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Let’s be real for

a moment.
There’s too much
information,
too little clarity, and no one telling you what’s actually worth your time.

There’s news coming at you from all directions: newspapers, YouTube, Telegram,
coaching notes... and you’re stuck wondering, “What do I even focus on?” You end up
with more tabs open in your head than on your laptop, and that’s just Day 1.

We get it. The struggle is real. The endless scrolling, the frantic note-making, the feeling
of, “Am I even doing this right?” Trust us, you’re not alone. UPSC prep can turn into
a maze of confusion, with more clutter than clarity. That’s why we’ve designed this
magazine—to be your clarity compass in this chaos.

Here’s the deal. There are five major ways this clutter shows up and derails your prep,
and we’ve designed every section of this magazine to tackle it head-on. First, there’s the
The “Too Much Content” Clutter. So many sources saying the same thing in slightly
different ways—ugh. That’s why we’ve distilled the real must-know topics into Burning
Issues and packed fact bombs into Prelims Tidbits. No fluff, no fillers.

Then there’s the issue of “Random Prioritization” Clutter (not knowing what to focus
on !). Should you skim, dive deep, or just move on? Enter Note4Students—it’s like a
little roadmap at the start of every article. We tell you why this topic matters, where it
fits in the syllabus, and how to read it smartly.

And oh, the biggest pain point: “Disconnected Preparation” Clutter. Current affairs
and static syllabus sometimes feel like they exist on different planets, right? That’s why
we’ve included Back2Basics, where we bridge the gap. Whether it’s linking stubble
burning to India’s cropping patterns or climate policies, we make sure you get the whole
picture.

But wait—how do you even revise all this? The “Information Overload” Clutter that
happens after the first read is hell. Notes can turn into a hot mess of random points
that make zero sense later. That’s why every article here is structured for you. It’s clean,
logical, and packed with examples, data, and perspectives. No more struggling to figure
out what goes where.

And lastly, we get the “Superficial Understanding” Clutter or a shallow prep trap—
reading headlines and thinking, “Yeah, I got this,” only to blank out in the exam hall. The
magazine strikes at the heart of it. It takes you deeper, breaking down every issue in a
way that’s simple but loaded with substance. You’ll not only understand the issue but
also have enough ammo to slay those Mains questions.

This isn’t just a magazine; it’s your survival guide. We’re here to cut through the noise,
save you time, and give you the tools to prep smarter, not harder. So, breathe easy.
We’ve done the heavy lifting—you just need to read, revise, and conquer.

You’ve got this, officer-to-be. And we’ve got you.

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CONTENTS
UPSC MAINS
BURNING ISSUES
01 Rising STEM
How Can India Close the Gaps in STEM and
Higher Education?. . . . . . . . . . . . 10

02 Stagnant Rural Wages in

India
Analyzing Growth Disparities & Future Solutions. . . . 13

03 Aviation Sector in India

Will India’s Aviation Sector Overcome Its
Challenges to Reach New Heights?. . . . . . 16

04 India’s Fight Against

Tuberculosis (TB)
Can India Achieve TB Elimination by 2025
Amidst PersistentChallenges?. . . . . . . . . . . 19

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05 Iran’s BRICS Membership
A Game Changer for India’s Strategy and Economy?. . . 22

06 PM E-DRIVE Scheme

The Key to Revolutionizing EV Adoption in
India’s Public Transport?. . . . . . . . 25

07 Myanmar’s Civil War

Can India Secure Its Strategic Interests
Amidst the Chaos?. . . . . . . 28

08 India’s Fertilizer Crisis

Can It Break Free from Global Supply
Chain Vulnerabilities?. . . . 31

09 Healthy Longevity Initiative

Can It Address India’s Growing Elderly
Healthcare Challenges?. . . 34

10 Urban Local Bodies in

India
Can Financial and Staffing Gaps
Undermine Their Functionality?. . 36

11 India-Middle East-Europe
Corridor (IMEC)
What Challenges & Opportunities Lie
Ahead for India?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

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12 Net Borrowing Ceiling
A Barrier or a Boon for India’s Fiscal
Federalism and State Autonomy?. . . . 41

