsupials like the dwarf cuscus.

Reason for Formation:

• Continental Drift: About 85 million years ago, Australia separated from Antarctica and moved northward, isolating species and encouraging independent evolution.
• Deep Oceanic Barriers: The Wallace Line aligns with deep waters like the Makassar Strait, which remained submerged during ice ages, preventing the movement of species between Asia and Australia.
• Geological Climate Change: Species from both Asia and Australia, adapted to their respective climates, found it difficult to migrate across the Wallace Line.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum

 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum

Why is it in the News?

India hosted the 12th Regional 3R and Circular Economy Forum in Asia and the Pacific in Jaipur, Rajasthan, focusing on sustainable waste management and promoting a circular economy.

A circular economy emphasizes the use of durable, reusable, and recyclable products, ensuring materials are continuously repurposed, remanufactured, or used for multiple purposes.

Key Highlights of the 12th Regional Forum Meeting:

• About the Forum: The forum serves as a regional platform promoting the 3R (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle) principles and circular economy practices across the Asia-Pacific region.
• Stakeholder Involvement: It brings together policymakers, industry leaders, researchers, and partners to advance strategies for resource efficiency.
• Historical Context: Launched in 2009, the forum aims to promote the 3R principles and resource efficiency. The Hanoi 3R Declaration (2013-2023) established 33 voluntary goals for a resource-efficient and circular economy.
• Theme: "Realizing Circular Societies Towards Achieving SDGs and Carbon Neutrality in Asia-Pacific."
• Objectives:
  • Develop a voluntary, non-binding “3R and Circular Economy Declaration (2025-2034)” to promote a resource-efficient, low-carbon, and resilient Asia-Pacific.
  • Establish a Circular Economy Alliance Network (CEAN) for achieving Zero Waste Cities and Societies.
  • Discuss circular economy strategies to meet net-zero targets and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Key Announcements:

SC Upholds Disability Rights as Fundamental

SC Upholds Disability Rights as Fundamental

For Mains: Disability Rights in India, Challenges, Measures to Empower Persons with Disabilities in India

Why is it in the News?
The Supreme Court has affirmed that visually impaired candidates are eligible to participate in judicial service exams. This ruling emphasizes that the right to be free from disability-based discrimination under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Act, 2016, should be considered a fundamental right.

What is the SC Ruling on Disability Rights in Judicial Services?

• Striking Down Discriminatory Provisions: The Court’s ruling was made while addressing petitions related to the Madhya Pradesh Judicial Service Examination Rules, 1994, and Rajasthan Judicial Service Rules, 2010. It aligned these rules with the RPwD Act.
• Rule 6A of MP Judicial Service Rules, 1994: The Court struck down this rule, which had excluded visually impaired candidates despite their educational qualifications.
• Recognition of Disability Rights: The judgment clarified that excluding visually impaired candidates from judicial services violates the constitutional rights to equality (Article 14) and non-discrimination (Article 15).
• Affirmative Action: The Court emphasized the need for a rights-based approach, ensuring equal access to employment for persons with disabilities. It reinforced the provision of reasonable accommodations, citing the Indra Sawhney judgment, which advocates separate cut-offs for visually impaired candidates.
• Relaxations in Eligibility: The ruling also allowed flexibility in eligibility criteria, similar to those for SC/ST candidates, when an adequate number of PwD candidates are unavailable.

Landmark Cases Related to PwDs

• Suchita Srivastava v. Chandigarh Administration (2009): The Supreme Court upheld the reproductive rights of a woman with intellectual disabilities.
• Govt. of India v. Ravi Prakash Gupta (2010): The Court ruled that rigid job criteria cannot be used to deny reservations to visually impaired candidates, ensuring fair appointments.
• Union of India v. National Federation of the Blind (2013): Clarified that 3% reservation applies to total cadre strength, not just identified posts.
• Deaf Employees Welfare Association v. UoI (2013): Directed the equal provision of transport allowances for hearing-impaired government employees, ensuring non-discrimination.
• Om Rathod vs Director General of Health Services (2024): The Supreme Court ruled that functional assessment of a candidate’s abilities should take precedence over rigid eligibility criteria.

Status of PwDs in India

• Demographics: According to the 2011 Census, persons with disabilities make up 2.21% (2.68 crore) of India’s population.
• Types of Disabilities: The RPwD Act, 2016, recognizes 21 types of disabilities, including visual and hearing impairments, cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and multiple disabilities.
• Constitutional Provisions for PwDs:
  • Fundamental Rights: Article 14, Article 19, and Article 21.
  • DPSP: Article 41, which advocates for public assistance in cases of disability.
  • Responsibilities of Panchayats and Municipalities:
    • 11th Schedule: Focuses on social welfare, including that of persons with disabilities.
    • 12th Schedule: Ensures the protection of weaker sections, including PwDs.

Laws Related to Disability Rights

Enhancing India's Agricultural Exports

Enhancing India's Agricultural Exports

For Prelims: Food Inflation, Pulses, Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS), Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), MSP, WTO, Development Box, FTAs, Agricultural Export Policy (AEP), 2018.
For Mains: Trends in India's agricultural exports, associated challenges, and the way forward.

