In News:

The Union Minister, Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh inaugurated and laid the foundation for 50 key projects worth Rs. 50 crores under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) covering all North East Region States Except Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.

Key Highlights:

• Initiative: India’s first Organic Fisheries Cluster, launched under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The cluster focuses on sustainable aquaculture, promoting the production of antibiotic, chemical, and pesticide-free organic fish.
• Target Markets: Eco-conscious domestic and global markets.

Sikkim's Role as India’s First Organic State:

• Sikkim's Organic Commitment: Sikkim is the first Indian state to embrace 100% organic farming, covering 75,000 hectares of land.
• Vision: The Organic Fisheries Cluster aligns with Sikkim’s broader goal of promoting organic, sustainable agricultural practices.

Objective of Organic Fisheries Cluster:

• To prevent pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems by using ecologically healthy practices.
• Promotes sustainable fish farming methods, reducing environmental damage.
• Focus on species like amur carp and other carp varieties, aligning with the state’s success in organic farming.

Support from NABARD:

• The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) will provide financial and technical assistance.
• Key support includes:
  • Infrastructure development.
  • Formation of Fisheries-based Farmer Producer Organizations (FFPOs).
  • Capacity building of local fishers and farmers.

PMMSY: A Comprehensive Fisheries Development Scheme:

• Investment: ?20,050 crore under PMMSY.
• Objective: To revolutionize India’s fisheries sector by promoting sustainable growth, enhancing fish production, and improving infrastructure.
• Implementation Period: FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
• Key Goals:
  • Boosting fish production and exports.
  • Enhancing welfare of fishers and farmers.
  • Promoting cluster-based development for better efficiency and competitiveness.

Cluster-Based Approach in Fisheries:

• Objective: To bring together geographically connected enterprises to enhance economies of scale.
• Impact: This approach improves financial viability, strengthens the fisheries value chain, and creates new business and livelihood opportunities.
• Types of Clusters: Includes Pearl, Seaweed, Ornamental Fisheries, Cold Water Fisheries, Organic Fisheries, and more.

Fisheries Focus in the North Eastern Region (NER):

• Fisheries Potential: The North Eastern Region (NER) has abundant freshwater resources and is a biodiversity hotspot.
• Growth: Inland fish production in the NER surged from 4.03 lakh tonnes (2014-15) to 6.41 lakh tonnes (2023-24), marking an impressive 5% annual growth.
• Investment in NER: Over ?2,114 crore invested through schemes like Blue Revolution and PMMSY.
• Key Projects:
  • 50 projects worth ?50 crore to boost the region’s fisheries infrastructure, generating over 4,500 jobs.
  • Projects include hatcheries, cold storage units, aquaculture parks, and fish kiosks.

India’s Global Fisheries Standing:

• India is the second-largest fish producer in the world, contributing 8% to global fish production.
• Top Rankings:
  • Second in aquaculture production.
  • Leading in shrimp production and exports.
  • Third in capture fisheries.

Government Commitments and Schemes:

• Total Investment: Since 2015, the government has committed ?38,572 crore to fisheries development through key schemes like:
  • Blue Revolution.
  • Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF).
  • PMMSY.
  • Pradhan Mantri Matsya Kisan Samridhi Sah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY).
• These initiatives aim to promote sustainable growth, create jobs, and enhance infrastructure in the fisheries sector.

Economic, Environmental, and Social Benefits:

• Economic Impact:
  • Higher incomes for fishers and farmers through better production and export.
  • Employment generation through infrastructure development.
• Environmental Impact: Reduced pollution and protection of aquatic ecosystems.
• Social Impact: Empowerment of local communities, fostering sustainable livelihoods.

In News:

• Prayagraj Municipal Corporation has successfully transformed over 56,000 square meters of garbage dumps and barren lands into lush green forests using the Miyawaki Technique over the past two years, as part of environmental conservation efforts in preparation for Mahakumbh 2025.

About Miyawaki Technique:

• Origin: Developed by Akira Miyawaki, a Japanese botanist, in the 1970s to create dense and fast-growing forests.
• Key Features:
  • Dense Planting: Trees and shrubs are planted close together, often using native species.
  • Accelerated Growth: Trees grow 10 times faster than in traditional forests.
  • Soil Restoration: Improves soil fertility and promotes natural regeneration.
  • Biodiversity Boost: Supports a variety of flora and fauna by mimicking natural ecosystems.
• Significance:
  • Urban Reforestation: Converts barren or polluted lands into green spaces.
  • Environmental Benefits:
    • Reduces air and water pollution.
    • Absorbs carbon and helps combat climate change.
    • Lowers temperatures by 4-7°C.
  • Sustainability: Prevents soil erosion and promotes long-term ecological balance.

Miyawaki Forests in Prayagraj:

• Achievements:
  • Over 56,000 square meters of land converted into dense forests using the Miyawaki technique over the last two years.
  • The project aims to create oxygen banks in preparation for the Mahakumbh 2025 and enhance air quality for millions of expected visitors.
• Plantations:
  • 55,800 square meters of area developed across 10+ locations in Prayagraj.
  • Largest plantation: 1.2 lakh trees in Naini industrial area.
  • 27,000 trees planted in Baswar after cleaning the city's largest garbage dump.
• Environmental Impact:
  • The plantations are helping to reduce dust, dirt, and foul odors, thus improving air quality.
  • Temperature regulation: The dense forests can lower temperatures by 4 to 7 degrees Celsius.
  • Biodiversity and Soil Fertility: Accelerated growth of trees boosts biodiversity and improves soil fertility.
• Tree Species Planted:
  • Mango, Mahua, Neem, Peepal, Tamarind, Arjuna, Teak, Amla.
  • Ornamental and medicinal plants like Hibiscus, Kadamba, Gulmohar, etc.
  • Other species include Sheesham, Bamboo, Lemon, Drumstick (Sahjan), and Tecoma.

Benefits of Miyawaki Forests:

• Air and Water Pollution Reduction: Trees absorb carbon, purify air, and improve water quality.
• Temperature Control: The forests help in reducing urban heat islands, lowering the temperature during hot months.
• Soil Conservation: The dense forests prevent soil erosion and promote the regeneration of the natural ecosystem.
• Enhanced Biodiversity: The technique supports a rich variety of species, improving ecological balance.

In News:

The National Panchayat Awards 2024 celebrated the remarkable contributions of 45 Panchayats from across India for their role in driving sustainable and inclusive development in rural areas. The awards were presented on 11th December 2024 at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, with President Smt. Droupadi Murmu and Union Minister of Panchayati Raj Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) presiding over the event.

Key Highlights:

• Categories of Awards: The awards focus on rural governance, social inclusion, environmental sustainability, and the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through Localization of SDGs (LSDGs).
  • Deen Dayal Upadhyay Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar (DDUPSVP): Recognizes top-performing Gram Panchayats across 9 thematic areas like health, water, sanitation, and governance.
  • Nanaji Deshmukh Sarvottam Panchayat Satat Vikas Puraskar: Awarded to the best Panchayats based on overall excellence across all LSDG themes.
  • Gram Urja Swaraj Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar: Honors Panchayats for contributions to renewable energy.
  • Carbon Neutral Vishesh Panchayat Puraskar: Awarded to Panchayats achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
  • Panchayat Kshamta Nirmaan Sarvottam Sansthan Puraskar: Recognizes institutions supporting Panchayats in implementing LSDGs.
• Notable Achievements:
  • Women’s Leadership: 42% of the award-winning Panchayats were led by women.
  • States with Top Performers: States like Tripura, Odisha, and Maharashtra were prominently recognized for their achievements, especially in sustainability efforts like carbon neutrality and renewable energy adoption.
  • Prize Distribution: A total of ?46 crore was awarded to the 45 winners, with funds directly transferred to their accounts.

Objectives:

The National Panchayat Awards aim to:

• Promote rural development through effective Panchayat governance.
• Encourage competition among Panchayats for improving public services and infrastructure.
• Recognize excellence in implementing sustainable development practices.

Key Themes of the Awards:

The awards are aligned with 9 LSDG themes that contribute to achieving 17 SDGs:

1. Poverty-Free and Enhanced Livelihoods
2. Healthy Panchayat
3. Child-Friendly Panchayat
4. Water-Sufficient Panchayat
5. Clean and Green Panchayat
6. Self-Sufficient Infrastructure
7. Socially Just and Secured Panchayat
8. Panchayat with Good Governance
9. Women-Friendly Panchayat

The National Panchayat Awards 2024 underscore the significant role of Panchayats in shaping rural India by focusing on inclusive and sustainable development. The awards also promote the importance of localized governance in achieving SDGs, encouraging other Panchayats to adopt best practices and contribute to India's overall development goals.