13 CBAM
How India could counter the CBAM?. . 43

14 SC’s Directive on
Disability Accessibility
Bridging the Gaps in RPwD Act
Enforcement or Just a Step Forward?. . 45

15 Supreme Court’s Ruling on

AMU’s Minority Status
What Does It Mean for Minority Educational 18 Biodiversity Goals 2030
Institutions in India?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Real Deal or Just Talk?. . . . . . . . . . . . 56

16 Private Properties 19 Immunisation in India

Are They Truly a Common Good?. . . . . . . 51 Are We Closing the Coverage Gap?. . 59

17 Wind Energy in India 20 Natural Farming in India

How Can We Harness Its Full Potential?. . 53 Revolution or Just a Trend?. . . . . . . . . 62

UPSC PRELIMS
PRELIMS TIDBITS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65

Economics ▶ Atmanirbhar ▶ The Copyright ▶ Central Water

Clean Plant Act, 1957 Commission (CWC)
▶ Kalka-Shimla Heritage
Programme (CPP)
Railway Track ▶ Atal Mission for ▶ Supreme Court
▶ Nutrient Based Rejuvenation & Urban Judgement on
▶ Coffee Board of India
Subsidy (NBS) Scheme Transformation Private Property
▶ Asia Tea Alliance (ATA) (AMRUT) 2.0 Scheme
▶ Inter-State
Governance
▶ Domestic Systemically ▶ National AYUSH Council (ISC)
Important Banks ▶ World Toilet Day, 2024 Mission (NAM) and
(D-SIBs) Related Schemes International Relations
▶ QS Asia University
▶ Bhu-Neer Portal Rankings ▶ Urban Infrastructure ▶ Horn of Africa
Development
▶ India Post Payments ▶ Indian Council Fund (UIDF) ▶ CARICOM (Caribbean
Bank (IPPB) of Social Science Community)
Research (ICSSR) Polity
▶ Organisation for ▶ International
the Prohibition of ▶ One Nation One ▶ Press Council of Cooperative
Chemical Weapons Subscription India (PCI) Alliance (ICA)
(OPCW)-The (ONOS) Scheme
Women Pioneers of ▶ Loaita Island
Hague Award ▶
▶ Namo Drone Indian Constitution
Didi Scheme ▶ International Criminal
▶ India’s Horticulture
United States’ Court (ICC)
Sector ▶
▶ PM-Vidyalaxmi Electoral College
Scheme ▶ Chancay Port
Project in Peru

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▶ Global Alliance against ▶ Article 6.4 of the Science & Tech History, Art & Culture
Hunger and Poverty Paris Agreement ▶ First ‘Black Hole Triple’ ▶ Jagannath Puri Temple
System Discovered
▶ Artificial Reef Janjatiya Gaurav Divas
Security Issues ▶
Project in Kerala ▶ Proba-3 Mission
▶ Exercise ‘Poorvi ▶ Guru Tegh Bahadur
Prahar’ ▶ Barak River ▶ The Gompertz Model
▶ How did Portuguese
▶ UNSC Resolution 1701 ▶ Asian Development ▶ LignoSat- the First conquer Goa
Bank (ADB) Wooden Satellite
▶ Exercise VAJRA ▶ Zonal Cultural
PRAHAR ▶ Bharat Stage ▶ Variations in Centres (ZCCs)
Emissions Standards Sun’s Rotation
▶ Armed Forces (Special ▶ Bidar Fort
Powers) Act, 1958 ▶ Guru Ghasidas-Tamor ▶ Major Atmospheric
Pingla Tiger Reserve Cherenkov Experiment ▶ Protected Monuments
▶ MAHASAGAR (MACE) Telescope in News
Initiative ▶ Salt Chimneys
discovered in ▶ Caterpillar fungus
▶ Exercise GARUD the Dead Sea
SHAKTI 24 ▶ Nafithromycin- India’s
▶ 4 distinct Species First Indigenous
▶ Project Veer Gatha 4.0 of King Cobra Antibiotic
▶ Operation Sagar ▶ Arittapatti Biodiversity ▶ India’s first modern
Manthan Heritage Site (BHS) Compressed Biogas
(CBG) Plant
Enviro & Biodiversity ▶ Ashtamudi Lake
▶ Centenary of Bose-
Amchang Wildlife ▶ Commission for Air
▶ Einstein Statistics
Sanctuary Quality Management
(CAQM) ▶ IDF working on new
▶ No Dual Eco-Clearance guidelines to treat Type
for 39 Categories 2 Diabetes
of Industry