Why is it in the news?
India's agricultural exports grew by 6.5%, reaching USD 37.5 billion from April to December 2024. However, imports rose by 18.7% to USD 29.3 billion, reducing the agricultural trade surplus.

Trends in India’s Agricultural Exports

• Shift in Cotton Trade: India, once the world’s second-largest exporter of cotton, is now a net importer. Cotton exports fell from USD 4.3 billion in 2011-12 to USD 1.1 billion in 2023-24.
• Shrinking Agricultural Trade Surplus: India’s agricultural trade surplus peaked at USD 27.7 billion in 2013-14 but dropped to USD 16 billion in 2023-24.
• Impact of Global Commodity Prices: Falling global food prices between 2013-14 and 2019-20 eroded India’s export competitiveness. However, post-COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine war, prices surged, boosting exports to USD 53.2 billion in 2022-23.

Major Export Commodities:

• Marine Products: As India’s top agricultural export, marine product exports saw a decline in 2023-24, with the downward trend continuing into 2024-25.
• Sugar & Wheat: Exports fell due to government restrictions aimed at controlling domestic food inflation.
• Rice: Non-basmati rice exports remained strong despite restrictions on white rice and export duties on parboiled rice.
• Cash Crops: Exports of coffee and tobacco surged due to adverse weather in key producing countries like Brazil, Vietnam, and Zimbabwe.
• Other Exports: India is the leading global exporter of chillies, mint products, cumin, turmeric, coriander, fennel, etc.

Major Import Commodities:

• Edible Oil: Imports are projected to be the highest in 2024-25, primarily due to price hikes triggered by the Russia-Ukraine war.
• Pulses: Imports averaged USD 1.7 billion from 2018-2023, but are expected to exceed USD 5 billion in 2024-25 due to low domestic production in 2023-24.

Key Export Destinations:

• Asia: In 2023, India exported USD 48 billion worth of agricultural products, with the Global South (75%) and Asia (58%) being key markets.
• China & UAE: Both imported USD 3 billion each of Indian agricultural products, while Vietnam imported USD 2.6 billion.
• Africa & US: Africa accounted for 15% of India’s agricultural exports, while the US accounted for 13.4%, primarily consisting of rice, sesame seeds, and fresh fruits.
• Europe: Europe made up 12.6%, with major exports including tobacco, fresh fruits, and ornamental plants.

Key Import Sources:

• Global South: Brazil, China, Mexico, Argentina, and Indonesia are major suppliers, contributing 48% of India’s agricultural imports.
• Developed Economies: The US, Netherlands, and Germany are key suppliers.

Challenges in India’s Agricultural Exports

• Non-Tariff Barriers (NTBs): Developed countries impose stringent Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), creating hurdles for Indian agricultural exports. For example, bans on basmati rice and tea exports to the EU due to pesticide contamination and Japan’s restrictions on cut flower imports due to pest concerns.
• Unfair Level Playing Field: Developed nations provide heavy farm subsidies to their farmers, creating a disadvantage for Indian farmers. The US provides USD 61,286 per farmer annually, while India allocates only USD 282.
• Challenges to MSP Policy: Developed countries like the US, Canada, and Australia challenge India’s Minimum Support Price (MSP) at the WTO, arguing it exceeds the 10% limit under the Agreement on Agriculture (AoA).
• FTAs and Competition: Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with countries like Singapore, ASEAN, and Japan lower tariffs on imported agricultural products, impacting Indian farmers by limiting the adoption of new technologies and infrastructure investment.
• Frequent Export Restrictions: Export bans, such as those on onions, disrupt supply chains, erode India’s reliability as a trading partner, and discourage foreign investment in post-harvest management and food processing.

Government Initiatives to Boost Agricultural Exports

India’s Path to Becoming a High-Income Economy

 India’s Path to Becoming a High-Income Economy

For Mains: India's transition to a high-income economy, Middle-income trap and its implications for India

Why is this important?
A World Bank report titled “Becoming a High-Income Economy in a Generation” emphasizes that India must achieve an average annual growth rate of 7.8% for the next 22 years to reach high-income country status by 2047. The report underscores that substantial reforms and their effective execution will be vital to meeting this ambitious goal.

Key Highlights of the Report on Becoming a High-Income Economy

• India’s Economic Growth: India’s share in the global economy has increased from 1.6% in 2000 to 3.4% in 2023, positioning it as the 5th largest economy worldwide. Over the two decades before the pandemic, India’s economy grew at an average annual rate of 6.7%, second only to China among major economies.
• 2047 High-Income Economy Goal: India aims to become a high-income country by 2047. To do so, its Gross National Income (GNI) per capita must grow nearly eightfold from USD 2,540 in 2023 (currently categorized as lower-middle-income). In 2023, the World Bank categorized countries with a GNI per capita above USD 14,005 as high income, and those between USD 4,516 and USD 14,005 as upper-middle income.
• Growth Scenarios: The report presents three possible growth trajectories for India:
  1. Slow Reforms: Real GDP growth below 6%, keeping India in the upper-middle-income category without reaching high-income status.
  2. Business as Usual: Real GDP growth at 6.60%, resulting in moderate progress but no high-income status.
  3. Accelerated Reforms: Real GDP growth at 7.80%, enabling India to achieve high-income status by 2047.
     However, few countries have managed to transition to high-income status in just 20 years, with examples such as Chile, Romania, and Poland, while others like Brazil, Mexico, and Turkey remain stuck in the upper-middle-income bracket, making this goal both ambitious and attainable.