In News:

Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) was announced as a new Central Sector scheme, with 100% Central funding in the Union Budget 2022-23 with initial outlay of Rs.1500 crore.

PM-DevINE Scheme:

• Launched in 2022 as a Central Sector scheme, with 100% Central funding.
• Initial outlay: Rs. 1500 crore in the Union Budget 2022-23.
• Total outlay: Rs. 6600 crore for the period from FY 2022-23 to FY 2025-2026, approved by the Union Cabinet on 12 October 2022.
• Objectives:
  • Fund infrastructure projects in the spirit of PM Gati Shakti.
  • Support social development projects tailored to the felt needs of the NER.
  • Enable livelihood opportunities for youth and women.
  • Address development gaps in various sectors.
• 35 projects worth Rs. 4857.11 crore have been sanctioned under the scheme up to 30 November 2024, including 7 projects from the Union Budget 2022-23.

Industrialization Initiatives:

• North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS):
  • Launched on 1 April 2017, ended on 31 March 2022.
  • Aimed at promoting industrialization in the NER.
• UNNATI Scheme:
  • Launched on 9 March 2024 for enhancing regional infrastructure and promoting industrial growth.
  • Provides specific incentives to industries, including:
    • Capital Investment Incentive.
    • Capital Interest Subvention.
    • Manufacturing & Services Linked Incentive.

Budgetary Allocation for NER Development:

• Non-exempt Union Ministries/Departments are mandated to allocate at least 10% of their annual Gross Budgetary Allocation towards NER development.
• Between 2019-20 and 2023-24, these Ministries/Departments have incurred Rs. 3,53,412 crore towards the development of NER.

Role of State Governments and Central Support:The Government of India supplements state efforts with various schemes to promote industrialization and infrastructure development in the NER.

The PM-DevINE scheme, along with initiatives like UNNATI and the allocation of substantial funds by the central government, aims to accelerate the holistic development of NER. These efforts focus on infrastructure, social development, and industrialization, with specific emphasis on youth and women empowerment, ensuring long-term growth and prosperity for the region.

In News:

The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and New & Renewable Energy, launched ‘Anna Chakra’, the Public Distribution System (PDS) Supply chain optimisation tool and SCAN (Subsidy Claim Application for NFSA) portal a significant step towards modernizing the Public Distribution System and subsidy claim mechanisms of the States.

Anna Chakra: PDS Supply Chain Optimization Tool

• Purpose: A tool developed to enhance the efficiency of PDS logistics across India, optimizing food grain transportation.
• Collaboration: Developed by the Department of Food and Public Distribution, in collaboration with the World Food Programme (WFP) and IIT-Delhi’s Foundation for Innovation and Technology Transfer (FITT).
• Functionality: Uses advanced algorithms to identify optimal transportation routes for food grains.
• Key Features:
  • Efficiency and Cost Savings: Achieves annual savings of Rs 250 crores by reducing fuel consumption, time, and logistics costs.
  • Environmental Impact: Reduces transportation-related emissions by cutting transportation distance by 15-50%, contributing to a smaller carbon footprint.
  • Wide Coverage: Impacts 30 states, 4.37 lakh Fair Price Shops (FPS), and 6,700 warehouses in the PDS supply chain.
  • Technology Integration: Linked with the Freight Operations Information System (FOIS) of Railways and PM Gati Shakti platform, enabling geo-location mapping of FPS and warehouses.

SCAN Portal: Subsidy Claim Application for NFSA

• Objective: To streamline the subsidy claim process under the National Food Security Act (NFSA) 2013, ensuring better utilization of funds.
• Functionality: Provides a unified platform for states to submit food subsidy claims, reducing administrative complexity and delays.
• Key Features:
  • Single Window Submission: Simplifies subsidy claim submission for states, enhancing coordination.
  • Automated Workflow: End-to-end automation ensures efficiency, transparency, and faster settlements.
  • Rule-Based Processing: Claims are scrutinized and approved through a rule-based system, speeding up the approval process.

Public Distribution System (PDS) Overview

• Purpose: Ensures food security by providing subsidized food grains to vulnerable populations under the NFSA, benefitting nearly 80 crore people.
• Management: A joint effort between the Central and State/UT Governments. The Food Corporation of India (FCI) handles procurement and transportation, while state governments manage local distribution.
• Commodities: Primarily wheat, rice, sugar, and kerosene, with some states also distributing pulses and edible oils.

Initiatives to Reform PDS in India

• One Nation One Ration Card (ONORC):
  • Goal: To allow portability of ration cards, benefiting migrant workers and seasonal laborers.
  • Features: Biometric authentication, digital payments, and enhanced inclusivity.
• SMART-PDS Scheme (2023-2026):
  • Objective: To upgrade technology in PDS, including computerized FPS, point-of-sale (POS) machines, and GPS tracking for transparency and fraud reduction.
• Aadhaar and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT):
  • Purpose: Ensures proper beneficiary identification and cash transfers, allowing beneficiaries to purchase grains from the open market.
• Technology and Transparency Enhancements:
  • GPS and SMS Monitoring: Ensures the proper delivery of food grains to FPS and provides citizens with updates via SMS.

In News:

Union Minister for Education, launched the PMeVIDYA DTH 24x7 Channel No. 31 dedicated to Indian Sign Language (ISL) on December 6, 2024, in New Delhi.

Channel Purpose and Vision:

• Objective: To bridge the communication gap between the hearing-impaired and hearing populations by promoting ISL.
• Significance: Channel 31 aims to unlock talent and ensure equal opportunities for all, making society more inclusive and progressive.
• ISL's Role: Pradhan emphasized the importance of alternative communication methods like ISL, which ensures that individuals with hearing impairments have equal access to education, employment, and societal participation.

Government's Focus on Inclusivity:

• Legal Framework: Pradhan highlighted the expansion of recognized disabilities from 7 to 21, making the legal framework more comprehensive.
• National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: The policy focuses on inclusive education, with particular attention to Children with Special Needs (CwSN). The NEP promotes the standardization of ISL and its inclusion in educational curricula.
• Employment and Cultural Expression: ISL is not only essential for communication but also contributes to cultural expressions like dance and drama. Pradhan emphasized that learning ISL would open employment opportunities and allow individuals to express themselves fully.

Importance of Channel 31:

• The launch of Channel 31 aligns with India’s commitment to ensuring equal rights and access to education, as enshrined in the Constitution.
• Pradhan urged for widespread adoption of ISL, ensuring that more people learn the language to better support the hearing-impaired community.

PM e-Vidya Initiative:

• Launch Date: PM e-Vidya was launched as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan on May 17, 2020, to bridge the digital divide and ensure inclusive education.
• Key Components:
  • DIKSHA: A national platform providing e-content for all grades.
  • DTH TV Channels: Initially started with 12 channels, now expanded to 200, offering supplementary education in multiple languages.
  • SWAYAM: A platform for online courses and MOOCs for both school and higher education.
  • Community Radio & Podcasts: These platforms are used for wider educational outreach, especially in rural and remote areas.
  • e-Content for Teachers: Interactive videos and resources aimed at enhancing teacher education.

Channel Content:

• Channel 31 will provide 24x7 educational content for children with hearing impairments, teachers, and other stakeholders.
• The content will include school curricula, career guidance, skill training, mental health support, and promotion of ISL as a subject.
• The content will be available on YouTube, increasing its reach and accessibility.

In News:

The Hornbill Festival, a vibrant celebration of Nagaland's culture and tourism, is an annual event that takes place from December 1 to 10.

About the Hornbill Festival:

• Origin: First held in the year 2000.
• Purpose: The festival aims to foster inter-tribal communication, preserve the cultural heritage of Nagaland, and showcase the harmonious blending of traditional and modern elements.
• Significance: Referred to as the “festival of festivals,” it has become an essential part of the state’s cultural calendar.
• Organizers: It is organized by the Tourism and Art & Culture Departments of the Government of Nagaland.
• Location: The festival takes place annually at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, located about 12 kilometers from Kohima.
• Cultural Showcase: Over the years, it has evolved into a significant celebration that highlights the vibrant and diverse cultural traditions of the various tribes in Nagaland.
• Name Origin: The festival is named after the Hornbill bird, which holds cultural importance among the Naga tribes.
• Theme of the 2024 Hornbill Festival:The 2024 edition is themed “Cultural Connect,” celebrating the rich heritage and cultural diversity of Nagaland. The festival continues to merge modernity and tradition through a variety of activities, including Naga wrestling, traditional archery, food stalls, fashion shows, beauty contests, and musical performances. Additionally, the Archives Branch is presenting a special exhibition titled “Naga-Land & People in Archival Mirror” in partnership with the National Archives of India, offering a deeper look at the region's history and cultural practices.
• Recent Milestone:This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hornbill Festival.