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Get the maximum out
of every Burning Issue

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 BURNING ISSUE #1

Rising STEM How Can India Close the Gaps in

STEM and Higher Education?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

With the rise in demand for STEM research, higher [UPSC 2014, GS-2] Should the premier institutes like IITs/IIMs be allowed
education needs a refresh—better infrastructure, to retain premier status, allowed more academic independence in designing
funding, and more. In GS-2, UPSC often zooms in on courses and also decide mode/criteria of selection of students. Discuss in light
specific trends, like academic independence, rather of the growing challenges.
than broad challenges.
[UPSC 2015, GS-2] The quality of higher education in India requires major
So, understanding how STEM research links up with improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry
higher education is key. This article breaks down of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical
these connections with data and examples. Plus, and higher education in the country? Discuss.
Back2Basics covers the core challenges in higher
education, so you won’t miss a thing. Microthemes: Education

i n d i a ’ s h i g h e r education system
faces a crucial challenge: aligning
graduate skills with industry needs.
While new institutions continue to
emerge, quality, particularly at the
undergraduate level, remains an area
of concern. A targeted approach
is essential—one that prioritizes
pedagogical improvements, stronger
research-teaching collaborations,
and a more relevant curriculum to
meet global standards.

With this context, the table below

outlines the core challenges within
India’s higher education system and
the strategic steps needed to address
them effectively.

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Essential Components of Rising STEM With surging STEM demands, education needs to adapt. This is required to foster
Research and Higher Education innovation, practical skills, and research-ready graduates. Key strategies needed
to make this shift include the following:.

Key Strategies Description and Connection Data/Examples

The U.S. saw a 27% increase in STEM enrollment in
Programs targeting K-12 students build early STEM
elementary programs over the past five years, with
Focus on Early foundations and increase STEM proficiency, addressing
initiatives like NASA’s STEM engagement program, which
STEM Engagement talent shortages and inspiring more students to pursue
reaches over 1 million students yearly, driving interest in
STEM careers.
technical subjects from an early age.
Adapting curricula to incorporate interdisciplinary
Stanford’s Bioengineering program blends traditional
approaches, practical lab work, and cutting-edge
Advanced STEM life sciences with engineering disciplines, and MIT’s lab
technologies equips students with the hands-on
Curriculum courses now integrate robotics and machine learning
experience needed to address complex, cross-functional
with traditional sciences.
challenges in science and technology.
Implementing online, virtual, and hybrid learning models
In 2021, the Khan Academy’s free, online courses were
Digital and allows more flexibility and access to STEM education,
used by over 20 million U.S. students and teachers,
Hybrid Learning especially for underserved and rural populations,
providing equitable access to advanced STEM topics
Models supporting broader STEM participation and addressing
through digital learning resources.
geographic education disparities.
Collaborations between academia and industry expose Google’s AI Research program partners with top
Industry students to real-world challenges and drive curriculum universities to support research in areas such as AI
Partnerships relevance, preparing students for high-demand jobs in ethics and neural networks, enhancing real-world
emerging fields like AI, biotech, and data science. application learning for students.
Greater funding drives innovation, enabling institutions
Increased In 2022, the National Science Foundation (NSF)
to provide resources, recruit skilled faculty, and support
Funding for committed $8.5 billion toward U.S. STEM research,
cutting-edge research projects, thus enhancing the
STEM Research marking a 13% increase from the previous year.
overall quality of STEM education.
Policy reforms and government initiatives support India’s “Atal Innovation Mission” launched 5,441 Atal
Government STEM development through tax incentives, research Tinkering Labs in 2022, equipping schools with resources
Initiatives grants, and workforce development programs, creating to foster science and tech innovation among students,
and Policies a supportive environment for STEM growth and aligning while the EU earmarked €95 billion for STEM research
education with national and economic priorities. under the Horizon Europe initiative.