Challenges in Achieving High-Income Status

• Declining Investment Rate: The investment-to-GDP ratio peaked at 35.8% in 2008 but fell to 27.5% in 2024.
• Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Challenges: India’s FDI-to-GDP ratio is just 1.6%, significantly lower than Vietnam (5%) and China (3.1%).
• Labor Force Participation: India’s labor force participation rate (LFPR) is 55% in 2023, lower than other emerging economies (China’s LFPR is 65.8% in 2023).
• Female Labor Force Participation: Female labor force participation (FLFP) has improved to 41.7% in 2023-24, but global benchmarks show over 50%.
• Job Creation Issues: 45% of India’s workforce remains in agriculture, a sector marked by low productivity and disguised unemployment. Conversely, only 11% of India’s workforce is in manufacturing, and 7% works in modern market services—both far below East Asian economies. In 2023-24, 73% of India’s workforce holds informal jobs, compared to just 32.7% in other emerging economies.
• Trade Openness Decline: India’s exports and imports accounted for 46% of GDP in 2023, down from 56% in 2012.
• Low Global Value Chain (GVC) Participation: While India has made strides in mobile phone exports, high tariffs and non-tariff barriers limit broader trade expansion. India’s services sector (IT & BPO) is strong, but manufacturing is lagging.

Reforms Needed for Achieving High-Income Status

• Boost Investment: Raise the investment rate from 33.5% to 40% of GDP by 2035. Strengthen financial regulations to facilitate better credit flow.
• Improve Credit Access & Debt Resolution: Enhance Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) access to formal credit and strengthen bankruptcy and bad debt recovery mechanisms.
• Create More & Better Jobs: Increase labor force participation rates, approaching levels seen in economies like Vietnam (73%) and the Philippines (60%). Encourage private sector investment in job-rich sectors such as agro-processing, hospitality, transportation, and the care economy. Expand the skilled workforce and improve access to finance while strengthening modern manufacturing and high-value services.
• Boost Global Trade Competitiveness: Invest in export-oriented sectors and integrate into Global Value Chains (GVCs).
• Formalize the Workforce: Simplify labor laws to reduce informal employment and improve wage conditions.
• Enhance Human Capital & Innovation: Improve secondary school enrollment and vocational training to align with industry needs. Increase R&D investments in key sectors like Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology, and clean energy.

Middle-Income Trap

• About the Middle-Income Trap: This concept, coined by the World Bank in 2007, describes economies that experience rapid growth but fail to transition to high-income status. Countries in the middle-income trap typically have a GNI per capita between USD 1,000 and USD 12,000 (2011 prices).
• Challenges in the Trap: These economies face issues like rising labor costs, weak innovation, income inequality, demographic challenges, and an over-reliance on specific industries.
• India’s Risk of Falling into the Trap: India is one of the most unequal countries, with the top 10% of the population holding 57% of the national income, while the bottom 50% share just 13%. High GST and corporate tax cuts favor the wealthy, further widening this gap. Stagnant wages, inflation, high household debt, and low savings make India vulnerable to the middle-income trap.

Drishti Mains Question:

Oscars Awards 2025

Oscars Awards 2025

The 97th Academy Awards (Oscars) took place in Los Angeles. The film Anora, directed by Sean Baker, won the most awards, taking home five Oscars, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing.

About the Oscars
The Academy Awards, established in 1929, are prestigious annual honors that recognize excellence in the global film industry.
Presented by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), an organization with over 9,000 members, the ceremony is traditionally held in late February or early March.

India's Exploration of Critical Minerals

India's Exploration of Critical Minerals

Tags: Rapid Fire, CA, Quick Facts for Prelims, GS Paper - 1, Mineral & Energy Resources, GS Paper - 2, Government Policies & Interventions, GS Paper - 3
Source: IE

India is strengthening its global partnerships across Africa, South America, and Australia to secure critical minerals.

The government has allocated Rs 4,000 crore for both domestic and international mineral exploration as part of the National Critical Minerals Mission.

Key Highlights:

• India has secured 9,000 sq km in Zambia for copper-cobalt exploration, led by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), with mining rights anticipated within 2-3 years.
• Zambia is ranked 7th in copper production and 14th in cobalt production (2023), with existing investments from Canada and China.
• India is engaging with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, Mozambique, and Rwanda to acquire critical mineral assets.
• India is already active in South America (Argentina, Chile) and Australia, with Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL) exploring lithium and cobalt assets.
• Critical minerals are essential to a country’s economy and national security.

