Empowering Women PRI Leaders

Empowering Women PRI Leaders

The Ministry of Panchayati Raj has introduced the Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan and Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayats (MWFGP) initiatives to promote gender-sensitive governance at the grassroots level.

Sashakt Panchayat-Netri Abhiyan: This is a nationwide capacity-building program designed to enhance the leadership skills of Women Elected Representatives (WERs) in Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs).
Objective: The initiative aims to strengthen the leadership, decision-making, and active participation of WERs in rural governance.

MWFGP: The goal is to establish at least one Model Women-Friendly Gram Panchayat in every district, setting an example for gender-sensitive and girl-friendly governance practices.

Planetary Parade

Planetary Parade

The Planetary Parade is a rare astronomical event in which seven planets—Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune—align on one side of the Sun.

This alignment happens because the planets orbit the Sun along a flat, disc-shaped path known as the ecliptic plane.
Occurrence: Planetary alignments like this are extremely rare, happening only once every few decades. The next one is anticipated in 2040.
Visibility: Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn are visible to the naked eye, while Uranus and Neptune require telescopes due to their distance and faint appearance.

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Endogamy

Endogamy

A recent study highlights the role of endogamy in contributing to population-specific genetic disorders and variations in drug metabolism in India.

Key Findings of the Study:
Indian communities exhibit a higher prevalence of genetic diseases due to inbreeding, which involves breeding individuals who are closely related genetically. For instance, a notable incidence of ankylosing spondylitis (a type of arthritis) has been observed in the Reddy community of Andhra Pradesh.

What is Endogamy?

Preventive Detention

Preventive Detention

Why in News?

The Supreme Court (SC) of India, in the case Mortuza Hussain Choudhury vs. State of Nagaland (2025), reiterated that preventive detention is an extreme measure and requires strict adherence to constitutional and legal safeguards. The ruling struck down the detention orders from Nagaland, finding them to be unjustified and in violation of legal principles.

What is the SC Ruling Regarding Preventive Detention?

PMMVY Implementation Concerns

PMMVY Implementation Concerns

For Prelims: Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana, International Labour Organization, Janani Suraksha Yojana, POSHAN Abhiyaan
For Mains: National Food Security Act, 2013, Social Security for Women and Maternal Health in India

Why in News?

Despite maternity benefits being a legal entitlement under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013, the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) faces significant challenges, leaving millions of pregnant women without crucial support.

What is PMMVY and its Concerns?
PMMVY: Launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, PMMVY is a Centrally Sponsored scheme offering maternity benefits to eligible pregnant and lactating women. However, government employees and those receiving similar benefits are excluded from the scheme.
Objectives: PMMVY aims to ensure maternal nutrition, promote institutional deliveries, enhance financial stability, and encourage the birth of girl children.
Key Features:

• First Child: Rs 5,000 provided, with additional benefits under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) bringing the total to around Rs 6,000.
• Second Child (if a girl): Rs 6,000 to promote gender equality and prevent female feticide.

Concerns:

• Restricted Coverage: The scheme restricts benefits to only the first two children, with the second child eligible only if it is a girl, which contradicts the NFSA, 2013, which mandates universal maternity benefits.
• Budget Cuts: In 2023-24, the central government allocated only Rs 870 crore to the scheme, a third of the amount allocated in 2019-20. Meeting the needs of 90% of births at Rs 6,000 each would require at least Rs 12,000 crore.
• Poor Implementation: The effective coverage of the scheme has fallen from 36% in 2019-20 to just 9% in 2023-24.
• Bureaucratic and Digital Barriers: Issues such as Aadhaar-based verification problems, complex application processes, and frequent software failures make it challenging for digitally illiterate and economically disadvantaged women to access benefits.
• State-Specific Schemes: State-specific schemes, such as those in Tamil Nadu (84%) and Odisha (64%), outperform PMMVY, offering higher benefits like Rs 18,000 (Tamil Nadu) and Rs 10,000 (Odisha) per child.

