In News:

The Government of India is launching the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) to streamline immigration at seven major airports.

Key Highlights:

• The initiative, inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, aims to enhance the travel experience for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
• This comes seven months after the programme was first introduced at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, New Delhi. The airports included in this initial phase are: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin and Ahmedabad

Objectives of FTI-TTP

• Provide seamless and secure immigration services.
• Reduce human intervention using automated e-gates.
• Align with the Viksit Bharat@2047 vision for modern infrastructure.

How the Programme Works

The FTI-TTP simplifies immigration with automated e-gates. Travellers must complete a one-time online registration to enroll. The process involves:

• Online Registration: Submit personal details and upload necessary documents via the official portal (https://ftittp.mha.gov.in).
• Biometric Submission: Fingerprints and facial images must be submitted at an airport or Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
• Immigration Clearance via E-Gates:
  • Passengers scan their boarding passes and passports at e-gates.
  • Biometrics are automatically verified.
  • Upon authentication, the e-gate opens, granting clearance.

Validity: Registration is valid for five years or until the registered passport expires, whichever comes first.

Who is Eligible?

The first phase of the FTI-TTP is open to:

• Indian nationals.
• OCI cardholders aged between 12 and 70 years.
• Children aged 12-18 can register using their parents’ email/phone number.
• ECR (Emigration Check Required) passport holders are not eligible.

Documents Required for Registration

• Passport-sized photograph (as per Indian passport specifications).
• Scanned copy of passport (front and back pages).
• Proof of current address.
• OCI card details (if applicable).

Key Points to Note

• Registration may take up to a month due to verification by field agencies.
• Applications with incorrect or outdated information may be rejected.
• In case of passport loss or expiry, travellers must reapply and submit fresh biometrics.
• Passports must have at least six months’ validity at the time of applying.
• For support, travellers can reach out via email at india.ftittp-boi@mha.gov.in.

Implementation Phases

The FTI-TTP will be implemented in two phases:

• Phase 1: Covers Indian citizens and OCI cardholders.
• Phase 2: Will extend to foreign travellers.
• The programme will be expanded to 21 major airports across the country.

Comparison with Similar Global Programmes

Several countries have implemented similar fast-track immigration systems:

United States: Global Entry

• Introduced in 2008.
• Offers self-service kiosks for pre-approved travellers.
• Requires background checks and in-person interviews.

United Kingdom: Registered Traveller Service

• Launched in 2015.
• Allows frequent visitors from select countries, including India, to use e-gates.
• Requires visa eligibility or multiple prior visits.

European Union: Smart Borders Initiative

• Implemented in 2016, with full deployment expected by 2024.
• Pre-registers biometric data for faster processing at Schengen Area borders.

Australia: SmartGate

• Started in 2007 for Australian and New Zealand passport holders.
• Uses automated kiosks for identity verification via passport scans and photos.

Saudi Arabia: Smart Travel System

• Launched in 2019.
• Uses automated e-gates for faster immigration clearance.
• Expanding as part of Vision 2030 to improve travel experience, particularly for Hajj pilgrims.

In News:

The concept of ‘blood money’ has come under scrutiny recently, especially in the context of the death sentence awarded to Indian nurse Nimisha Priya from Kerala in Yemen. This case, where the focus is on monetary compensation paid to the victim’s family, has sparked renewed discussions on the practice of blood money.

What is ‘Blood Money’?

‘Blood money’ or diya is a term used in Islamic Sharia law and refers to a sum of money that the perpetrator of a crime must pay to the victim or the victim’s family, typically in cases of unintentional murder or homicide. The custom is designed to offer compensation to the family for the loss of income and alleviate their suffering, rather than placing a price on human life. This practice allows the victim’s family to forgive the accused and avoid retribution, called qisas, under the Sharia.

However, even when blood money is paid, the community or state retains the authority to impose a penalty or punishment, which could include imprisonment or other penalties, based on the seriousness of the crime.

How Does Blood Money Figure in Islamic Sharia Law?

In Islamic law, the amount of blood money varies based on several factors such as the victim’s gender, religion, and nationality. The following examples demonstrate the application of blood money in different Islamic countries:

• Saudi Arabia: In Saudi Arabia, blood money is part of traffic regulations, where the perpetrator must pay compensation to the heirs of victims who die in road accidents. While a Sharia court determines the amount of compensation, the police handle the determination of the guilty party. In workplace accidents, a special committee sets the amount. Saudi Arabia has considered reforming its laws to ensure equal compensation for men and women, Muslims and non-Muslims. However, efforts to amend the laws have not yet been fully implemented.
• Iran: In Iran, blood money differs based on the gender and religion of the victim. A woman’s compensation is typically set at half of that of a man’s. While the Supreme Court of Iran upheld a law to equalize compensation for all individuals in 2019, full implementation of the law has yet to be realized.
• Pakistan: Pakistan has incorporated provisions for diya and qisas in its legal system through the Criminal Laws (Amendment) Ordinance, 1991, aligning its practices with those of Islamic law.
• Yemen: In Yemen, parties involved can negotiate compensation, with judicial oversight ensuring fairness.

India’s Stand on ‘Diya’ and Blood Money

India does not include the provision for blood money in its formal legal framework. However, a similar concept exists in the form of plea bargaining, which allows the accused to negotiate with the prosecution in exchange for a reduced sentence or charge. Plea bargaining involves the defendant pleading guilty to a lesser offense in return for a concession, either in terms of the charges or the sentence.

Plea Bargaining in India:

Introduced under the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2005, plea bargaining was added to the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. While it bears some resemblance to blood money in that it allows for compensation to the victim, it has significant limitations:

• It can only be applied to crimes punishable by imprisonment of less than seven years.
• It is not applicable to heinous crimes such as murder or rape, or offenses involving women or children under 14.
• The accused must voluntarily agree to plead guilty, with no coercion involved.

While plea bargaining may include compensation under Section 265E of the Code, discussions continue to refine this provision to make it more inclusive, similar to the reforms seen in Islamic countries regarding blood money.

Historical Practices Similar to Blood Money

Throughout history, various cultures have had practices similar to blood money. These include:

• Brehon Law (Ireland): In the 7th century, Brehon law established the concept of Éraic (body price) and Log nEnech (honor price). These were compensation systems that allowed for the amicable resolution of crimes, avoiding capital punishment.
• Galanas (Wales): Galanas in Welsh law determined compensation based on the victim's social status, where a blood fine was required in cases of murder, unless the killing was justified.
• Wergeld (Germany): The Wergeld system in early medieval Germany required compensation for homicide or grave offenses, often in monetary terms.
• Other Medieval States: Several medieval states established a standard payment for the victims’ families in the event of homicide or serious crimes, much like blood money.

Cases of Indians Pardoned with Blood Money

India has witnessed instances where blood money has been invoked for Indian nationals facing death sentences abroad:

• Arjunan Athimuthu (Kuwait, 2019): Arjunan’s death sentence was commuted to life imprisonment after his family paid ?30 lakh in blood money.
• Abdul Rahim (Saudi Arabia): Abdul Rahim, convicted for the murder of a Saudi boy in 2006, was pardoned after ?34 crore in blood money was paid. However, he has not been released from prison yet.
• UAE Cases:
  • In 2017, 10 Indians were pardoned after paying 200,000 dirhams as blood money.

In 2009, 17 Indians on death row for the murder of a Pakistani national were pardoned after a blood money amount of nearly ?4 crore was paid.

In News:

Days before demitting office, the Joe Biden administration has released an expansive regulatory framework on the export of artificial intelligence (AI) hardware such as graphics processing units (GPUs), which could have far-reaching consequences for India’s AI ambitions.

Three-Tier Framework for AI Hardware Export Restrictions

• Tier 1: Closest US Allies
  • Countries: Australia, Belgium, Canada, South Korea, UK, etc.
  • No restrictions on computing power deployment.
  • Minimal security requirements.
  • Impact: Free access to AI technology for these nations.
• Tier 2: Majority of Countries (Including India)
  • Countries: India, Brazil, South Africa, etc.
  • Restrictions: Limited to importing approximately 50,000 advanced AI chips (around $1 billion) through 2027.
  • Potential to Double Cap: If countries sign agreements to uphold strict security standards.
  • Impact on India:
    • Short-Term: Likely to fulfill current demand for 10,000 GPUs for the IndiaAI Mission.
    • Long-Term: Challenges in scaling AI infrastructure, with possible delays in large AI data centers and difficulty acquiring large-scale GPUs.
• Tier 3: Countries of Concern (Restricted Nations)
  • Countries: Russia, China, North Korea, Iran, etc.
  • No Access to US AI Technology: Nearly total prohibition of AI tech exports.

Special Provisions for India and China

• General Validated End User (GVEU) status for India and China:
  • India: Authorisation for civilian and military use, excluding nuclear applications.
  • China: Only civilian use permitted under similar conditions.

Why the US Imposed These Restrictions?

• National Security: Prevent adversaries (China, Iran, Russia) from acquiring advanced AI technologies.
• US Technological Leadership: To protect US AI leadership and prevent loss of competitive edge.
• Trusted Ecosystem: Build secure and trusted AI environments for allied nations.

