In News:

The Bharat National Cyber Security Exercise (Bharat NCX 2024), inaugurated on November 18, 2024, is a key initiative aimed at strengthening India’s cybersecurity resilience. This 12-day exercise is designed to equip cybersecurity professionals and national leadership with the skills to manage complex cyber threats, enhance incident response capabilities, and improve strategic decision-making. The event is organized by the National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) in collaboration with Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU).

Key Details of Bharat NCX 2024:

• Cyber Defense and Incident Response Training
  • The exercise focuses on defensive cybersecurity skills, preparing participants to defend against cyberattacks.
  • Live-fire simulations will provide hands-on experience with real-time cyberattacks on IT and Operational Technology (OT) systems.
• Strategic Decision-Making Simulations
  • A core component is the Strategic Decision-Making Exercise, where senior management from across sectors will simulate decision-making in a national-level cyber crisis.
  • This exercise enhances their ability to respond swiftly and strategically in high-pressure scenarios.
• CISO’s Conclave
  • The CISO's Conclave brings together Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) from government, public, and private sectors.
  • The conclave will feature panel discussions on the latest cybersecurity trends and government initiatives, allowing professionals to exchange knowledge and collaborate.
• Bharat Cybersecurity Startup Exhibition
  • An exhibition will highlight innovative cybersecurity solutions developed by Indian startups. This showcases the growing role of the private sector in strengthening India’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
• Leadership Engagement and Capacity Building
  • Leadership engagement is a key feature, ensuring that high-level decision-makers are prepared to lead national cybersecurity efforts.
  • The exercise will foster a unified approach to dealing with emerging cyber threats.

Significance for India’s Cybersecurity Strategy

• National Cybersecurity Resilience: Bharat NCX 2024 is a vital step in fortifying India’s cybersecurity defenses, preparing professionals and leadership to address the evolving cyber threat landscape.
• Collaboration and Innovation: The inclusion of industry stakeholders, startups, and leaders from various sectors underscores the importance of collaboration in developing innovative solutions to cybersecurity challenges.
• Capacity Building: The exercise aims to improve decision-making at all levels, helping India build a robust cybersecurity framework to secure its critical infrastructure and respond effectively to potential cyber crises.

In News:

As Delhi’s AQI worsened, the Commission for Air Quality Management issued the order to activate Stage-IV of the Graded Response Action Plan.

Restrictions Under GRAP-IV in Delhi-NCR

• Truck Movement:
  • Banned except for essential goods and trucks using clean fuels (LNG, CNG, BS-VI diesel, or electric).
  • Non-essential light commercial vehicles registered outside Delhi are also banned unless they are CNG or BS-VI diesel or electric vehicles (EVs).
  • Delhi-registered BS-IV or older diesel vehicles (medium and heavy goods vehicles) are banned, except for those in essential services.
• Construction Activities:Suspension of all construction work, including public projects like highways, roads, flyovers, power lines, pipelines, etc.
• Schools and Work:
  • Online classes for students of Classes 6 to 9 and Class 11.
  • Work from home (WFH) recommendations for 50% office capacity in NCR.
  • Central government employees may also be asked to work from home.
  • Offline classes for Classes 10 and 12 continue, but schools for other classes must shift to online mode.
• Other Measures:
  • State governments may impose additional measures such as:
    • Closure of colleges.
    • Odd-even vehicle scheme.
    • Restrictions on non-essential commercial activities.

About GRAP (Graded Response Action Plan)

• Purpose: A plan to reduce air pollution in the Delhi-NCR region based on AQI levels.
• Approved By: Supreme Court in 2016 (M.C. Mehta v. Union of India).
• Notified by MoEFCC: 2017.
• Implementation Authority: CAQM (Commission for Air Quality Management).

Stages of GRAP

GRAP is an incremental system, with measures activated as air quality deteriorates:

• Stage 1: Poor AQI (201-300) – Basic pollution control measures.
• Stage 2: Very Poor AQI (301-400) – Enhanced measures.
• Stage 3: Severe AQI (401-450) – Stricter actions like shutting down industries.
• Stage 4: Severe Plus AQI (Above 450) – Most stringent restrictions, as activated on November 18, 2024.

Air Quality Index (AQI)

• Introduced: 2014, by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Categories:
  • Good: 0-50
  • Satisfactory: 51-100
  • Moderately Polluted: 101-200
  • Poor: 201-300
  • Very Poor: 301-400
  • Severe: 401-450
  • Severe Plus: 451 and above (current status in Delhi).
• Pollutants Considered: PM10, PM2.5, NO?, SO?, CO, O?, NH?, and Pb.
• Measurement: 24-hour average values for PMs, and 8-hour averages for CO and O?.

Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM)

• Established: Under the Commission for Air Quality Management in National Capital Region (NCR) Act, 2021.
• Mandate: To coordinate, research, and manage air quality issues in the NCR and adjoining areas.
• Composition: Includes government officials, technical experts, and NGO representatives.
• Jurisdiction: Covers Delhi and parts of Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.

In News:

Nepal starts exporting energy to Bangladesh with Indian grid support.

Significance of the Power Transfer:

• Energy Cooperation:
  • A major step in regional energy cooperation among Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.
  • Strengthens sub-regional connectivity in the power sector.
• Nepal’s Hydropower Potential:
  • Nepal, a Himalayan nation, possesses untapped hydropower resources, and this agreement opens the door for future cross-border electricity cooperation.
  • Nepal’s energy exports are a green energy initiative, supporting sustainable industrial growth in Bangladesh and regional prosperity.
• Electricity Crisis in Bangladesh:
  • Bangladesh is facing an ongoing electricity shortage, worsened by the suspension of power supply from Adani’s Godda plant and the maintenance of the Payra thermal unit.
  • The addition of 40 MW of Nepalese hydroelectric power aims to alleviate the energy shortfall in Bangladesh.

Tripartite Power Sales Agreement:

• Agreement Details:
  • The agreement for power transfer was signed in October 2023 between:
    • NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN) (India)
    • Nepal Electricity Authority (NEA) (Nepal)
    • Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) (Bangladesh).
  • Power Export: Nepal has started exporting 40 MW of electricity, which marks a significant milestone in trilateral power cooperation.

Key Entities Involved:

• NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN):
  • A wholly owned subsidiary of NTPC Ltd. (National Thermal Power Corporation), created to facilitate power trading.
  • NVVN is diversifying into renewables, e-mobility, and green fuel solutions.
• NTPC Ltd.:
  • A Maharatna PSU under India’s Ministry of Power, established to develop power resources in India.
  • Involved in large-scale power generation and clean energy initiatives

In News:

The Guru Ghasidas-TamorPingla Tiger Reserve in Chhattisgarh has been officially notified as India's 56th tiger reserve, marking a significant milestone in the country's conservation efforts. Here's an overview of this new reserve:

Key Details:

• Location: The tiger reserve is located across the Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur, Korea, Surajpur, and Balrampur districts of Chhattisgarh.
• Area: The reserve spans 2,829.38 square kilometers and includes both core and buffer zones.
  • Core/critical habitat: 2,049.2 sq. km (includes the Guru Ghasidas National Park and TamorPingla Wildlife Sanctuary).
  • Buffer zone: 780.15 sq. km.
• Rank: It is the third largest tiger reserve in India, after the Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam Tiger Reserve (Andhra Pradesh) and Manas Tiger Reserve (Assam).

Connectivity:

The reserve forms part of a landscape complex that extends over nearly 4,500 sq. km and is interconnected with other major tiger reserves:

• Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) to the north.
• Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (Madhya Pradesh) to the west.
• Palamau Tiger Reserve (Jharkhand) to the east.

This connectivity supports greater wildlife movement, reducing the risk of inbreeding and strengthening the overall conservation efforts for the tiger population.

Biodiversity:

The Guru Ghasidas-TamorPingla Tiger Reserve is ecologically rich, harboring a wide array of species:

• 753 species have been documented, including:
  • 230 bird species.
  • 55 mammal species, including several threatened species such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, and wolves.
  • A variety of invertebrates, especially insects.
• The reserve's terrain includes dense forests, streams, rivers, and varied elevations, making it an ideal habitat for tigers and other wildlife.

Ecological Importance:

• Situated in the Chota Nagpur and Baghelkhand plateaus, the reserve has varied landscapes that contribute to its ecological diversity. The region's tropical climate and dense forests make it a critical habitat for tigers and other wildlife.
• The reserve's core area forms an important critical tiger habitat, providing a sanctuary for tigers to thrive with minimal human disturbance.