Festival Highlights:

• Annual Event: Held each year since its inception in 2000, it serves as a major cultural event for Nagaland.
• Symbolism: Named after the Hornbill bird, which represents boldness and grandeur in Naga folklore.
• Location: The festival is hosted at Kisama Heritage Village, a cultural center that preserves Naga traditions with 17 indigenous houses (Morungs) that represent each of the tribes.
• Cultural Diversity: Nagaland, known as the “Land of Festivals,” is home to 17 major tribes, each with its distinct festivals and cultural practices. The Hornbill Festival promotes inter-tribal interaction and celebrates the state’s rich heritage.
• National Significance: Reflecting India’s unity in diversity, the festival serves as a platform for different cultural practices to coexist, strengthening the nation’s collective identity.

In News:

India and Slovenia have announced a five-year scientific collaboration plan (2024-2029) to deepen ties in research and technology. The Programme of Cooperation (PoC) was finalized during a meeting between Dr. Jitendra Singh (Indian Minister for Science and Technology) and Dr. Igor Papi? (Slovenian Minister for Higher Education, Science, and Innovation) on December 5, 2024.

Key Highlights:

• Joint Research Focus: The collaboration will focus on hydrogen technologies, sustainable innovation, AI, renewable energy, and smart cities.
• Over 20 Successful Projects: More than 20 joint initiatives in sectors like health, AI, and energy have already been implemented.
• Future Areas of Collaboration: New research projects will be launched, further strengthening academic exchanges and scientific networks between the countries.
• Hydrogen Technologies: Both ministers emphasized hydrogen's role in global energy sustainability, marking it as a critical area for future research.
• Historical Partnership: This builds on a partnership dating back to a 1995 agreement, with initiatives like the Joint Working Group on Scientific and Technological Cooperation.

What is the Programme of Cooperation (PoC)?

• The Programme of Cooperation (PoC) is a formal agreement between two countries designed to enhance collaboration in specific sectors, such as science, technology, and innovation.
• In the case of India and Slovenia, the PoC for the period 2024–2029 aims to promote joint research efforts, academic exchanges, and partnerships in emerging fields like hydrogen technologies, sustainable innovation, and other transformative areas.
• The PoC serves as a structured framework for long-term cooperation, enabling both nations to develop networks among scientists and researchers while addressing global challenges through collaborative innovation.

In News:

The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, the world’s largest domestic rooftop solar initiative, is transforming India’s energy landscape with a bold vision to supply solar power to one crore households by March 2027.

Key Details:

Targeted Installations:

• 10 lakh installations by March 2025.
• 1 crore installations by March 2027.

Subsidy and Financing:

• Offers up to 40% subsidy for rooftop solar installations based on household electricity consumption.
• Collateral-free loans available for up to 3 kW solar systems at a 7% interest rate.

Key Benefits:

The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana offers several significant benefits to participating households:

• Free Electricity for Households: The scheme provides households with free electricity through the installation of subsidized rooftop solar panels, significantly reducing their energy costs.
• Reduced Electricity Costs for the Government: By promoting the widespread use of solar power, the scheme is expected to save the government an estimated ?75,000 crore annually in electricity costs.
• Increased Use of Renewable Energy: The scheme encourages the adoption of renewable energy sources, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy mix in India.
• Reduced Carbon Emissions: The transition to solar energy under this scheme will help lower carbon emissions, supporting India's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. The applicant must be an Indian citizen.

2. Must own a house with a roof that is suitable for installing solar panels.

3. The household must have a valid electricity connection.

4. The household must not have availed of any other subsidy for solar panels.

Impact

The   PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana is expected to have far-reaching outcomes, both for individual households and the nation as a whole:

• Household Savings and Income Generation: Households will benefit from significant savings on their electricity bills. Additionally, they will have the opportunity to earn extra income by selling surplus power generated by their rooftop solar systems to DISCOMs. For instance, a 3-kW system can generate over 300 units per month on average, providing a reliable source of energy and potential revenue.
• Expansion of Solar Capacity: The scheme is projected to add 30 GW of solar capacity through rooftop installations in the residential sector, significantly contributing to India's renewable energy goals.
• Environmental Benefits: Over the 25-year lifetime of these rooftop systems, it is estimated that the scheme will generate 1000 BUs of electricity while reducing CO2 emissions by 720 million tonnes, making a substantial positive impact on the environment.
• Job Creation: The scheme is also expected to create approximately 17 lakh direct jobs across various sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, supply chain, sales, installation, operations and maintenance (O&M), and other services, thereby boosting employment and economic growth in the country.

Model Solar Village

• Under the "Model Solar Village" component of the scheme, the focus is on establishing one Model Solar Village per district throughout India.
• This initiative aims to promote solar energy adoption and empower village communities to achieve energy self-reliance.
• An allocation of ?800 crore has been designated for this component, with ?1 crore provided to each selected Model Solar Village.
• To qualify as a candidate village, it must be a revenue village with a population of over 5,000 (or 2,000 in special category states). Villages are selected through a competitive process, evaluated on their overall distributed renewable energy (RE) capacity six months after being identified by the District Level Committee (DLC).
• The village in each district with the highest RE capacity will receive a central financial assistance grant of ?1 crore.
• The State/UT Renewable Energy Development Agency, under the supervision of the DLC, will oversee the implementation, ensuring these model villages successfully transition to solar energy and set a benchmark for others across the country.

In News:

The app was developed by the ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture (ICAR-CIFA) with support from the Pradhan Mantri MatsyaSampada Yojana (PMMSY) under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Government of India.

Key Highlights:

• Target Audience: The app caters to hobbyists, farmers, and professionals in the ornamental fish industry.
• Multilingual Support: The app offers content in eight Indian languages, making it accessible to a broad and diverse audience.
• Main Objectives:

• Provide information on popular ornamental fish species and their care.
• Promote local aquarium businesses through dynamic directories.
• Enhance knowledge of ornamental aquaculture techniques for fish farmers and shop owners.
• Serve as an educational tool for newcomers and professionals in the ornamental fish industry.

• Salient Features:
  • Multilingual Content: Ensures broader reach and user accessibility.
  • Comprehensive Fish Information: Offers detailed guidance on fish care, breeding, and maintenance.
  • Find Aquarium Shops Tool: A directory updated by shop owners, helping users find reliable local aquarium shops and promoting local businesses.
• Educational Modules:
  • Basics of Aquarium Care: Covers key aspects like aquarium types, filtration, lighting, feeding, and maintenance.
  • Ornamental Aquaculture: Focuses on breeding and rearing ornamental fish, particularly for farmers.

• Economic and Social Impact:
  • Promoting Local Businesses: The app encourages economic growth by increasing visibility for local aquarium shops and creating opportunities for business owners.
  • Authenticity and Reliability: Users can access verified information, reducing the reliance on unverified sources and promoting healthier aquariums.
  • Sustainability and Growth: The app’s features are designed to foster sustainability and growth in the ornamental fish trade by providing reliable information and empowering users.

Pradhan Mantri MatsyaSampada Yojana (PMMSY):

• Objective: Aimed at transforming the fisheries sector, improving fish production, productivity, quality, technology, infrastructure, and management, while strengthening the value chain and promoting the welfare of fishers.
• Launch: The scheme was launched in 2020 with an investment of Rs. 20,050 crores for a 5-year period (2020-21 to 2024-25).
• Focus Areas:
  • Inland fisheries and aquaculture.
  • Fisheries management and regulatory framework.
  • Infrastructure and post-harvest management.
  • Doubling fishers' and fish farmers' incomes.
• Components:
  • Central Sector Scheme (CS): Fully funded by the central government.
  • Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS): Partially funded by the central government and implemented by states.
• Sub-Schemes:
  • Pradhan Mantri MatsyaKisanSamridhiSah-Yojana (PM-MKSSY): Launched under PMMSY to formalize the fisheries sector and support micro and small enterprises with over Rs. 6,000 crore investment (FY 2023-24 to 2026-27).
  • Beneficiaries: Includes fishers, farmers, fish vendors, fisheries cooperatives, SC/STs, women, differently-abled persons, state and central entities, and private firms.

