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:

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:

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:

• Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 1st Bodoland Mohotsava two-day event focused on language, literature, and culture.
• Objective: Aims to promote peace, unity, and a vibrant Bodo society through cultural integration. The festival celebrates the rich Bodo culture and heritage.

Historical Context and Peace Initiatives:

• End of Violence: The event marks the end of 50 years of violence, following the Bodo Peace Accord (2020), which ended conflict in Bodoland and led to a path of peace and development.
• Peace Agreements: The Bodo Peace Accord served as a catalyst for other peace settlements, such as the KarbiAnglong Accord, Bru-Reang Accord, and NLFT-Tripura Accord.

Development in Bodoland Post-Peace Accord:

• Impact of the Peace Accord:
  • Over 10,000 youth in Assam have renounced violence and joined the mainstream of development.
  • Increased mutual trust between the people and the government.
• Economic Assistance:
  • Rs 1,500 crore special package by the central government.
  • Rs 700 crore spent on infrastructure development in education, health, and culture in Bodoland.
  • Rs 5 lakh assistance for families affected by the Bodo conflict.

Government Support for Socio-Economic Development:

• Skill Development & SEED Mission:Focus on skilling, entrepreneurship, employment, and development through the SEED Mission for youth empowerment.
• Rehabilitation of Former Cadres:
  • Over 4,000 former cadres of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB) have been rehabilitated.
  • Many youths have been recruited into Assam Police.
• Tourism & Employment:Growing tourism in Bodoland, with parks like Manas National Park and Raimona National Park, creating employment opportunities for youth.

Cultural Promotion:

• Bodo Culture and GI Tags:Promoting Bodo crafts like Aronnaye, Dokhona, Gamsa, etc., that have received Geographical Indication (GI) tags to preserve cultural identity.
• Bodoland Handloom Mission & Sericulture:Government efforts to promote sericulture and the Bodoland Handloom Mission to sustain Bodo weaving traditions.
• Literary Celebrations:
  • Continuous Bodoland Literary Festival in Kokrajhar, enhancing the importance of Bodo literature and language.
  • Celebration of Bodo Sahitya Sabha’s 73rd foundation day.

Key Government Initiatives for Development:

• Infrastructure Development:
  • Rs 800 crore annually being spent by the Assam government for the development of Bodoland.
  • Focus on healthcare, education, and employment.
• Medical Education:Expansion of medical colleges in Assam from 6 to 12, with plans for 12 more new colleges.

In News:

• Recently, the Operation Dronagiri, launched under the National Geospatial Policy 2022 by the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
• Objective: It is a pilot project under India’s National Geospatial Policy 2022 aimed at showcasing the potential of geospatial technologies in sectors such as Agriculture, Livelihoods, and Logistics & Transport to improve quality of life and ease of doing business.
• Implementation:
  • The first phase will cover five states: Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
  • Sectors Targeted: The focus will be on demonstrating the integration of geospatial data to solve real-world challenges in agriculture, transportation, and livelihoods.

National Geospatial Policy 2022

• Context: The National Geospatial Policy 2022 is aimed at liberalizing geospatial data and enabling widespread access and use of geospatial technologies across various sectors of governance, business, and development.
• Goals:
  • Development of Geospatial Infrastructure: Promoting the creation of a robust infrastructure to make spatial data more accessible and usable.
  • Geospatial Skill Development: Focus on creating a workforce proficient in geospatial technologies.
  • Implementation of Standards: Establishing clear standards for geospatial data to ensure consistency and interoperability.

Role of Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI)

• Launch: Alongside Operation Dronagiri, the Integrated Geospatial Data Sharing Interface (GDI) was also unveiled.
• Purpose: GDI is designed to facilitate seamless data sharing, access, and analysis of geospatial data.
  • Key Features:
    • Data Exchange: Enables smooth sharing of geospatial data for urban planning, disaster management, and environmental monitoring.
    • Privacy and Security: Built with advanced data exchange protocols and privacy-preserving features to ensure secure data sharing.
    • Collaboration: It will promote collaboration among stakeholders, including government agencies, industry, and startups, to unlock actionable insights for decision-making.

Potential Applications of Geospatial Data

• Urban Planning: Assisting cities in designing efficient infrastructure.
• Disaster Management: Providing real-time data for better disaster response.
• Environmental Monitoring: Supporting initiatives for environmental protection and sustainability.
• Agriculture: Precision farming, crop monitoring, and improving supply chains.
• Logistics & Transport: Streamlining transportation networks, reducing traffic, and improving delivery systems.

Grand Challenge for Startups

• Objective: A Grand Challenge was announced as part of the initiative to support startups in developing Proofs of Concept (POCs) targeting specific problems in the focus sectors.
• Role of Startups: The challenge encourages innovation by early-stage and growth-stage startups in geospatial technology, offering mentorship, resources, and access to datasets.
• Geospatial Innovation Accelerators:
  • The Geospatial Innovation Accelerators (GIAs) at prestigious institutions like IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, IIM Calcutta, and IIT Ropar will support this effort.
  • Mentorship and Resources: These accelerators will provide the necessary support for startups to turn their innovations into scalable solutions.