Conservation Impact:

With the addition of this tiger reserve, Chhattisgarh now boasts four tiger reserves, complementing the existing Udanti-Sitanadi, Achanakmar, and Indravati reserves. This bolsters the state's and the country's ongoing efforts to protect and conserve tigers, which are a keystone species in maintaining ecological balance.

Procedural Steps for Notification:

• Identification: The state government identifies a significant ecological area with potential for tiger conservation.
• NTCA Approval: After a thorough assessment, the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) evaluates and approves the proposal.
• State Notification: The state government officially notifies the area as a tiger reserve under the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972.
• Implementation: The state, with NTCA support, begins implementing conservation and management strategies.

In News:

• In a groundbreaking discovery, researchers have identified a new species of sea slug deep within the ocean’s midnight zone—a place that lies between 3,300 to 13,100 feet (1,000 to 4,000 meters) below the ocean's surface.
• The species, named Bathydeviuscaudactylus, is a glowing, swimming sea slug that exhibits several unique adaptations to survive in the extreme conditions of the deep ocean.

Key Features of BathydeviusCaudactylus

• Glowing Bioluminescence: One of the most striking features of this newly discovered mollusk is its ability to glow with bioluminescence. Bathydevius emits a soft, starry glow, an adaptation seen in only a few deep-sea species. The glowing feature plays a role in distracting predators and even includes the ability to detach glowing projections from its tail as a decoy.
• Unique Body Structure: Unlike most sea slugs that typically live on the seafloor, Bathydevius has evolved to thrive in the open water. It has a gelatinous, paddle-like tail and a large, bowl-shaped hood that covers its internal organs, making it appear somewhat like a “megaphone with a feathered tail.” This structure helps it capture prey, such as mysid shrimp, which it traps using its hood.
• Adaptations for Deep Sea Life: Bathydevius' transparent body, along with its ability to drift with ocean currents and flex its body to move vertically in the water column, allow it to navigate the depths of the midnight zone. Its hermaphroditic nature means it carries both male and female reproductive organs, allowing it to reproduce by attaching to the seafloor and laying eggs when needed.

Discovery and Exploration

• The unusual species was first encountered by researchers from the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI) during a deep-sea dive in February 2000 using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) called Tiburon. Since then, more than 150 sightings have been made of the creature in the waters off the Pacific Coast of North America, ranging from Oregon to Southern California.
• Interestingly, similar creatures have been observed by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) in the Mariana Trench, suggesting that Bathydevius may have a wider range than initially thought. A specimen was eventually collected for further study, revealing its identity as a nudibranch, a type of soft-bodied marine mollusk.

Survival Tactics and Behavior

• Prey Capture: Unlike typical sea slugs that scrape food from the seafloor, Bathydevius uses its large hood to trap crustaceans like mysid shrimp. This allows it to thrive in the open ocean where food can be harder to obtain.
• Defensive Mechanisms: When threatened, Bathydevius can glow with bioluminescence to distract predators. This glow, which creates a starry appearance across its back, has been seen in other deep-sea species but is rare in nudibranchs. Additionally, it can detach part of its tail (a glowing projection) to confuse attackers, similar to how lizards shed their tails as a defense mechanism.
• Reproduction and Movement: As a hermaphrodite, Bathydevius has the ability to self-fertilize or mate with other individuals. During reproduction, it descends to the seafloor and uses its foot to temporarily attach, releasing eggs before returning to its swimming lifestyle. It also relies on its flexible, transparent body to blend in with the surroundings and evade predators.

In News:

• India has made a major advancement in its defense capabilities with the successful flight test of its first long-range hypersonic missile, marking a historic moment in the country's defense technology.
• The test was conducted, by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), took place off the coast of Odisha from the Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam Island.
• The missile has a range of over 1,500 km and is capable of carrying various payloads for all branches of the armed forces.

Key Highlights of the Test:

• Successful Trial: The missile successfully completed its flight test with high accuracy, confirmed by the data gathered from down-range ship stations. It performed a series of terminal maneuvers, validating its precision targeting capabilities.
• Speed and Range: The missile achieved hypersonic speeds (Mach 6), or six times the speed of sound, and is designed for a range of more than 1,500 km, far exceeding the capabilities of many conventional missiles.
• Indigenous Development: This missile is a product of DRDO's indigenous efforts, developed with contributions from the Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Missile Complex in Hyderabad, as well as other DRDO laboratories and industry partners.

What are Hypersonic Missiles?

• Definition: Hypersonic missiles are defined as weapons that travel at speeds greater than Mach 5 (five times the speed of sound), or about 3,836 miles per hour (6,174 km/h). At such speeds, they are incredibly difficult to track and intercept, posing a challenge for traditional missile defense systems.
• Types:
  • Hypersonic Glide Vehicles (HGVs): These are launched from rockets and glide towards their target.
  • Hypersonic Cruise Missiles (HCMs): These missiles use air-breathing engines like scramjets for sustained flight at hypersonic speeds.
• Advantages: Hypersonic missiles offer several advantages, including:
  • Responsive strike capability: They can target time-sensitive threats quickly and with high precision.
  • Manoeuvrability: Unlike ballistic missiles, which follow a predictable parabolic trajectory, hypersonic missiles can change course mid-flight, making them harder to defend against.
• Challenges:
  • Heat and air resistance: Traveling at such high speeds generates tremendous heat due to friction, presenting engineering challenges.
  • Tracking and interception: Their low-altitude flight and high speeds make them harder to detect and intercept with existing missile defense systems.
  • High costs: Developing and deploying hypersonic weapons comes at a higher cost than traditional missile systems.

Global Context of Hypersonic Weaponry

• Russia and China: Both Russia and China are leaders in hypersonic missile technology. Russia has already deployed the Kinzhal hypersonic missile in Ukraine, demonstrating its effectiveness in combat situations.
• United States: The U.S. is also making significant advancements, with contracts like the Long Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW), awarded to Lockheed Martin for continued development.
• Other Nations: Countries such as France, Germany, Australia, Japan, and Israel are also actively working on developing hypersonic missile systems.

In News:

India continues to make significant strides in intellectual property filings, ranking among the top 10 countries for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.

India’s Performance in Global Intellectual Property (IP) Filings:

• Overall Growth: India continues to make significant strides in intellectual property filings, ranking among the top 10 countries for patents, trademarks, and industrial designs.
• Patent Applications: India recorded a +15.7% growth in patent applications in 2023, marking its fifth consecutive year of double-digit growth, placing it among the top contributors to global patent filings.
• Trademark Filings: India ranks 4th globally in trademark filings, reflecting the country’s growing focus on brand protection.
• Industrial Designs: India saw a 36.4% surge in industrial design applications, emphasizing creativity and design innovation.

India’s Global Patent Ranking:

• Global Rank: India ranks 6th globally for patent applications with 64,480 filings in 2023.
• Resident Filings: For the first time, over half (55.2%) of India’s patent applications were filed by residents, highlighting growing domestic innovation.
• Patent Grants: A 149.4% increase in granted patents in 2023 underscores the efficiency of India’s patent office and the rising quality of applications.

Key Metrics and Trends in Patents:

• Patent-to-GDP Ratio: India’s patent-to-GDP ratio grew from 144 in 2013 to 381 in 2023, signaling a knowledge-driven economy.
• Sectoral Diversity: India’s patent filings span diverse sectors, including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, IT, and renewable energy, showcasing the broad scope of innovation.

Surge in Industrial Design Applications:

• Growth Rate: A 36.4% increase in industrial design filings in 2023, reflecting a shift towards value-added industries focused on product design and functionality.
• Leading Sectors: Key sectors driving design filings include textiles, accessories, tools, machines, and health & cosmetics.
• Manufacturing Transformation: This growth signals India’s transition from basic manufacturing to a more design-driven, innovation-focused ecosystem.

Trademark Filings:

• Global Rank: India ranks 4th globally in trademark filings with a 6.1% increase over the previous year.
• Resident Filings: Nearly 90% of trademark filings in India were made by domestic entities, highlighting a strong focus on brand protection.
• Active Trademarks: India now has over 3.2 million active trademarks, the second-largest in the world, reflecting a competitive and dynamic domestic marketplace.