What are the Provisions for Maternity Benefits Under NFSA?
NFSA 2013: This Act ensures food and nutritional security for India’s population by providing affordable food grains through the Public Distribution System (PDS), marking a shift from welfare-based to rights-based food security.
Maternity Benefits under NFSA, 2013: All pregnant women (except those in the formal sector) are entitled to Rs 6,000 per child as maternity benefits to ensure proper nutrition, healthcare, and rest.
Note: Women in the formal sector receive 26 weeks of paid maternity leave, as per the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017.
Global Context: 51% of countries offer maternity leave for at least 14 weeks, in line with the International Labour Organization’s Maternity Protection Convention, 2000.

Way Forward:

• Grassroots Implementation: Engage Accredited Social Health Activists, Anganwadi workers, and Panchayati Raj institutions to help identify and assist eligible beneficiaries.
• Extend Benefits to Low-Income Workers: Provide benefits to low-income informal sector workers who often miss out on paid maternity leave.
• Universal Coverage: Align PMMVY with the NFSA by providing benefits to all pregnant women, rather than limiting it to the first two children.
• Holistic Approach: Integrate PMMVY with schemes like JSY, POSHAN Abhiyaan, and state-specific models (e.g., Tamil Nadu, Odisha) for comprehensive maternal care.
• Monitoring and Transparency: Conduct regular independent audits to assess fund utilization and beneficiary reach.
• Remove Digital Barriers: Introduce alternative identity verification to overcome Aadhaar-related issues and streamline payments through Jan Dhan accounts, avoiding bureaucratic delays.

Drishti Mains Question:
How does the Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana contradict the provisions of the National Food Security Act, 2013? Suggest measures to align the scheme with NFSA.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ):
Q. In order to enhance the prospects of social development, sound and adequate healthcare policies are needed, particularly in the fields of geriatric and maternal healthcare. Discuss. (2020)

IMF Report on India's Financial System

IMF Report on India's Financial System

Why in News?

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has raised concerns about stress in Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) in its report, India Financial System Stability Assessment. The report highlights the potential risks this poses to India's financial system.

Key Highlights of the IMF Report on India's Financial System:

• NBFC Stress and Systemic Risk:

  • 63% of power sector loans in FY 2024 were provided by the three largest Infrastructure Financing NBFCs, an increase from 55% in 2019-20.
  • 56% of NBFC lending is financed through market instruments (mutual funds and corporate bond markets), with the rest coming from bank borrowings.
  • State-owned NBFCs like the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) are at higher risk due to their significant exposure to the power sector, which faces financial delays and stress. Without expected revenue inflows, NBFCs face asset-liability mismatches that impede repayment.
  • Unlike banks, NBFCs cannot accept demand deposits, lack deposit insurance, and do not have direct access to liquidity from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), making them more vulnerable to financial strain.

• Stagflation Risk and Impact on PSBs:

  • The report warns that geopolitical risks and poorly calibrated monetary policies from major central banks could lead to rising interest rates and slower economic growth, impacting both NBFCs and banks.
  • IMF stress tests suggest that Public Sector Banks (PSBs) could struggle to maintain the 9% Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) in the event of stagflation (a combination of slow growth and high inflation).
  • The RBI requires PSBs to maintain a 12% CAR and 9% for scheduled commercial banks.

• Financial Inclusion Growth:

Rising Avalanche Risks

Rising Avalanche Risks

For Prelims: Avalanche, Earthquake, Himalayas, Avalanche Monitoring Radar
For Mains: Causes of Avalanches and Measures to Mitigate Its Risks

Why in News?

A massive avalanche in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district buried people and properties under snow and debris. Warmer temperatures, increased rainfall, and reduced snowfall are altering snow conditions, thereby raising the risk of avalanches in the Himalayas.

What is an Avalanche?
An avalanche is the rapid descent of snow, ice, and debris down a mountain slope, often carrying earth, rocks, and rubble, which can cause significant destruction.
Avalanche risks peak from December to April due to heavy snowfall during winter and the spring thaw, which weakens the snow layers.