Government Initiatives Related to the Higher Education System in India:

Initiative Description Key Facts
National Initiative for A training initiative to improve skills of
Over 32,648 Master Trainers certified; this large-scale training
School Heads’ and school heads and teachers across all
helps align teacher development with the holistic goals of NEP
Teachers’ Holistic Ad- levels, including Early Childhood Care and
2020.
vancement (NISHTHA) Education (ECCE).
PARAKH (Perfor-
Includes State Educational Achievement Survey (SEAS) for
mance Assessment, An autonomous body established under
assessing student competencies, and Competency-based
Review, and Analysis NEP 2020 to improve and standardize
Assessments and Holistic Progress Cards (HPCs) for broader
of Knowledge for assessment across school boards in India.
student evaluation.
Holistic Development)
National Curriculum Framework for Foundational Stage (NCF FS)
National Educa- Major reform in education, focusing on
launched for classes I & II in 2023; National Curriculum Framework
tion Policy 2020 holistic and competency-based curriculum
for School Education (NCF-SE) released in 2023, promoting
(NEP 2020) from foundational to secondary education.
competency-based education.
Budget 2024-25: A new loan scheme announced to support Provides loans up to ₹10 lakh for one lakh students, expanding
Higher Education students pursuing higher education by access to higher education in alignment with the NEP’s focus on
Loan Scheme making it more accessible and affordable. affordability.
A Ministry of Education initiative launched
Targets 20 institutions for academic excellence and innovation;
Institutions of Emi- in 2018 to grant greater autonomy to select
aims to develop India’s higher education institutions into globally
nence (IoE) Scheme institutions for promoting global academic
recognized centers.
standards.
Digital platforms for advancing learning SWAYAM offers online courses from school to postgraduate levels,
Digital Initiatives and resource access across all educational supporting self-paced learning; National Digital Library of India
levels. provides extensive educational resources for students and educators.

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Way Forward
As global demands for STEM research and 4.Student Support: Set up career counseling,
innovation rise, India’s higher education system mental wellness programs, and innovation
must evolve to nurture a robust research labs. Israel’s universities drive student
environment that meets industry standards. The innovation, and a 2023 global study found
following strategic steps outline how India can 50% of students rate mental health support as
transform its higher education to better support essential.
STEM excellence. 5.Global Collaboration: Team up with global
institutions via joint degrees, faculty exchange,
1.Industry-Academia Sync: Get real-world ready and shared research projects. Singapore’s
with initiatives like faculty industry sabbaticals, corporate-university labs and China’s
advisory boards for curriculum updates, international partnerships highlight the power
joint R&D centers, and required internships. of going global.
Singapore’s partnerships and Germany’s 6.Regional Language Focus: Make content
hands-on apprenticeships are proof this works. accessible with bilingual resources, standard
2.Teaching Upgrade: Shift to experiential technical terms in local languages, and regional
learning with mandatory teaching language research journals. Schools like
certifications, Centers of Teaching Excellence, Eklavya in India show that learning in familiar
and regular feedback. Finland’s trust-based, languages boosts understanding.
teacher-focused model and the Netherlands’ 7.Skill-Building Pathways: Offer modular
problem-based learning set great examples. certifications, professional-grade skill labs,
3.Real-Time Quality Assurance: Use AI and allow students to shift between vocational
for ongoing quality checks and focus on and academic tracks. Finland’s and Germany’s
employable skills, not just grades. China’s systems show that integrating hands-on
“Double First Class” project shows the benefits training with education prepares students for
of continuous quality monitoring. real jobs.