Fisheries Sector Contribution:

• Supports around 30 million people.
• India is the 3rd largest fish producer globally, with a fish production of 175.45 lakh tons in FY 2022-23.
• Contributes 1.09% to the Gross Value Added (GVA) of India and 6.72% to agricultural GVA.

Related Schemes:

• Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF): Launched with a fund of Rs. 7,522.48 crore.
• Kisan Credit Card (KCC): Extended to fishers and farmers from FY 2018-19.
• Sustainable fisheries development.
• Doubling income and job creation in the sector.
• Boosting exports and agricultural GVA.
• Social and economic security for fishers.

In News:

NITI Aayog released its first quarterly report, Trade Watch Quarterly (TWQ), on December 4, 2024, focusing on India's trade developments during Q1 FY2024 (April-June).

Overview:

• Purpose: The publication aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of India’s trade performance, highlighting key trends, challenges, and opportunities.
• Target: To leverage insights for evidence-based policy interventions and foster informed decision-making, contributing to sustainable growth in India’s trade.

Trade Performance Highlights (Q1 FY24):

• Total Trade: $576 billion (5.45% YoY growth).
  • Merchandise Exports: Growth was restrained due to declines in iron & steel, and pearls.
  • Imports: Driven by high-value goods, including aircraft, spacecraft, mineral fuels, and vegetable oils.
  • Services Exports: Displayed a surplus, particularly in IT services.
• Growth in Services Exports: A positive trend, rising by 10.09% YoY, particularly in IT services and business solutions.

Key Challenges for India’s Trade:

• Limited Success in China-Plus-One Strategy:Countries like Vietnam, Thailand, Malaysia have gained more from this strategy, benefitting from cheaper labor, simplified tax laws, and lower tariffs.
• CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism):Starting in 2026, CBAM will impose carbon taxes on imports like cement, steel, and fertilizers. India’s iron and steel industry could face significant risks due to this.
• Declining Share in Labor-Intensive Sectors:India’s global market share in labor-intensive sectors (e.g., textiles, leather) has declined despite a strong workforce.
• Geopolitical Instability (West Asia):
  • Oil price hikes could increase India’s Current Account Deficit (CAD) and fuel inflation.
  • Declining agricultural exports to markets like Iran further add to the challenges.

Strategic Recommendations for Overcoming Challenges:

• Infrastructure Modernization:
  • Expansion of digital platforms like Trade Connect e-Platform to streamline processes and support exporters.
  • Strengthening logistics via the National Logistics Policy.
• Export Incentives:Continuation of schemes like RoDTEP (Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products) to maintain export competitiveness.
• Technological Integration:Leveraging digital trade to tap into high-growth sectors and foster innovation in trade.
• Strengthening FTAs (Free Trade Agreements):Focus on negotiating strategic FTAs with global partners (e.g., the UK and the EU) to reduce trade barriers and enhance global market access.

Geopolitical and Environmental Risks:

• U.S.-China Trade Tensions:Offers opportunities for India to diversify its supply chains, but also poses challenges in terms of overdependence on certain countries.
• Impact of CBAM:Risk to carbon-intensive Indian exports like steel and aluminium, which will face tariffs starting in 2026.

Sectoral Performance:

• Growing Sectors:
  • IT Services: India’s market share of IT services reached 10.2%, continuing to be a strong contributor.
  • Pharmaceuticals, Electrical Machinery, and Mineral Fuels: Significant contributors to export growth.
• Declining Sectors:Labor-Intensive Goods: Declines in global market share for textiles, pearls, and leather.

Pathway to $2 Trillion Exports by 2030:

• India's Export Aspirations:To achieve the target of $2 trillion in exports by 2030, India must address structural inefficiencies, diversify exports, and reduce trade barriers.
• Vision 2047:Aligning with India’s broader vision to become a developed nation, the report stresses the importance of strengthening trade, technology, and infrastructure to realize these ambitions.
• Trade's Role in Economic Growth:
  • Trade is vital to India’s economic trajectory, contributing significantly to GDP growth.
  • Through evidence-based policymaking, infrastructure modernization, and strategic global partnerships, India can achieve sustained growth in trade, leading to the realization of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.

In News:

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), under the NITI Aayog and the Office of Science & Innovation, at the Embassy of Sweden, in partnership with Nordic collaborators - Innovation Norway, Innovation Centre Denmark, and Business Finland, announced the successful conclusion of SheSTEM 2024.

Key Highlights:

• Objective: To inspire youth, especially women, to explore careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and promote innovative solutions for sustainability.
• Theme: Focus on Battery Technology and Energy Storage Systems (BEST), part of the India-Nordic BEST project, aimed at fostering sustainability through advanced energy solutions.

Key Features of the Challenge:

• Target Audience: Students from grades 6–12 across India.
• Participation: Over 1,000 submissions showcasing innovative energy storage solutions.
• Format: Students presented prototypes or concepts via a 2-minute video format.
• Focus Areas: Sustainability, energy storage, and innovative solutions to global challenges.

Significance of SheSTEM 2024:

• Youth Empowerment: Provides a platform for young innovators to showcase their ideas and contribute to global sustainability.
• Global Impact: Encourages collaboration between India and Nordic countries in academia, business, and government to explore energy storage and sustainable technologies.
• Women in STEM: Highlights the importance of gender inclusivity in STEM fields, particularly in sustainability and technology.

Key Facts about AIM (Atal Innovation Mission):

• Established: 2016 by NITI Aayog to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across India.
• Core Functions:
  • Promote Entrepreneurship: Financial support, mentorship, and nurturing innovative startups.
  • Promote Innovation: Creating platforms for idea generation and collaboration.
• Key Programs: Atal Tinkering Labs, Atal Incubation Centres, Atal New India Challenges, and Mentor India.
• Monitoring: Systematic monitoring of initiatives using real-time MIS systems and dashboards.

In News:

At an event celebrating the National Sports Day, The Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports and Labour& Employment launched “Retired Sportsperson Empowerment Training” (RESET) Programme.

Key Highlights:

• Objective:
  • Empower retired athletes through career development.
  • Provide tailored education, internships, and skill enhancement.
  • Address the human resource gap in the sports sector.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Retired athletes aged 20-50 years.
  • Winners of international medals or participants in international events.
  • National/state-level medalists or participants in recognized competitions (e.g., National Sports Federations, Indian Olympic Association).
• Courses Offered (16 Courses):

• • Strength & Conditioning Trainer
  • Sports Nutritionist
  • Sports Event Management
  • Corporate Wellness Trainer
  • Sports Masseur
• Sports Entrepreneurship
• Store Manager
• Fitness Centre Manager
• Physical Education Trainer
• Fitness Trainer
• Yoga Trainer
• Venue Supervisor
• Self-Defence Trainer
• Community Sports Trainer
• Camping & Trekking Guide
• Facility Caretaker

• Program Structure:
  • Two levels based on educational qualifications:
    • Class 12 and above
    • Class 11 and below
  • Hybrid learning mode:
    • Self-paced learning via a dedicated portal.
    • On-ground training and internships.
• Internship and Placement:
  • Internships offered in sports organizations, competitions, training camps, and leagues.
  • Post-course placement assistance and entrepreneurial guidance.
• Implementing Agency:Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education (LNIPE) for the pilot phase.
• Importance:
  • Provides sustainable career pathways for retired athletes.
  • Utilizes the experience and skills of retired athletes to benefit future generations of athletes.
  • Contributes to the growth of sports and nation-building.
• National Sports Day (29th August):
  • Celebrated in honor of Major Dhyan Chand's birth anniversary.
  • Promotes sports and physical fitness in India.
  • Awards like Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna presented to honor excellence in sports.

In News:

Recently, the Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya Pradesh was officially declared a Tiger Reserve, making it the 8th such reserve in the state. This declaration follows approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change through the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA).

Key Details:

• Core Area: 763.8 sq. km
• Buffer Area: 507.6 sq. km
• Total Area: 1,271.4 sq. km
• Ratapani Tiger Reserve is located in the Raisen and Sehore districts, within the Vindhya hills, and is home to approximately 90 tigers.
• It also forms a crucial part of Madhya Pradesh’s tiger habitat and serves as a migration corridor from the Satpura ranges.

Economic and Ecotourism Benefits:

• The designation will boost ecotourism, generating employment and improving livelihoods for local communities.
• Eco-development programs will support residents, providing new opportunities and addressing the balance between conservation and human interests.

Wildlife Conservation and Management:

• The reserve will focus on habitat management, wildlife protection, and community engagement.
• The core area has been recognized as a critical tiger habitat under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• Efforts will include strengthening anti-poaching measures, improving surveillance, and enhancing prey base restoration.