Impact on India

• Short-Term:
  • IndiaAI Mission: Current procurement of 10,000 GPUs unlikely to be affected.
  • Subsidized GPUs: Available for startups, academia, and researchers.
• Long-Term Concerns:
  • Licensing Uncertainties: Possible delays in large-scale AI deployments and AI data centers.
  • Impact on Large Firms: Companies like Reliance and Yotta may face challenges scaling up AI compute infrastructure.
  • National AI Mission Challenges: Difficulty in acquiring enough GPUs for large-scale AI projects beyond 2027.
  • Strategic Leverage: US could use AI export restrictions to negotiate trade deals or tariff adjustments.

Nvidia’s Criticism of the AI Diffusion Rules

• Overreach and Bureaucratic: Nvidia criticized the 200+ page regulatory framework as excessive, secretive, and bureaucratic.
• Harming US Competitiveness: Claims that the rules would hinder US innovation and global leadership, weakening the competitiveness of the US semiconductor and software industries.
• Contrast with Trump’s Approach: Praises the earlier Trump administration for fostering AI growth through industry competition without compromising national security.

Enforcement of the Rules

• Regulatory Control: Managed by the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) under the Department of Commerce.
• Technology Access: Ensures AI chips and models do not reach adversaries or nations posing security risks.

Potential Impact on India’s AI Strategy

• AI Hardware Infrastructure: Challenges in large-scale AI hardware deployment.
• Competitive Disadvantage: Potential delays or downsizing of AI data centers could affect India’s competitiveness in AI technology.
• Strategic Partnerships: India may need to secure General National Validated End User authorizations to ensure uninterrupted access to advanced chips.
• AI Market Growth: India’s AI market projected to grow to $17 billion by 2027, with an annual growth rate of 25%-35%.

In News:

In a major boost to India’s maritime defense capabilities, three frontline warships—INS Nilgiri, INS Surat, and INS Vaghsheer—were commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. This marks a significant step in India's self-reliance in defense manufacturing and strengthens its presence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

INS Nilgiri: Project 17A Stealth Frigate

INS Nilgiri is the lead ship of the Project 17A class, an advanced version of the Shivalik-class frigates, designed for multi-mission capabilities in blue-water operations.

Key Features:

• Advanced stealth technology reducing radar and infrared signatures.
• Equipped with supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (MRSAM), upgraded 76 mm guns, and rapid-fire close-in weapon systems.
• Versatile roles in anti-surface, anti-air, and anti-submarine warfare.
• Constructed using integrated modular design for faster assembly.
• Other ships in this class—Himgiri, Taragiri, Udaygiri, Dunagiri, and Vindhyagiri—are under construction at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE).

INS Surat: Project 15B Stealth Destroyer

INS Surat is the fourth and final guided missile destroyer under Project 15B, following INS Visakhapatnam, INS Mormugao, and INS Imphal. It represents an upgraded version of the Kolkata-class destroyers.

Key Features:

• AI-Enabled Operations: First Indian warship integrated with artificial intelligence solutions for enhanced combat efficiency.
• High-Speed Capability: Can exceed speeds of 30 knots (56 km/h).
• Advanced Armament: Equipped with modern surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, torpedoes, and sophisticated network-centric warfare sensors.
• Strategic Role: Acts as a high-speed, maneuverable warship with increased strike capability and endurance.

Project 15B was initiated in 2011, with ships named after major Indian cities to symbolize national unity. These destroyers serve as critical assets in naval operations, ensuring dominance in maritime warfare.

INS Vaghsheer: Project 75 Scorpene-Class Submarine

INS Vaghsheer is the sixth and final Kalvari-class submarine built under Project 75, designed for stealth and versatile naval operations.

Key Features:

• Scorpene-Class Design: Developed in collaboration with the French Naval Group.
• Diesel-Electric Propulsion: Silent and highly maneuverable, making it one of the world’s most advanced attack submarines.
• Mission Capabilities: Specializes in anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and special operations.
• Weapons Systems: Armed with wire-guided torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and state-of-the-art sonar systems.

The Kalvari-class submarines continue India's legacy of submarine warfare, named after decommissioned Soviet-origin Foxtrot-class submarines post-Independence.

In News:

Iran has announced plans to relocate its capital from Tehran to the Makran coastal region due to economic and environmental concerns.

Reasons Behind Relocation

• Overcrowding and Resource Constraints: Tehran, the capital for over 200 years since the Qajar dynasty (1794-1925), faces overpopulation, air pollution, water scarcity, and energy shortages.
• Strategic Importance of Makran: Located in Sistan and Baluchestan Province, Makran’s proximity to the Gulf of Oman enhances its potential for economic development.
• Economic and Maritime Significance: Home to key ports like Chabahar, Makran is vital for Iran’s petroleum reserves and coastal trade.
• Geopolitical Considerations: The development of Makran as an international trade hub could strengthen Iran’s economic ties with Central Asia and the Indian Ocean region.

About Makran

• Geographical Overview: A semi-desert coastal plateau shared by Pakistan and Iran, bordered by the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman.
• Key Ports and Trade Routes: Gwadar (Pakistan) and Chabahar (Iran) serve as critical gateways to the Strait of Hormuz, a global oil supply route.

Alexander’s Invasion and Makran’s Historical Significance

Background of Alexander’s Invasion (327–325 BCE)

• Entry into India: Alexander, King of Macedonia (336-323 BCE), entered India via the Khyber Pass after conquering Kabul.
• Key Battles:
  • Battle of Hydaspes (Jhelum): Faced and defeated King Porus, later reinstating him as an ally.
  • Retreat at Hyphasis (Beas River): His army, exhausted and wary of the Nanda Empire’s strength, refused to march further east.

The Gedrosian Desert March

• Extreme Hardships: While retreating through the Makran Desert, Alexander lost a third of his army to dehydration, starvation, and exhaustion.
• Comparison with Cyrus the Great: Unlike Cyrus II, who failed to cross the desert, Alexander’s army endured the harsh terrain, albeit with heavy casualties.

Impact of Alexander’s Invasion on India

• Cultural and Trade Exchanges: Facilitated early Indo-Greek interactions and opened key trade routes linking South Asia and Europe.
• Greek Settlements: Established cities like Alexandria (Kabul) and Boukephala (Jhelum), influencing local governance and trade.
• Mauryan Expansion: Weakened regional rulers enabled Chandragupta Maurya to establish the Mauryan Empire.
• Influence on Art and Culture: Indo-Greek fusion led to the Gandhara School of Art, integrating Greek and Indian artistic traditions.

In News:

Israel and Hamas have agreed on a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal after 15 months of war.

Key Highlights:

Ceasefire Agreement Details:

• Location: The deal was brokered in Doha, Qatar.
• Approval Process: The deal must be approved by Israel’s Cabinet to take effect.
• Mediators: The agreement was negotiated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, with their involvement ensuring the implementation of the deal.

Phases of the Deal:

• First Phase (42 Days):
  • Release of 33 hostages by Hamas, including women, children, and elderly people.
  • Hostage Exchange: Hostages will be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
  • Gaza Ceasefire and Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from Central Gaza and move to the borders.
  • Return of Displaced Palestinians: Displaced Palestinians will be allowed to return to Northern Gaza.
  • Humanitarian Aid: 600 humanitarian aid trucks will be allowed into Gaza daily.
• Second Phase:
  • Hostage Release: Negotiations will begin for the release of remaining hostages.
  • Full Israeli Troop Withdrawal: Israel will fully withdraw its forces.
• Third Phase:
  • Reconstruction of Gaza: Overseen by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations.
  • Reopening of Border Crossings: For movement in and out of Gaza.
  • Return of Hostage Bodies: Return of any bodies of hostages who died.

Background of the Israel-Hamas Conflict:

• Start: On October 7, 2023, Hamas launched an attack on Israel, called Operation Al-Aqsa Flood, causing significant casualties.
• Israeli Response: Israel launched Operation Iron Sword in retaliation.
• Casualties: The conflict resulted in 46,707 Palestinian deaths, mostly civilians, and 1,210 Israeli deaths.

About Gaza Strip:

• Location: A Palestinian enclave on the Mediterranean Sea, bordered by Israel and Egypt.
• Administration: The Gaza Strip is governed by Hamas since 2006.
• Movement Restrictions: Israel controls air space and shoreline, imposing restrictions. Egypt controls one border and also restricts movement.

Gaza Truce Deal:

• Nature: A proposed ceasefire to end the ongoing conflict.
• Primary Parties: Israel and Hamas.
• Supporting Nations: United States, Qatar, and Egypt.
• Significance:
  • Aims to stop fighting and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
  • Potential to influence regional stability and Israeli politics.
  • Marks an important moment in U.S. diplomacy under the Biden administration.

In News:

The Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) of NITI Aayog, in partnership with New Shop (India’s largest 24/7 convenience retail chain), launched the initiative EmpowHER Biz – Sapno Ki Udaan under the Award to Reward (ATR) program. This program aims to empower women entrepreneurs by providing them with the skills, resources, and mentorship needed to succeed in the organized retail sector. The collaboration seeks to create a robust retail ecosystem that supports women in overcoming barriers such as societal biases, limited access to financing, and a lack of mentorship.