Key Stakeholders and Operational Arms

• Geospatial Innovation Cell (DST): Responsible for overseeing the project’s implementation and execution.
• Navavishkar I-Hub Foundation (IITTNiF): Will manage the operational activities of Operation Dronagiri.
• Partnering Institutions: GIAs at IIT Kanpur, IIT Bombay, IIM Calcutta, and IIT Ropar will be the operational arms.
• Private Sector Involvement: Significant involvement of private sector companies, including startups, is crucial to ensuring the success and scalability of the project.

Impact and Significance

• Socioeconomic Benefits: The integration of geospatial data into agriculture, transport, and logistics will improve efficiency, reduce costs, and boost economic activity in critical sectors.
• Geospatial Innovation: The initiative marks a significant step towards making India a global leader in geospatial technology and positioning the country as a hub for innovative solutions using geospatial data.
• Government Engagement: The project will involve various government departments and corporates in a public-private partnership (PPP) model, similar to the successful implementation of the UPI payment system.

In News:

Union Minister for Youth Affairs & Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, has launched a nationwide appeal to strengthen the fight against doping in sports, urging athletes, coaches, and the entire sporting community to embrace the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India's ‘Know Your Medicine (KYM)’ app.

Introduction to KYM App

• Launch: The app was launched by Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, to combat doping in sports.
• Developer: National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) India.
• Purpose: To prevent inadvertent doping by allowing athletes to check whether a medicine contains substances prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

Key Features of the KYM App

• Medicine Verification: The app enables athletes to verify if any medicine or its ingredients contain banned substances listed by WADA.
• Image and Audio Search: Unique search features help users easily search for specific sport-related information.
• Customizable Search: Users can select their sport category and receive relevant, sport-specific information.
• User-Friendly: Designed for athletes, coaches, and sports professionals to quickly verify medicines and ensure clean competition.

Importance of KYM App

• Supporting Clean Sports: The app promotes a fair and ethical sporting culture by reducing the risk of inadvertent doping.
• Integrity of Sports: Helps athletes avoid penalties or bans due to accidental doping, maintaining the integrity of the competition.
• Accessible Information: Provides easy access to information regarding medicines that may contain banned substances, which is crucial for athletes' health and careers.

NADA India's Mission

• Anti-Doping Awareness: The KYM app is part of NADA India’s broader initiative to educate athletes and raise awareness about the dangers of doping.
• Goal: To promote dope-free sports and ensure that athletes and coaches are equipped with the tools needed for compliance with anti-doping regulations.

NADA India: Background and Functions

• Established: NADA India was set up in November 2005 under the Societies Registration Act, 1860.
• Mission: To serve as the independent Anti-Doping Organization for India, aiming to create a doping-free sporting environment.
• Key Functions:
  • Implementing Anti-Doping Code: Ensuring compliance with the World Anti-Doping Code among all sports organizations in India.
  • Dope Testing Program: Coordinating a national dope testing program with stakeholders across various sports.
  • Promoting Research and Education: Encouraging research on anti-doping and educating athletes on the importance of staying clean.
  • Adopting Best Practices: Ensuring the implementation of high-quality standards for anti-doping programs.

Impact and Significance

• Preventing Doping: The KYM app helps prevent inadvertent doping incidents by providing athletes with the necessary tools to check their medicines.
• Supporting Athletes: It provides athletes with a reliable way to avoid banned substances in over-the-counter medications, thus safeguarding their careers.
• National and International Compliance: Supports India’s commitment to complying with international anti-doping norms, contributing to a global effort to maintain fairness in sports.

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:

A new species of Dicliptera, named Diclipterapolymorpha, has been discovered in the Northern Western Ghats of India.

Habitat and Location:

• Diclipterapolymorpha was found in the grasslands of Talegaon-Dabhade, a region known for its grasslands and fodder markets.
• The species thrives in the harsh climatic conditions of the Northern Western Ghats, an area vulnerable to summer droughts and frequent human-induced fires.

Unique Characteristics:

• The species is fire-resilient (pyrophytic), exhibiting a rare dual-blooming pattern:
  • First Blooming: Occurs post-monsoon, typically from November to March/April.
  • Second Blooming: Triggered by grassland fires in May and June, during which the plant produces dwarf flowering shoots.
• The inflorescence structure is unique in India, with its cymules developing into spicate inflorescences, a feature more commonly found in African species.

Taxonomy:

• The species is named Diclipterapolymorpha to reflect its diverse morphological traits.
• It is taxonomically distinct within the Dicliptera genus, with no known Indian species exhibiting similar characteristics.

Conservation Implications:

• The discovery highlights the need to carefully manage grassland ecosystems, as the species is adapted to fire but still vulnerable to habitat degradation.
• Human-induced fires are essential for the species' blooming cycle but must be managed to avoid overuse and degradation of habitat.
• The species' limited habitat range underscores the need for conservation efforts to protect the delicate ecosystems of the Western Ghats.

Publication:

• A research paper detailing the discovery of Diclipterapolymorpha has been published in the prestigious Kew Bulletin.

In News:

• ‘AntarikshaAbhyas – 2024’ is a three-day space exercise held from November 11-13, 2024, hosted by the Defence Space Agency (DSA), Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff.
• The exercise is the first of its kind and focuses on war-gaming the growing threats to space-based assets and services.

Objective of the Exercise:

• Enhance understanding of space-based assets and their operational dependencies.
• Identify vulnerabilities in military operations in case of denial or disruption of space services.
• Integrate India's space capabilities in military operations to secure national strategic objectives.