Growth of India’s Private Space Industry

 Science & Technology

Growth of India’s Private Space Industry

For Prelims: Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe), Venture Capital, POEM

For Mains: India’s space startups, Space Sector Reforms of 2020, and their impact.

Why in the News?
The rise of private participation in India’s space sector, catalyzed by the Space Sector Reforms of 2020, has spurred innovation and investment, opening the industry to private players. ISRO's ongoing achievements, together with the rise of India's space tech startups, are driving significant advancements in space technology, exploration, and commercialization.

How Has India’s Private Space Industry Developed?

Private Participation:
India is home to over 200 active space startups, leveraging ISRO's facilities for testing, launch, and ground station services.
The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has played a key role in supporting these startups with regulatory and financial assistance, including a ₹1,000 crore Venture Capital Fund.
ISRO’s commercial arm, Antrix Corporation, has been instrumental in facilitating satellite launches and technology transfers to private players.
The PSLV Orbital Experimental Module (POEM) program has seen a growing number of startup payloads, with launches increasing from 6 in 2022 to 24 in 2024.

Private Investment:
Private funding is playing an increasingly important role in driving the space economy.
The MountTech Growth Fund – Kavachh (MGF-Kavachh) has bolstered domestic investments through venture capital, with startups securing ₹2,500 crore in the last three years.
MGF-Kavachh is a SEBI-registered Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) under Category II.

Advancements by Indian Startups:

• GalaxEye has pioneered the world’s first fusion of Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with optical imagery, enabling faster data compression.
• Pixxel is working on the world’s most advanced hyperspectral satellite constellations, known as Firefly.
• InspeCity (IIT Bombay) is focusing on in-orbit satellite docking for repair and refueling.
• Skyroot and Agnikul are developing cost-effective private launch vehicles for satellite deployment.

Space Sector Reforms 2020

Giloy

 Giloy

Research on Giloy (Tinospora cordifolia) has increased by 376.5% over the past decade (from 243 studies in 2014 to 913 in 2024), indicating growing interest in its medicinal properties.

About Giloy:
Giloy, also known as Guduchi or Amrita, is a climbing shrub from the Menispermaceae family. It has been used in traditional Ayush systems for centuries due to its immune-boosting and adaptogenic qualities.
Native to India, it is also found in China, and tropical regions of Australia and Africa. Giloy thrives in warm climates and medium-black or red soil.

Traditionally, it is used to treat various ailments, including fever, diabetes, infections, gout, jaundice, asthma, diarrhea, and skin diseases.
The Covid-19 pandemic led to an increased focus on natural immunity enhancers, further accelerating research into Giloy’s potential.

Clinical studies suggest Giloy’s potential in:

129th Birth Anniversary of Morarji Desai

129th Birth Anniversary of Morarji Desai

On the occasion of Morarji Desai's 129th birth anniversary, the Lok Sabha Speaker paid tribute to the former Prime Minister of India.

About Morarji Desai:
Born on February 29, 1896, Morarji Desai served as the 4th Prime Minister of India from 1977 to 1979 during the 6th Lok Sabha.

Role in the Freedom Struggle:
Desai resigned from his position as Deputy Collector in 1930 after 12 years of service under the British to join India's independence movement. He was detained during the Individual Satyagraha in 1941 and arrested during the Quit India Movement in 1942.

Post-Independence Career:

Linguistic Diversity and Education

Linguistic Diversity and Education

Why in News?

A recent report by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), titled "Languages Matter: Global Guidance on Multilingual Education," was released on the 25th anniversary of International Mother Language Day. The report emphasizes how language barriers impact global educational outcomes.

Key Highlights from the UNESCO Report on Language:

• Language Barriers in Education: Around 40% of the global population lacks access to education in a language they can understand. In low- and middle-income countries, this figure rises to 90%, affecting over 250 million learners.
• Linguistic Diversity Due to Migration: Migration has led to increased linguistic diversity, with over 31 million displaced youths facing educational challenges due to language barriers.
• Colonial Legacy: Many post-colonial nations still use non-native languages as the primary medium of instruction. Local languages are often undervalued in formal education, leaving native speakers at a disadvantage.
• Immigration and Education: Immigration has created linguistically diverse classrooms, particularly in high-income countries, which face challenges in providing language acquisition support, inclusive curricula, and fair assessments.
• Policy Variations: Countries vary in their policy responses, with some promoting bilingual education while others favor quick immersion in the dominant language.
• Challenges to Multilingual Education: Despite growing awareness, issues such as limited teacher capacity, lack of resources, and community opposition hinder the implementation of multilingual education.
• Policy Recommendations: The report advocates for context-specific language policies and curriculum adjustments, including support for teacher training, multilingual resources, and inclusive learning environments. It also emphasizes fostering inclusion through strong school leadership and community collaboration.