Back2Basics
India’s Higher Education System: Core Challenges
Challenge Description Data/Facts
Expansion has focused on quantity over quality, India has 1,043 universities and 42,343 colleges (AISHE), with
Quality vs.
especially in private institutions, leading to diluted 30% unaccredited (NAAC) in violation of NEP 2020. Only 45%
Quantity
standards and poor infrastructure. of engineering graduates meet industry standards.
Low funding and poor facilities limit research quality, India spends 0.7% of GDP on research, compared to China
Weak Research
leading to emphasis on quantity over quality and (2.4%) and the US (3.5%). Patent filings in 2023: India (467,918),
and Innovation
papers in predatory journals. China (7.7 million), US (945,571).
Shortage of qualified faculty, with slow hiring
Faculty 30% of teaching positions vacant in central universities; lack of
processes and low pay deterring talent. Many existing
Shortages industry-aligned training impacts education quality.
faculty lack training and industry experience.
Industry-Ac- Outdated curricula fail to meet industry needs,
ILO 2023 report: 47% of Indian workers (62% of females) are
ademia Dis- resulting in graduates who require extensive retraining
underqualified for their jobs, adding costs for employers.
connect to be job-ready.
Public universities face chronic underfunding, relying
Funding The 2024-25 budget is set to decline by 17%, and UGC funding
heavily on student fees, with a recent drop in higher
Shortfalls is reduced by 61% (PRS). Infrastructure suffers as a result.
education budget allocations.
Most universities lack basic digital infrastructure, 60% of Indian students lack online learning access (Azim
Digital Divide while elite institutions have advanced resources, Premji Foundation, 2021), a gap exacerbated by the Covid-19
widening educational inequality. pandemic.
Inadequate mental health support in universities, with TimelyMD 2023 report: 50% of college students cite
Mental Health
students facing high stress from academic and career mental health as a major stressor, impacting well-being and
Crisis
pressures. academics.
Weak Entre- Limited support for entrepreneurship and innovation,
India’s Total Early-Stage Entrepreneurship (TEA) rate stands at
preneurship with few universities offering incubation centers or
only 11.5% (2022-23), showing a lack of ecosystem support.
Ecosystem mentorship.
Language barriers hinder access, especially for
Language Tribal students in Andhra Pradesh struggle with classes in
students from rural or non-English-speaking
Barriers Hindi instead of English or Telugu, limiting academic access.
backgrounds.

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 BURNING ISSUE #2

Stagnant Rural Analyzing Growth Disparities

& Future Solutions

Wages in India

PYQs & Microthemes

Note4Students
[UPSC 2020, GS-2] “Micro-Finance as an anti-poverty vaccine is
India’s economy and agriculture have grown but rural wages aimed at asset creation and income security of the rural poor in
haven’t kept up. Rural wages is a leading indicator for rural India”. Evaluate the role of Self Help Groups in achieving the twin
poverty. And ‘poverty’ is UPSC’s favorite microtheme for GS objectives along with empowering women in rural India.
Mains (hint: PYQs on microfinance & women empowerment in
2020, non-farm employment in 2015 etc.) [UPSC 2015, GS-3] Livestock rearing has a big potential for
providing non-farm employment and income in rural areas.
While Rural wage stagnation is the topic in focus, we have Discuss suggesting suitable measures to promote this sectors in
given a separate focus to “Components of Rural Poverty” in the India.
Back2basics so you have a 360 degree understanding. This is
static portion which is hard to find in standard reference books. Microthemes: SHGs, Non-Farm Activities (Live stock)

i n d i a ’ s e c o n o m y and agriculture have seen minimal increases, especially Current State of Rural Wages
sector have both grown steadily in recent when adjusted for inflation. This article Despite economic growth, rural wages have largely
years, but this growth hasn’t benefited examines the current state of rural wages, stagnated, highlighting a disconnect between GDP
rural wages. Between 2019-20 and reasons for stagnation, and potential growth and actual earnings for rural workers.
2023-24, the economy expanded at solutions to address this issue, crucial for
an average rate of 4.6%, while the farm understanding economic inequalities in In nominal terms, wages increased slightly,
sector grew at 4.2%. However, rural wages India. particularly in agriculture, yet inflation outpaced
these increases, leading to negative growth in real
rural wages. This indicates that while workers earn
more in absolute terms, rising prices have eroded
their purchasing power.