Key Features of the Initiative:

• Target Participants: The program will select 50 women aged 18-35 through an online application process. Women from Delhi NCR, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat will be considered.
• Top 20 Participants: The 20 best candidates will receive a 100% waiver on New Shop franchise fees, enabling them to operate their own retail businesses with reduced financial barriers.
• Program Objective: Equip women entrepreneurs with skills such as retail management, digital tools, financial literacy, and business development. Participants will also receive valuable mentorship to help them grow and scale their businesses.
• Focus on Retail: The initiative focuses on empowering women within the organized retail sector, creating a sustainable ecosystem that fosters growth and development for female entrepreneurs.

About Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP):

• Incubation & Transition: Established in 2018, WEP was incubated within NITI Aayog and transitioned into a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in 2022.
• Purpose: WEP aims to empower women entrepreneurs by addressing challenges like information asymmetry and providing essential support in key areas such as:
  • Access to Finance
  • Market Linkages
  • Training & Skilling
  • Mentoring & Networking
  • Compliance & Legal Assistance
  • Business Development Services
• Collaboration: WEP partners with over 30 public and private sector organizations to develop scalable and impactful programs. Since 2023, the Award to Reward initiative offers a framework for stakeholders to create impactful programs for women entrepreneurs.

About New Shop:

• Business Model: New Shop operates over 200 round-the-clock convenience retail stores in high-density areas, including highways and gas stations. The company plans to expand into airports, railway stations, and other mass transit hubs.
• Franchising Vision: By 2030, New Shop aims to empower over 10,000 entrepreneurs in India through its franchising model. The partnership with WEP seeks to help women entrepreneurs access this growth opportunity.

Program Outcomes:

• Mentorship & Training: Participants will be mentored and trained on key aspects such as retail management, business development, and digital tools.
• Franchise Opportunity: Top participants will gain access to New Shop’s franchising ecosystem, providing them a ready-made business opportunity with lower entry barriers.
• Financial Assistance: The program will also provide financial resources to the women, helping them build their businesses with greater ease.

In News:

In January 2025, Indonesia officially joined the BRICS group as its 10th member, signaling the expansion of this influential coalition of emerging economies. The addition of Indonesia, a Southeast Asian powerhouse, strengthens BRICS' global position and highlights the group's evolving dynamics.

BRICS Overview:

BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) is an informal intergovernmental group that fosters cooperation among major emerging economies. Initially coined as BRIC by economist Jim O'Neill in 2001, the group became BRICS in 2010 with the inclusion of South Africa. The bloc has grown steadily, with Indonesia now joining as its 10th member.

Recent Expansion:

• In 2023, invitations were extended to Saudi Arabia, Iran, UAE, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina.
• By 2024, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and UAE had joined as permanent members.
• Indonesia's membership was finalized in 2025, following its presidential elections and government formation.

Key Objectives of BRICS:

• Economic Growth: Promote trade, investment, and infrastructure development.
• Global Governance Reform: Advocate for equitable representation in global institutions like the UN and IMF.
• Cultural Exchange: Strengthen people-to-people connections and cultural ties.
• South-South Cooperation: Foster collaboration among developing nations.

BRICS Structure and Mechanisms:

• New Development Bank (NDB): Established in 2014, the NDB finances sustainable development projects in BRICS countries.
• Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA): A $100 billion safety net for financial crises.
• BRICS Academic Forum: Encourages academic collaboration across member states.

Global Influence and Economic Impact:

• Global Share: BRICS+ represents over 45% of the world’s population and 35% of global GDP (PPP-based).
• Strategic Position: The group acts as a counterbalance to the G7, challenging Western-dominated global financial systems.
• Financial Independence: BRICS aims to reduce dependence on the US dollar by facilitating local currency transactions and exploring a common currency.
• Technology Collaboration: Member countries, such as India and China, collaborate on digital payments and renewable energy technologies.

Indonesia’s Entry into BRICS:

Indonesia, the world’s fourth-most populous nation, strengthens BRICS’ representation in Southeast Asia. The country brings a robust economy and extensive trade networks, boosting the group's negotiating power. Indonesia’s membership was approved during the 2023 BRICS Summit and finalized in January 2025.

• Strategic Importance for Indonesia: The membership aligns with Indonesia's goals to enhance global cooperation, particularly with the Global South. It also reflects Indonesia's growing influence in international trade and geopolitics.

BRICS Challenges:

• Diverse Interests: Differences in economic priorities, such as India's ties with the US and Russia-China’s geopolitical rivalry, complicate consensus-building.
• Geopolitical Tensions: Disputes like the China-India border issue and Russia’s sanctions limit BRICS' ability to present a unified stance.
• Economic Sanctions and Internal Challenges: Countries like Russia face Western sanctions, while domestic issues in Brazil and South Africa divert attention from regional collaboration.

Significance of BRICS’ Expansion:

The expansion of BRICS marks a pivotal shift in global power dynamics, with a focus on South-South cooperation and equitable global governance. Indonesia’s membership further solidifies the group’s influence in Southeast Asia and adds to its efforts to challenge the dominance of Western-led financial institutions.

• Local Currency Use: The group promotes the use of local currencies for trade to reduce reliance on the US dollar.
• Global South Advocacy: BRICS champions the cause of developing nations, ensuring that emerging economies have a voice in global governance.

Recent and Upcoming BRICS Summits:

• 16th BRICS Summit (2024): Held in Kazan, Russia, with a focus on strengthening local currencies and promoting non-dollar transactions.
• 17th BRICS Summit (2025): Scheduled for July 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, under the theme "Global South," with an emphasis on payment gateways to facilitate intra-BRICS trade.

In News:

Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the ‘Bharatpol’ portal, which aims to streamline international cooperation for law investigating agencies.

Key Highlights:

Bharatpol is a newly launched portal developed by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in India to facilitate faster and more efficient international cooperation between Indian law enforcement agencies and Interpol. It was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, to streamline the process of sharing criminal intelligence and coordinating efforts in transnational crimes like cybercrime, human trafficking, drug trafficking, financial fraud, and organized crime.

The portal aims to address the current challenges in international collaboration, which previously relied on slower communication methods such as letters, emails, and faxes, often leading to delays in investigations.

Key Features and Functions of Bharatpol:

• Unified Platform: Bharatpol integrates CBI as the National Central Bureau (NCB-New Delhi) with all Indian law enforcement agencies, from state police forces to higher authorities. This allows better coordination and quicker access to international resources.
• Simplified Request Mechanism: The portal provides a standardized method for frontline police officers to request international assistance from Interpol member countries, using templates for efficiency.
• Rapid Information Dissemination: Bharatpol enables the CBI to quickly share criminal intelligence and other pertinent information with law enforcement agencies across India, helping to tackle international criminal activities in real-time.
• Increase in Utilization of Interpol Notices: The portal makes it easier for Indian law enforcement agencies to issue and manage Red Corner Notices and other Interpol notices, which are essential tools in tracking criminals globally.
• Capacity Building and Training: Bharatpol includes resources for training law enforcement personnel, improving their ability to conduct investigations abroad and seek foreign assistance via Interpol.

How Bharatpol Works:

• Key Modules of Bharatpol:
  • Connect: Facilitates the integration of Indian agencies with the Interpol NCB-New Delhi, creating a seamless communication channel.
  • INTERPOL Notices: Supports the rapid issuance and processing of Interpol Notices like Red Corner Notices to locate criminals globally.
  • References: Enables Indian agencies to seek and offer international assistance for investigations.
  • Broadcast: Ensures quick availability of assistance requests from Interpol member countries, facilitating faster responses.
  • Resources: Manages document exchanges and training materials to support the capacity-building efforts of law enforcement agencies.

Potential Benefits of Bharatpol:

• Enhanced Coordination: Bharatpol facilitates better collaboration between central, state, and Union Territory agencies, allowing for a more structured and efficient approach to international crime investigations.
• Faster Investigation: Real-time sharing of information and the use of Interpol notices will help in tracking criminals and criminal activities both in India and abroad.
• Simplified Extradition Process: By streamlining international communication, Bharatpol will assist in expediting the extradition of criminals to India for prosecution.
• Support for Transnational Crime Prevention: It will help address growing threats such as cybercrime, human trafficking, and organized crime by improving the ability of Indian law enforcement to collaborate globally.

In News:

• Trinidad and Tobago declared a state of emergency, in response to a surge in gang violence, which raised the annual death toll to the highest since 2013.

Trinidad and Tobago:

• Location: An island nation in the southern Caribbean, near Venezuela and Guyana.
• Capital: Port of Spain.
• Population: Approximately 1.5 million.
• Ethnic Composition: African (36.3%), Indian (35.4%), Mixed (22.8%), and others.
• Religions: Christianity (64%), Hinduism (18%), Islam (5%), and others.
• Independence: Gained from the UK on August 31, 1962, and became a republic in 1976.
• Member of: Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Commonwealth of Nations, and the United Nations.
• Major Rivers: Ortoire and Caroni.
• Geography:
  • Total Land Area: 5,128 sq. km (Trinidad: 4,768 sq. km, Tobago: 300 sq. km).
  • Climate: Tropical, with dry and rainy seasons.
  • Highest Point: Mount Aripo.
  • Natural Resource: Pitch Lake, the world’s largest asphalt reservoir.
  • Mountain Range: Northern Range, part of the Andes extension.