Sectoral Trends in Trademarks:

• Leading Sectors: Health (21.9%), agriculture (15.3%), and clothing (12.8%) were the top sectors for trademark filings, underscoring India’s leadership in pharmaceuticals, food production, and fashion.
• Global Expansion: The rise in trademark filings also mirrors the increasing global demand for Indian products and services.

India’s Contribution to Global IP Growth:

• Global Trend: In 2023, a record 3.55 million patent applications were filed worldwide, with India contributing significantly to this surge, particularly in emerging markets.
• Local Innovation Focus: India’s rising resident filings in patents and trademarks point to a shift towards local innovation, with more Indian businesses and startups protecting their intellectual property.

Government Initiatives Fueling IP Growth:

• National IPR Policy: Launched in 2016, this policy fosters innovation, improves IP awareness, and supports domestic IP development.
  • Key Measures: Modernization of IP offices, improvements in procedural requirements, and IP education initiatives.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: Government campaigns like Atmanirbhar Bharat have supported local innovation and made Indian businesses more IP-conscious.
• Startup India & Atal Innovation Mission: These initiatives have further strengthened India’s innovation ecosystem by promoting entrepreneurship, research, and technological advancement.
  • Startup India: Over 1,49,000 recognized startups as of September 2024.
  • Atal Innovation Mission: More than 10,000 Atal Tinkering Labs in schools and 3,500+ startups incubated across India.

In News:

A Semiconductor Plant has been set up in Morigaon, Assam, projected for completion by mid-2025.

Overview of the Morigaon Semiconductor Plant:

• Location: Morigaon, Assam.
• Investor: Tata Semiconductor Assembly and Test Pvt Ltd (TSAT).
• Investment: ?27,000 crore.
• Production Capacity: Expected to produce 48 million semiconductor chips daily.
• Technology: Utilizes advanced packaging technologies such as flip chip and Integrated System in Package (ISIP).
• Sectors Served: Automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, consumer electronics.
• Completion: Projected to be completed by mid-2025.
• Job Creation: Expected to generate 15,000 direct jobs and 11,000-13,000 indirect jobs.
• Market Reach: Will serve both domestic and international markets, enhancing India's position in the global semiconductor supply chain.

India's Semiconductor Industry and Market Growth:

• Market Size (2023): Estimated at $38 billion.
• Projected Growth: Expected to grow to $109 billion by 2030.
• Government Initiatives: Several initiatives have been launched to promote domestic semiconductor manufacturing, including the India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) and the Semicon India Program.

India Semiconductor Mission (ISM):

• Objective: To build a self-reliant semiconductor ecosystem in India.
• Launched: 2021 with a financial outlay of ?76,000 crore.
• Scope: Covers semiconductor fabs, packaging, display manufacturing, Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Testing (OSAT), sensors, and other critical components.
• Support Schemes: Includes Modified Schemes for setting up Semiconductor and Display Fabs, as well as support for Compound Semiconductors, Silicon Photonics, and Sensors.

Key Projects in Semiconductor Industry:

• Morigaon Facility: Part of the broader government-backed initiative to enhance semiconductor production in India.
• Other Facilities: New semiconductor units by Tata Electronics (Dholera, Gujarat), CG Power (Sanand, Gujarat), and KaynesSemicon Pvt Ltd (Sanand, Gujarat).
• Modernization: The Semi-Conductor Laboratory in Mohali is being modernized, alongside initiatives like the Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors (SPECS) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.

Strategic Importance of Semiconductors:

• Role in Modern Electronics: Semiconductors are critical for a wide range of devices like computers, smartphones, solar cells, LEDs, and integrated circuits.
• Global Dependence: The global semiconductor market has significant reliance on suppliers like Taiwan (44%), China (28%), and South Korea (12%).
• Global Shortage: The 2021 chip shortage highlighted the vulnerability of global supply chains, prompting efforts by countries to boost domestic semiconductor production.

Government Support for Semiconductor Manufacturing:

• Financial Incentives: The government offers fiscal support for setting up semiconductor manufacturing plants:
  • 50% of project cost support under the Semiconductor Fab Scheme and the Display Fab Scheme.
  • Support for Compound Semiconductors and Chips to Startup (C2S) initiatives.
  • Training 85,000 engineers through the C2S Programme in collaboration with academic institutions, R&D organizations, and MSMEs.

In News:

Recently, the Ministry of Defence launched the AI-enabled e-Tarang System.

Key Highlights:

• Development Collaboration: Created in partnership with Bhaskaracharya National Institute for Space Applications and Geo-informatics (BISAG-N).
• Purpose:
  • Improve planning for interference-free operation of defence equipment during both wartime and peacetime.
  • Enable automated, efficient planning and management of Defence Spectrum.
  • Support the development of newer technologies in higher frequency bands.
  • Facilitate rapid decision-making and integration of critical modern defence technologies.

BISAG-N Overview:

• Status: Autonomous Scientific Society under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India.
• Key Roles:
  • Technology development and management.
  • Research and development in geo-spatial technologies.
  • National and international cooperation in geo-spatial fields.
  • Capacity building and entrepreneurship development in geo-spatial technology.
• Core Domains:
  • Satellite Communication
  • Geo-informatics
  • Geo-spatial Technology

Joint Electromagnetic Board (JEMB) – Annual Meeting Highlights:

• Chairperson: Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations).
• Attendees: Senior officers from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, DRDO, DDP, and industry.
• Agenda: Focused on joint operations and integration in several areas:
  • Electronic Warfare (EW)
  • Signature Management
  • Emerging Technologies
  • Electromagnetic Interference/Compatibility (EMI/EMC)
  • Spectrum Management
  • Human Resource Management
• Key Outcome:
  • Introduction of the AI-enabled e-Tarang System to enhance Defence Spectrum management.
  • Release of the Technical News Letter (TNL) 2024, outlining future technologies for modern warfare.
  • Development of a roadmap to enhance Spectrum Warfare capabilities and integration of EW assets across the three Services.
  • Successful joint EW exercise conducted in September 2024, promoting the principle of “Victory through Jointness”.

Objective of the Meeting:

• Goal: Achieve synergy in joint electronic warfare operations across the Services.
• Focus: Establish technology development and training priorities for the future.

In News:

• From November 10 to 18, 2024, the Indian Army is conducting a high-intensity tri-services exercise named PoorviPrahar in the forward areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
• The exercise aims to enhance the combat effectiveness and coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, focusing on integrated joint operations in the challenging mountainous terrain of the region.

About Exercise PoorviPrahar

Objective: The primary goal of Exercise PoorviPrahar is to hone the combat readiness and synergy across the three branches of the Indian Armed Forces. It is designed to improve their ability to conduct integrated joint operations, especially in the difficult terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, which is crucial due to the region's strategic location along India's eastern frontier.

Key Features of the Exercise:

• Multidomain Integration:The exercise involves land, air, and sea operations, demonstrating India's capability to conduct multi-domain operations. This showcases the Indian Armed Forces' preparedness to tackle threats across all three domains simultaneously.
• Advanced Military Platforms:
  • Aircraft: Advanced fighter jets, reconnaissance aircraft.
  • Helicopters: Including Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH Rudra).
  • Artillery: The exercise makes use of the M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers, which provide mobility and precision firepower in rugged terrains.
  • Swarm Drones and Loitering Munitions: These cutting-edge technologies enable precision strikes and enhanced situational awareness, contributing to more flexible and adaptive operations.
• Technological Integration:
  • The exercise integrates next-generation technologies like Swarm Drones, Loitering Munitions, and First-Person View (FPV) Drones. These tools enhance operational flexibility, improve situational awareness, and enable precision in strike capabilities, marking a significant advancement in India's military technology.
• Operational Coordination:A core component of the exercise is the development of a Common Operating Picture (COP). This system integrates real-time data from land, air, and sea operations, improving coordination and decision-making. The system relies on AI-driven analytics and satellite communications, enabling rapid information sharing and quicker response times.
• Tactical Focus on Mountain Warfare:Arunachal Pradesh, with its mountainous and rugged terrain, is the perfect setting for honing skills required for mountain warfare. The region’s proximity to India’s border with China makes it a critical area for India’s defense strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• Integrated Joint Operations: The exercise focuses on improving the coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force to execute seamless operations across land, air, and sea.
• Advanced Technology Integration: The exercise features the use of Swarm Drones, Loitering Munitions, and AI-driven systems to enhance precision, situational awareness, and overall operational flexibility.
• Mountain Warfare Expertise: Conducted in the mountainous terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, the exercise is crucial for preparing the Indian Armed Forces to operate effectively in such challenging landscapes.
• Strategic Posture: The exercise reaffirms India’s ability to defend its Eastern frontier and maintain a robust defense posture in the face of potential threats in the region.