Types of Avalanches:

• Loose Snow Avalanche: Initiates from a single point where snow isn’t well bonded, spreading in an inverted V-shape. It tends to be less dangerous because of its lower speed and volume.
• Slab Avalanche: Occurs when a cohesive snow slab breaks off from the underlying layers, reaching speeds of 50-100 km/h and causing substantial destruction.
• Gliding Avalanche: Involves the sliding of snowpacks down a smooth surface, such as rock or grass, creating a broad fracture line.
• Wet-Snow Avalanche: Triggered by rising temperatures or rain, where meltwater weakens the snow bonds.

Causes of Avalanches:
Natural Causes:

• Snow Accumulation: Continuous or excessive snowfall increases snowpack weight, leading to instability (e.g., Himachal Pradesh avalanche, January 2020).
• Windy Conditions: Wind can enhance instability by depositing snow on slopes.
• Weak Snow Layers: Temperature changes weaken the snowpack, making it more prone to avalanches.
• Earthquakes: Seismic activity can destabilize snow layers, as seen during the 2015 Nepal earthquake, which triggered avalanches in Langtang Valley.

Human-Induced Causes:

• Deforestation: The removal of trees destabilizes slopes, increasing the likelihood of avalanches, as seen in Himalayan road projects.
• Adventure Tourism: Activities like skiing, snowboarding, and mountaineering can trigger avalanches by disturbing the snowpack. For instance, in February 2024, skiers in Gulmarg triggered an avalanche by skiing in a non-designated area.
• Global Warming: Rising global temperatures cause more frequent freeze-thaw cycles, which heighten avalanche risks.

How Avalanches Differ from Landslides:

Basis	Avalanche	Landslide
Definition	A landslide that occurs in snowy regions, involving snow and air movement.	A mass of soil, rocks, or mud moving under gravity.
Causes	Snow accumulation, weak snowpack, temperature fluctuations, wind, earthquakes.	Earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, heavy rains, floods, deforestation, wildfires.
Flowing Matter	Snow and air.	Soil, rocks, or mud.
Occurrence	Occurs on slopes with weak snow layers.	Happens on land with steep slopes.
Speed of Movement	Extremely fast (up to 250 miles per hour in extreme cases).	Can be fast (like avalanches) or slow-moving.

Why the Himalayas Are More Prone to Avalanches:

• Rising Temperatures: The Himalayas are warming faster than other regions, causing glacier melt and retreating snowlines. Avalanches have increased significantly since the 1970s in the western Himalayas.
• Wetter Snow: Higher temperatures result in more rain than snow, which makes the snowpack wetter and more unstable.
• Permafrost Melting: The thawing of permafrost causes water accumulation, making ice layers more prone to sliding.
• Increased Wind Speeds: Higher temperatures lead to stronger winds, which increase snow transport and destabilize snow layers.
• Steep Slopes: The steep, rugged terrain of the Himalayas makes it easier for snow to slide down under gravity.
• Seismic Activity: The Himalayas are seismically active, and earthquakes can trigger avalanches by shaking unstable snow layers.

Karakoram Anomaly:

Starlink and Eutelsat

 Starlink and Eutelsat

Ukraine’s military and civilians depend on Starlink for communication, but SpaceX's restrictions on its use for attack drones have raised concerns. Consequently, Eutelsat, a European satellite company, is being considered as a potential alternative.

Starlink:
Developed by SpaceX, Starlink is a satellite-based internet service offering high-speed, low-latency connectivity, particularly for remote areas. With around 7,000 low-earth orbit (LEO) satellites, it forms a massive satellite constellation that ensures global coverage.
However, Starlink has not been approved in India due to security, privacy, and pricing concerns, as well as opposition from the local telecom and satellite industries.

Eutelsat:
Eutelsat, Starlink's closest competitor, operates 630 LEO satellites and 35 geostationary satellites, providing speeds up to 150 Mbps.
While India lacks widespread commercial satellite internet, the Telecommunications Act of 2023 allows for spectrum assignment through an administrative process for satellite-based services, unlike terrestrial spectrum, which is allocated via auctions.

Colossal A23a Iceberg Stuck

Colossal A23a Iceberg Stuck

The world's largest iceberg, Colossal A23a (spanning 3,672 sq. km), is currently stuck approximately 70 km from South Georgia Island, potentially avoiding harm to local wildlife habitats.