Note:
International Mother Language Day, proposed by Bangladesh and approved at the 1999 UNESCO General Conference, has been observed globally on 21st February since 2000. The day honors Bangladesh’s struggle to protect its mother language, Bangla. UNESCO advocates for the promotion of cultural and linguistic diversity as a means to foster sustainability, tolerance, respect, and peace.

How Has India’s Linguistic Landscape Evolved?

Protein Deficiency in Rual India

Protein Deficiency in Rual India

For Prelims: Malnutrition, Poverty, Calorific Deficiency, Hidden Hunger, Micronutrient Deficiency
For Mains: Issues Associated with Malnutrition in India, Current Government Initiatives to Tackle Malnutrition.

Why in News?

A recent study by the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) highlighted that despite the availability and affordability of protein-rich foods, rural India suffers from "hidden hunger."

Note:
Hidden Hunger: This term refers to a type of malnutrition where people consume adequate calories but lack essential nutrients, especially proteins and other micronutrients.
International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT):

• Established: 1972
• Status: Recognized as a "specified International Organisation" by the Government of India under Section 3 of the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act, 1947.
• Vision: To achieve prosperity, food security, and resilience in dryland tropics.
• Mission: To alleviate poverty, hunger, malnutrition, and environmental degradation in dryland regions.

Key Findings of the ICRISAT Study on Hidden Hunger:

NBWL and Wildlife Conservation

Biodiversity & Environment

NBWL and Wildlife Conservation

For Prelims: National Board for Wildlife (NBWL), Gir National Park, Great Indian Bustard, Gharial, Geospatial Mapping, Project Cheetah, Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Banni Grasslands, Project Lion, Maldhari Community, Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).
For Mains: Recent initiatives and the role of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) in wildlife conservation.

Why in News?

The Prime Minister presided over the 7th meeting of the National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) at Gir National Park (Junagadh, Gujarat) on World Wildlife Day (3rd March) and unveiled several initiatives to enhance wildlife conservation efforts.

What is World Wildlife Day?

Strengthening Tribunals in India

Strengthening Tribunals in India

For Prelims: Tribunals, Supreme Court, High Court, Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT), Judge Advocate General.
For Mains: Overview of Tribunals, Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021, Challenges associated with Tribunals.

Why in News?

The Supreme Court (SC) is reviewing critical issues affecting tribunals, including assessing the constitutional validity of the Tribunal Reforms Act, 2021. The court emphasized the need to strengthen tribunals for efficient adjudication and to maintain public trust in the judicial process.

What is the Tribunals Reforms Act, 2021?

• Objective: The Act was introduced to streamline tribunal operations by dissolving certain appellate tribunals and transferring their functions to existing judicial bodies like the High Courts.
• Context: The Act was introduced following the Supreme Court's decision in Madras Bar Association vs. Union of India (2021), which struck down parts of the Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021.

Key Provisions:

• Abolition of Tribunals: The Act dissolves various appellate tribunals, transferring their responsibilities to High Courts and other judicial entities.
• Search-cum-Selection Committee: This committee has been set up to recommend the appointment of tribunal chairpersons and members.
• For Central Tribunals:
  • Chairperson: Chief Justice of India (CJI) or a Supreme Court judge nominated by the CJI.
  • Two Secretaries appointed by the Central Government.
  • Sitting or outgoing Chairperson of the tribunal, or a retired Supreme Court judge/retired High Court Chief Justice.
  • Non-voting member: Secretary of the relevant Union Ministry.
• For State Administrative Tribunals:
  • Chairperson: Chief Justice of the respective High Court.
  • Chief Secretary of the State Government.
  • Chairman of the State Public Service Commission.
  • Sitting or outgoing Chairperson of the Tribunal or a retired High Court Judge.
• Tenure and Age Limits: Chairpersons and members serve for a tenure of 4 years. The minimum age is 50 years, and the maximum is 67 years for members and 70 years for chairpersons.
• Removal of Tribunal Members: The Central Government, on the recommendation of the Search-cum-Selection Committee, can remove a Chairperson or member.

What are Tribunals?

• Definition: A tribunal is a quasi-judicial body that resolves disputes related to administration, taxation, environment, securities, etc.
• Functions: Tribunals adjudicate disputes, determine rights, make administrative decisions, and review administrative rulings.
• Constitutional Provisions: Tribunals were incorporated into the Indian Constitution through the 42nd Amendment Act, 1976.
  • Article 323-A deals with Administrative Tribunals for public service matters.
  • Article 323-B provides for tribunals in areas such as taxation, foreign exchange, labor disputes, elections, and food security.

Challenges Associated with Tribunals:

• Staff Shortages: The absence of presiding officers, judicial, and technical members has increased case pendency and reduced tribunal effectiveness, particularly in Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) cases.
• Infrastructure Deficiencies: Many tribunals, including the National Green Tribunal (NGT), suffer from inadequate facilities like courtrooms, digital case management, and technical support, affecting their efficiency. Limited reach in urban areas also hinders access to justice, particularly for marginalized communities.
• Procedural Inefficiencies: Frequent adjournments, missed deadlines, and weak enforcement reduce tribunal efficiency, causing litigants to escalate cases to higher courts. For example, 67% of insolvency cases at the NCLT and NCLAT exceed the 330-day deadline under IBC.
• Political and Administrative Indifference: Limited commitment from the government, budget constraints, and cost-cutting measures have hindered tribunal effectiveness.