In News:

• The Red-Headed Vulture, a critically endangered species, has been sighted for the first time in Kasaragod, Kerala, marking an important addition to the region’s avian biodiversity. This rare sighting occurred at Manhampothikunnu near Mavungal. Prior to this, the species was predominantly seen in the Wayanad region of Kerala.
• This discovery brings the total number of bird species recorded in Kasaragod to 407, showcasing the district's growing avian diversity.

About the Red-Headed Vulture:

• The Red-Headed Vulture (also known as the Asian King Vulture or Pondicherry Vulture) is one of the rarest and most critically endangered species of vultures in India. It is known for its distinctive scarlet red head and black body with a white patch on the abdomen.
• Physical Features: The bird is medium-sized, weighing around 5 kg, with a wingspan of up to 2.5 meters and a length of 80 cm. It is typically solitary, often found alone or with a mate.
• Distribution: Historically found in Central India, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, and parts of Kerala, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, the Red-Headed Vulture’s numbers have drastically declined in recent decades.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: The Red-Headed Vulture is classified as Critically Endangered.
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: It is listed under Schedule 1, offering it the highest level of legal protection.
• CITES: The species is also listed in Appendix II, indicating that it requires international conservation efforts to prevent it from becoming endangered.

Threats to Vultures:

• Diclofenac Poisoning: The significant decline in vulture populations in India, including the Red-Headed Vulture, is primarily due to the widespread use of diclofenac (a veterinary drug) to treat livestock. When vultures consume the carcasses of treated animals, they ingest the toxic drug, leading to kidney failure and death.
• Other threats include pesticide contamination, lead poisoning, habitat loss, and collisions with man-made structures like power lines and wind turbines.

Conservation Efforts in India:

• India has undertaken various efforts to protect vultures, including banning diclofenac in 2006 and expanding the ban to other harmful drugs like ketoprofen and aceclofenac in 2023.
• Vulture Conservation Breeding Centres (VCBCs): These centers are focused on captive breeding and reintroduction programs for vultures, helping to increase their populations. The Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre in Uttar Pradesh is one of the latest initiatives, set up to protect and rehabilitate vultures.
• Vulture Safe Zones have been created across India, providing safe habitats for vulture species to recover.
• Vulture Restaurant Initiative: In some regions, safe feeding centers (such as in Jharkhand) have been established, where vultures are provided uncontaminated carcasses, reducing their exposure to toxic substances.
• Legal Protection: Several species of vultures, including the Red-Headed Vulture, are protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, ensuring stringent legal measures against poaching and habitat destruction.

Global Conservation Efforts:

• India’s vulture conservation initiatives are part of a broader international effort under the SAVE (Saving Asia’s Vultures from Extinction) programme, which involves multiple regional and global organizations working to protect vulture species in South Asia.

In News:

Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has ordered an inquiry after some intended beneficiaries of the ‘Taruner Swapna’ scheme, an initiative of the TMC government, alleged that they did not receive Rs 10,000 meant for the purchase of tablets (mobile device with a touchscreen display, rechargeable battery, and mobile operating system).

Overview:

• Aimed at bridging the digital divide by providing ?10,000 to Class 11 and 12 students in West Bengal for purchasing smartphones/tablets.
• In FY 2024-25, ?900 crore allocated for the scheme, targeting 16 lakh students.
• The main objective of the scheme is to provide scholarship to the students. So that the student can use their scholarship to buy a smartphone and tablet and can get education through online medium.
• This scheme will prove to be effective in making the future of the students bright and will also prove to be effective in strengthening them technically.
• Eligibility criteria for the scheme:
  • Applicant must be a permanent resident of West Bengal State.
  • The applicant should be a student.
  • Students of 11th and 12th will be eligible for this scheme.
  • The annual income of the family of the applicant student should not exceed Rs 2 lakh.
  • Students with backlog are not eligible as this grant is for one-time only.
• This scheme will make the students technically strong and they will be able to improve their future with technology.
• Students of government/government-aided/sponsored schools and madrassas can avail assistance.
• TarunerSwapno Yojana will bridge the digital divide among students and facilitate modern education.

In News:

The digital euro, a central bank digital currency (CBDC) being developed by the European Central Bank (ECB), aims to revolutionize Europe’s digital payment landscape. However, while the ECB has marketed it as a convenient, free, anonymous, and reliable alternative to existing cashless options like credit cards and mobile payment apps, the true purpose of the digital euro goes beyond these simplified claims.

Key Aspects of the Digital Euro

• Direct Issuance by the ECB: Unlike traditional digital payments that rely on intermediaries like banks or payment service providers, the digital euro is issued directly by the European Central Bank. This allows for peer-to-peer transactions without the need for third-party banks or payment gateways. It can be used for offline transactions, which is a major technical innovation that sets it apart from other digital currencies.
• A Digital Version of Cash: The digital euro is essentially a digital version of legal tender (cash), providing an alternative to cash in a world increasingly dominated by digital payments. Its key feature is direct payment between users, bypassing the traditional banking system. It aims to offer the same advantages as cash, such as anonymity, but with the convenience of digital transactions.
• Cost Reduction and Micro-Payments: The digital euro promises to lower transaction costs, especially for micro-payments that are currently prohibitively expensive using conventional bank transfers or digital services like PayPal. This cost efficiency is intended to enable new business models by lowering the friction in digital transactions, thus encouraging innovation in commerce.

The ECB’s Claims vs. the Real Motivation

While the ECB portrays the digital euro as a means to make payments easier, faster, and more secure, there is an underlying political and economic agenda that goes beyond improving consumer convenience.

• Sovereignty and Competition: One of the main drivers behind the digital euro is Europe’s desire to assert its digital sovereignty. The ECB positions the digital euro as a tool to strengthen the euro’s competitiveness against non-European payment providers, particularly those from the United States like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay. The EU is concerned that foreign companies may dominate the digital payment landscape, thereby reducing Europe's ability to control its own financial systems.
  • This is a defensive measure to protect European financial interests. By creating a state-backed alternative to privately controlled digital payment systems, the EU aims to ensure that Europe does not become reliant on foreign corporations for essential services.
• Not About Citizens’ Convenience Alone: While the ECB frames the digital euro as a user-friendly solution for consumers, the real concern is about the control over digital currency. The digital euro offers a more centralized alternative compared to the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin. The ECB aims to harness the power of the state in regulating and controlling digital transactions, thus consolidating private property and ensuring the smooth functioning of Europe’s monetary policies.
• A Tool for Strengthening the Euro: The digital euro is also seen as part of Europe’s broader ambition to establish the euro as a dominant global currency. As the first fully-regulated digital currency issued by a central bank, it could position the euro to compete against other digital currencies, including the digital yuan or the U.S. dollar. The EU sees the digital euro as a way to expand its geopolitical influence by promoting its own currency as a global standard for digital payments.