Economic and Cultural Significance

• Exports: Major exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG), methanol, ammonia, and petrochemicals.
• Culture: Known for Carnival, Calypso music, Soca, and the Steelpan (the only musical instrument invented in the 20th century).
• Infrastructure:
  • Ports: Port of Spain, Point Lisas, Scarborough.
  • Airports: Piarco International Airport (Trinidad) and A.N.R. Robinson International Airport (Tobago).

Engagement with India

• Trinidad and Tobago became the first Caribbean country to adopt India’s UPI platform.
• Both countries granted each other Most Favored Nation (MFN) status in 1997.
• Bilateral trade reached USD 368.96 million in FY 2023-24.
• The Indian diaspora constitutes about 42% of the population.

Past Emergency Declarations:

• 2014: State of emergency declared in response to gang violence.
• 2021: Emergency declared for Covid-19 restrictions.
• 2011: Limited state of emergency for drug-related crimes.

In News:

IndiaAI, under the Digital India Corporation, has partnered with Microsoft to advance AI adoption in India for inclusive development and economic transformation. The collaboration focuses on skilling, innovation, AI safety, and responsible AI development, with a goal of fostering AI innovation across India, particularly in underserved rural and urban areas.

Key Highlights:

• Training 500,000 Individuals by 2026:
  • Target Audience: Students, educators, developers, government officials, and women entrepreneurs.
  • Goal: Empower these groups with foundational and advanced AI skills for economic opportunities and digital transformation.
• AI Catalysts (Centers of Excellence):
  • Establishment of AI hubs in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities to foster rural AI innovation.
  • Objective to equip 100,000 AI innovators and developers through hackathons, community building, and creating an AI marketplace.
• AI Productivity Labs:
  • Set up in 20 National Skill Training Institutes (NSTIs) across 10 states.
  • Focus on training 20,000 educators and providing AI education to 100,000 students in 200 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
• Support for Startups:
  • Microsoft’s Founders Hub program will provide Azure credits, business resources, and mentorship to 1,000 AI startups in India, boosting innovation and growth in the Indian startup ecosystem.
• Development of Indic Language Models:
  • Work on creating foundational AI models with support for Indic languages to address India’s linguistic diversity and cultural needs.
• AI Safety Institute:
  • Focus on building frameworks, standards, and evaluation metrics for responsible AI development.
  • Support for the creation of an AI Safety Institute in India to promote ethical and safe AI practices.
• Infrastructure & Research:
  • Microsoft will also focus on enhancing cloud infrastructure and support for AI research through Microsoft Research India.
  • AI-driven solutions will be developed for critical sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture.

Investment and Strategic Goals:

• $3 Billion Investment:
  • Microsoft has pledged $3 billion to expand AI and cloud infrastructure in India over the next 2 years. This investment will focus on:
    • Building scalable infrastructure for AI applications.
    • Enhancing cloud services and AI capabilities.
    • Establishing new data centers across India, supporting the AI-first agenda.
• AI Skill Development:
  • 10 million people will be trained over the next five years in AI skills, empowering the Indian workforce to adapt to AI technologies, driving job creation and economic growth.
• AI in India’s Economy:
  • India aims to become a global leader in AI, with AI-powered solutions contributing to diverse sectors like finance, e-commerce, and manufacturing.
  • Focus on economic growth through AI-powered industries and fostering entrepreneurship in underserved communities.

AI Technologies and Applications:

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves machines performing tasks that require human intelligence like decision-making, problem-solving, and learning from data.
  • Machine Learning (ML): AI systems improve through data without being explicitly programmed.
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP): AI systems understand and respond to human language.
  • Computer Vision: AI systems analyze and interpret visual information.
  • Robotics: AI powers automated tasks through robots in industries like manufacturing and healthcare.
• Cloud Infrastructure enables the scaling of AI systems:
  • Cloud Computing provides on-demand access to computing power, essential for AI tasks requiring large amounts of data and processing power.
  • Data Centers host AI models and data, and cloud services such as Microsoft Azure will support AI startups and businesses.

Expected Impact and Benefits:

• Inclusive AI Development: Focus on empowering women, students, and rural innovators to bridge the digital divide and promote economic empowerment.
• Startup Ecosystem: The collaboration will foster a robust AI startup ecosystem, promoting innovation and entrepreneurship through AI tools, Azure credits, and mentorship.
• Skill Development & Education: AI-driven skill training initiatives will prepare millions of individuals for the jobs of the future, particularly in the AI-driven economy, and support education reform.
• AI for Critical Sectors: Development of AI-enabled solutions to address challenges in sectors such as healthcare, education, and agriculture, driving social impact and economic growth.

In News:

• On January 7, 2025, during the inaugural India-Malaysia Security Dialogue in New Delhi, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in critical minerals and rare earth elements (REEs).
• The meeting was co-chaired by India's National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, and Malaysia’s Director General of the National Security Council, Raja Dato Nushirwan Bin Zainal Abidin.
• The agreement follows the upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to India in August 2024.
• The dialogue also focused on other security aspects such as counter-terrorism, cyber security, and maritime security.

Importance of Critical Minerals and REEs:

• • Critical Minerals: These are essential for a variety of industries like IT, energy, and defense. They are integral to manufacturing electric vehicle batteries, solar cells, and advanced electronics.

• • Rare Earth Elements (REEs): Used in high-tech applications such as wind turbines, electric vehicle engines, and high-powered magnets. While their extraction is not rare, it is technically difficult due to their complex nature.

Strategic Relevance:

• • Global Demand: The global demand for critical minerals is rising, and both countries see it as a strategic necessity to ensure a stable supply of these materials.
  • Malaysia's Resources: Malaysia possesses significant deposits of non-rare radioactive earth ores, including essential REEs like Neodymium (Nd), Dysprosium (Dy), and Praseodymium (Pr). These elements are crucial in today’s technological innovations.
  • India’s Dependence on Imports: India, which currently imports a substantial portion of its critical minerals, aims to diversify its supply chain by collaborating with Malaysia.

Sustainability and Ecological Accountability:

• • Both countries recognize the environmental challenges of mining these critical resources. Malaysia aims to adopt responsible mining practices that minimize ecological harm.
  • India seeks to ensure a supply chain that aligns with sustainable development goals, balancing economic needs with environmental responsibilities.

Enhancing Supply Chain Resilience:

• • Diversification of Supply Chain: This partnership aims to reduce India’s dependency on a limited number of countries for critical minerals, enhancing resilience against global supply chain disruptions.
  • Collaboration in Extraction and Processing: Both nations are exploring joint ventures in the exploration, extraction, and processing of critical minerals to boost their technological and economic standing globally.

Future Prospects:

• • The institutionalization of this dialogue through annual meetings is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the critical minerals sector.
  • Increased cooperation is likely to enhance economic growth for both countries, aligning them strategically in the global minerals market as demand for these resources continues to soar.

Broader Security Cooperation:

• • Beyond critical minerals, the India-Malaysia Security Dialogue explored enhanced collaboration in areas like counter-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, and defense industries.
  • This broadening of security cooperation complements the strategic minerals partnership, further solidifying the bilateral ties between the two nations.

In News:

Centre urges states, UTs to ensure undertrial prisoner relief in jails.

Key Highlights:

• Objective: The MHA has urged states and Union Territories (UTs) to implement provisions of Section 479 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023 to provide relief to undertrial prisoners (UTPs) in jails. This initiative aims to address issues such as long detention and overcrowding in prisons.

Key Provisions of Section 479 of BNSS, 2023

• Purpose: To offer relief to undertrial prisoners by mandating their release on bail or bond under specific conditions.
• Key Provisions:
  • Subsection (1):
    • Release on Bail: UTPs who have served half the maximum sentence for their offense (except offenses punishable by death or life imprisonment) are eligible for release on bail.
    • Release on Bond for First-Time Offenders: First-time offenders, who have served one-third of the maximum sentence, are eligible for release on bond by the court.
  • Subsection (3):
    • Mandatory Application: It is the responsibility of the prison superintendent to apply to the concerned court for the release of eligible prisoners on bail or bond.
• Superintendent’s Role:
  • Prison superintendents are mandated to ensure timely applications for bail or bond are filed for eligible UTPs.

Implementation and Reporting

• MHA’s Advisory:
  • On January 1, the MHA issued a letter to the Chief Secretaries, Director Generals, and Inspectors General of prisons in all states and UTs to ensure compliance with the provisions of Section 479 of BNSS.
  • States and UTs were instructed to report the status of implementation in a prescribed format starting from January 1, 2025.
• Data to be Reported:
  • First-Time UTPs: Number of first-time UTPs who have served one-third of their maximum sentence.
  • Court Applications: Number of applications for bail filed by jail superintendents.
  • Release on Bail: Number of UTPs released on bond or bail after meeting the eligibility criteria.
  • Other UTPs: Number of UTPs who have completed half of their sentence, and the number of applications filed for their release.
• MHA’s Campaign:
  • Launched on Constitution Day (November 26), this campaign encouraged states and UTs to identify eligible prisoners and file their bail applications, thus helping to reduce overcrowding in prisons and mitigate long-term detention.