Way Forward:

• Accelerated Appointments: Prompt appointments of judicial and technical members are crucial for tribunal efficiency. Structured training programs should be introduced to enhance expertise and decision-making.
• Investment in Technology: Enhancing tribunal efficiency through electronic case management, digitization, and e-court integration will streamline case tracking, reduce delays, and improve accessibility.
• Procedural and Administrative Reforms: Tribunals must limit adjournments, impose penalties for delays, and encourage pre-litigation mediation to address case backlogs. Strengthening the registry and administrative staff will help in better scheduling and case management.
• Autonomy and Accountability: Tribunals should be granted more autonomy to function independently. Robust oversight mechanisms should be established to ensure transparency, minimize government interference, and allocate sufficient resources.

Drishti Mains Question:
Discuss the importance of tribunals in the Indian judicial system. Additionally, assess the impact of tribunalisation on the traditional judiciary.

UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ):
Prelims:
Q. The National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 was enacted in accordance with which of the following provisions of the Constitution of India? (2012)

1. Right to healthy environment, construed as a part of the Right to life under Article 21.
2. Provision of grants for raising the level of administration in Scheduled Areas for the welfare of Scheduled Tribes under Article 275(1).
3. Powers and functions of Gram Sabha as mentioned under Article 243(A).
   Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
   (a) 1 only
   (b) 2 and 3 only
   (c) 1 and 3 only
   (d) 1, 2, and 3

Ans: (a)

Mains:
Q. How far do you agree with the view that tribunals curtail the jurisdiction of ordinary courts? Discuss the constitutional validity and competency of tribunals in India. (2018)

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Rising Obesity Burden in India

Rising Obesity Burden in India

For Prelims: World Health Organization (WHO), Body Mass Index (BMI), National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-5, Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF), Fit India Movement, CSR.
For Mains: Increasing obesity rates, causes, related concerns, and solutions.

Why in News?

The Prime Minister expressed concern over the growing obesity rates, particularly among children, and urged citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles.

What is Obesity?

• Definition: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as excessive fat accumulation that poses health risks, with a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 25 or higher categorized as overweight and 30 or above as obese.
• BMI: A simple method used to assess whether an individual has a healthy weight, calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared (kg/m²).

Obesity Statistics:

• India:
  • According to the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) (2019-21), 24% of Indian women and 22.9% of Indian men are overweight or obese.
  • The percentage of overweight children under five years increased to 3.4% from 2.1% in NFHS-4 (2015-16).
  • Obesity and overweight rates vary significantly across states, genders, and urban-rural divides, ranging from 8% to 50%.
• Global:
  • Between 1990 and 2022, obesity among children and adolescents (5-19 years) rose from 2% to 8%, a fourfold increase.
  • Obesity in adults (18+) more than doubled from 7% to 16%.

Associated Health Risks:
Obesity significantly raises the risk of various non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including:

• Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs): Indians suffer from heart attacks and hypertension at least 10 years earlier than people in other countries.
• Diabetes: India has the highest number of diabetes cases (101 million), with obesity contributing to Type 2 diabetes through insulin resistance.
• Cancer: Obesity is linked to cancer, with the number of cancer cases in India expected to rise from 14.6 lakh in 2022 to 15.7 lakh by 2025.
• Joint Disorders: Excess weight puts pressure on joints, increasing the risk of conditions like knee osteoarthritis and back pain.
• Psychosocial Impact: Stigma, bullying, and low self-esteem lead to depression, anxiety, and reduced school performance, particularly among children.
• Economic Impact: In 2019, obesity cost India USD 28.95 billion (Rs 1,800 per capita), equivalent to 1.02% of GDP. By 2030, the obesity-related economic burden could rise to Rs 4,700 per capita or 1.57% of GDP. The Economic Survey 2024-25 recognizes obesity as a significant health challenge and suggests higher taxes on ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

What are the Causes of Obesity?

• Unhealthy Diets: Increased consumption of high-fat, salt, and sugar (HFSS) foods and UPFs high in unhealthy fats.
• Low Physical Activity: Sedentary lifestyles, with office jobs and excessive screen time, contribute to a lack of physical activity, leaving nearly half of Indians insufficiently active.
• Poor Urban Infrastructure: A lack of safe cycling lanes, decreasing green spaces, and traffic congestion discourage outdoor exercise and active commuting.
• Air Pollution: Pollution causes inflammation, increases cardio-metabolic risks, and encourages fat accumulation, while discouraging outdoor activities.
• Socioeconomic Barriers: Public distribution systems mostly offer staple grains (rice and wheat), leading to imbalanced diets. High costs limit access to nutritious foods (fruits, vegetables, pulses) for low-income groups. Over 55% of Indians (78 crore people) cannot afford a healthy diet, and 40% lack essential nutrients.