Average Annual Growth

Wage Type
(2019-20 to 2023-24)
Nominal Rural Wages 5.20%
Nominal Agricultural 5.80%
Wages
Real Rural Wage Growth -0.40%
Real Agricultural Wages 0.20%

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Key Factors Behind Rural Wage Stagnation
Factor Explanation Impact on Rural Wages
Increased Labour Female Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) surged Higher labor supply drives down wages as more workers
Supply, Especially from 26.4% (2018-19) to 47.6% (2023-24), adding more compete for limited jobs, primarily in agriculture.
Among Women workers to an already crowded job market.
Low Agricultural Agriculture has low productivity; additional labor does Surplus labor in agriculture limits wage growth as the
Productivity not yield proportional increases in output. sector struggles to increase output efficiently.
Capital-Intensive Economic growth is concentrated in capital-intensive Rural job opportunities are reduced, as demand shifts
Economic Growth sectors (e.g., mechanized farming, industrial machinery) from labor to capital, leading to wage stagnation.
that require fewer workers.
Limited Non-Farm Small-scale and cottage industries that could absorb Limited non-agricultural job opportunities restrict wage
Job Opportunities rural labor lack sufficient support, and urban-centered growth and create over-reliance on low-paying agricultural
manufacturing and services have not expanded in rural jobs.
areas.
Weak Wage Delays in payments, budget constraints, and Inconsistent or delayed wage payments lower the impact
Guarantee inefficiencies in schemes like MGNREGA reduce the of wage-support programs in improving rural income
Programs effectiveness of wage guarantees. stability.
Inflation and Inflation has risen faster than income, increasing the Real wages decrease as purchasing power erodes, making
Rising Costs cost of essential goods, which outpaces rural wage it difficult for rural families to sustain their standard of
growth. living.
Impact of Climate issues, such as droughts and floods, disrupt Wage instability arises as unpredictable weather
Climate Change agricultural production, reducing rural incomes and conditions impact agricultural earnings and wage
affecting the ability to pay wages. reliability.

Implications of Stagnant
Rural Wages
1. Reduced Demand for Goods: With limited
spending capacity, rural consumers contribute less
to the demand for goods, especially affecting small
and medium enterprises.

2. Increased Debt and Financial Vulnerability:

Inflation and stagnant wages drive rural
households towards debt, often from informal
lenders, trapping them in financial instability.

3. Forced Migration and Urban Overcrowding: Low

rural wages push workers to migrate to cities for
better opportunities, leading to overpopulation and
straining urban infrastructure.

4. Gender Wage Disparity: Wage stagnation affects

both men and women, but women face a double
burden as they generally earn less than men for the
same jobs.

Government Measures and Policy Recommendations Current Initiatives

Recommended Solutions Program Objective
1. S trengthen Income Support: Expanding income transfer schemes like PM-KISAN can
reduce the immediate financial strain on rural families. Annual income support of
PM-KISAN
2. Regular Wage Adjustments: Periodic revision of minimum wages, accounting for Rs 6,000 for farmers
inflation, would protect rural workers from the erosion of their purchasing power. Guaranteed 100 days of
MGNREGA
3. Promote Rural Non-Farm Employment: Supporting labor-intensive industries (e.g., rural wage employment
textiles, food processing, tourism) could diversify job opportunities for rural workers. Micro-loans for rural
4. Increase Agricultural Productivity: Encouraging modern farming practices, such as Mudra Yojana
business and job creation
efficient irrigation and high-quality seeds, can enhance productivity and potentially
increase rural incomes. Skill development for
DDU-GKY
5. Targeted Gender Support Programs: Addressing the gender pay gap through focused non-farm rural employment
schemes like Maharashtra’s Ladki Bahin Yojana could offer greater support to women PM Gram Building rural roads to
and low-income families. Sadak Yojana improve access to markets

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Conclusion
Rural wage stagnation remains
a paradox in India’s growth
story. Despite strong economic
and agricultural growth,
factors such as surplus labor,
low productivity, and limited
non-farm opportunities have
hindered wage improvement.
Addressing these issues
requires a multi-pronged
approach, including targeted
income support, wage
adjustments, skill development,
and agricultural modernization.
Only with comprehensive
interventions can India foster
sustainable wage growth,
ensuring that economic gains
reach its vast rural population.