Participants:

• Defence Space Agency (DSA) and its allied units.
• Personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• Specialist agencies under Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, including:
  • Defence Cyber Agency (DCA)
  • Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA)
  • Strategic Forces Command (SFC)
• Representatives from ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and DRDO (Defence Research & Development Organisation).

Focus Areas:

• Space-based asset and service operational dependency.
• Securing national interests in space through technological innovation and development.
• Assessing space service vulnerabilities and impacts on military operations.

In News:

• Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan inaugurated the 2nd edition of the Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) on November 8, 2024, in New Delhi.
• The two-day festival engages global and Indian experts, corporations, academicians, and non-profits focusing on India’s national security, foreign policy, military history, and military heritage.

Launch of Project Shaurya Gatha:

• Project ‘Shaurya Gatha’ was launched to conserve and promote India’s military heritage.
• The initiative, spearheaded by the Department of Military Affairs and USI of India, focuses on education and tourism to highlight India’s military history and valor.
• Publications Released:
  • General Chauhan released important military publications:
    • "Because of this: A History of the Indo-Pak Air War December 1971" by Air Marshal Vikram Singh (Retd).
    • "Valour and Honour", a joint publication by the Indian Army and USI of India.
    • "War-wounded, Disabled Soldiers, and Cadets", a joint publication by USI and the War Wounded Federation.
• Festival's Significance:
  • The festival addresses the gap in public awareness regarding India’s military heritage and security concerns.
  • It aims to enhance understanding of India’s military traditions, security issues, and the country’s efforts toward self-reliance in military capabilities under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

In News:

The QS World University Rankings: Asia 2025 spotlights the top institutions in Eastern, Southern, South-Eastern, and Central Asia, emphasizing academic excellence, research, innovation, and internationalization.

India's Performance:

India has shown a remarkable upward trajectory, featuring:

• Two institutions in the Top 50:
  • IIT Delhi ranked 44th (up from 46th), with a 99% employer reputation score.
  • IIT Bombay ranked 48th, excelling with a 99.5% employer reputation score and 96.6% academic reputation score.
• Top 100 Institutions:
  • IIT Madras (56th), IIT Kharagpur (60th), Indian Institute of Science (62nd), IIT Kanpur (67th), and University of Delhi (81st).
• Top 150 Institutions:
  • IIT Guwahati, IIT Roorkee, Jawaharlal Nehru University, Chandigarh University (120th), UPES (148th), and VIT (150th).

Key Indicators for India:

• International Research Network and Citations per Paper contribute to India's growing global academic reputation.
• Papers per Faculty and Staff with PhD are India’s strongest indicators, reflecting robust research output and high teaching standards.
• Anna University achieved a perfect score of 100 in the Papers Per Faculty indicator, emphasizing high research output.
• North Eastern Hill University and University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore received a perfect score of 100 in the Faculty-Student Indicator.

Growth of Indian Institutions:

• India now has 46 institutions in the 2025 rankings, up from just 11 in 2015, marking a 318% increase over the past decade.
• India dominates Southern Asia with seven institutions in the top 10, showcasing the country's strengthening educational landscape.

India's Growing Global Influence:

• India's achievements underscore its commitment to academic excellence, competitiveness, and resilience in global higher education.
• Institutions like IIT Delhi and IIT Bombay highlight India’s ability to balance research productivity with high-quality teaching, enhancing its reputation as a global education hub.

In News:

• The 3rd edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND started on 8th November 2024 at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra. The exercise will run until 21st November 2024.

Participating Forces:

• Indian Contingent: 140 personnel, primarily from the DOGRA Regiment and Indian Air Force (14 personnel).
• Australian Contingent: 120 personnel from the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade of the 2nd Division.

Purpose of the Exercise:

• Enhance Military Cooperation between India and Australia.
• Promote Interoperability in conducting joint sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and semi-desert terrain.
• Focus on operations under Chapter VII of the UN mandate.

Key Objectives:

• Joint Tactical Drills and Planning to improve coordination between the forces.
• Training in counter-terrorism operations, special heli-borne operations, and drone countermeasures.

Phases of the Exercise:

Combat Conditioning and Tactical Training Phase:

• Includes drills such as terrorist response, territory capture, and Raid and Search & Destroy Missions.
• Establishment of Joint Operations Centre and securing critical infrastructure like helipads.
• Training on drone operations and counter-drone measures.

Validation Phase: Practical application and testing of skills learned in the previous phase.

Significance:

Best Practices Sharing: Both sides will exchange tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting effective tactical operations. 

Camaraderie Building: The exercise will foster a strong bond between soldiers from both countries.

Background: AUSTRAHIND is an annual exercise held alternately in India and Australia. The last edition took place in Australia in December 2023.

In News:

The PM Vishwakarma Yojana is a landmark initiative by the Indian government aimed at revitalizing traditional craftsmanship and empowering artisans and craftspeople, often referred to as Vishwakarmas. Launched on September 17, 2023, during Vishwakarma Jayanti, the scheme highlights the government's commitment to preserving India's rich cultural heritage and supporting the unorganized sector.