What are Government Initiatives for Obesity Prevention?

Red Color of Mars A study, based on dat

Red Color of Mars

A study, based on data from multiple space missions and ground-based observations, indicates that the red color of Mars is primarily caused by Ferrihydrite, a water-formed iron oxide, rather than the previously believed Hematite.

Ferrihydrite forms in cool, water-rich conditions, whereas Hematite forms in dry, warm environments. This finding suggests that Mars once had liquid water, which may have supported life. The study also uncovered hydrogen bound to iron-rich minerals, providing further evidence of past interactions with liquid water on the planet.

Mars:

Algal Blooms in the River Thames

 Algal Blooms in the River Thames

Tags: Rapid Fire CA, Quick Facts for Prelims, Miscellaneous
Source: DTE

A recent study indicates that climate change is increasing the risk of algal blooms in the River Thames, England, despite a significant 80% reduction in phosphorus levels over the past four decades.

An algal bloom refers to the rapid overgrowth of microscopic algae or algae-like bacteria in freshwater, saltwater, or brackish environments.

Key Findings:

State of India’s Digital Economy Report 2025

State of India’s Digital Economy Report 2025

The State of India’s Digital Economy (SIDE) Report 2025, published by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER), reveals that although India is the third-largest global economy, it ranks only 28th in terms of digital user spending, pointing to a disparity in per capita digital adoption.

The report uses the Connect-Harness-Innovate-Protect-Sustain (CHIPS) framework to evaluate digitalization, focusing on technological, economic, and societal factors.

Key Findings:

Aditya-L1 Mission Captures Solar Flare

 Aditya-L1 Mission Captures Solar Flare

India's Aditya-L1 mission has successfully captured its first-ever image of a solar flare 'kernel' in the lower solar atmosphere using the Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT) payload.

Solar Observation: SUIT observed an X6.3-class solar flare, one of the most intense solar eruptions, in the Near Ultraviolet (NUV) wavelength range (200-400 nm).
Solar Flares: Solar flares are enormous explosions in the Sun's atmosphere that release energy, light, and high-speed particles into space, often associated with coronal mass ejections (CMEs). These flares are categorized into A, B, C, M, and X classes, with each higher class representing a tenfold increase in energy. X-class flares are the most powerful.

Initiatives in India’s Maritime Sector

 Key Facts for Prelims

Initiatives in India’s Maritime Sector

Why in News?

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways has launched several key initiatives to modernize India’s maritime infrastructure.

What Are the Key Initiatives Taken to Modernize Maritime Infrastructure?

• One Nation-One Port Process (ONOP): This initiative standardizes port operations, minimizing documentation discrepancies. By implementing the ONOP process, the Ministry has reduced container operation documents by 33% and bulk cargo documents by 29%.

• Sagar Ankalan – Logistics Port Performance Index (LPPI) 2023-24: This index assesses port efficiency based on metrics such as turnaround time, berth idle time, and cargo handling performance.

• Bharat Global Ports Consortium: This initiative aims to expand India’s maritime presence by involving key stakeholders in port operations, finance, and infrastructure development. The consortium, comprising India Ports Global Ltd (operations), Sagarmala Development Company Limited (finance), and Indian Port Rail & Ropeway Corporation Limited (infrastructure development), will focus on port expansion, operations, and financing, enhancing India’s position in global trade and logistics.

• MAITRI Platform: The Master Application for International Trade and Regulatory Interface (MAITRI) seeks to digitize trade documentation, reduce processing time, optimize trade flows, and support sustainable development. It facilitates the Virtual Trade Corridor (VTC) between India and the UAE (under IMEC) and plans to expand to BIMSTEC and ASEAN, utilizing AI and Blockchain for greater efficiency and security.

• National Centre of Excellence in Green Port & Shipping (NCoEGPS): This initiative focuses on promoting eco-friendly shipping practices and reducing the carbon footprint. It advocates the use of cleaner fuels and environmentally-friendly port management, aiming to create a sustainable maritime ecosystem in line with global environmental standards.

Initiatives for the Maritime Sector in the Union Budget 2025-26

• Maritime Development Fund (MDF): A Rs 25,000 crore fund dedicated to supporting the maritime sector through equity and debt financing.
• Ship Breaking Credit Note Scheme: This scheme incentivizes ship scrapping by issuing a credit note of 40% of the scrap value, which can be redeemed for purchasing new "Made in India" ships.
• Infrastructure HML (Harmonised Master List): Large ships will be added to the Infrastructure Harmonised Master List (HML), facilitating long-term financing, tax incentives, private investment, and fleet modernization.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year’s Questions (PYQs)

Prelims

Q. Consider the following regarding the Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): (2017)

• The inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy.
• IONS is a voluntary initiative aimed at increasing maritime cooperation among the navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