A23a broke away from the Filchner Ice Shelf in Antarctica in 1986 and remained lodged in the Weddell Sea for over three decades before drifting northward toward South Georgia Island in 2020.

As it remains grounded, the iceberg's melting and the nutrients released may enhance marine food availability, benefiting the region’s ecosystem.

South Georgia Island: Administered by the UK as a British overseas territory, South Georgia is also claimed by Argentina.

Icebergs: Large floating masses of freshwater ice that break off from glaciers or ice shelves and drift in oceans or seas. Since ice is less dense than water, about 90% of an iceberg remains submerged, with only the top visible.

Carbon Intensity

Carbon Intensity

Carbon intensity refers to the amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) emitted per unit of output in a specific sector or economy. It is a key metric for tracking emission reductions while considering economic growth or production levels.

For example, the carbon intensity of the steel sector can be calculated as the number of tonnes of steel produced per tonne of CO₂ emitted.

National Carbon Intensity: A country's carbon intensity is determined by dividing the growth of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita by CO₂ emissions.

Importance for India & Climate Goals: Carbon intensity is essential for evaluating climate commitments under the Paris Agreement (2015), particularly India’s goal to reduce emissions intensity of its GDP by 45% by 2030, compared to 2005 levels.
Reducing carbon intensity supports sustainable economic growth while minimizing environmental impact.

Dholavira

 Dholavira

The President of India recently visited Dholavira, praising the technological achievements of the Harappan civilization.

Harappan (Indus Valley) Civilization:
The Harappan civilization was an urban culture that thrived along the Indus River from around 3300 to 1300 BCE. It was discovered by John Marshall in the 1920s.
Key sites of this civilization include Harappa, Mohenjo-daro, Banawali, Dholavira, Lothal, and Ropar.

Dholavira:
Located on the arid island of Khadir in Kutch, Gujarat, Dholavira was inhabited from 3000 BCE to 1800 BCE.
It was discovered by Jagatpati Joshi in 1968 and is the fifth-largest site of the Indus Valley Civilization. The site is situated between two seasonal streams, Mansar and Manhar.
Findings at Dholavira include terracotta pottery, seals, ornaments, and evidence of metallurgy. The site was a trade center for copper, jewelry, and timber, with inscriptions in the Indus Valley script.
No human remains have been found at the site.

Dholavira features a walled city, a fortified castle, a middle and lower town, and a cemetery. Its advanced water management system includes 16 reservoirs and step wells.
In 2021, Dholavira was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy

NITI Aayog Calls for Quantum Strategy

For Prelims: Quantum Computing, National Quantum Mission, Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), Atomic Clocks, Quantum Communication
For Mains: National Quantum Mission, India's Initiatives in Quantum Computing

Why in News?

A research paper titled “Quantum Computing: National Security Implications & Strategic Preparedness”, released by NITI Aayog's Frontier Tech Hub (NITI-FTH), underscores the critical role of quantum computing in India’s security and economy. It advocates a comprehensive approach to mitigate national security risks arising from quantum advancements.

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum computing refers to a set of technologies that utilize the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations that are beyond the capabilities of classical computing. Quantum computers operate using qubits (quantum bits), which behave unpredictably at the atomic level, enabling tasks that classical systems cannot achieve.

Key Highlights of NITI Aayog's Report on Quantum Computing

• Global Quantum Investments: Over 40 billion USD has been pledged by more than 30 countries. China leads with an investment of 15 billion USD, followed by the US and Europe.
• India’s Approach: The National Quantum Mission (NQM) was launched with a budget of Rs 6,003 crore to foster indigenous capabilities and establish India as a global leader in quantum technology.
• Strategic Implications: Quantum technology has dual-use applications in defense and intelligence, including enhanced encryption, improved surveillance, and advanced weaponry, thereby offering nations a technological edge in national security and defense. Economically, it holds the potential to drive innovation and attract investments.