Key Highlights

• Objective:
  • To strengthen the Guru-Shishya tradition and improve the quality, reach, and marketability of products and services by artisans.
  • To integrate Vishwakarmas into domestic and global value chains, making them self-reliant.
  • To alleviate poverty by supporting rural and urban artisans across India.
• Financial Outlay:,Fully funded by the Union Government with a ?13,000 crore budget spanning five years (2023–2028).
• Eligibility:
  • Open to rural and urban artisans and craftspeople involved in 18 traditional crafts, such as blacksmithing, goldsmithing, pottery, boat making, and carpentry.
  • Covers 5 lakh families in the first year and aims to reach 30 lakh families over five years.
• Key Benefits:
  • Financial Support:
    • Collateral-free credit of ?1 lakh (first tranche) and ?2 lakh (second tranche) at a concessional 5% interest rate.
    • Government provides 8% interest subvention upfront to banks.
  • Toolkit Incentive: ?15,000 via e-vouchers for acquiring modern tools.
  • Training and Skill Development: Basic and advanced skill training to create industry-ready manpower.
  • Digital and Marketing Incentives: Encourages digital transactions and provides marketing support.
  • Recognition: Beneficiaries receive a PM Vishwakarma Certificate and ID Card.
  • Market Linkage: Facilitates better market access for artisan products.
• Achievements (as of Nov 4, 2024):
  • 25.8 million applications received.
  • 2.37 million artisans registered after verification.
  • Over 1 million artisans benefited from toolkit incentives.

Significance

• Promotes inclusive development by supporting an underserved segment of the workforce.
• Recognizes and supports traditional skills passed down through generations, preserving India’s cultural diversity.
• Enhances productivity and competitiveness by integrating artisans into MSME sectors.
• Encourages sustainability through the promotion of handmade, eco-friendly crafts.

Key Institutions Involved

• Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME): Oversees implementation.
• Common Services Centres (CSC): Facilitates registration through biometric-based PM Vishwakarma Portal.

Challenges Addressed

• Lack of access to modern tools and financial support.
• Insufficient market linkages and exposure for traditional crafts.
• Limited opportunities for skill enhancement and product development.

In News:

Adoption Awareness Month is an annual event where CARA and all its stakeholders come together to raise awareness about the legal process of adoption. 

Context

• Celebrated by: Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD) and the Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA).
• When: November 2024.
• Theme: “Rehabilitation of Older Children through Foster Care and Foster Adoption.”
• Purpose: To raise awareness about legal adoption, foster care, and the rehabilitation of older children in India.

Objectives

• Promote Legal Adoptions:
  • Create awareness about the legal framework and processes for adoption.
  • Encourage prospective adoptive parents (PAPs) to adopt older children or children with special needs.
• Foster Care Focus:
  • Highlight the importance of foster care as a rehabilitative measure for older children.
• Public Engagement:
  • Engage various stakeholders, including adoptive families, PAPs, older adoptees, and the general public, to share experiences and insights.

Key Activities

• Nationwide Campaigns:
  • Offline events in states like Ladakh, Assam, Mizoram, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and West Bengal.
  • Mega event in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, on November 21, 2024.
• Online Initiatives (via MyGov India):
  • Storytelling, poster making, slogan writing, pledges, and online surveys.
  • Informative content on adoption and foster care shared via social media.
• Interactive Engagements:
  • Cultural programs, competitions, Q&A sessions with PAPs, and discussions with stakeholders.
  • Sharing of experiences by older adoptees and adoptive parents.

Significance of Adoption Awareness Month

• Focus on Older Children:
  • Addresses challenges faced by older children in finding permanent families.
  • Promotes inclusive adoption practices for children with special needs or in foster care.
• Stakeholder Involvement:
  • Builds trust and awareness by sharing real-life adoption experiences.
  • Encourages societal participation in the rehabilitation of vulnerable children.
• Policy Awareness:
  • Educates the public about the legal adoption process under CARA.
  • Highlights the benefits and responsibilities of foster care and adoption.

Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA)

• Role: Apex body for regulating adoption in India under the MWCD.
• Key Function: Ensures legal, ethical, and transparent adoption processes for orphaned, abandoned, and surrendered children.

Challenges in Adoption and Foster Care

• Limited awareness about adopting older children or children with special needs.
• Cultural and societal barriers.
• Complexities in the legal adoption process.

Way Forward

• Streamlining Processes: Simplify legal procedures to make adoption and foster care accessible.
• Increased Awareness: Continued campaigns to reduce stigma and misinformation about adoption.
• Policy Support: Strengthen programs for foster care and ensure periodic evaluation of their impact.

In News:

As OROP completes the 10 years in 2024, it is essential to reflect on the immense benefits the scheme has brought to the armed forces community. 

Overview:

• Implemented on: November 7, 2015.
• Announced in: Union Budget 2014, allocation of ?1,000 crore.
• Aim: To ensure uniform pension for military personnel retiring at the same rank with equal service duration, irrespective of retirement date.
• Significance: A landmark reform addressing a four-decade-long demand of ex-servicemen.
• Origin: Longstanding demand since the 1970s; first highlighted by the 3rd Central Pay Commission.
• Key Committees: K.P. Singh Dev Committee (1984) and Sharad Pawar Committee (1991) recommended reforms but faced financial and administrative hurdles.