Background and Context

• Why Section 479?
  • Section 479 aims to reduce the prolonged detention of undertrials, some of whom may have already served significant portions of their maximum sentences. This will not only alleviate overcrowding in prisons but also expedite justice for prisoners who have spent extended periods in jail awaiting trial.
• Earlier MHA Initiatives:
  • Prior to this directive, the MHA had issued an advisory on October 16, 2024, encouraging states and UTs to implement Section 479. A special push was also made during Constitution Day to move applications for the release of eligible prisoners.
• Expected Outcome:
  • The measures are expected to significantly ease the challenges of overcrowded jails and provide timely relief to undertrials, especially first-time offenders. By enforcing these provisions, the government seeks to improve the judicial process for UTPs and contribute to a more effective and humane criminal justice system.

In News:

Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar’s Address at NCC Republic Day Camp 2025.

Key Highlights

• PanchPran as the Foundation of India’s Transformation:
  • PanchPran (Five Resolutions) were outlined by Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar as the guiding principles for India’s future development.
  • These principles are fundamental to India’s national progress, ensuring a balanced approach to development and societal transformation.

The Five Principles of PanchPran:

• Social Harmony:
  • Aims to strengthen unity by leveraging India’s diverse cultures and traditions as sources of national strength.
  • Promotes inclusiveness and national integration.
• Family Enlightenment:
  • Emphasizes the importance of families in nurturing patriotic and moral values.
  • Acts as a foundation for creating a cohesive, enlightened society that respects traditions.
• Environmental Consciousness:
  • Advocates for sustainable development and conservation of nature.
  • Focuses on protecting natural resources for future generations.
• Swadeshi (Self-reliance):
  • Encourages promoting indigenous products as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
  • Strengthens India’s self-reliance by focusing on domestic production and consumption.
• Civic Duties:
  • Instills responsibility among citizens to actively contribute to the nation’s growth.
  • Encourages participation in community and national development activities.

National Cadet Corps (NCC)

• The National Cadet Corps (NCC) is the youth wing of the Indian Armed Forces, established in 1948.
• It is open to school and college students on a voluntary basis and is a Tri-Services organization, comprising the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• Purpose and Training:
  • Cadets undergo basic military training in small arms and drills.
  • Officers and cadets have no obligation for active military service after completing their courses.
• Historical Background:
  • Traces its origins back to the ‘University Corps’ formed under the Indian Defence Act of 1917 to address shortages in Army personnel.
• Structure and Leadership:
  • The NCC is headed by a Director General (DG), a senior officer with a 3-star rank.
  • Its headquarters are located in New Delhi.

In News:

In its annual report, the Union Home Ministry has warned the public against getting trapped in organised 'pig-butchering scams'.

Key Highlights:

• What is it?
  • The Pig-Butchering Scam is a sophisticated form of cybercrime in which fraudsters deceive victims into investing in fake online trading platforms. The term "pig-butchering" is derived from the analogy of "fattening up" victims before stealing their money, much like preparing a pig for slaughter.
• How it works:
  • Initial Contact: Scammers typically reach out to victims through social media platforms, dating apps, or deceptive ads on websites like Google and Facebook.
  • Building Trust: Fraudsters create false friendships, using these connections to lure victims into investing in fake online trading apps. Cryptocurrency investments are often involved due to the ambiguity in the crypto market.
  • The Scam: Victims are shown fabricated profits to encourage further investment. However, when they try to withdraw their funds, the money is stolen, and they realize the trading platform was fake.
• Features of the Scam:
  • Use of fraudulent online trading platforms
  • Fabricated blockchain transactions, making fund recovery nearly impossible
  • Reliance on victims’ desire for quick financial gains
  • Linked to money laundering and cyber slavery in some cases
• Origin of the Scam:
  • The scam first appeared in China in 2016, where it was referred to as “sha zhu pan” (translated as "killing pig game").
  • It is a form of Ponzi scheme, wherein organized scammers exploit victims by using fake online identities and offering false investment opportunities.
• How Cybercriminals Lure Victims:
  • The scammer (host) contacts potential victims via social media, dating apps, or deceptive online advertisements.
  • They build trust with the victim, enticing them into exploring online investments and cryptocurrency trading, often capitalizing on the lack of clarity in the crypto space.
  • The victim is then persuaded to invest larger amounts in fake trades, believing they are making real profits.
• How the Scam is Executed:
  • The scammer uses fake online trading platforms to create the illusion of profit.
  • After building the victim’s confidence, the fraudster encourages larger investments.
  • When victims try to withdraw their funds, they realize their money is gone, often with blockchain transactions making it nearly impossible to trace or recover the funds.
• Statistics on Cybercrime in India:
  • In March 2024, the National Cybercrime Threat Analytical Unit recorded over 37,500 complaints related to cybercrime.
  • The highest number of complaints (42%) were associated with WhatsApp (14,746), followed by Telegram (7,651), Instagram (7,152), Facebook (7,051), and YouTube (1,135).
• Union Home Ministry’s Response:
  • The MHA has flagged pig-butchering scams as a global phenomenon that could involve large-scale money laundering and cyber slavery.
  • The Ministry is collaborating with Google for intelligence sharing to flag suspicious digital lending apps and other forms of fraud.
  • The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre is working on capacity building to combat such scams and improve the response to cybercrimes.

In News:

The National Sports Awards 2024 were recently announced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports to celebrate excellence in Indian sports.

Key Highlights:

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

• This is India's highest sporting honor, renamed in 2021 after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand.
• It’s awarded for exceptional performance in sports over a four-year period.
• 2024 Winners:
  • Gukesh D (Chess)
  • Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey)
  • Praveen Kumar (Para-Athletics)
  • Manu Bhaker (Shooting)
• The award includes a cash prize of Rs 25 lakh.

Arjuna Award

• Recognizes outstanding performance in sports over the previous four years and attributes like leadership, discipline, and sportsmanship.
• 2024 Winners: Various athletes across multiple disciplines received this honor.

Arjuna Award (Lifetime)

• Given to retired athletes who have not only excelled during their careers but also contributed to the promotion of sports post-retirement.
• 2024 Winners:
  • Shri Sucha Singh (Athletics)
  • Shri Murlikant Rajaram Petkar (Para-Swimming)

Dronacharya Award

• Given to coaches who have made a consistent and significant contribution by guiding sportspersons to excel at international events.
• The award includes a bronze statue of Dronacharya, a certificate, and a cash prize.

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy

• Awarded to the top-performing university in the Khelo India University Games.
• 2024 Winner: Chandigarh University.

Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar

• Recognizes individuals or organizations for their contribution to the promotion and development of sports.
• 2024 Winner: Physical Education Foundation of India.

These awards were selected by a committee led by Justice (Retd.) V. Ramasubramanian and include eminent sportspersons, journalists, and sports administrators. The winners will receive their awards from the President of India, marking a prestigious moment in Indian sports.

In News:

Recently, Donald Trump threatened to take back the Panama Canal, calling the transfer treaty “foolish”.

Why Trump Called the Panama Canal Transfer 'Foolish'?

• Transit Fees:
  • Trump expressed frustration over high transit fees imposed by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) on U.S. vessels.
  • In 2023, due to droughts affecting Lakes Gatun and Alhajuela (which are crucial for canal operations), the ACP reduced crossing slots by 36%, leading to an increase in transit fees for ships.
• Chinese Presence:
  • Trump is also concerned about the growing Chinese influence in the Panama Canal region.
  • In 2017, Panama became the first Latin American country to sign a Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) agreement with China, increasing Chinese investments.
  • Hutchison Ports PPC, a subsidiary of a Hong Kong-based company, operates ports near the canal, raising concerns over China's influence on logistical operations and potential surveillance capabilities.

The Torrijos-Carter Treaties and Canal Transfer:

• Panama Canal Treaty (1977):
  • The treaty transferred control of the Panama Canal from the U.S. to Panama by December 31, 1999.
  • The U.S. would no longer control the canal, and Panama would assume full responsibility for its operation and defense.
• Permanent Neutrality Treaty (1977):
  • Declared the canal to be neutral and open to vessels of all nations.
  • U.S. Right to Defense: The U.S. retained the right to defend the neutrality of the canal and had priority passage in case of military emergencies.

Panama’s Response to Trump’s Criticisms:

• Defense of Transit Rates:
  • President José Raúl Mulino rejected Trump’s claims, defending the transit fees as being in line with international standards and based on a transparent procedure.
• Sovereignty:
  • Mulino emphasized Panama’s sovereignty over the canal, asserting that Panama’s control over the canal was non-negotiable. He categorically denied the presence of Chinese soldiers in the canal, stating that there would never be any.

China’s Response:

• China's Position:
  • China's Foreign Ministry responded by emphasizing that the Panama Canal is a neutral passageway, a vital infrastructure for Panama and the global trade system.
  • China affirmed its respect for Panama's sovereignty and denied any military presence in the canal area.