In News:

The Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) has launched the Partnerships for Accelerated Innovation and Research (PAIR) program to significantly boost research and innovation across Indian universities, especially those with limited research infrastructure. The program is designed to bring about a transformative change in India's academic research ecosystem, aligning with the broader goals of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Key Details:

• Launch Date: November 2024
• Ministry/Department: Department of Science and Technology (DST)
• Objective:
  • To elevate research capabilities in universities that have limited resources by pairing them with well-established, top-tier institutions.
  • To foster collaborations that can help these emerging universities enhance their research quality, drive innovation, and make significant, globally competitive research contributions.
• Operational Model: Hub-and-Spoke Framework
  • Hub Institutions: These are well-established, top-tier institutions that will serve as mentors to less-researched universities. The hubs will be selected from:
    • The top 25 institutions in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF).
    • Institutions of National Importance ranked in the top 50 NIRF.
  • Spoke Institutions: These are emerging universities or institutions with limited research infrastructure. These will include:
    • Central and State Public Universities ranked within the top 200 NIRF Overall.
    • Top 100 NIRF University/State Public Universities.
    • Select NITs and IIITs.
• Funding:
  • The program has a budget allocation of up to ?100 crore per PAIR network.
  • Distribution of Funds:
    • 30% for the Hub institution.
    • 70% for the Spoke institutions.
  • Private Institutions serving as hubs will need to contribute 25% of their allocated budget.
• Mentorship & Research Focus:
  • Hubs will provide mentorship to spoke institutions, guiding them in various aspects of research such as access to resources, advanced infrastructure, and best practices.
  • The collaboration is expected to enhance research capabilities, foster innovation, and encourage the development of collaborative networks across institutions.
• Regional Diversity & Inclusion:
  • The program ensures regional diversity, with at least one spoke institution located outside the hub's state.
  • It also allows the inclusion of one promising university from Category III institutions that may not meet the eligibility criteria but show potential for growth in research.
• Phase-wise Rollout:
  • The first phase will focus on institutions ranked within the top 25 NIRF and Institutions of National Importance.
  • Future phases will expand the scope, allowing more universities and institutions to participate.
• Goals Aligned with NEP 2020:
  • Fostering Research Excellence: By partnering top institutions with emerging ones, PAIR seeks to improve the quality of research in India’s higher education sector.
  • Promoting Regional Diversity: Ensuring a geographically diverse set of institutions participate in the research ecosystem.
  • Strengthening Innovation: Helping universities in less-researched areas to compete on an international level, particularly in cutting-edge and impactful research.
• Program Implementation:
• Prospective Program Directors from eligible Hub institutions are invited to apply online for the program at ANRF PAIR Application Portal.

About ANRF:

• ANRF was established under the ANRF Act 2023 as an apex body to provide strategic direction for scientific research in India.
• With the formation of ANRF, the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), previously established under an act of Parliament in 2008, has been subsumed into ANRF.

In News:

In a bid to enhance India’s clout in the global merchant shipping sector, the government recently hosted a two-day global maritime conference – Sagarmanthan: The Great Oceans Dialogue.

Key Highlights:

• Purpose of the Conference:

• To enhance India's maritime influence and position India as a key player in the global maritime sector, especially in merchant shipping and maritime trade.
• To showcase India's ambitions in expanding its role in global maritime trade, governance, and collaboration.

• India's Maritime Ambitions:

• Despite being the most populous nation and one of the largest global economies, India’s maritime clout has been relatively lower than expected.
• The dialogue aims to shift global attention towards India's growing role and contributions to maritime trade and shipping.

• India's Maritime Growth:

• India contributed to 16% of global maritime growth in 2023 and is on track to become the third-largest global economy within three years.
• As India’s economic and geopolitical influence expands, maritime governance will become increasingly significant, necessitating deeper international collaborations in commerce, connectivity, and trade.

• Focus Areas of the Dialogue:

• Global Maritime Trade: India's expanding role in international shipping, trade routes, and maritime security.
• International Collaborations: Promoting deeper engagement in maritime governance and policy-making ecosystems.
• Human Well-being: Highlighting the role of maritime trade in supporting human welfare, particularly in the context of sustainable development and climate change.

• Significance for India:

• The conference serves as a platform to discuss India’s aspirations, policies, and presence in global maritime affairs.
• It is an opportunity to strengthen maritime relations and address issues of global relevance such as trade routes, shipping governance, and environmental sustainability

In News:

The Delhi Police recently initiated Operation Kawach, arresting and detaining around 1,000 people in an attempt to crack down on various gangs and their operations in the wake of the recent incidents of shootings reported in the city.

Overview of Operation Kawach

• Objective: A crackdown on gang-related violence, drug trafficking, and other illegal activities like possession of firearms, banned drugs, and liquor.
• Agencies Involved:Delhi Police (Local Police, Special Cell, and Crime Branch)
• Duration: Initiated on November 12, 2024 (5 PM) and continued until November 13, 2024 (5 PM).

Key Details of the Operation

• Arrests and Detentions:
  • Around 1,000 people detained.
  • 486 people apprehended in Outer North Delhi (20% juveniles).
  • Arrests made in Dwarka, Southwest, and North Delhi.
• Key Gangs Targeted:
  • Associated with notorious gangs led by Lawrence Bishnoi, Neeraj Bawana, Kaushal Chaudhary, TilluTajpuria, Kala Jatheri, Manjeet Mahal, and Nandu gangs.
• Charges: Involvement in activities like:
  • Possession of illegal firearms.
  • Trafficking of liquor and banned drugs (NDPS Act).
  • Theft and other criminal activities.

Significance of Operation Kawach

• Public Safety: Aimed at dismantling organized crime networks to enhance safety and reduce violence in Delhi.
• Impact on Gangs: Directly targets high-profile criminals, including those involved in gang wars and drug trafficking.
• Strategic Law Enforcement: Strengthens law enforcement capabilities, working in coordination across multiple police units.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) retained the State Bank of India, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank as Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs).

Overview of D-SIBs

• Definition: D-SIBs are banks that are 'Too Big to Fail' (TBTF) and their failure could significantly disrupt essential banking services, affecting the economy.
• RBI Classification: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has designated SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as D-SIBs.
• Bucketing System: These banks are classified into different buckets based on their systemic importance.

Importance of D-SIBs

• Systemic Importance: Banks are considered systemically important due to their:
  • Size
  • Cross-jurisdictional activities
  • Complexity
  • Interconnectedness with the economy
• Impact of Failure: Failure of a D-SIB could cause significant disruption in the banking system and economy, impacting services like payments, loans, etc.

Why D-SIBs are Created

• Risk of Disruption: The failure of a large bank can disrupt essential services and lead to a broader economic crisis.
• TBTF Perception: These banks are often perceived as Too Big to Fail, leading to an expectation of government support during crises. This creates moral hazard, encouraging riskier behavior.

Assessment and Selection of D-SIBs

• Two-Step Process:
  • Step 1: Selection of banks based on their size, complexity, and interconnectedness. Only banks with systemic importance are assessed (e.g., banks with assets > 2% of GDP).
  • Step 2: Calculation of systemic importance score based on a range of indicators. Banks above a certain threshold are classified as D-SIBs.
• Indicators: Size (measured by Basel III Leverage Ratio Exposure Measure), interconnectedness, substitutability, and complexity are key factors.

Bucket Allocation and Capital Requirements

• D-SIBs are assigned to five buckets based on their systemic importance score:
  • Bucket 1: Lowest capital surcharge (e.g., ICICI Bank).
  • Bucket 5: Highest capital surcharge.
• Additional Capital Requirements:
  • SBI: Additional 0.80% CET1 (Common Equity Tier 1) on Risk-Weighted Assets (RWAs).
  • HDFC Bank: Additional 0.40% CET1.
  • ICICI Bank: Additional 0.20% CET1.
  • The higher the bucket, the higher the capital surcharge.

Global Systemically Important Banks (G-SIBs)

• Global List: Identified by the Financial Stability Board (FSB) based on data from the previous year.
• 2023 G-SIB List includes banks like JP Morgan Chase, Bank of America, HSBC, etc.
• Capital Requirement for G-SIBs in India: Foreign G-SIBs with branch presence in India must meet additional CET1 requirements, proportional to their operations in India.

Key Terms

• Risk-Weighted Assets (RWAs): These are used to calculate the minimum capital a bank must hold. It accounts for the risk level of a bank’s assets.
• Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1): The highest quality of capital a bank can hold, primarily made up of common stock, to absorb losses in times of distress.

In News:

• The population of African elephants has been declining rapidly, with data showing alarming drops across the African continent.
• Survey Period: The study covers population data from 475 sites in 37 countries over 52 years (1964-2016).
• Population Decrease:
  • Savannah Elephants: A 70% decline on average across surveyed sites.
  • Forest Elephants: A 90% decline on average across surveyed sites.
• Overall Impact: The study indicates a 77% average decline in elephant populations across both species.

Main Drivers of Decline

• Poaching: Illegal hunting for ivory and other body parts remains a major threat.
• Habitat Loss: Urbanization, agricultural expansion, and climate change are encroaching on the elephant’s natural habitats.
• Human-Elephant Conflict: Increased human settlements near elephant habitats lead to conflicts, further endangering elephant populations.

Species Overview

• Two Subspecies:
  • Savannah Elephant (Loxodonta africana): Larger and more common, found in open savannas.
  • Forest Elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis): Smaller and more elusive, found in dense rainforests.
• Conservation Status:
  • Savannah Elephant: Endangered (IUCN).
  • Forest Elephant: Critically Endangered (IUCN).
• CITES Listing: Both species are listed under CITES Appendix I, which bans international trade in endangered species.