Significance for Madhya Pradesh:

• This move places Madhya Pradesh as the "Tiger State of India", with significant conservation focus on the Ratapani and Madhav National Park (also in the process of becoming a tiger reserve).
• Madhya Pradesh now hosts 8 tiger reserves, contributing significantly to the country's overall tiger conservation efforts.

In News:

• The International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), observed annually on December 3, celebrates the resilience, contributions, and leadership of persons with disabilities (PwDs) worldwide.
• Theme: “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”

History

• Proclamation: Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1992 to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities (PwDs).
• Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD): Adopted in 2006, further advanced the rights and well-being of PwDs and supports the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Initiatives

Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities

• In order to give focused attention to policy issues and meaningful thrust to the activities aimed at the welfare and empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), a separate Department of Disability Affairs was carved out of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment on May 12, 2012.
• The Department was renamed the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities on December 8, 2014.
• The Department acts as a nodal agency for matters pertaining to disability and persons with disabilities, including effecting closer coordination among different stakeholders: related Central Ministries, State/UT Governments, NGOs, etc., in matters pertaining to disability.

Accessible India Campaign

• The Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), launched on December 3, 2015 aims to achieve universal accessibility for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across India.
• The key focus areas include improving Built Environment Accessibility in public spaces, enhancing Transportation Accessibility for independent mobility, creating an accessible Information and Communication ecosystem, and expanding Sign Language Access through interpreter training and better media support.

Deendayal Divyangjan Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS)

• DDRS is a central sector scheme to provide grant-in-aid to non-governmental organizations (NGOs) for projects relating to the rehabilitation of persons with disabilities aimed at enabling persons with disabilities to reach and maintain their optimal, physical, sensory, intellectual, psychiatric, or socio-functional levels. 

District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (DDRC)

• The District Disability Rehabilitation Centre (DDRC) aims to address the needs of persons with disabilities through a multifaceted approach.
• Its objectives include early identification and intervention, raising awareness, and assessing the need for assistive devices along with their provision and fitment, arrangement of loans for self-employment and more. Additionally, it acts as an outreach center for services provided by National Institutes and works to promote a barrier-free environment for individuals with disabilities.

Assistance to Persons with Disabilities for Purchase/Fitting of Aids/ Appliances (ADIP) Scheme.

• The main objective of the Scheme is to provide grants-in-aid to the various implementing agencies (National Institutes/Composite Regional Centers/Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India.

Schemes For Implementation Of Rights of Persons With Disabilities Act 2016 (SIPDA)

• The Scheme for Implementation of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 (SIPDA) is a comprehensive "Central Sector Scheme" that encompasses 10 sub-schemes following its revision during the Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) meeting on 11th August 2021.
• This revised scheme, approved by the Hon'ble Finance Minister, is designed to operate from 2021–22 to 2025–26. 

Divya Kala Mela

• The Divya Kala Mela is a national-level fair dedicated to Divyangjan and represents a significant milestone in India’s journey toward inclusivity and empowerment of the Divyangjan, or differently-abled individuals.

PM-DAKSH

• PM-DAKSH (Pradhan Mantri DakshtaAurKushaltaSampannHitgrahi) Yojana is a one-stop destination for Persons with Disabilities (PwDs), skill training organizations, and employers across India to be a part of the National Action Plan for Skill Development of Persons with Disabilities implemented by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). Under this portal, there are two modules:
  • Divyangjan Kaushal Vikas: Skill training is conducted for PwDs through the portal across the country.
  • Divyangjan Rozgar Setu: The platform aims to act as a bridge between PwDs and employers having jobs for PwDs. The platform provides geo-tagged based information on employment/earning opportunities within private companies as well as PwDs across India.

In News:

• India has climbed 11 positions to secure 49th rank in the Network Readiness Index (NRI) 2024, compared to 60th in NRI 2023.
• This improvement reflects India’s significant progress in the digital and telecommunication sectors.

NRI 2024 Overview:

• The NRI 2024 report assesses the network readiness of 133 economies based on four pillars: Technology, People, Governance, and Impact, using 54 variables.
• Published by the Portulans Institute, Washington DC.

India's Leading Indicators:

• Top rankings:
  • 1st Rank: ‘AI scientific publications’, ‘AI talent concentration’, and ‘ICT services exports’.
  • 2nd Rank: ‘FTTH/Building Internet subscriptions’, ‘Mobile broadband internet traffic’, and ‘International Internet bandwidth’.
  • 3rd Rank: ‘Domestic market scale’.
  • 4th Rank: ‘Annual investment in telecommunication services’.

Digital Progress:

• India has demonstrated remarkable digital transformation, especially in technological innovation and digital infrastructure.

Economic Grouping:

• India ranks 2nd in the lower-middle-income countries group, following Vietnam.

Telecommunication Achievements:

• Tele-density has increased from 75.2% to 84.69% in the past decade, with 119 crore wireless connections.
• Internet subscribers have surged from 25.1 crore to 94.4 crore, aided by Digital India initiatives and rural broadband expansion.
• 5G Launch: In 2022, India launched 5G services, significantly boosting global mobile broadband speed rankings from 118th to 15th.

Future Vision:

• India’s Bharat 6G Vision aims to position the country as a leader in future telecom technologies, backed by strong infrastructure and investments in emerging technologies.

Telecom Reforms:

• Spectrum management, ease of doing business, and consumer protection reforms have strengthened India’s telecom sector, contributing to its improved network readiness ranking.

In News:

World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1 since 1988 to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate solidarity with affected individuals. It commemorates lives lost to AIDS and highlights progress and ongoing challenges in prevention, treatment, and care.

Key Highlights:

• 2024 Theme: "Take the Rights Path: My Health, My Right!"
  • Focuses on healthcare access, human rights, and addressing systemic inequalities in HIV prevention and treatment services.
  • Aims to empower individuals to manage their health and reduce stigma.
  • Advocates for inclusivity and global cooperation to eradicate AIDS.

Global and National Perspective on HIV/AIDS

• Global Progress:
  • According to UNAIDS Global AIDS Update 2023, significant strides have been made globally in reducing new HIV infections and improving treatment access.
  • India has been acknowledged for its robust legal framework and financial investments in HIV control.
• India's HIV Statistics:
  • Over 2.5 million people live with HIV in India.
  • Annual new infections: 66,400, a 44% reduction since 2010.
  • HIV prevalence among adults is 0.2%.
  • Free lifelong treatment is provided to over 16 lakh people at 725 ART centers (as of 2023).

India’s Comprehensive HIV/AIDS Response

• Early Initiatives:
  • India’s response to HIV/AIDS began in 1985 with sero-surveillance and blood safety measures.
  • The National AIDS and STD Control Programme (NACP) was launched in 1992, evolving into one of the world’s largest HIV/AIDS control programs.
• Evolution of NACP:
  • Phase I (1992-1999): Focused on awareness and blood safety.
  • Phase II (1999-2007): Introduced direct interventions in prevention, detection, and treatment.
  • Phase III (2007-2012): Expanded decentralized management at the district level.
  • Phase IV (2012-2017): Increased funding and sustainability of interventions.
  • Phase IV Extended (2017-2021): Passage of the HIV and AIDS (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017; introduction of the ‘Test and Treat’ policy; and response to the COVID-19 pandemic with IT innovations.
• NACP Phase V (2021-2026):
  • Central Sector Scheme with an outlay of Rs. 15,471.94 crore.
  • Goals: Reduce new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths by 80% by 2025-26 from 2010 levels.
  • Eliminate vertical transmission of HIV and syphilis, reduce stigma, and ensure universal access to STI/RTI services for vulnerable populations.
  • Key strategies include community-centered approaches, technology integration, gender-sensitive responses, and public-private sector partnerships.

Key Objectives of NACP Phase V

• Prevention & Control:
  • Ensure 95% of high-risk individuals access prevention services.
  • Achieve the 95-95-95 targets: 95% of HIV-positive individuals know their status, are on treatment, and achieve viral suppression.
  • Eliminate vertical transmission of HIV and syphilis.
  • Reduce stigma and discrimination to less than 10%.
• STI/RTI Prevention:
  • Universal access to high-quality services for at-risk populations.

In News:

The 14th Asia-Oceania Meteorological Satellite Users' Conference (AOMSUC-14)was held in New Delhi, India, hosted by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. This annual event brings together meteorologists, earth scientists, and satellite data users to discuss advancements in satellite technology for weather and climate monitoring.