Key Features:

The policy’s primary elements include:

• Re-fixation of Pensions: The pension of all past pensioners is re-fixed based on the pensions of personnel who retired in 2013, starting from July 1, 2014. This created a new benchmark for pensions, with all retirees getting equal benefits for their service.
• Periodic Revision: The pension is to be re-fixed every five years, ensuring that it continues to reflect changes in the pay and pension structure.
• Arrears Payments: Arrears of pension were to be paid in equal half-yearly installments, although the arrears for family pensioners and gallantry awardees were paid in a single installment.
• Safeguarding Above-Average Pension: For personnel drawing pensions higher than the average, their pensions are protected, ensuring that they do not lose out on the benefits of OROP.
• Inclusive of All Ex-Servicemen: The order covered all personnel who retired up to June 30, 2014, and provided a robust framework for revising pensions for all ranks, including family pensioners.

Impact:

• Veterans and Families:
  • Benefited over 25 lakh ex-servicemen and families.
  • Enhanced financial security, standard of living, and dignity.
• Emotional and Social Value:
  • Strengthened trust between veterans and the government.
  • Recognized sacrifices of armed forces personnel.

In News:

The World Cities Report 2024, released by UN-Habitat, highlights the urgent need for cities to address climate change, both as victims and major contributors.

Key Findings of the Report

• Temperature Increases by 2040: Nearly 2 billion people living in urban areas are projected to face at least a 0.5°C rise in temperature by 2040, exposing them to heatwaves and other climate-related risks.
• Urban Vulnerability and Climate Risk:
  • Cities are disproportionately affected by climate change while being major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, which exacerbates their vulnerability to events like floods, cyclones, and heatwaves.
  • The urban population is facing a dual challenge: increased heat and extreme weather events such as flooding, cyclones, and erratic rainfall.
• Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Risks: Over 2,000 cities in low coastal areas, many located under 5 meters above sea level, are at heightened risk from sea-level rise and storm surges, potentially affecting more than 1.4 billion people by 2040.
• Riverine Flooding: Flood exposure in cities is growing 3.5 times faster than in rural areas, with 517 million people in urban areas projected to be exposed to riverine flooding by 2030.
• Investment Gap: Cities require between USD 4.5 trillion and USD 5.4 trillion annually to build and maintain climate-resilient systems, but current investments stand at only USD 831 billion, highlighting a massive funding shortfall.
• Decline in Urban Green Spaces: The average share of urban green spaces has dropped from 19.5% in 1990 to 13.9% in 2020, reducing cities' ability to absorb carbon, manage heat, and provide essential ecosystem services.
• Vulnerable Communities: Informal settlements and slums, often situated in environmentally sensitive areas, are disproportionately affected by climate impacts. These communities lack adequate infrastructure and are often unable to invest in necessary upgrades due to eviction fears or lack of legal recognition.
• Green Gentrification: While climate interventions like park creation can provide environmental benefits, they can also lead to green gentrification—displacing low-income households or increasing property values and rents, thus pricing vulnerable communities out.

Contributing Factors to Urban Global Warming

• Energy Consumption: Urban areas account for 71-76% of global CO? emissions from energy use, driven by dense populations, industrial activities, transportation, and high-energy demand for buildings.
• Industrial Activities: Urban industries and power plants release a variety of greenhouse gases (GHGs), including CO?, methane (CH?), and nitrous oxide (N?O).
• Land Use Changes: Urban expansion leads to deforestation and reduced carbon absorption, contributing to global warming. Urban land areas are expected to more than triple by 2050, accelerating environmental degradation.
• Waste Generation: Decomposing waste in landfills releases methane, a potent GHG, exacerbating the greenhouse effect.
• Urban Heat Island Effect: Urban Heat Islands (UHIs) occur when cities absorb and retain more heat due to their dense infrastructure (asphalt, concrete, and buildings), increasing local temperatures and energy consumption.

Impacts of Global Warming on Cities

• Heatwaves: Cities, especially in warmer regions like India, are experiencing more severe heatwaves and rising temperatures.
• Urban Heat Island Effect: UHIs increase the intensity of heatwaves, particularly in high-density cities, where buildings and roads trap heat, exacerbating energy demands and public health risks.
• Coastal Flooding: Rising sea levels threaten coastal cities with flooding and storm surges, displacing communities and disrupting economies.
• Wildfire Seasons: Warming temperatures and prolonged droughts increase the risk of wildfires in urban areas, particularly in forest-adjacent cities.

India's Climate Initiatives for Urban Areas

• Smart Cities Mission: Focuses on developing sustainable urban infrastructure, promoting smart technologies, and enhancing resilience to climate impacts.
• AMRUT Mission: Aims to provide basic infrastructure and sustainable urban development in cities, including water supply, sewage, and green spaces.
• Swachh Bharat Mission-Urban: Focuses on improving waste management and reducing pollution in urban areas.
• FAME India Scheme (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles): Promotes electric vehicles to reduce urban air pollution and carbon emissions.
• Green Energy Corridor (GEC): Facilitates the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid, encouraging clean energy use in urban centers.

In News:

• The 21st India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting was held from November 5 to 6, 2024, at the Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• The meeting focused on strengthening defence ties between India and the US, covering a wide range of topics aimed at improving military cooperation.