Implications and Future:

• Diplomatic Tensions:
  • The issue of transit fees and foreign influence, particularly China's presence in the region, is likely to remain a point of diplomatic negotiation.
  • Panama is expected to assert its sovereignty and seek international support to prevent any external interference in the canal’s operations.
• U.S. Influence:
  • The U.S. might attempt to renegotiate terms related to the Panama Canal's operations, especially concerning transit fees and military rights, although Panama remains firm on maintaining control.

Torrijos-Carter Treaties:

• Significance:
  • Panama Canal Treaty and Permanent Neutrality Treaty marked a major shift in U.S.-Latin America relations, ending U.S. control and restoring Panamanian sovereignty.
  • The treaties also ensured the neutrality of the canal while maintaining U.S. military access in emergencies.
• Impact:
  • The treaties were a symbol of Panama’s regained sovereignty and played a key role in stabilizing relations between the U.S. and Panama, as well as resolving tensions over control of the canal.

In News:

• The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India has deployed the Open Data Kit (ODK) platform to enhance transparency in government spending and improve accountability in the delivery of government schemes.
• The toolkit is being used for designing, collecting, and managing data relevant to audits.

Key Highlights:

Objective:

• Enhance transparency in public spending.
• Improve accountability in government schemes and projects.
• Collect real-time beneficiary feedback to aid audit planning and identify areas needing additional review.

Key Features:

• End-to-end encryption: Ensures secure data management.
• Integration with CAG’s Operating System (OIOS): Facilitates seamless analysis and management of data.
• Multi-language support: Allows for surveys in multiple languages, making it more accessible to diverse beneficiaries.
• User-friendly interface: Simplifies the design and management of data collection processes for auditors.

Usage and Applications:

• Beneficiary surveys are a key tool for gathering data, helping CAG identify problem areas in government schemes.
• The ODK toolkit was recently deployed in audits of AIIMS institutions in Mangalagiri (Guntur) and Bibinagar (Hyderabad) to assess patient satisfaction and gather evidence for performance reviews.

Working Process:

• Surveys are designed on the ODK platform and deployed to beneficiaries.
• Data is collected in real-time and analyzed using the OIOS system to generate actionable insights for audits.
• Beneficiary feedback is used to evaluate scheme delivery and improve efficiency.

Significance:

• Facilitates data-driven decision-making in audits, ensuring that audits are more transparent and evidence-based.
• Improves the citizen-centric evaluation of government schemes by gathering direct feedback from beneficiaries.
• Enhances the performance review of key institutions like AIIMS, contributing to better service delivery.

• The introduction of the ODK toolkit is part of the CAG’s efforts to use digital tools for better governance and accountability in the public sector. This also aligns with the growing trend of using technology for governance and auditing.

In News:

• The Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances (DARPG) has issued the guidelines for the 28th National e-Governance Awards (NAeG) 2025.
• Nominations for the awards can be submitted online via the official portal: www.nceg.gov.in.

Key Highlights:

• Award Categories: Nominations for the awards can be submitted under the following six categories:
  • Government Process Re-engineering: Digital transformation through the use of technology to improve government processes.
  • Innovation by Use of AI and New Age Technologies: Fostering citizen-centric services via artificial intelligence and other modern technologies.
  • Best e-Gov Practices in Cyber Security: Recognizing excellence in e-Governance practices focused on cybersecurity.
  • Grassroot Level Initiatives: Initiatives at the Districts, ULBs (Urban Local Bodies), or Gram Panchayats that deepen service delivery.
  • Replication and Scaling Up of Successful Projects: Projects awarded in the past (such as NAeG or Prime Minister’s Awards) that have been successfully replicated or scaled.
  • Digital Transformation using Data Analytics: Projects that leverage data analytics on digital platforms for enhancing governance.
• Eligibility: The awards are open to Central Ministries/Departments, State Governments, District Collectors, Research Institutions, and other relevant entities.
• Award Details:
  • The NAeG 2025 will feature 16 awards:
    • 10 Gold Awards.
    • 6 Silver Awards.
• Incentives:
  • Gold Award winners will receive a Trophy, Certificate, and an incentive of Rs 10 lakh.
  • Silver Award winners will receive a Trophy, Certificate, and an incentive of Rs 5 lakh.
  • The incentive will be used for further implementation of the awarded projects or bridging resource gaps in public welfare.
• Objective: The goal of the National Awards for e-Governance is to recognize and promote excellence in the implementation of e-Governance initiatives and digital transformation efforts across India.

In News:

Quad Foreign Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open, and peaceful Indo-Pacific. Marked the 20th anniversary of Quad cooperation, originally formed to respond to the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami.

Key Highlights:

• What is the Quad?
  • A strategic forum of the US, Japan, India, and Australia aimed at regional security and economic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Founded on shared principles of democracy, human rights, rule of law, and countering China's influence.
• Origins:
  • Quad traces its origins to the 2004 Tsunami relief efforts.
  • Formed formally in 2007, but Australia withdrew in 2008 due to regional tensions. It rejoined in 2017 following strengthened US-Australia ties.
• Commitment to Regional Security:
  • Focus on countering China’s assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific.
  • Ensuring maritime security, countering illegal fishing, promoting infrastructure, and advancing economic cooperation.
• Key Initiatives:
  • IPMDA: Real-time monitoring of maritime activities.
  • MAITRI: Capacity-building for maritime security.
  • Quad Fellowship: Funds graduate-level STEM education in member countries.
  • Open RAN: Promoting secure 5G infrastructure.
  • Cancer Moonshot: Focus on cervical cancer prevention.
• Military and Naval Cooperation:
  • Malabar Exercises: Joint naval drills between India, Japan, the US, and Australia.
• ASEAN and Regional Cooperation:
  • Emphasis on ASEAN's central role in the Indo-Pacific region.
  • Support for the Pacific Islands Forum and the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA).
• Future Developments:
  • India to host the next Quad Summit in 2025.
  • Continued focus on sustainable regional development, scientific collaboration, and disaster relief efforts.
• Significance of the Quad for India:

• Strategic Importance:
  • Provides a platform to counter China's assertive policies, especially in the South China Sea and the "String of Pearls" strategy.
  • Aligns with India’s Act East Policy, enhancing ties with East and Southeast Asia.
• Maritime Security: Ensures freedom of navigation and counters illegal activities like piracy and illegal fishing in India’s maritime domain.
• Economic Opportunities:
  • Strengthens cooperation on infrastructure projects and trade initiatives, such as the Blue Dot Network.
  • Post-COVID, Quad may aid India in attracting manufacturing units shifting from China.
• Scientific and People-to-People Collaboration: Supports STEM education and enhances soft power diplomacy through academic and cultural exchanges.

In News:

In the weeks leading up to his return as US President, Donald Trump’s supporters are embroiled in a public dispute over skilled immigration and H-1B visas.

What is the H-1B Visa Program?

• Purpose and Overview:
  • The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa allowing U.S. companies to employ foreign workers in specialized occupations like STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and IT, which require at least a bachelor’s degree.
  • Introduced in 1990 to help U.S. employers fill positions when there’s a shortage of qualified domestic workers.
  • It allows workers to stay in the U.S. for a maximum of six years, with the option to apply for permanent residence (Green Card) or leave for 12 months before reapplying.
• Annual Cap and Exemptions:
  • 65,000 new visas are issued annually, with an additional 20,000 for those with a master’s degree or higher from a U.S. university.
  • Certain petitions, such as for continuing employment or positions in higher education or nonprofit research, are exempt from the cap.
• Dominance of Indian Beneficiaries:
  • Indians are the largest beneficiaries, accounting for over 70% of H-1B visa approvals annually since 2015, with China coming second at around 12-13%.

The Current Controversy

• Trigger for Debate:
  • The controversy was sparked by Sriram Krishnan, a Chennai-born tech entrepreneur appointed as Donald Trump’s top AI adviser. His post on X (formerly Twitter) in November 2024, advocating for unlocking skilled immigration, led to backlash within Trump’s anti-immigration base.
• The Political Divide:
  • Trump’s supporters, particularly from the MAGA (Make America Great Again) faction, voiced opposition to the H-1B visa program, arguing it undermines American workers and wages.
  • This prompted pushback from pro-H-1B advocates like Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, who argue that the program is crucial for addressing the U.S.'s STEM talent shortages.
• Economic and Political Context:
  • Immigration is a polarizing issue in the U.S., with a focus on low-skilled labor migration and its alleged effects on wages and job opportunities for American workers.
  • Trump’s stance against low-skilled immigration echoes similar critiques about H-1B workers being employed at lower salaries in tech companies, which some claim depresses wages and reduces job opportunities for U.S. workers.

Criticisms of the H-1B Program

• Abuse of the System:
  • Critics argue that companies exploit the H-1B program by hiring foreign workers, especially from India, at lower wages than American employees, particularly in tech industries.
  • Elon Musk suggests that the program is “broken” and needs reform, proposing raising the minimum salary for H-1B workers to make it more expensive to hire overseas talent.
• Salary Disparities:
  • Data from USCIS (U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services) shows that 70% of H-1B petitions for Indian professionals in 2023 were for salaries below $100,000, while the median salary for U.S. IT professionals was $104,420.
• Impact on American Jobs:
  • Critics argue that companies prefer to hire foreign workers at lower wages to save costs, despite the availability of qualified U.S. talent, thus taking away opportunities for American workers.