Key Facts:

• Objective:
  • Promote Satellite Observations: Highlight the importance of satellite data for meteorology and climatology.
  • Advance Remote Sensing Science: Foster advancements in satellite technology and its application in weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
  • Encourage Collaboration: Facilitate dialogue between satellite operators and users to enhance the use of satellite data across the Asia-Oceania region.
  • Discuss Future Plans: Update on the current status and future plans of international space programs.
  • Engage Young Scientists: Encourage the involvement of young researchers in satellite science and meteorology.
• Participants:
  • Around 150 participants from various countries, including key international space organizations like WMO, NASA, ESA, JAXA, and other meteorological and space entities.
  • The conference will feature oral presentations, poster sessions, panel discussions, and a training workshop focused on satellite data application.
• Significance of the Conference:
  • Regional Cooperation: AOMSUC promotes stronger cooperation between countries in the Asia-Oceania region, addressing shared challenges in meteorology and satellite data usage.
  • Improved Forecasting: Enhances satellite data utilization for more accurate weather forecasting, disaster prediction, and climate monitoring.
  • Disaster Risk Management: Strengthens early warning systems for extreme weather events, improving disaster preparedness and response.
  • Capacity Building: Offers training and workshops for local meteorologists, boosting the capacity of countries to use satellite data effectively for weather forecasting and climate services.
  • Data Sharing: Encourages collaboration in satellite data sharing, facilitating better access to meteorological data across national borders.
• History of AOMSUC:The first AOMSUC was held in Beijing, China in 2010. Since then, the conference has been held annually in various Asia-Oceania locations and has become a leading event for the meteorological community.

In News:

The first edition of CINBAX (Counter-Terrorism Counter-Bio-Terrorism and Intelligence Operations Exercise) was launched on December 1, 2024, at the Foreign Training Node, Pune.

Key Details:

• Participants: 20 personnel from each side – the Indian Army and the Cambodian Army – focusing on enhancing cooperation for UN peacekeeping operations.
• Objective:
  • Enhancing Trust and Interoperability: CINBAX aims to foster mutual trust, build camaraderie, and improve operational efficiency between the two armies in conducting peacekeeping operations under UN guidelines.
  • Focus Areas: Joint Counter-Terrorism (CT) operations, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR), cyber warfare, logistics, casualty management, and disaster relief operations.

• Phases of the Exercise:
  • Phase I: Orientation for Counter-Terrorism operations in the context of UN peacekeeping missions.
  • Phase II: Conduct of tabletop exercises to simulate and plan response scenarios.
  • Phase III: Finalization of plans and review of lessons learned, focusing on operational strategies and tactical decision-making.
• Key Topics Covered:
  • Discussions on setting up a Joint Training Task Force for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
  • Exploring cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, and unconventional tactics.
  • Strategies for managing logistics, casualties, and coordination during Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
• Promotion of Indigenous Defence Equipment:
  • The exercise will showcase Indian-made weapons and defence equipment, supporting India’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance in defence production).
  • Objective: To highlight India's advanced military technology and indigenous defence capabilities.
• Significance for India-Cambodia Relations:
  • The exercise strengthens military ties between India and Cambodia, contributing to improved cooperation in regional peacekeeping efforts.
  • CINBAX marks a significant milestone in India-Cambodiadefence collaboration and sets the stage for future joint operations.

India-Cambodia Bilateral Relations

• Historical Context:
  • India and Cambodia share strong religious, cultural, and linguistic ties, with Hindu rituals influencing Cambodian culture and Sanskrit and Khmer sharing common words.
  • Diplomatic relations were established in 1952, even before Cambodia's independence from France.
• Key Developments:
  • 1954: Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited Cambodia, initiating strong diplomatic ties, particularly during the Non-Aligned Movement.
  • Post-1970s: India played a pivotal role in Cambodia's recovery from the Khmer Rouge regime. India was the first democratic country to recognize the Heng Samrin regime in 1981 and contributed to Cambodia's political reconciliation.
  • 1980s: India facilitated dialogue for the Paris Peace Accord and contributed to the success of UNTAC elections in 1993.
• Strategic and Economic Cooperation:
  • Defence: Enhanced cooperation in defence capacity building, military training, and infrastructure development.
  • Trade: India exports pharmaceuticals, bovine meat, automobiles, and leather products to Cambodia. In return, Cambodia exports organic chemicals, apparel, and footwear to India.
  • Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC): Established in 2000, MGC includes Cambodia and aims to enhance cooperation in sectors like trade, education, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
• Recent Collaboration:
  • India has extended financial assistance for infrastructure projects in Cambodia, especially in restoring and conserving cultural heritage sites like Angkor Wat.
  • MoUs signed in bilateral cooperation, cultural exchanges, and development projects highlight the growing India-Cambodia strategic partnership.

In News:

Government of India and ADB sign $98 million loan to promote plant health management in India’s horticulture.

Key Highlights:

$98 Million Loan Agreement with ADB:

• India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed a $98 million loan to enhance horticulture productivity and resilience.
• Objective: Improve farmers' access to certified, disease-free planting materials, which will increase crop yield, quality, and climate resilience.
• Focus Areas: The project aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP), aiming to strengthen plant health management in horticulture.

Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme (CPP):

• Implemented under MIDH: The Clean Plant Programme is part of the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Goal: To provide virus-free, high-quality planting materials to farmers, boosting horticultural crop yields and promoting climate-resilient varieties.
• Implementation Period: 2024-2030, with 50% financial support from ADB.
• Key Components:
  • Establishment of 9 Clean Plant Centers (CPCs) with state-of-the-art diagnostic, therapeutic, and tissue culture laboratories.
  • Certification Framework: Developing a regulatory framework under the Seeds Act 1966 to certify clean plants.
  • Support to Nurseries: Infrastructure development for large-scale nurseries.
• Significance: The programme strengthens India's self-reliance in horticulture and enhances adaptability to climate change impacts.

Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH):

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
• Focus: Holistic development of the horticulture sector, including fruits, vegetables, mushrooms, spices, and more.
• Funding Pattern:
  • General States: 60% by Government of India (GoI), 40% by State Governments.
  • North-Eastern and Himalayan States: 90% by GoI.

Horticulture Sector at a Glance:

• Contribution to Agricultural GDP: Accounts for 33% of the gross value.
• Land Coverage: Occupies 18% of agricultural land in India.
• Global Standing: India is the second-largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally.
• Surpassing Food Grains: Horticulture production exceeds food grain production, occupying much less land (25.66 million hectares vs. 127.6 million hectares for food grains).

Key Benefits of the CPP:

• Climate Resilience: Promotes climate-resilient plant varieties and helps farmers adapt to climate change.
• Innovation: Encourages the use of advanced testing techniques and builds institutional capacity.
• Long-term Impact: Expected to improve sustainability, productivity, and the economic well-being of farmers.

Additional Horticulture Initiatives:

• CHAMAN (Horticulture Assessment using Geo-informatics): A programme to estimate area and production of horticultural crops using scientific methods.
• Kisan Rail Services: Facilitates transportation of perishable horticultural products like fruits and vegetables.
• Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme: By the National Horticulture Board to support the sector’s growth.

In News:

• It was launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for Science & Technology, Earth Sciences, PMO, Personnel, Public Grievances, Pensions, Atomic Energy, and Space, along with Shri V. Srinivas, the Secretary of the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG).
• This initiative, conceptualized by DARPG, aims to evaluate and rank central Ministries and Departments based on their grievance redressal mechanisms.

Key Aspects of GRAI 2023:

• Objective: GRAI 2023 was designed to provide a comparative assessment of Ministries and Departments based on their grievance redressal systems. It was created based on recommendations from the Parliamentary Standing Committee of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances, and Pensions.
• Assessment Method: The index evaluates 89 Central Ministries and Departments across four dimensions:efficiency, feedback, domain&organisational Commitment
  • It is calculated using data from the Centralised Public Grievance Redressal and Management System (CPGRAMS) from January to December 2023. Ministries are grouped into three categories based on the number of grievances received in 2023:
    • Group A: Ministries/Departments with more than 10,000 grievances (28 Ministries/Departments)
    • Group B: Ministries/Departments with 2,000 to 9,999 grievances (33 Ministries/Departments)
    • Group C: Ministries/Departments with fewer than 2,000 grievances (28 Ministries/Departments)
  • Top Performers:
    • Group A: The Department of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare topped the rankings.
    • Group B: The Office of the Comptroller & Auditor General of India led.
    • Group C: The Department of Investment & Public Asset Management ranked first.

927945. Analysis: GRAI 2023 includes an in-depth analysis of the root causes of effective grievance redressal for each Ministry/Department, presented in a color-coded, easily understandable format.