Key Areas of Discussion

• Capacity Building: The meeting discussed initiatives for enhancing defence capacity through training exchanges, joint exercises, and sharing best practices.
• Defence Industrial Cooperation: Both countries explored opportunities for collaborative defence industrial ventures and technology sharing.
• Joint Exercises: The advancement of joint military exercises was highlighted to boost readiness against both conventional and hybrid threats.
• Strategic Objectives: The meeting aimed to enhance interoperability between the two countries' armed forces, enabling more effective joint operations.

Commitment to Strengthen Indo-US Defence Ties

• Strategic Partnership: Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Indo-US defence partnership, recognizing the shared challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
• Focus on Regional Security: The discussions underscored the importance of ensuring regional security and global stability in the face of emerging threats.

The Role of the MCG

• Purpose: The MCG forum serves as a key platform for enhancing strategic and operational defence collaboration between India and the US.
• Long-term Goals: The MCG aims to build mutual defence capabilities, counter emerging threats, and ensure the security of both nations and the wider region.

In News:

• The Maha Kumbh Mela 2025 will be held in Prayagraj from January 13 to February 26.
• The event is a sacred pilgrimage that draws millions of pilgrims to bathe in the holy waters of the Triveni Sangam (the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Sarasvati rivers) for spiritual purification and liberation.

Significance and Spiritual Importance

• Sacred Rituals:
  • The central ritual is the act of bathing in the holy waters of the confluence, believed to cleanse one’s sins and bring spiritual liberation (Moksha).
  • Pilgrims also engage in worship, spiritual discourses, and seek blessings from revered sadhus and saints.
• Auspicious Dates:
  • The event includes Shahi Snan (Royal Bath), where prominent saints and their followers bathe on specific dates, marking the beginning of the Mela.
  • Paush Purnima marks the start of the auspicious bathing period.
• Cultural Ceremonies:
  • The Mela features a grand procession (Peshwai) with Akharas (spiritual orders) on elephants, horses, and chariots.
  • Cultural performances, traditional music, dance, and art are also part of the festivities, showcasing India’s vibrant cultural diversity.

Mythological and Historical Roots

• Mythology:
  • The Kumbh Mela is deeply embedded in Hindu mythology, symbolizing humanity’s quest for spiritual unity and enlightenment.
  • The timing of the event is based on astrological positions of celestial bodies, particularly the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter.
• Historical Significance:
  • The origins of the Kumbh Mela trace back over 2,000 years, with references found in the Maurya and Gupta periods.
  • Royal Patronage: Emperors like Akbar supported the Mela, symbolizing unity among different religions and cultures.
  • British Colonial Era: British officials documented the Mela, fascinated by its scale and ritualistic practices.
• Modern Recognition:
  • In 2017, the UNESCO recognized the Kumbh Mela as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, underscoring its global significance.

Cultural Celebration and Unity

• Cultural Diversity:
  • The Maha Kumbh Mela is a celebration of India's rich cultural heritage, where pilgrims experience traditional crafts, art, music, and dance, alongside spiritual practices.
• International Participation:
  • Pilgrims from across the globe attend the Mela, drawn by its message of unity, tolerance, and the universal quest for spiritual growth and peace.
• Message of Unity:
  • The Mela serves as a reminder of humanity’s shared desire for self-realization and spiritual fulfillment, transcending national, cultural, and religious boundaries.

In News:

• The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the PM Vidyalaxmi scheme to provide financial assistance to meritorious students for higher education.
• Objective: The scheme aims to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder students from pursuing quality higher education.

Key Features of the scheme:

• Eligibility:
  • Students admitted to top 860 Quality Higher Education Institutions (QHEIs) are eligible.
  • Includes both government and private institutions, as per the NIRF (National Institutional Ranking Framework) rankings.
• Loan Provision:
  • Collateral-free and guarantor-free education loans for tuition fees and other course-related expenses.
  • Loans up to ?7.5 lakhs will have a 75% credit guarantee from the government to encourage banks to offer loans.
• Interest Subvention:
  • For students with an annual family income of up to ?8 lakhs (and not eligible for other scholarships or schemes), a 3% interest subvention will be provided on loans up to ?10 lakhs.
  • This subvention applies during the moratorium period (when repayment is deferred).
  • Preference for interest subvention is given to students in technical/professional courses and those from government institutions.
• Target Beneficiaries:
  • Around 22 lakh students are expected to benefit from the scheme annually.
  • The government has allocated ?3,600 crore for the period 2024-2025 to 2030-2031, with 7 lakh fresh students anticipated to receive the benefit each year.
• Digital Process:
  • A unified “PM-Vidyalaxmi” portal will allow students to apply for loans and interest subvention in a simplified, transparent, and digital manner.
• Payment Method:
  • Interest subvention will be paid via E-vouchers or Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) wallets.

Loan Product Features

• Collateral-free & Guarantor-free: Loans will be accessible without the need for collateral or a guarantor.
• Loan Coverage:
  • The scheme will cover full tuition fees and other related expenses.
• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Students enrolled in NIRF top 100 HEIs, state institutions ranked 101-200, and central government institutions are eligible.
  • The list of eligible institutions will be updated annually based on the latest NIRF rankings.

Government's Commitment

• The scheme is a part of the National Education Policy 2020’s vision to enhance access to quality education through financial support.
• Additional Support:
  • It complements the existing Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) and Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Education Loans (CGFSEL) under PM-USP.
  • The CSIS scheme provides full interest subvention for students with an annual family income of up to ?4.5 lakhs, pursuing technical/professional courses.