Regional Impact

• Northern and Eastern Africa: These regions have seen drastic declines, particularly in the Sahel (Mali, Chad, Nigeria), where elephants have been extirpated (locally extinct) due to poaching and insufficient protection.
• Southern Africa: Positive Growth in some areas, particularly in Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, where elephant populations are growing due to strong conservation efforts.

Conservation Success

• Southern Africa: 42% of the surveyed sites showed increasing elephant populations, a testament to successful conservation strategies.
• Government and NGO Efforts: Successful population growth is often attributed to active management, including anti-poaching laws, protected areas, and conservation funding.

Elephant Behavior and Reproduction

• Social Structure: Elephants live in family units led by mature females, with strong social bonds.
• Low Sleep Time: Elephants sleep only 2 hours per day on average.
• Reproduction: They have a long gestation period of up to 2 years, and calves are cared for by mothers and allomothers (non-mother females).

Conservation Challenges

• Sustainability: Continued poaching and habitat destruction threaten to undo gains made in conservation.
• Fragmentation of Populations: With many elephants in isolated pockets, genetic diversity is declining, which could lead to long-term problems for species survival.

In News:

• The State Fisheries Department in Kerala launched a sea ranching project by releasing 20,000 pompano (Trachinotus blochii) fingerlings off the Vizhinjam coast as part of the artificial reef project.
• Coordinates: The fingerlings were released near artificial reef modules placed 1.5 nautical miles off the coast.
• Follow-up to Artificial Reef Project: The release of fingerlings is a follow-up to the artificial reef project aimed at replenishing marine fishery resources and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

Project Details

• Fingerling Release: The first batch of 20,000 pompano was released as part of the broader initiative to release 10 lakh fingerlings (pompano and cobia) at 10 locations along the Thiruvananthapuram coast.
• Location and Quantity: At each location, 1 lakh fingerlings will be released, where artificial reefs have already been deployed under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• Reef Design: Artificial reefs consist of 150 reef modules (triangular, flower, and pipe-shaped) created at 42 locations off 33 fishing villages in the Thiruvananthapuram district.

Objective and Benefits

• Marine Resource Replenishment: The primary aim is to replenish marine fishery resources in the region by enhancing biodiversity through the introduction of fingerlings.
• Sustainable Fishing: The project aims to promote sustainable fishing practices by supporting fish populations and ensuring long-term fishery health.
• Attraction of Fish Species: The artificial reefs have already attracted a variety of fish species, including tuna, trevally, and mackerel, enhancing the fishing ecosystem.

Implementation and Funding

• Scheme: The project is being implemented under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), which focuses on sustainable fisheries development.
• Central Approval: The National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) approved the ?3 crore funding for the initial phase in Thiruvananthapuram.
• Proposed Expansions:
  • Phase II: A proposal for extending the artificial reef project to 96 villages in the districts of Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur with an estimated cost of ?29.76 crore.
  • Phase III: A similar proposal for 96 villages in the northern districts of Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, and Kasaragod with an estimated cost of ?25.82 crore.

Mission and Fingerlings Details

• Fingerlings:
  • Pompano (Trachinotus blochii) and Cobia (Rachycentron canadum) fingerlings were reared at the Ayiramthengu fish farm.
  • Each fingerling weighs between 8 to 10 grams.
  • The release aims to stock marine areas with species that will contribute to biodiversity and fisheries sustainability.

Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)

• Launched: PMMSY is a Centrally funded scheme under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying.
• Goal: The scheme focuses on sustainable fisheries development to enhance fisheries production, boost aquaculture, and promote responsible fishing practices.
• Funding: The scheme involves both Central and State Government funding for projects related to fisheries management, infrastructure development, and resource conservation.

Mission Fingerling

• Launched: 2017 by the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare.
• Objective: To achieve the Blue Revolution by holistically developing and managing fisheries in India.
• Production Target: The mission aimed to increase fisheries production from 10.79 MMT (2014-15) to 15 MMT by 2020-21.

In News:

• In 2023, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) revealed that Indian farmers faced the highest implicit taxation globally, amounting to USD 120 billion.
• Implicit Taxation: This taxation arises from government policies like export bans, duties, and price controls, aimed at lowering food prices for consumers but reducing the income of farmers.
• Export Restrictions: Key commodities affected include rice, sugar, onions, and de-oiled rice bran.

Impact on Indian Farmers

• Market Price Support (MPS):
  • Negative MPS: In 2023, Indian agricultural policies resulted in a negative MPS of USD 110 billion.
  • Farmers received lower prices than international market rates due to export bans and trade restrictions, impacting their income.
• Budgetary Support: Despite government subsidies and the Minimum Support Price (MSP) worth USD 10 billion, negative MPS outweighed positive support, leading to an overall loss for farmers.
• Farmer’s Share in Global Negative Support:
  • India’s share of global negative price support in 2023 was 62.5%, a significant increase from 61% in 2000-02.

Global Agricultural Policy Trends

• Global Support: Total support for agriculture across 54 countries averaged USD 842 billion annually (2021-2023). However, there was a decline in support in 2022-23 from the pandemic-era peak.
• Challenges:
  • Geopolitical Tensions (e.g., Russia-Ukraine war) and climate change are exacerbating global agricultural production and trade.
  • Export Restrictions in various countries are distorting international agricultural markets.
  • Farmer Protests across countries reflect the economic and social struggles of the farming community.
• Sustainability Issues: Global agricultural productivity growth is slowing, posing challenges to feeding a growing population sustainably.

India's Agricultural Policies

• Export Bans and Restrictions: These policies are intended to control domestic prices but undermine farmers’ income by lowering market prices for key agricultural products.
• Minimum Support Price (MSP): MSP is meant to protect farmers, but is often set below international market rates, leading to a negative price effect.
• Regulatory Constraints: Policies like the Essential Commodities Act (1955) and APMC Act (2003), though aimed at ensuring food security, often lead to price suppression for farmers.
• Price Depressing Policies: India's agricultural policies result in lower farm-gate prices due to price controls, government-set procurement prices, and lack of market access.

Negative Market Price Support (MPS)

• Historical Trends:
  • From 2014-2016, India’s Producer Support Estimate (PSE) was -6.2%, driven mainly by negative MPS (-13.1%).
  • The PSE measures the annual value of transfers to farmers, both from consumers and the government.
• Inefficiencies:
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Poor infrastructure and high transaction costs lower the prices farmers receive.
  • Inefficient Resource Allocation: Short-term subsidies for inputs (fertilizers, irrigation) don’t address long-term agricultural challenges like climate change and market access.

Government Support Programs

• Subsidies and Schemes:
  • National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
  • Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) for organic farming.
  • Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) to promote agricultural development.
  • Digital Agriculture Mission and Unified Farmer Service Platform (UFSP) for modernizing agricultural practices.
• Sustainability Efforts:
  • The government has introduced initiatives like AgriStack and Mission Organic Value Chain Development in the North East to enhance sustainable agricultural practices and reduce the negative impacts on farmers.

Global Context and Recommendations

• Environmental Public Goods Payments (EPGP): Only 0.3% of total producer support is dedicated to environmental sustainability, despite the growing need for climate-resilient agriculture.
• Sustainable Agricultural Practices: The OECD advocates for governments to tie producer support to sustainable farming practices, including the use of metrics like Total Factor Productivity (TFP) and Agri-Environmental Indicators (AEIs).
  • TFP measures agricultural efficiency, while AEIs assess the environmental impacts of farming.

OECD Overview

• OECD Function: Founded in 1961, the OECD is an international organization of 38 countries that promotes prosperity, equality, and well-being through economic reports, data, and policy analysis.
• India’s Role: India has been an OECD Key Partner since 2007, engaging with the OECD on various policy issues, though it is not a member.

In News:

India with an abysmal score of 45.5 (out of 100) has been ranked 176th in the Global Nature Conservation Index, 2024.