Support for the H-1B Program

• Filling the STEM Gap:
  • Proponents, including Musk and Ramaswamy, argue that the H-1B visa is essential for filling the STEM skills gap in the U.S., given the global dominance of India and China in STEM fields.
    • India and China lead the world in STEM graduates, with 2.55 million and 3.57 million, respectively, compared to the U.S. with 820,000.
• Economic Benefits:
  • The H-1B program helps U.S. companies access top global talent, boosting innovation and economic growth, especially in high-tech industries.
  • Tech companies argue that without access to skilled foreign workers, they would struggle to fill critical positions in the technology sector.

In News:

On December 20, 2024, Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah attended the 61st Raising Day function of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in Siliguri, West Bengal. During the event, he e-inaugurated the Integrated Check Point (ICP) Agartala and a newly constructed residential complex for the Border Guard Force (BGF) at Petrapole. The event was attended by several dignitaries, including the Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB), Secretary of Border Management (MHA), and the Director-General of SSB.

Key Highlights from the Speech:

• Tributes to Martyrs: Shri Shah paid tributes to SSB martyrs, highlighting their sacrifices in protecting the country's borders and eliminating Left Wing Extremism in the eastern region. He acknowledged the 4 Padma Shri, 1 Kirti Chakra, and other national awards received by SSB for their exceptional service.
• Role in Connecting Borders: The Home Minister praised SSB’s role in connecting the culture, language, and heritage of border villages with mainstream India. He emphasized that the SSB has fulfilled its motto of "Service, Security, and Brotherhood" while maintaining a strong relationship with Nepal and Bhutan.
• Security and Vigilance: SSB is responsible for securing a 2,450 km border with Nepal and Bhutan. Shri Shah noted that SSB's vigilance has helped in stopping narcotics, arms smuggling, and human trafficking. Additionally, the force has worked to ensure that Bihar and Jharkhand are now Naxal-free.
• Zero-Tolerance Policy: The SSB has a zero-tolerance policy on encroachments, narcotics, and smuggling. Over the last three years, the SSB successfully removed more than 1,100 encroachments from government land and seized significant amounts of narcotics, weapons, and counterfeit currency.
• Impact in Jammu & Kashmir: SSB has played a critical role in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, killing more than 19 terrorists and arresting 14 through various operations.
• Humanitarian Efforts: Besides security, SSB has actively participated in disaster relief operations during floods and landslides, often at great personal risk.
• Government Schemes for CAPF Personnel: Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, various welfare schemes like Ayushman Cards, CAPF e-Housing, and scholarships have been launched to support CAPF personnel and their families.
• Self-Employment Initiatives: SSB has promoted self-employment for border youth, training them in areas like beekeeping, mobile repairing, and driving. They have also contributed significantly to the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, creating awareness about drug addiction among 36,000 youth.
• Environmental Contribution: The force has planted over 6 crore trees as part of its environmental efforts.

In News:

For the first time, a court in the US has held Israel’s NSO Group liable for its intrusive spyware Pegasus, which could set up a measure of accountability for the company that it has, for long, allegedly downplayed.

Overview:

• Pegasus is a spyware developed by the Israeli company NSO Group.
• It has been used for surveillance, allegedly targeting journalists, activists, politicians, and government officials across the world, including India.

Recent Legal Developments:

• US Court Ruling (2024):
  • A US court held NSO Group liable for using Pegasus to surveil 1,400 WhatsApp users, including 300 from India.
  • NSO Group violated the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act (CFAA) and the California Computer Data Access and Fraud Act (CDAFA).
  • The ruling may revive debates on the accountability of spyware use and its implications on privacy.

Use of Pegasus in India:

• Targeted Individuals (2021):
  • 300 Indian numbers allegedly targeted, including journalists, politicians, Union Ministers, and civil society members.
  • High-profile targets included opposition leaders, constitutional authorities, and activists.
• Government Denial:
  • The Indian government denied involvement, stating allegations lacked substance.
  • In Parliament, IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw rejected claims, asserting India’s surveillance laws prevent unauthorized surveillance.
• NSO Group Response:
  • NSO Group denied the allegations, calling them “false and misleading” and citing doubts about the sources.

Investigations and Legal Actions:

• Supreme Court Inquiry:
  • The Supreme Court appointed a committee of technical experts in 2021 to investigate claims.
  • August 2022 Report: Found no conclusive evidence of spyware use on examined devices but noted lack of cooperation from the government.
• State-Level Investigations:
  • West Bengal: Set up a Commission of Inquiry into Pegasus surveillance, later halted by the Supreme Court.
  • Andhra Pradesh: The issue became political, with allegations that the previous government used Pegasus to monitor opposition figures.

Pegasus Spyware Features:

• Capability: Can hack iOS and Android devices to collect data, record conversations, capture photos, and access app data.
• Exploitation Method: Uses zero-day vulnerabilities to exploit iOS and Android devices covertly.
• Invisibility: Operates without user knowledge, often only detected through signs like browser closings after phishing links are clicked.

Controversial Use of Pegasus:

• Global Use: Though intended for fighting terrorism and crime, Pegasus has been misused for spying on journalists, politicians, human rights activists, and opposition leaders.
• India Specifics:
  • Pegasus Project: Targeted Indian citizens, including activists, journalists, and politicians.
  • Amnesty International: Confirmed use of Pegasus to target Indian phones.

India's Legal Framework for Surveillance:

• Telecommunications Act (2023): Empowers the government to control telecom services during emergencies, but requires authorization for lawful interceptions.
• IT Act (2000): Allows the government to monitor, intercept, or decrypt information through computer resources under certain conditions.
• Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act (2023): Aims to protect personal data, including provisions on surveillance, data breaches, and rights of individuals over their data.

Privacy and Surveillance Concerns:

• Impact on Fundamental Rights:
  • Surveillance infringes on the right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution.
  • Freedom of speech and expression (Article 19) may be curtailed, with surveillance being used to suppress dissent.
• Lack of Transparency:
  • Surveillance often occurs without judicial or parliamentary oversight, leading to potential executive overreach.
• Inability to Seek Legal Remedies:
  • Citizens targeted by surveillance cannot challenge it due to lack of awareness, undermining constitutional rights.
• Executive Overreach and Suppression of Free Expression:
  • Pegasus revelations have raised concerns about surveillance targeting constitutional functionaries, suppressing free speech, and stifling open discourse.

In News:

The India-Australia Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (Ind-Aus ECTA) completes two years of remarkable success, driving mutual growth and showcasing the complementarity of both economies.

Key Achievements:

• Bilateral Merchandise Trade Surge:
  • Trade increased from USD 12.2 billion (2020-21) to USD 26 billion (2022-23).
  • Trade moderated slightly in 2023-24 to USD 24 billion, but exports from India to Australia grew by 14%.
  • From April-November 2024, bilateral trade reached USD 16.3 billion.
• Preferential Import Utilization:
  • Export utilization: 79%
  • Import utilization: 84%
• Sectoral Growth:
  • Textiles, chemicals, and agriculture sectors have seen significant growth.
  • New export products: Gold studded with diamonds, turbojets.
  • India’s imports: Metalliferous ores, cotton, wood products that fuel Indian industries.
• Geopolitical Strengthening:
  • Enhanced relations in forums like Quad, Indo-Pacific Economic Framework (IPEF), Supply Chain Resilience Initiative (SCRI).

Key Features of the Agreement:

• Tariff Reductions:
  • Australian goods: 85% tariff-free access to India (rising to 90% by 2026).
  • Indian goods: 96% tariff-free access to Australia (rising to 100% by 2026).
• Access to Key Markets:
  • India: Access to Australia's fast-growing market.
  • Australia: Access to India's labor-intensive sectors like gems, jewelry, textiles, leather, furniture, food, agriculture.
• Services and IT:
  • 135 sub-sectors covered in services.
  • India gains market access in 103 sub-sectors with Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status in 31.
  • Fast-tracked approval of medicines and elimination of double taxation for India's IT sector.
• Job Creation & Skill Exchange:
  • Expected creation of 1 million jobs in India.
  • Opportunities for Indian yoga teachers, chefs, and 100,000 students with post-study work visas.

Future Prospects:

• Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA): Builds on ECTA to advance bilateral trade, with 10 formal rounds and ongoing inter-sessional discussions.
• Trade Target: Aim to reach AUD 100 billion in trade by 2030.
• Global Economic Impact: Strengthening the partnership will contribute to a more resilient and dynamic global economy, with deeper economic integration between India and Australia.

In News:

The Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund (PM CARES Fund) received Rs 912 crore in contributions during the financial year 2022-23 as donations continued to pour in even after the Covid pandemic.

Key Highlights:

Contributions Received:

• Total contributions in 2022-23: Rs 912 crore.
  • Voluntary contributions: Rs 909.64 crore.
  • Foreign contributions: Rs 2.57 crore.