Challenges Identified in the NITI Aayog Report on Quantum Computing

• Lower Funding Compared to Global Peers: India’s NQM budget of ₹6,003 crore (~USD 750 million) is substantially less than the investments by global leaders, restricting India’s ability to develop competitive quantum infrastructure, research, and talent acquisition.
• Weak Domestic Supply Chain: Quantum computing requires specialized components, such as cryogenic systems and high-purity materials, which India lacks in terms of indigenous production capabilities. This results in a heavy reliance on foreign suppliers.
• Limited Industry Participation: Unlike the US and Europe, where tech giants like Google, IBM, and Microsoft lead quantum innovation, India’s quantum ecosystem is mainly driven by academia. The lack of private sector investment and venture capital hinders scalability and commercialization.
• Cybersecurity Risks: Quantum computers will eventually be able to break existing encryption standards, rendering current cybersecurity frameworks obsolete. This poses a significant risk to sensitive government, military, financial, and personal data, potentially destabilizing sectors like online banking, digital payments, and secure communications.
• Intelligence and Espionage Risks: Quantum technology could significantly enhance signals intelligence (SIGINT), allowing nations to decrypt intercepted communications at an unprecedented scale, thereby exposing sensitive information like diplomatic cables, military strategies, and classified intelligence. Countries with quantum decryption capabilities will gain a strategic advantage in intelligence and cyber warfare.

The National Quantum Mission (NQM)

About: The Union Cabinet approved the NQM on 19th April 2023 for the period from 2023-24 to 2030-31. The mission aims to foster scientific and industrial R&D, creating a vibrant ecosystem in quantum technology.

Key Objectives:

• Quantum Computers: Develop intermediate-scale quantum computers (50-1000 qubits) within 8 years using superconducting and photonic technologies.
• Secure Communications: Enable satellite-based secure quantum communication over 2000 km within India and with other nations.
• Quantum Sensing and Metrology: Develop high-sensitivity magnetometers and atomic clocks for precision timing, communication, and navigation.
• Thematic Hubs (T-Hubs): Establish four T-hubs in leading academic and R&D institutes for quantum computing, communication, sensing, and materials.

Recommendations Suggested by NITI Aayog on Quantum Computing

• Enhancing National Security Policy: Establish a task force to continuously track global quantum advancements and evaluate potential threats. Create an early warning system to mitigate emerging quantum risks.
• Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) Transition Plan: Implement a strategy to secure government, financial, and industrial data from future quantum cyberattacks.
• Boosting R&D: Increase funding for R&D to accelerate quantum startups and support domestic hardware development. Foster private sector involvement to bridge the gap between academia and industry for faster commercialization.
• Strengthening Domestic Supply Chain: Build a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem for quantum hardware components like cryogenic systems, high-purity materials, and lasers. This would reduce dependence on foreign imports and ensure the production of quantum chips and hardware.
• Expanding Global Partnerships: Forge bilateral agreements with quantum-leading nations such as the US, EU, and Japan to gain access to advanced research, hardware, and expertise. Advocate for relaxed export controls on critical quantum components to ensure uninterrupted access to necessary technologies.

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Drishti Mains Question:
Q. Quantum technology is set to reshape global security and economic landscapes. Discuss the security challenges posed by quantum computing and suggest measures India should take to safeguard its national interests.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims:
Q. Which one of the following is the context in which the term "qubit" is mentioned?
(a) Cloud Services
(b) Quantum Computing
(c) Visible Light Communication Technologies
(d) Wireless Communication Technologies

Ans: (b)

Mains:
“The emergence of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (Digital Revolution) has initiated e-Governance as an integral part of government”. Discuss. (2020)

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Challenges in Slum Redevelopment

Challenges in Slum Redevelopment

For Prelims: Right to shelter, Article 21, Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA), Floor Space Index (FSI)
For Mains: Efficacy of slum rehabilitation laws, Judicial activism, Conflict between real estate interests and slum dwellers’ rights

Why in News?
The Bombay High Court, following a Supreme Court directive, has initiated a unique review of the Maharashtra Slum Areas Act, 1971. This review seeks to address systemic gaps that have caused delays in slum redevelopment projects, which in turn violate slum dwellers' right to shelter (Article 21) and livelihood.