Key Highlights:

• India's Ranking:
  • Ranked 176th out of 180 countries in the 2024 Global Nature Conservation Index (NCI).
  • India is listed among the five worst performers, along with Kiribati (180), Turkey (179), Iraq (178), and Micronesia (177).
  • Score: 45.5 out of 100, indicating significant conservation challenges.
• Key Factors Contributing to Low Rank:
  • Inefficient land management practices.
  • Rising threats to biodiversity, exacerbated by unsustainable development and climate change.
• Four Key Markers Assessed by the NCI:
  • Land Management: Ineffective management leading to significant land conversion.
  • Threats to Biodiversity: Habitat loss, fragmentation, and deforestation.
  • Capacity and Governance: Need for stronger political will and better enforcement of conservation laws.
  • Future Trends: Growing pressure from population density, climate change, and illegal wildlife trade.
• Sustainable Land Use Concerns:
  • 53% of land has been converted for urban, industrial, and agricultural purposes.
  • High use of pesticides and concerns over soil pollution.
  • Sustainable nitrogen index of 0.77 indicates significant risks to soil health.
• Marine Conservation Issues:
  • Only 0.2% of India’s national waterways are under protected areas, with no protected areas within its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
  • Significant improvements needed in marine conservation despite 7.5% of terrestrial areas being protected.
• Deforestation and Habitat Loss:
  • 23,300 sq. km of tree cover lost between 2001-2019 due to deforestation.
  • Habitat fragmentation from agriculture, urbanization, and infrastructure development.
  • Impact of climate change on sensitive ecosystems like alpine regions and coral reefs.
• Biodiversity Decline:
  • Despite 40% of marine species and 65% of terrestrial species being within Protected Areas (PAs), many species continue to face population decline.
  • 67.5% of marine species and 46.9% of terrestrial species are still experiencing population declines.
• Illegal Wildlife Trade:
  • India is the fourth-largest illegal wildlife trading nation globally, with an estimated annual trade value of £15 billion.
  • The NCI emphasizes the need for stronger enforcement and international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking.
• Ecological Wealth Under Threat:
  • India’s high population density (with a population that has doubled since the late 1970s) continues to put pressure on its ecological wealth.
  • The country faces significant biodiversity challenges due to overpopulation and unsustainable development.
• Recommendations and Optimism:
  • The NCI stresses the need for strong political will and commitment to sustainable development.
  • India can improve its rank by strengthening conservation laws, improving governance, and securing funding for environmental initiatives.
  • The NCI remains optimistic about India’s potential to address its conservation challenges and achieve more sustainable outcomes in the future.
• About the Nature Conservation Index (NCI):
• Developed by: Goldman Sonnenfeldt School of Sustainability and Climate Change (Ben-Gurion University) and BioDB.com (a biodiversity database).
• Purpose: Evaluates the conservation efforts of countries, using a data-driven approach to balance conservation and development.
• Key Focus Areas: Land management, biodiversity threats, governance, and future sustainability trends.

In News:

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) to obtain necessary approvals from the government and concurrence from the investee companies when their equity holdings go beyond the prescribed limits and they reclassify the holdings as foreign direct investment (FDI).

• Approval Requirement:
  • FPIs (Foreign Portfolio Investors) must obtain necessary government approvals when reclassifying their foreign portfolio investments (FPIs) into Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).
  • Approvals are mandatory, including those related to investments from countries sharing a land border with India.
• Investment Limits:
  • According to FEMA (NDI) Rules, 2019, an FPI’s investment in an Indian company should not exceed 10% of the total paid-up equity capital (on a fully diluted basis).
  • If the FPI exceeds this limit, it has 5 trading days from the settlement of trades to either divest or reclassify the excess holdings as FDI.
• Restrictions on Reclassification:
  • Reclassification to FDI is not allowed in sectors where FDI is prohibited.
  • FPIs must ensure compliance with FDI norms, such as entry routes, sectoral caps, investment limits, pricing guidelines, and other related conditions.
• Concurrence from Investee Companies:
  • The FPI must obtain the concurrence of the investee company for reclassifying the investment into FDI.
  • This ensures that the company adheres to conditions related to prohibited sectors, sectoral caps, and government approvals.
• Reclassification Procedure:
  • The FPI must clearly state its intent to reclassify the investment to FDI and provide the necessary approvals and concurrence to its custodian.
  • The custodian is responsible for freezing the FPI's purchase transactions in the investee company’s equity instruments until the reclassification is complete.
• Regulatory Adherence:
  • The reclassification must follow the relevant provisions for FDI, including compliance with the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and FDI guidelines.

In News:

• Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh introduced the concept of ‘Adaptive Defence’ at the inaugural Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD).
• Adaptive Defence aims to prepare India's military for the rapidly changing landscape of modern warfare, with evolving threats and technologies shaping global security.

Key Aspects of Adaptive Defence:

• Strategic Approach:
  • Adaptive Defence is an evolving strategy where military and defence systems continuously adjust to emerging threats, focusing on proactive preparedness rather than reactive responses.
  • It is based on anticipating future threats, fostering flexibility, resilience, and agility in both strategic and tactical responses.
• Core Elements:
  • Situational Awareness: The ability to understand and respond to dynamic, often unpredictable environments.
  • Flexibility & Agility: At both the strategic and tactical levels to ensure swift and effective responses.
  • Resilience: The capacity to recover and adapt quickly to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Integration with Emerging Technologies: Emphasis on adopting cutting-edge technologies like AI, drones, and cybersecurity to stay ahead of adversaries.

The Changing Nature of Warfare:

• Grey Zone & Hybrid Warfare:
  • Modern conflicts now often occur in the grey zone and involve hybrid warfare, blending traditional and non-traditional threats like cyber-attacks, terrorism, and psychological warfare.
  • These new threats demand continuous adaptation in strategies, doctrines, and military operations.
• Technological Transformation:
  • Drones and swarm technologies are reshaping warfare. India aspires to become a global hub for drones, leveraging these technologies for both economic and military growth.
  • The increasing significance of Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber capabilities, and quantum technologies in defence highlights the need for international collaboration in research and innovation.
• Psychological Warfare:
  • The rise of information overload and psychological warfare challenges traditional defence paradigms. Manipulation of information to influence public opinion and disrupt decision-making processes is now a key threat.

Government Initiatives for Adaptive Defence:

• Institutional Strengthening:
  • Establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and initiatives to enhance jointness among the three armed services (Army, Navy, Air Force) to create a unified strategic force.
  • Reform of training curricula and emphasis on integrated operations to ensure readiness for new-age warfare.
• Focus on Self-Reliance:
  • Strengthening the indigenous defence sector through initiatives like Make in India and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign.
  • Increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) in defence and promoting defence exports, with India currently exporting to over 100 nations.
• Drone Hub Vision:
  • India aims to become the world’s drone hub, supporting R&D and fostering innovation to develop reliable certification mechanisms and enhance Indian intellectual property in the drone sector.
  • Programs like iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and ADITI are rewarding innovation and driving India's defence sector towards greater self-sufficiency.
• Technology and Innovation:
  • Focus on cybersecurity, AI, and quantum technologies to develop solutions that address both national and global security challenges.
  • India is also working on Theaterisation, integrating the three services into a unified force structure for enhanced coordination and joint operations.
• Defence Acquisition and Export:
  • Introduction of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, establishment of Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, and a Positive Indigenisation List to boost self-reliance.
  • India is actively increasing defence exports, aiming for Rs 50,000 crore worth of exports by 2029, with key export destinations including the USA, France, and Armenia.

Strategic Vision for the Future:

• Collaborative Approach:
  • Given the interconnectedness of global security, the defence minister emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach in dealing with transnational threats.
  • Cross-border issues, cyberspace threats, and the potential of quantum and nanotechnologies demand the sharing of knowledge and strategies across borders.
• Joint Military Vision:
  • Jointness in defence strategy should go beyond national borders and should involve international cooperation in response to global security challenges.
  • The need for interconnected solutions in the face of transnational threats underscores the importance of multilateral cooperation.

In News:

• Cambodia saw a resurgence of H5N1 avian influenza cases after over 10 years of no human infections.
• From February 2023 to August 2024, 16 human cases were reported, with 3 deaths caused by the A/H5 clade 2.3.2.1c virus.
• Notably, 14 of these cases were caused by a novel reassortant virus, involving a mixture of clade 2.3.2.1c and clade 2.3.4.4b gene segments.