1828154726001450500. Advancements: The report outlines a roadmap for improving grievance redressal, emphasizing:
                     • Utilization of advanced technologies such as AI and Machine Learning (ML) for predictive analytics and data analysis.
                     • The introduction of features like IGMS 2.0 and TreeDashboard within CPGRAMS.
                     • Improved training for Grievance Redressal Officers (GROs) and more rigorous audits to increase accountability.
                     • Expansion of CPGRAMS integration to local governments, enhancing the grievance redressal system across all levels of governance.

Commonwealth Secretariat recognized CPGRAMS as a best practice in grievance redressal at its meeting in April 2024.

In News:

• The 13th National Seed Congress (NSC), organized by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, concluded with significant discussions and outcomes focused on advancing India's seed sector.
• The theme for this year's congress, held in Varanasi, was "Innovating for a Sustainable Seed Ecosystem."

Key Highlights:

• Focus Areas:
  • Seed Technologies and Biofortification: Emphasis on high-nutrition seeds like iron and zinc-enriched rice and Vitamin A-rich crops to combat malnutrition.
  • Climate-Resilient Agriculture: Promoting practices like Direct Seeded Rice (DSR) and the development of stress-tolerant seed varieties to withstand climate change.
• Challenges in India’s Seed Ecosystem:
  • Seed Replacement Rate (SRR): SRR in India is around 15-20%, with 100% for hybrid seeds, pointing to the need for higher adoption of certified seeds.
  • Monoculture and Seed Market Monopoly: Issues like over-reliance on Bt cotton and domination by multinational companies (e.g., Bayer) in seed markets.
• Government Initiatives:
  • National Seed Corporation (NSC): Produces foundation and certified seeds for over 600 varieties.
  • Seed Village Programme (Beej Gram Yojana): Focus on improving the quality of farm-saved seeds.
  • National Seed Reserve: Ensures seed availability during climatic disruptions.
• Policy Discussions:
  • Proposed Seeds Bill: A new bill to regulate seed quality and promote sustainable practices.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations to improve seed production, accessibility, and quality.
• Outcomes:
  • Biofortified Seeds: Increased development and distribution of nutrient-rich seeds.
  • Climate-Resilient Seed Systems: Enhanced focus on developing crops that can withstand climate challenges.
  • Public-Private Partnerships: Strengthening collaborations in seed technology and policy reform.

In News:

• The Ministry of Culture plays a pivotal role in promoting India’s rich cultural heritage across the globe through its Global Engagement Scheme.
• The scheme is designed to enhance India's cultural image internationally while fostering people-to-people connections and strengthening bilateral cultural ties with other nations.
• The scheme has three key components: Festival of India, Grant-in-aid to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies, and Contribution Grants.

Key Components of the Global Engagement Scheme:

• Festival of India (FoI):
  • Purpose: The Festival of India is organized abroad to celebrate and promote India's diverse culture. It provides a platform for artists from various cultural fields, including Folk Art (folk music, dance, theatre, puppetry), Classical and Traditional Dance, Classical and Semi-Classical Music, Experimental/Contemporary Dance, and Theatre.
  • Impact: Since 2013-14, 62 Festivals of India have been held in different countries, with over 2,348 artists, including folk artists, participating. These festivals serve as a means to promote Indian folk art, culture, and music internationally.
  • Artist Participation: Folk artists are remunerated with a performance fee of ?35,000 for the leader/main artist and ?7,000 for accompanying artists per performance.
• Grant-in-aid to Indo-Foreign Friendship Cultural Societies:
  • Objective: This scheme supports cultural societies abroad that aim to strengthen cultural exchanges and promote Indian art forms. Grants are provided to these societies to organize various cultural programs and activities, fostering closer cultural ties between India and the host countries.
  • Support to Folk Artists: This scheme also aids in bringing folk art to the global stage, showcasing India's traditional performances.
• Contribution Grant:
  • Objective: The contribution grant is used for India’s membership in international organizations like UNESCO, ICOM, and the World Heritage Fund. This component also facilitates Indian participation in international meetings and helps host global events, further showcasing India’s cultural wealth.

Support for Veteran Artists:

In addition to promoting folk culture globally, the Ministry of Culture supports veteran artists through the Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists scheme. This initiative is aimed at supporting elderly and economically disadvantaged artists (aged 60 and above) who have made significant contributions to their respective art forms, including folk art.

• Financial Support: Artists selected under this scheme receive up to ?6,000 per month, adjusted for any state pension they may already receive.

Regional Contributions:

• The Ministry has empaneled folk artists and groups across India for participation in these international cultural exchanges. For instance, two folk artists/groups and one Kathak artist from Uttarakhand are currently empaneled.
• Notably, a troupe from Uttarakhand participated in the Freedom 70 Cultural Event in Cuba and the Dominican Republic in August 2017, showcasing the diversity of Indian folk art.
• The Financial Assistance for Veteran Artists has also benefitted several artists from Uttarakhand, with four artists from the state receiving support over the past two years.

In News:

• The Union Minister for Women and Child Development launched the “Bal VivahMukt Bharat” campaign aimed at eradicating child marriage in India.
• Goal: Reduce child marriage rates to below 5% by 2029.
• Focus: Engage multiple stakeholders, raise awareness, and leverage technology for eradication.

Target Areas:

• Target States: West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, Tripura, Assam, Andhra Pradesh.
• High-Burden Districts: Nearly 300 districts with higher rates of child marriage.

Child Marriage Free Bharat Portal:

• A digital platform to raise awareness, report cases, and track progress on child marriage prevention.
• Real-time tracking by Child Marriage Prohibition Officers (CMPOs).

Monitoring and Accountability:

• Central nodal officers and CMPOs will oversee the campaign’s implementation at state and district levels.
• The portal facilitates citizens’ participation by allowing complaints and providing information on legal remedies.

Progress and Impact:

• Child marriage rates have reduced from 47.4% (2005-06) to 23.3% (2019-21).
• The goal is to reduce these rates further to below 5% by 2029.

Awareness and Community Engagement:

• Public campaigns and community mobilization to challenge societal norms and change attitudes towards child marriage.
• The campaign will continue through various channels, including the BetiBachaoBetiPadhao initiative.

Legal Framework:

• Strengthening the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006, which sets the legal marriage age at 18 for women and 21 for men.
• Penalties for those involved in child marriage include imprisonment and fines.

Key Challenges for Child Marriage:

• Poverty: Families may view early marriage as a financial relief.
• Cultural Norms: Deep-rooted societal beliefs about preserving family honor.
• Gender Inequality: Patriarchal systems view girls as burdens.
• Lack of Education: Limited access to schooling forces early marriages.
• Fear of Sexual Assault: Misguided belief that early marriage protects girls.
• Weak Law Enforcement: Corruption and inadequate resources hinder the law’s implementation.
• Pandemic Impact: Economic hardships during COVID-19 led to an increase in child marriages.

Related Initiatives:

• Prohibition of Child Marriage Act (PCMA), 2006: Strengthens child marriage laws and establishes CMPOs.
• Success Stories: Individuals like BuchaRamanamma, Durga, and Roshni Perween have inspired others by stopping their own child marriages and advocating for change.

Campaign and National Vision:

• The campaign aligns with the Prime Minister’s vision for a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) by 2047.
• It aims to empower women and girls, providing them with opportunities for education, health, and safety.
• Collective effort from the government, social organizations, and citizens is crucial to eliminating child marriage.

In News:

• The Indian Army launched the “Eklavya” online learning platformnmunder the leadership of General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS).
• It is part of the Army’s “Decade of Transformation” initiative and aligns with the theme for 2024, “Year of Technology Absorption.”

Platform Development:

• Developed by the Army Training Command (ATC) and sponsored by the Army War College.
• Created at zero cost in collaboration with the Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics (BISAG-N), Gandhinagar.
• Hosted on the Army Data Network with scalable architecture to integrate various training establishments.

Key Features:

• Supports multiple courses from 17Category ‘A’ Training Establishments of the Army.
• Allows student officers to register for several courses simultaneously.
• Aims to decongest physical courses and integrate contemporary, application-focused content.

Categories of Courses:

• Pre-Course Preparatory Capsules: Online study material for physical courses, allowing focus on contemporary topics during offline training.
• Appointment-Specific Courses: Online courses for officers appointed to specialized roles (e.g., information warfare, financial planning, etc.), helping them gain domain-specific expertise before posting.
• Professional Development Suite: Includes courses on strategy, leadership, operational art, finance, emerging technologies, etc., focusing on holistic officer development.