Maharashtra Slum Areas (Improvement, Clearance, and Redevelopment) Act, 1971

Key Provisions of the Act:

• Grants the Maharashtra government the authority to declare an area a “slum area” and acquire land if necessary.
• Establishes the Slum Rehabilitation Authority (SRA) to oversee redevelopment, often carried out through private developers.

Maharashtra Slum Rehabilitation Scheme (1995):

• Private developers, in agreement with slum dwellers, fund redevelopment and provide new housing at no cost to the residents.
• In exchange, developers are allotted additional construction area to sell in the open market.
• Developers also benefit from incentives like higher Floor Space Index (FSI) and saleable areas.

What Are Slums?

According to the United Nations, slums are impoverished urban areas marked by substandard housing, lack of basic services, and insecure tenure. Slums are chaotic, overcrowded, and often emerge as unplanned settlements due to rapid urban growth.

• Slum population in India is 17.4% of the total urban population (Census 2011).
• Slums expand due to population growth, poverty, rural-to-urban migration, and imbalanced regional development. Major states like Maharashtra and Gujarat experience the highest migration rates, with Maharashtra hosting the largest slum population (1.18 crore).

Issues Due to Neglected Slum Development:

• Illusion of Urban Opportunity:
  Slums attract rural migrants with promises of better opportunities, but often fail to meet the basic needs of residents, exacerbating poverty.

• Health Risks:
  Slum dwellers face significant health challenges, particularly from waterborne diseases like typhoid and cholera, due to poor sanitation and overcrowding.

• Exploitation of Vulnerable Populations:
  Women and children in slums are often vulnerable to exploitation, including prostitution, begging, and trafficking.

• Crime and Social Neglect:
  Slums are often associated with higher crime rates due to inadequate law enforcement, limited education, and lack of basic public services.

Challenges in Slum Rehabilitation:

• Land and Legal Issues:
  Bureaucratic processes and legal clearances often delay land acquisition and hinder slum redevelopment projects.

• Financial Constraints:
  Securing investment for slum redevelopment is challenging, as private developers are often reluctant due to low returns on investment.

• Social and Cultural Barriers:
  Rehabilitation efforts face resistance from slum dwellers who fear losing their social ties and cultural heritage.

• Environmental Concerns:
  Slums often lack proper waste management systems, leading to environmental degradation and inadequate green spaces.

• Implementation and Governance Issues:
  Delays in project implementation and a lack of transparency in governance hinder the progress of slum rehabilitation, as seen in Mumbai's SRA model.

Way Forward:

• Holistic Slum Rehabilitation:
  Investments in resilient slum rehabilitation could yield substantial social returns, estimated to generate USD 1.3 trillion for India, with an impact of USD 7,500 per household.

• Clear Legal Frameworks:
  Streamlining land acquisition processes through policies like Delhi Development Authority’s (DDA) land pooling can provide legal clarity and fair compensation.

• Innovative Financial Models:
  Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) can be leveraged, as seen in the Mumbai SRA model, to attract private investment while ensuring social benefits.

• Community Engagement:
  Programs like the Participatory Slum Upgrading Program by UN-Habitat show that involving communities in planning and execution can help mitigate resistance and cater to social and cultural needs.

• Environmental Integration:
  Incorporating sustainable and green practices, such as those in Delhi’s Kathputli Colony, can improve environmental conditions in slum rehabilitation.

• Effective Governance and Transparency:
  Strengthening governance and ensuring transparency, as demonstrated by Ahmedabad’s Slum Networking Project, can enhance the efficiency and impact of rehabilitation efforts.

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Drishti Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the socio-economic challenges faced by slum dwellers in Indian urban areas and suggest measures to resolve these issues.

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Mains:
Q. Does urbanization lead to more segregation and/or marginalization of the poor in Indian metropolises? (2023)
Q. Discuss the various social problems that have emerged due to the rapid pace of urbanization in India. (2013)

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India’s Textile Industry

India’s Textile Industry

Why in News?

India’s textile industry holds significant potential to become a global leader, driven by a growing domestic market and increasing global interest. However, challenges such as high production costs, fragmented supply chains, and sustainability issues are hindering its growth and exports.