In News:

The 5th Edition of Vietnam Indian Bilateral Army Exercise “VINBAX 2024” had commenced at Ambala.

Key Participants

• Indian Army: A contingent of 47 personnel from the Corps of Engineers, along with personnel from other arms and services.
• Vietnam People's Army: A similar-sized contingent representing Vietnam's military forces.
• Bi-Service Participation: For the first time, personnel from both Army and Air Force of India and Vietnam are participating.

Objectives of VINBAX 2024

• Joint Military Capability Enhancement:
  • Focus on enhancing joint military capabilities of both countries, specifically in the deployment of Engineer Companies and Medical Teams.
• Peacekeeping Operations (UN Context):
  • The exercise prepares both sides for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations (PKO), under Chapter VII of the UN Charter, which deals with peace enforcement actions.
• Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR):
  • The exercise includes a 48-hour validation exercise with demonstrations of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
  • The HADR component will include equipment displays to assess the technical standards of both contingents while executing disaster relief and humanitarian missions in peacekeeping contexts.

Key Activities & Events

• Field Training Exercise: The exercise includes a field training component, with a larger scope than previous editions, focusing on:
  • Engineer Tasks.
  • Medical Support.
  • Disaster Relief Operations.
• Validation Exercise: A critical 48-hour validation exercise to test the preparedness of the two forces in providing HADR, including:
  • Demonstrations of disaster relief operations.
  • Equipment displays to showcase capabilities in managing and executing peacekeeping and humanitarian operations.
• Cultural Exchange: The exercise will also provide an opportunity for cultural exchange, where the troops will learn about the social and cultural heritage of each other.

Background of VINBAX

• Inception: VINBAX was first conducted in 2018 as part of the growing defense cooperation between India and Vietnam. The inaugural edition took place in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.
• Alternating Locations: The exercise alternates between India and Vietnam every year.
• Previous Editions:
  • 2023 Edition: Held in Vietnam.
  • Current Edition: This is the 5th edition, conducted in India (Ambala and Chandimandir).

Indian Defense Engagements in Southeast Asia

• India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces Exercise (Garud Shakti 2024): Held from November 1-12, 2024, in Cijantung, Jakarta, strengthening ties with Indonesian special forces.
• Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX 2024): Held from October 23-29, 2024, in Visakhapatnam, focusing on maritime security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

In News:

India's journey toward a sustainable energy future has gained significant momentum with a series of policy reforms designed to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and accelerate the shift to clean energy. The recent Asia-Pacific Climate Report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) highlights India's remarkable progress in reforming its fossil fuel subsidy system and its efforts to foster renewable energy, positioning the country as a leader in the region's green transformation.

Key Highlights from the Report:

India's Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform

• India has successfully reduced fossil fuel subsidies by 85%, from a peak of $25 billion in 2013 to just $3.5 billion by 2023.
• The reform strategy is built on a "remove, target, and shift" approach, which involved phasing out subsidies on petrol and diesel from 2010 to 2014, followed by incremental tax hikes on these fuels through 2017.
• These fiscal changes created space for funding renewable energy projects, such as solar parks, electric vehicle initiatives, and infrastructure improvements.

Role of Taxation in Supporting Clean Energy

• Between 2010 and 2017, India introduced a cess on coal production and imports, which contributed significantly to funding clean energy projects. Approximately 30% of the cess was directed to the National Clean Energy and Environment Fund.
• This funding supported major renewable energy initiatives, including the National Solar Mission and Green Energy Corridor project, helping reduce the cost of utility-scale solar energy and expand off-grid renewable energy solutions.
• The introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in 2017 altered the financial landscape, redirecting the cess funds to GST compensation rather than directly to clean energy.

Government Schemes and Initiatives

• India is advancing its clean energy agenda through several key government schemes:
  • National Green Hydrogen Mission: Aimed at establishing India as a leader in green hydrogen production.
  • PM-KUSUM Scheme: Focused on promoting solar energy among farmers, allowing them to produce renewable power.
  • PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana: A program designed to provide solar energy access to rural communities, reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

A Strategic Shift: From Subsidies to Clean Energy

• India’s subsidy reforms are an important part of its strategy to transition from a reliance on fossil fuels to a focus on renewable energy investments.
• These changes reflect India’s long-term goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070, as outlined in its climate action plans.

Global Significance of India’s Efforts

• The reduction in fossil fuel subsidies and the surge in clean energy investment serve as a model for other nations seeking to balance economic development with climate action.
• India’s approach demonstrates that policy reforms and innovative financing mechanisms can be used to accelerate the transition to a cleaner, greener economy while creating job opportunities and fostering economic growth.

In News:

Department of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare has released the Operational Guidelines of Central Sector Scheme “NAMO DRONE DIDI”

Key Highlights:

Objective:

• Empower women through Self-Help Groups (SHGs) by providing drones for agricultural rental services.
• Aim to support 14,500 SHGs from 2024 to 2026.

Scheme Overview:

• Type: Central Sector Scheme, under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM).
• Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
• Target: Women SHGs for providing drone services in agriculture (e.g., nutrient and pesticide spraying).