Interest Income:

• Total interest income for 2022-23: Rs 170.38 crore.
  • From regular accounts: Rs 154 crore.
  • From foreign contributions account: Rs 16.07 crore.

Refunds and Additional Inflows:

• Rs 225 crore in refunds, including:
  • Rs 202 crore refund from procurement of 50,000 ventilators for government hospitals.

Disbursements:

• Total disbursed in 2022-23: Rs 439 crore:
  • Rs 346 crore for PM CARES for Children.
  • Rs 91.87 crore for procurement of 99,986 oxygen concentrators.
  • Rs 1.51 crore for refunds.
  • Rs 24,000 for legal charges, and Rs 278 for bank and SMS charges.

Cumulative Contributions (2019-23):

• Rs 13,605 crore received from 2019-20 to 2022-23.
  • Voluntary contributions: Rs 13,067 crore.
  • Foreign contributions: Rs 538 crore.
• Interest income over these years: Rs 565 crore.

About PM CARES Fund:

Formation and Purpose:

• Established: March 27, 2020, as a Public Charitable Trust under the Registration Act, 1908.
• Purpose: To address emergencies like COVID-19, natural disasters, and man-made calamities. It also supports healthcare infrastructure and essential facilities.

Governance and Structure:

• Chairperson: The Prime Minister (ex-officio).
• Trustees: Defence, Home, and Finance Ministers (ex-officio).
• Additional Trustees: Appointed by the PM, serving on a non-profit basis (e.g., Justice K T Thomas (retd.) and Kariya Munda).

Tax Exemptions:

• Donations are eligible for 100% tax exemption under Section 80G of the Income Tax Act, 1961.
• Donations qualify as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) expenditure under the Companies Act, 2013.
• The fund is exempt under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), allowing it to receive foreign donations.

In News:

• On January 19, 2024, the UN Security Council approved a new African Union (AU) force in Somalia to counter the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
• The resolution was supported by 14 of 15 members, with the US abstaining due to concerns about funding.
• The new force will replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) after its mandate ends on December 31, 2024.

New Mission - AUSSOM:

• The new mission is named African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM).
• AUSSOM will continue supporting Somali forces in stabilizing the nation and combating terrorism.
• The mission's objective is to enhance security and stability in Somalia, addressing the challenges posed by Al-Shabaab and ISIL.

Mandate and Operations:

• AUSSOM allows for the deployment of up to 12,626 personnel, including 1,040 police officers, until June 2025.
• The force will focus on counterterrorism, maintaining security, and assisting the Somali government in stabilizing the country.

Financing:

• A hybrid funding approach will be used:
  • 75% of the mission’s costs will be covered by the UN, and 25% will come from African Union and partner countries.
• The US raised concerns about the UN's disproportionate funding of the mission, which led to its abstention from voting.

Contributing Countries:

• Egypt has announced its participation in the new force.
• Burundi and Ethiopia will not be contributing troops to AUSSOM.
• Ethiopia has its own ongoing disputes with Somalia, particularly regarding its maritime deal with the breakaway Somaliland region.

Background on Somalia's Challenges:

• Somalia has faced decades of civil war, an insurgency by Al-Shabaab, and recurring climate disasters.
• The country is one of the poorest in the world, and its internal conflicts are exacerbated by clannism, which has fragmented its political and social structure.

Historical Context of Peace Missions in Somalia:

• Previous UN peacekeeping missions in Somalia (1992-1995) faced significant failures, notably the Battle of Mogadishu and the failure to prevent the 1993 massacre.
• The rise of Al-Shabaab in the mid-2000s has further escalated the conflict, and the mission of AUSSOM aims to address these continuing threats.

The Role of Clannism:

• Clannism has hindered the establishment of a unified government in Somalia, with clan rivalries leading to a lack of national cohesion.
  • Clannism refers to the prevalence of clan-centric politics, where allegiance to clan and sub-clan interests often takes precedence over national cohesion. In Somalia, the major clans are Darod, Hawiye, Dir, and Rahanweyn.

Importance of AUSSOM:

• AUSSOM represents a strategic shift in the international approach to stabilizing Somalia, relying more on African-led initiatives for peace and security in the region.

Global Peacekeeping Operations:

• The UN peacekeeping mission has been active globally, with over 1 million personnel deployed across 70+ operations.
• Success stories like Sierra Leone (1999-2005) and Liberia (2003-2018) demonstrate the potential impact of well-executed peace missions, but past failures like in Somalia (1992-1995) and Rwanda (1994) underline the challenges faced.

India’s Contribution:

• India has contributed significantly to UN peacekeeping missions, deploying over 253,000 personnel in 49 operations since 1948.
• India’s contributions to missions in Somalia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, and Sudan reflect its active role in global peacekeeping efforts.

In News:

China approved the construction of the world's largest dam, stated to be the planet's biggest infra project, on the Brahmaputra river in Tibet close to the Indian border, raising concerns in India and Bangladesh.

Key highlights:

Overview of the Project:

• Location: Lower reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo River (Tibetan name for Brahmaputra), where the river makes a U-turn in the Himalayan region before flowing into Arunachal Pradesh, India.
• Purpose:
  • To support China’s carbon neutrality goals.
  • To boost industrial growth and create jobs in Tibet.
  • Expected to generate 300 billion kWh of electricity annually, over three times the capacity of the Three Gorges Dam in central China.

Significance:

• Scale: The dam is poised to be the world’s largest hydropower project, surpassing the Three Gorges Dam, and becoming the biggest infrastructure project globally, with an estimated cost of USD 137 billion.
• Engineering Challenges: The site is located in a seismic zone on the Tibetan plateau, prone to earthquakes, making construction and operational stability a major engineering challenge.

Concerns:

• Environmental Impact:
  • Potential disruption to the local ecosystem and biodiversity.
  • Risk of altering the river’s flow and course, which could impact agriculture and water resources downstream, particularly in India and Bangladesh.
• Geopolitical Risks:
  • Water control: India and Bangladesh are concerned about China’s ability to control the water flow, with fears of China manipulating the flow to release excess water during conflicts, causing potential flooding in border areas.
  • The project could also disrupt the hydrological cycle, affecting the region’s water availability, especially in Assam and Bangladesh.

Background:

• The Brahmaputra River is a trans-boundary river, flowing through China, India, and Bangladesh. Known by different names in these countries, it plays a vital role in the livelihoods of millions of people.
• China has already initiated hydropower generation on the upper reaches of the Yarlung Zangbo, with plans for additional projects upstream.

India-China Cooperation:

• China and India have an Expert Level Mechanism (ELM) in place since 2006 to manage trans-boundary river issues, under which China shares hydrological data with India, especially during the flood season.
• India is also constructing its own hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra in Arunachal Pradesh.

Potential Outcomes:

• Energy Generation: The dam could significantly contribute to China’s energy needs, providing a substantial amount of renewable energy.
• Regional Tensions: The dam’s construction may escalate tensions between China, India, and Bangladesh due to the control over water resources and environmental impact concerns.

In News:

On Good Governance Day, commemorating the 100th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, Dr. Jitendra Singh, the Union Minister of State for various departments, launched the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ initiative. This initiative is part of the broader ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur’ campaign, which aims to empower Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) at the grassroots level by enhancing the capacity and competence of elected representatives and officials.

Objective of the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ Initiative

The initiative seeks to strengthen PRIs by providing innovative tools and frameworks for capacity building and participatory governance. It will focus on equipping local leaders and officials with the necessary knowledge and tools to make effective decisions and implement sustainable development initiatives. Piloted in Odisha, Assam, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh, it uses e-learning platforms, AI-powered chatbots, and mobile apps to address knowledge gaps and improve service delivery at the local level. This program aligns with the government's mission to decentralize governance and promote citizen-centric and equitable development across rural India.

Other Key Initiatives Launched on Good Governance Day

• iGOT Karmayogi Platform Dashboard: A new dashboard on the iGOT Karmayogi platform, which empowers ministries, departments, and state administrators to monitor progress in capacity-building efforts. The enhanced dashboard includes customizable views, robust data filtering tools, and insights to optimize decision-making, marking the introduction of the 1600th e-learning course. This development is part of the Mission Karmayogi initiative to strengthen the civil service through continuous learning.
• CPGRAMS Annual Report 2024: The CPGRAMS Annual Report provided a review of the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS). This platform has been instrumental in resolving over 25 lakh grievances annually, leveraging advanced technologies and multilingual support. The report also highlighted the implementation of the Grievance Redressal Assessment and Index (GRAI), which has improved transparency, accountability, and the efficiency of public service delivery.
• Single Simplified Pension Application Form: A new digital pension system was launched, combining nine separate pension forms into a single, streamlined application. This digital transformation integrates e-HRMS with Bhavishya, reducing processing time and ensuring timely pension disbursement with real-time tracking and Aadhaar-based e-signatures. This system enhances the user experience for pensioners, making the process more efficient and transparent.
• Compendium of Pension Related Instructions 2024: Dr. Singh introduced a comprehensive Compendium of updated rules, procedures, and guidelines related to pensions. This document serves as a reference for pensioners and administrative personnel, ensuring clarity in the pension process and aligning with the government's vision of simplifying and streamlining pension systems.