Key Facts About India’s Textile Industry:

• Economic Contribution:
  The textile industry contributes 2.3% to India’s GDP, with projections to reach 5% by 2030.
  As of FY24, it accounts for 13% of industrial production, 12% of exports, and employs 4.5 crore workers.
  Textile exports in FY24 stood at USD 35.9 billion, with major markets including the US, EU, and UAE.

• Global Position:
  India has the world’s second-largest textile manufacturing capacity and ranks as the 6th largest exporter of textiles and apparel in 2023, contributing 3.9% to global trade.
  India is the second-largest cotton producer globally (23.83% of world cotton production) and is expected to reach 7.2 million tonnes of cotton production by 2030.
  India is the largest producer of jute and the second-largest producer of man-made fibres (MMF), including polyester, viscose, nylon, and acrylic.

• Market Growth Projections:
  India’s textile and apparel market is expected to reach USD 350 billion by 2030.

• Government Initiatives:
  Key initiatives include PM Mega Integrated Textile Region and Apparel (MITRA) Parks, the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Textiles, and the National Technical Textile Mission (NTTM).
  The government also allows 100% Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in textiles under the automatic route to attract foreign investment.

Key Challenges Facing India’s Textile Industry:

• Lack of Trade Agreements:
  Unlike countries such as Vietnam and China, which benefit from Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with major markets, India lacks such agreements with key textile-consuming regions like the US.

• Stagnant Growth and Declining Exports:
  The textile sector contracted by 1.8% annually from FY20 to FY24, with the apparel sector shrinking by 8.2% per year. Apparel exports declined from USD 15.5 billion in FY20 to USD 14.5 billion in FY24.

• Expensive Raw Materials:
  Government-imposed Quality Control Orders (QCOs) on polyester and viscose limit imports, forcing domestic yarn makers to rely on more expensive local alternatives. Polyester is 33-36% costlier in India than in China, while viscose is 14-16% more expensive.

• Low Export Competitiveness:
  India’s textile exports are more expensive than those of China and Vietnam due to fragmented supply chains and higher logistics costs. Unlike China, which has vertically integrated supply chains, India’s supply chains are spread across states and involve complex customs procedures. Additionally, Bangladesh, as a Least Developed Country (LDC), benefits from duty-free exports, which gives it a competitive edge over India in several markets.

• Sustainability Pressures:
  Global brands are enforcing stricter environmental norms, pushing for greater renewable energy use, waste recycling, and raw material traceability. The European Union has introduced several regulations affecting the fashion industry, which impacts about 20% of India’s textile exports.
  The textile industry is responsible for 6-8% of global carbon emissions (~1.7 billion tonnes/year), and textile production accounts for 20% of global water pollution from dyeing and finishing processes.

Way Forward:

• Strengthening Supply Chains:
  India should focus on developing vertically integrated textile parks that cover the entire production cycle, from fibre to finished apparel, to reduce logistics and production costs.
  Reassessing the QCOs on polyester and viscose could help lower domestic costs by allowing controlled imports.

• Leveraging Labour Pools:
  Establishing more PM MITRA parks in regions like Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Madhya Pradesh, where job demand is high, can help boost employment. Housing near factories, similar to China’s model, can improve productivity, raise take-home salaries, and reduce attrition.

• Policy Reforms:
  India should work on securing preferential trade agreements with the EU, US, and other key markets to improve its competitiveness.

• Boosting MMF Production:
  Offering incentives for MMF-based textile production can encourage greater domestic consumption of MMFs.

• Sustainability Initiatives:
  Financial incentives should be provided to MSMEs to promote sustainable manufacturing and renewable energy adoption. With increasing demand for recycled textiles, strengthening waste management infrastructure will be key to supporting sustainable growth.

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Drishti Mains Question:

How does the textile industry contribute to India’s economic growth, and what measures are needed to make it globally competitive?