Key Features:

• Financial Assistance:
  • 80% subsidy (up to ?8 lakh) for SHGs to purchase drones.
  • Loans for the remaining 20% via the National Agriculture Infra Financing Facility (AIF) with 3% interest subvention.
• Drone Package:
  • Includes drones, spray assemblies, batteries, cameras, chargers, and measurement tools.
  • Additional batteries and propellers allow up to 20 acres of coverage per day.
• Training Program:
  • One SHG member will be selected for 15 days of mandatory training.
  • Focus on drone operation and agricultural tasks (nutrient and pesticide spraying).
• Implementation & Oversight:
  • Central Governance: Empowered Committee comprising secretaries from key ministries (Agriculture, Rural Development, Fertilizers, Civil Aviation, and Women and Child Development).
  • State Level: Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) will implement the scheme in coordination with state departments and SHG federations.
  • Monitoring: IT-based Management Information System (MIS) through the Drone Portal for real-time tracking and fund disbursement.
• Financial Flexibility:
  • SHGs can access loans through other Ministry of Rural Development schemes if needed.

Implementation Details:

• Governance: Central level oversight by the Empowered Committee and state-level execution by Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs).
• Ownership: Drones procured by LFCs will be owned by SHGs or their Cluster Level Federations (CLFs).
• Monitoring: The scheme will be tracked and managed through the Drone Portal, ensuring transparency and accountability.

In News:

• The Government of India, in partnership with the International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), is hosting the First Asian Buddhist Summit in New Delhi.
• Theme: "Role of Buddha Dhamma in Strengthening Asia."
• Significance: The summit aligns with India’s Act East Policy, focusing on collective, inclusive, and spiritual development across Asia.
• Inauguration: The two-day event will be inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu on November 5, 2024.
• Participants: Buddhist Sangha leaders, scholars, and practitioners from various Asian Buddhist traditions will gather to promote dialogue, understanding, and address contemporary challenges within the Buddhist community.

Key Themes of the Summit

• Buddhist Art, Architecture, and Heritage
  • Focus on preserving and celebrating Buddhist landmarks in India (e.g., Sanchi Stupa, Ajanta Caves).
  • Emphasizes the role of Buddhist art in fostering cross-cultural understanding.
• Buddha C?rik? and Dissemination of Buddha Dhamma
  • Discusses Buddha’s journeys and how his teachings spread across India and beyond.
• Role of Buddhist Relics in Society
  • Relics serve as symbols of Buddha's teachings, promoting devotion, mindfulness, and economic benefits through tourism and pilgrimages.
• Buddha Dhamma in Scientific Research and Well-Being
  • Exploration of Buddhist teachings on mindfulness and compassion, and their integration into contemporary scientific practices to enhance well-being.
• Buddhist Literature and Philosophy in the 21st Century
  • Delving into timeless Buddhist wisdom that continues to address the human condition, the nature of reality, and paths to enlightenment.
• Exhibition: "India as the Dhamma Setu (Bridge) Connecting Asia," showcasing India's role in the spread of Buddhism and its significance in fostering unity.

India’s Role in Promoting Buddhist Heritage

• Cultural Identity: Buddhism is integral to India's cultural fabric, influencing its national identity and foreign policy.
• Buddhist Tourism Circuit: The Indian government has developed a Buddhist Circuit covering key sites such as Bodh Gaya, Sarnath, and Kapilvastu.
• International Conferences and Symposia: India has hosted several events, including the First Global Buddhist Summit (2023), International Abhidhamma Diwas (2024), and Symposiums on Vipassana Meditation.
• Pali Language Recognition: On October 4, 2024, Pali was granted classical status, recognizing its significance in conveying Buddha’s teachings.

Buddhism’s Influence in Asia

• Historical Context: Buddhism, founded by Siddhartha Gautama in the 6th century BCE, spread across Asia with the support of figures like Emperor Ashoka (268-232 BCE), who promoted peace and harmony through Buddhist teachings.
• Spread of Buddhism: From its origins in India, Buddhism spread to Central Asia, East Asia, and Southeast Asia, adapting to local cultures and creating diverse schools: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana.

In News:

The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change has constituted a team to enquire into the death of ten elephants in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve of Madhya Pradesh. The team is conducting an independent enquiry in the matter.

• Incident Overview:
  • Ten elephants found dead in Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh, between October 29-31, 2024.
  • Preliminary cause of death suspected to be poisoning; final cause pending postmortem and toxicological analysis.
• Government Actions:
  • Union Government:
    • The Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) has set up a team to conduct an independent investigation into the deaths.
  • Madhya Pradesh Government:
    • Constituted a five-member State-level inquiry committee, headed by the Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (APCCF, Wildlife).
    • Committee includes members from civil society, scientists, and veterinarians.
    • The State Tiger Strike Force (STSF) is conducting field investigations, combing surrounding areas for further clues.
  • Other Involved Authorities:
    • The Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) and Chief Wildlife Warden of Madhya Pradesh are directly supervising the inquiry in Bandhavgarh.
    • Senior officials from the National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) have visited the site for discussions and investigation.

About Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB):

• Mandate:
  • Combats organized wildlife crime through intelligence gathering and coordination with enforcement agencies.
  • Develops wildlife crime data and assists in prosecutions.
  • Provides capacity building for wildlife crime enforcement agencies.
• Operations & Initiatives:
  • Conducts operations like SAVE KURMA, THUNDERBIRD, WILDNET, and more to counter wildlife crimes.
• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
• Headquarters: New Delhi.