Key Points:

• Reassortment of the Virus:
  • The reassortment between clades 2.3.2.1c (Southeast Asia) and 2.3.4.4b (global spread) has created a new strain.
  • This reassortant virus is responsible for the second wave of infections in humans, starting in October 2023.
• Zoonotic Transmission:
  • Investigations confirmed that direct contact with sick poultry or bird droppings was the primary source of human infections.
  • There have been no reported cases of human-to-human transmission.
  • The novel reassortant virus appears to have replaced the 2.3.2.1c strain in Cambodian poultry.
• Geographic Spread and Spillovers:
  • Clade 2.3.2.1c was first reported in Cambodian poultry in March 2014. It continued to circulate in both poultry and wild birds.
  • Clade 2.3.4.4b viruses began circulating in Cambodian live bird markets by 2021, co-existing with clade 2.3.2.1c.
  • There were two key spillovers to humans:
    • The first spillover in February 2023, associated with clade 2.3.2.1c, involved two related individuals, with one death.
    • The second spillover, beginning in October 2023, involved the novel reassortant virus.
• Genetic Analysis and Mutation Concerns:
  • Genetic sequencing showed significant changes in the hemagglutinin (HA) gene of viruses from human cases, indicating a shift from older local strains to newer sublineages.
  • The PB2 627K mutation in the novel reassortant is concerning, as it is linked to increased mammalian adaptation and the potential for airborne transmission, particularly in mammals like ferrets.
  • This mutation raises concerns about the virus’s ability to adapt to humans or other mammals.
• Environmental and Epidemiological Factors:
  • The reassortment is believed to have been facilitated by:
    • High-density poultry farming.
    • Wild bird migration.
    • Cross-border poultry trade in Southeast Asia.
  • These factors heighten the risk of zoonotic transmission, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance in the region.
• Surveillance and Response:
  • One Health investigations linked human cases to infected poultry, highlighting the importance of rapid response through whole genome sequencing.
  • The ongoing surveillance is critical, as the novel reassortant strain has already replaced clade 2.3.2.1c in Cambodian poultry.
• Public Health Recommendations:
  • There is an urgent need to strengthen sustained surveillance of avian influenza in both poultry and wild birds, particularly in Southeast Asia.
  • Public health strategies should focus on:
    • Reducing human exposure to infected poultry.
    • Promoting safe poultry handling practices.
    • Encouraging early healthcare-seeking behavior in individuals with potential symptoms.

In News:

A mechanically stable, biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating material can enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers by tuning them for slow release, thereby limiting their interaction with the rhizosphere soil, water and microbes.

Development of Slow-Release Fertilizers:

• A biodegradable, hydrophobic nanocoating has been developed to enhance the nutrient use efficiency of chemical fertilizers.
• The nanocoating allows for slow release of nutrients, thus limiting excessive interaction with soil, water, and microbes, and optimizing fertilizer usage.

Coating Composition:

• The coating is made from nanoclay-reinforced binary carbohydrates, primarily chitosan (a biopolymer from chitin) and lignin (a plant-based polymer).
• These materials are low-cost, naturally derived, and eco-friendly, ensuring sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of fertilizer use.

Technological Innovation:

• The coating process involves using a drum rotor method to uniformly coat fertilizers, improving their efficiency.
• The tuning of hydrophobicity in the nanocoating alters the release kinetics of fertilizers, ensuring that nutrients are released in accordance with the crop’s nutrient uptake needs.

Sustainability and Biodegradability:

• The nanocoating is biodegradable, which ensures that it does not harm the environment post-application, unlike conventional chemical fertilizers that may lead to soil degradation and water pollution.
• Life cycle assessment confirms the product's long-term sustainability compared to traditional fertilizers.

Enhanced Crop Productivity:

• The slow-release coating enables a reduced fertilizer dose, while maintaining or even increasing crop yields, particularly for staple crops like rice and wheat.
• This technology facilitates higher agricultural output with fewer inputs, contributing to food security.

Industrial Viability:

• The mechanical stability of the coated fertilizers ensures they can withstand transportation and handling, making them suitable for large-scale industrial application.
• The rotary drum system used for coating ensures uniform application and superior mechanical performance, ensuring that the fertilizers are not damaged during the supply chain process.

Economic Benefits:

• The use of slow-release fertilizers can reduce overall fertilizer costs for farmers while enhancing yields, leading to improved socio-economic conditions for farmers.
• The technology holds potential for economic growth by boosting agricultural productivity and reducing the financial burden on farmers for chemical fertilizer inputs.

Global Relevance:

• The research is significant in the context of global sustainable development goals, aiming to reduce the over-reliance on conventional chemical fertilizers that contribute to soil degradation, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Research Collaboration:

• This breakthrough was achieved by scientists from the Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST), Mohali, in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• The findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal Environmental Science: Nano, highlighting its scientific validation.

In News:

• The 3rd Indian Space Conclave, held in New Delhi, was a significant event for India's growing role in global space exploration and strategic partnerships.
• Organized by the Indian Space Association (ISPA), the conclave brought together key stakeholders from the government, industry, academia, and space agencies to discuss India’s space ambitions and the transformative role of space technologies.

Key Highlights:

Satcom as a Transformative Force for Digital India

• Emphasis on Satellite Communication (Satcom) is more than a mere tool—it's a transformative force driving Digital India by connecting every household, village, and remote area of the country.
• Satcom has a wide array of applications that extend across essential sectors such as telecommunications, disaster management, healthcare, education, and agriculture, particularly in underserved regions.

Indo-EU Space Collaboration

• The event also showcased India’s growing space partnerships, particularly with the European Union (EU). The EU Ambassador recognized India as a dynamic space power and highlighted shared goals in Earth observation, space security, and human spaceflight.
• Proposed joint initiatives include training programs, collaborative research, and satellite missions, such as the Proba-3 satellite launch by ISRO, focusing on observing the Sun.
• India’s trustworthiness as a partner in space was underscored by its role in the successful launch of the Proba-1 and Proba-2 missions for the EU, with Proba-3 marking India’s third contribution to EU space exploration.

Space Startups and Innovation

• The rise of space-focused startups in India, spurred by the 2020 space sector reforms, was another key highlight. India now has over 300 space startups, contributing to both economic growth and innovation in the space industry.
• These reforms have helped curb brain drain, with many talented Indian professionals returning from global agencies like NASA to join the expanding Indian space ecosystem.

India’s Long-Term Space Goals

• The Indian space program has ambitious long-term goals, including:
  • Gaganyaan, India’s human spaceflight mission.
  • A crewed lunar landing by 2040.
  • The establishment of an Indian space station by 2035.
  • Plans for space tourism by 2040.
• These initiatives demonstrate India’s commitment to becoming a global leader in space exploration and technological innovation.

Space Sector Reforms (2020)

• The Space Sector Reforms 2020 were designed to increase the participation of private players in India’s space activities. The creation of agencies like the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Center (IN-SPACe) and the strengthening of New Space India Limited (NSIL) have been pivotal in boosting India’s global space market share.
• IN-SPACe serves as an autonomous body fostering industry, academia, and startups, while NSIL handles commercial activities and promotes high-tech space-related ventures.

India's First Mars and Moon Analog Mission

• ISRO's First Mars and Moon Analog Mission was inaugurated in Leh, Ladakh. This mission simulates the conditions of space habitats, specifically focusing on Mars and Moon environments.
• Ladakh's unique climate—high altitude, low oxygen levels, and extreme temperature fluctuations—makes it an ideal location for testing life support systems, space habitat technologies, and sustainable resource utilization.

Key Aspects of the Analog Mission:

• Life support systems like hydroponics (space farming) and standalone solar power systems to support sustainable food production and renewable energy in space habitats.
• Circadian lighting to simulate daylight cycles, maintaining astronaut health and well-being.
• The mission’s goal is to understand the psychological and operational challenges of living in isolation and extreme conditions, preparing India for future interplanetary exploration.

In News:

• India's annual hidden costs from agrifood systems total $1.3 trillion, the third-largest globally, after China ($1.8 trillion) and the US ($1.4 trillion).
• These costs are mainly driven by unhealthy dietary patterns leading to non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.

Major Contributors to Hidden Costs:

• Unhealthy Diets: Over 73% of India’s hidden costs stem from unhealthy dietary habits, including:
  • Excessive consumption of processed foods and additives ($128 billion).
  • Low intake of plant-based foods, fruits, and beneficial fatty acids ($846 billion).
• These dietary risks contribute to a significant health burden, increasing the prevalence of NCDs and reducing labor productivity.