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UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ)

Prelims
Q. Consider the following statements: (2020)

1. The value of Indo-Sri Lanka trade has consistently increased in the last decade.
2. “Textile and textile articles” constitute an important item of trade between India and Bangladesh.
3. In the last five years, Nepal has been the largest trading partner of India in South Asia.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Ans: (b)

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Mains
Q. Analyze the factors for the highly decentralized cotton textile industry in India. (2013)

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Blue Ghost Mission 1

Blue Ghost Mission 1

Firefly Aerospace, a US-based company, successfully landed its Blue Ghost Mission 1 on the Moon, marking the second private lunar landing and the first to land upright.

The mission, dubbed “Ghost Riders in the Sky,” was launched in January 2025 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket.
The lander, named Golden, landed near Mons Latreille, a volcanic formation on the Moon’s northeastern near side.
This mission is part of NASA’s collaboration with the private sector to reduce costs and support the Artemis Program, which aims to return astronauts to the Moon.

Upcoming Lunar Missions:

• IM-2 Mission: Intuitive Machines’ IM-2 mission, featuring the Athena lander, is scheduled for launch in March 2025.
• In February 2024, Intuitive Machines became the first private company to achieve a soft lunar landing and the first US mission since Apollo 17 in 1972.
• NASA’s CLPS Program: The US is working to establish routine private lunar missions through NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, funded with USD support.

SPHEREx Mission

SPHEREx Mission

NASA is preparing to launch the SPHEREx (Spectro-Photometer for the History of the Universe, Epoch of Reionization, and Ices Explorer) space telescope, which will investigate the early universe, explore its origins, and trace the formation of life.

SPHEREx Mission Overview:

• SPHEREx will map 450 million galaxies over a span of 2 years, creating a 3D sky map in 102 color bands (different wavelengths of light) using spectroscopy.
• Spectroscopy is the study of how light and other forms of radiation interact with matter through absorption and emission.
• The mission will explore cosmic inflation, the rapid expansion of the universe following the Big Bang (approximately 13.8 billion years ago), and analyze molecular clouds to detect water, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide.
• SPHEREx will also measure the collective glow of light from intergalactic space to identify unknown cosmic phenomena.
• The Big Bang Theory suggests that the universe originated from a singular, hot, and dense point, which expanded about 13.8 billion years ago, and has continued to expand ever since.

Taiwan's Geopolitical Significance

Taiwan's Geopolitical Significance

The United States has updated its Taiwan factsheet, removing the statement "we do not support Taiwan independence" and affirming its support for Taiwan’s global participation, a move that has garnered Taiwan's approval but faced opposition from China.

Taiwan Relations Act (1979): This act strengthens US-Taiwan relations by ensuring trade, cultural exchanges, and defensive arms sales, despite objections from Beijing.
Taiwan's Importance:

• Situated in the East China Sea, Taiwan is vital for regional trade, with the Taiwan Strait serving as a critical global shipping route.
• Taiwan produces over 60% of the world’s semiconductors and about 90% of the most advanced chips, making it a key player in the global tech supply chain.
  China and Taiwan:
• China adheres to the One China Policy, claiming Taiwan as an inseparable part of China and insisting on eventual reunification.
• In contrast, Taiwan views itself as a self-governing democracy, with its own constitution and elected leaders.
  India’s Position on the One China Policy:
• India also follows the One China Policy. In 2003, India signed a joint declaration with China, acknowledging the Tibet Autonomous Region as part of China’s territory.

Narwhals

Narwhals

For the first time, scientists have observed narwhals (commonly known as "sea unicorns") using their tusks for hunting, providing valuable insights into their behavior and adaptations in the warming Arctic.

About Narwhals (Monodon monoceros):
Narwhals are medium-sized toothed whales that inhabit deep Arctic waters.

• Physical Characteristics: Males have a long, spiral tusk (up to 3 meters), which is an elongated upper left tooth. Unlike other toothed whales, narwhals lack teeth in their mouths. Some individuals may have one or two tusks, while others have none.
• Tusks Function: Narwhals use their tusks to stun prey, particularly Arctic char, and for competition during mating.
• IUCN Status: Least Concern.
• Social Behavior: Narwhals are highly social and typically found in pods of 2 to 25 individuals.
• Migration: Unlike some other whale species, narwhals do not undertake long migrations.
• Diet: Their diet consists of Greenland halibut, Arctic and polar cod, squid, and shrimp.

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