"Question answer of general knowledge in English" | Geography

• Which country has the longest life expectancy? Hong Kong
• What is the most frequent surname in the United States? Smith
• Who was the Greek god of the Sun in ancient mythology? Apollo
• How many minutes are there in a full week? 10,080
• Aureolin is a shade of which color? Yellow
• How many faces does a dodecahedron have? 12
• What is the 4th letter of the Greek alphabet? Delta
• What company was originally called "Blue Ribbon Sports"? Nike
• What art form is defined as "decorative handwriting or handwritten lettering"? Calligraphy
• Which software company is based in Redmond, Washington? Microsoft
• How many dots are there on a pair of dice? 42
• What does acrophobia refer to? Fear of heights
• December 26 is known by what name in Ireland? Saint Stephen's Day
• Which company manufactured the 3310 phone? Nokia
• Who is the world’s largest retailer? Walmart
• On which day of the week does the Jewish Sabbath begin? Friday
• What do you call a word, phrase, number, or sequence that reads the same backward and forward? Palindrome
• What is the name of the Chinese philosophy that emphasizes living in harmony with nature? Taoism

Geography : 

• Where would you be if standing on the Spanish Steps? Rome
• Which city is referred to as "The Eternal City"? Rome
• In which country can you find Mount Kilimanjaro? Tanzania
• True or false: Halloween began as an ancient Irish festival. True

HeroRATS for Tuberculosis Elimination

 HeroRATS for Tuberculosis Elimination

Why in News?

A Tanzanian non-profit organization is conducting research to train African giant pouched rats, also known as HeroRATS, to detect Tuberculosis (TB). These rats exhibit remarkable accuracy, particularly in resource-poor regions. This research could potentially accelerate TB detection in countries like India.

Key Findings of the HeroRATS Research

• HeroRATS: These rats have an exceptional sense of smell due to their highly sensitive olfactory receptors, enabling them to detect diseases like TB.
• Training Process: HeroRATS are trained to detect TB in sputum samples (thick mucus from the lungs). They can screen 100 samples in just 20 minutes, a stark contrast to the 3–4 days required by traditional methods. The results are then confirmed using Ziehl-Neelsen and fluorescent microscopy.
• Improved Detection Rates: HeroRATS have doubled the detection rate of TB in children compared to conventional testing. They were six times more effective at detecting TB in patients with a low bacterial load compared to those with a higher concentration of bacteria. Traditional microscopy often fails to detect TB in these cases.
• Notable Past Achievement: Magawa, another Tanzanian-born African giant pouched rat, was trained to detect landmines and alert handlers for safe removal.

How HeroRATS Can Aid India’s TB Elimination Efforts

• Potential Benefits for India: HeroRATS can offer fast, cost-effective TB screening, especially for children and smear-negative cases, aiding in early diagnosis and reducing transmission. This could play a significant role in alleviating India’s TB burden.
• Integration into NTEP: Introducing rat-based TB detection into the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) through a phased approach, starting with high-TB burden states, could enhance case detection efforts.
• TB in India: India has the highest TB burden, with two deaths occurring every three minutes from TB. The NTEP, under the National Health Mission, aims to make India TB-free by 2025, ahead of the global target of 2030. From 2015 to 2023, TB incidence declined by 17.7%, while TB-related deaths fell by 21.4%.

Key Facts About Tuberculosis

Unlocking the Secrets of Glaciers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Reading Answers

Glaciers, the majestic sentinels of our planet's frozen realms, hold secrets that span millennia. As powerful agents of change, they sculpt landscapes, influence ecosystems, and serve as indicators of climate change. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of glaciers, unlocking the mysteries surrounding their formation, movement, and impact on our environment. Whether you're a student preparing for exams or a curious explorer eager to expand your horizons, understanding glacier dynamics is essential. Join us as we navigate through the intricate processes that govern these colossal ice masses, equipping you with the knowledge to comprehend reading answers related to this awe-inspiring subject. From the icy depths of the Arctic to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, let’s embark on a journey to demystify glaciers and uncover the crucial role they play in our world today.

Unlocking the Secrets of Glaciers: Your Comprehensive Guide to Understanding Reading Answers

Glaciers, the majestic sentinels of our planet's frozen realms, hold secrets that span millennia. As powerful agents of change, they sculpt landscapes, influence ecosystems, and serve as indicators of climate change. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the fascinating world of glaciers, unlocking the mysteries surrounding their formation, movement, and impact on our environment. Whether you're a student preparing for exams or a curious explorer eager to expand your horizons, understanding glacier dynamics is essential. Join us as we navigate through the intricate processes that govern these colossal ice masses, equipping you with the knowledge to comprehend reading answers related to this awe-inspiring subject. From the icy depths of the Arctic to the towering peaks of the Himalayas, let’s embark on a journey to demystify glaciers and uncover the crucial role they play in our world today.

The Formation and Types of Glaciers

Glaciers are formed through a process that begins with the accumulation of snow over many years. As layers of snow pile up, the weight compresses the lower layers, gradually transforming them into ice. This transformation occurs because the snowflakes recrystallize under pressure, turning into dense, granular ice. Over time, this mass of ice becomes thick enough to flow under its weight, marking the formation of a glacier. The entire process is a testament to the forces of nature at work, requiring specific climatic conditions and significant periods to develop.