Knowledge Highway:

• A searchable database featuring journals, research papers, and articles to support continuous professional education and development.

Impact:

• Promotes continuous professional military education.
• Enhances the efficiency and specialization of officers, particularly in emerging domains.
• Streamlines training processes and integrates modern technology in the Army’s educational system.

In News:

• The E-Daakhil portal was launched by the Department of Consumer Affairs to promote consumer rights and ensure timely justice.
• The portal was launched nationwide with its final rollout in Ladakh on 22nd November 2024, making it operational across all states and union territories of India.

Background and Purpose:

• Introduced in September 2020, the portal was developed in response to the Consumer Protection Act 2019, which aims to address emerging consumer concerns.
• Aimed at providing a hassle-free, inexpensive, and speedy mechanism for filing consumer complaints, especially post the COVID-19 pandemic.
• E-Daakhil is an online platform that simplifies the grievance redressal process, allowing consumers to file complaints remotely, without the need for physical presence.

Portal Features:

• User-friendly interface: Simple and intuitive, allowing consumers to file and track complaints online.
• Registration process: Users can register through OTP on their mobile or an activation link via email.
• Paperless and transparent: The entire process, from filing complaints to tracking the case status, is digital and transparent.
• Consumers can file complaints, pay fees, and monitor the progress of their cases from the comfort of their homes.

Success and Impact:

• By the end of 2023, E-Daakhil was available in 35 states and union territories; with Ladakh being the latest addition in November 2024.
• Over 2.81 lakh users have registered, and 1.98 lakh cases have been filed, of which 38,453 cases have been disposed of.

Future Developments:

• E-Jagriti: A new initiative that will further streamline the case filing, tracking, and management process, reducing delays and paperwork.
• E-Jagriti aims to improve communication between parties, ensuring faster dispute resolution.

In News:

The BioE3 Policy outlines guidelines and principles for enabling mechanisms for ‘Fostering High Performance Biomanufacturing’ in the country across diverse sectors. 

Key Highlights:

Primary Objective:

• Set a framework for the adoption of advanced technologies and innovative research to promote biomanufacturing in India.
• Focus on enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and quality in biomanufacturing.

Alignment with National Goals:

• Supports India’s vision of Green Growth (Union Budget 2023-24) and Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE), promoting sustainability.
• Aligns with India’s goal of achieving a Net-Zero carbon economy.
• Supports the Biomanufacturing and Biofoundry initiative announced in the Interim Budget 2024-25.

Key Objectives:

• Revolutionize biomanufacturing for better product quality and environmental sustainability.
• Accelerate the development and commercialization of bio-based, high-value products.
• Foster high-performance biomanufacturing across diverse sectors.

Achievements of Indian Bioeconomy (2014-2023):

• Contribution to GDP: Bioeconomy contributes 4.25% to India’s GDP of $3.55 trillion (as of Dec 2023).
• Growth of Bioeconomy: From $10 billion in 2014 to $151 billion in 2023, surpassing 2025 target.
• Increase in Biotech Startups: From 50 startups in 2014 to 8,531 startups in 2023.

Implementation Strategy:

• Establish BioEnablers including Bio-AI Intelligence Hubs, Biofoundries, and Biomanufacturing Hubs across India.
• Bio-AI Intelligence Hubs will support research and innovation using data-driven approaches and AI to develop technologies for bio-based products.
• Biofoundries and Biomanufacturing Hubs will provide infrastructure to scale up bio-based technology for commercial applications.

Focus on Human Resource Development:

• Bio-Enablers will offer training and internships to build a skilled workforce with interdisciplinary and technical skills required for biomanufacturing.

Sectoral Focus Areas:

• Based on consultations, six thematic sectors of national importance have been identified for implementation:
  • Bio-based chemicals and enzymes
  • Functional foods and smart proteins
  • Precision biotherapeutics
  • Climate-resilient agriculture
  • Carbon capture and utilization
  • Futuristic marine and space research
• Sectoral Expert Committees are addressing challenges and gaps identified for each of these sectors.

Government Support:

• The DBT-BIRAC (Department of Biotechnology and Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) has called for proposals to establish Biofoundries and Biomanufacturing Hubs in academia and industry.
• These hubs will support innovation and commercialization of biomanufacturing technologies.

In News:

• India reaffirms its commitment to inclusive growth and strengthening its intellectual property (IP) ecosystem.The signing of the treaty comes after nearly two decades of negotiations.

Key Highlights:

Purpose of the DLT:

• Aims to harmonize industrial design protection frameworks across multiple jurisdictions.
• Improves efficiency and accessibility of design registration processes.

Key Features of the DLT:

• Grace Period: A 12-month grace period after the first disclosure of the design, ensuring its validity for registration.
• Flexibility for Applicants: Provides relief measures such as relaxed deadlines, reinstatement of lost rights, and flexibility in adding priority claims.
• Simplified Processes: Includes simplified procedures for design renewals, assignment, and license recording.
• E-Filing Systems: Promotes the adoption of electronic filing systems and exchange of priority documents.

Benefits of DLT:

• Empowering SMEs and Startups: Helps small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups protect designs globally, enhancing competitiveness and market growth.
• Reduced Administrative Burden: Standardizes procedures, making the design protection process less complex, more predictable, and affordable.
• Support for Developing Countries: Offers technical assistance for implementation in developing and least-developed countries.

Significance for India:

• India’s rich heritage of design and craftsmanship underscores the importance of design protection for sustainable economic growth.
• Design registrations in India have surged, with a 120% increase in domestic filings over the last two years.

Supporting Programs:

• The treaty’s provisions align with India’s initiatives like Startup India and the Startups Intellectual Property Protection (SIPP) Scheme to boost the protection and commercialization of designs for Indian innovators.

Broader Impact:

• DLT aims to integrate design protection with traditional knowledge and cultural expressions, further enhancing protection for India’s diverse creative sectors.

About WIPO:

• The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is a specialized UN agency established in 1967, promoting IP rights globally.
• India is a member of WIPO, which has 193 member countries.

Overview of Intellectual Property (IP):

• IP includes creations like inventions, industrial designs, literary and artistic works, symbols, and more, which are used in commerce.
• IP rights protect creators, allowing them to benefit from their work when commercially exploited.

In News:

Cabinet approves One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) Scheme.

Key Highlights:

• Objective: It is a new initiative to provide unified access to international scholarly research articles and journals for all government-managed higher education institutions and research institutions in India.
• Scheme Overview:ONOS aims to make nearly 13,000 scholarly journals accessible to over 1.8 crore students, faculty, researchers, and scientists in more than 6,300 institutions across India. These journals will cover all academic disciplines, promoting both core and interdisciplinary research, including in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
• Digital Platform:The scheme will be implemented through a fully digital process, coordinated by the Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET), an autonomous center under the University Grants Commission (UGC). The platform will provide easy access to the journals and facilitate a streamlined subscription process.
• Investment and Coverage:A total of ?6,000 crore has been allocated for ONOS for three years (2025-2027). The scheme will cover major international publishers such as Elsevier, Springer, Wiley, and Oxford University Press. It will enable institutions to access 13,000 journals from 30 global publishers.

Benefits of the Scheme:

• Access to Top-Quality Research:ONOS will provide wide access to top-tier scholarly journals, benefiting institutions, researchers, and students across various fields. It will significantly improve the research environment in the country, especially for institutions that previously lacked the resources to access high-impact journals.
• Fostering Research and Development:The initiative aligns with India's vision of becoming an Atmanirbhar and Viksit Bharat by 2047, supporting the government's goals under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). It will help foster a culture of research and innovation in Indian institutions.
• Inclusivity:The scheme will particularly benefit institutions in smaller towns and rural areas, helping bridge the knowledge gap between urban and rural academic institutions.
• Simplified Access:The scheme eliminates the need for separate subscriptions to individual journals by different institutions, streamlining access to high-quality content through a single platform.

Implementation Details:

• Platform and Process:The ONOS platform will allow institutions to access journals through a unified portal, providing easy and coordinated access. The Department of Higher Education (DHE)will be responsible for conducting awareness campaigns about the initiative, ensuring widespread utilization among students and faculty.
• Review Mechanism:The ANRF will monitor and periodically review the usage of ONOS and track the contributions of Indian authors in the journals, ensuring that the initiative continues to support India’s research landscape.
• Operational Date:The ONOS platform is set to become operational on January 1, 2025, providing comprehensive access to research materials for government-managed higher education and research institutions.

The One Nation One Subscription scheme is a major step towards enhancing India's position in the global research ecosystem. It will provide unparalleled access to scholarly resources, supporting research excellence and innovation across the country.