Back2Basics
Rural Wages for alleviating poverty
Component of Rural Poverty Impact of Rural Wages Examples & Data

Stable wages create consistent income, Example: MGNREGA provides guaranteed income during
Income Insecurity reducing dependency on seasonal jobs and lean periods. 2022-23 saw rural wage rates increase by
low-paying alternatives. ~6%, enhancing income security in participating areas.

Higher household income enables Data: Rural education completion rates are 68.7%, lower
Limited Access to Education investment in children’s education and than urban. Good wages help offset educational costs,
reduces child labor. increasing enrollment and retention rates.

Example: Villages with higher wages under PM-KISAN

Increased income allows families to afford
saw 12% increased healthcare spending. WHO reports
Inadequate Healthcare better healthcare, reducing out-of-pocket
rural healthcare costs often exceed urban by 30% per
expenses for medical needs.
capita.

Better wages mean more consistent Data: According to NFHS-5, 35.7% of rural children are
Food Insecurity purchasing power, reducing hunger and stunted; higher wages directly support nutrition and food
undernutrition. access for households, improving health outcomes.

Increased income supports better housing Example: Rural housing schemes such as PMAY-G have
Poor Housing and Liv-
materials, repairs, and sanitation facilities, noted a 20% increase in participation where rural wages
ing Conditions
leading to healthier living conditions. are higher, improving home quality and sanitation access.

Steady income strengthens bargaining Data: In areas with better wages, reports of exploitative
Social Vulnerabili-
power, helping rural workers avoid labor reduced by 15% (NSSO 2021). Regular wages can
ty and Exploitation
exploitative labor and unfair practices. support self-reliance, reducing forced labor reliance.

Higher income allows families to save, invest, Example: Self-Help Groups in Tamil Nadu report a
Limited Access to Fi-
and access credit, promoting financial 25% increase in savings among higher-wage families,
nancial Services
security and economic stability. improving access to credit and reducing vulnerability.

Enhanced wages help create demand and

Data: A 2021 World Bank study found that rural areas
Lack of Infrastructure tax revenue for better infrastructure like
with stable wages experience 18% faster infrastructure
and Basic Services roads, electricity, and sanitation, improving
improvements, helping close the rural-urban gap.
overall quality of life.

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 BURNING ISSUE #3

Aviation Sector in India

Will India’s Aviation Sector Overcome Its Challenges to Reach New Heights?

INDIAN AIRLINES

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The Indian aviation sector became the world’s third-largest [UPSC 2017, GS-3] Examine the development of Airports in India
domestic aviation market. Big news from the Mains perspective. through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP)
PYQs analysis gives us 2 possible lines of questioning: upcoming model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this
challenges for the sector to maintain the status quo or your regard?
comment on the evolution of aviation sector in India.
[UPSC 2019, GS-2] The need for cooperation among various
Avoid writing generic pointers. Standard textbooks won’t help service sector has been an inherent component of development
you with notes on the topic of service industry growth story. We discourse. Partnership bridges bring the gap among the sectors. It
have detailed points for each challenge (Operational, financial, also sets in motion a culture of ‘Collaboration’ & ‘team spirit’. In the
administrative, etc.) in the main article. and a snapshot of light of statements above examine India’s Development process.
progress for the aviation sector in the Back2basics to develop
your core understanding. Microthemes: Airports X Infrastructure, PPP X Infrastructure

t h e i n d i a n av i at i o n industry has emerged as a global

powerhouse, becoming the world’s 3rd-largest domestic aviation
market. Projected to surpass the US & China by 2030, India’s
aviation sector is poised for immense growth, driven by robust
demand, infrastructure expansion, & government support. However,
the sector faces significant challenges that must be addressed to
unlock its full potential.

Status of the Industry

Key Metric Data/Statistic
Global Ranking 3rd largest domestic aviation market
Operational Airports Increased from 74 in 2014 to 148 in 2023
Expected to increase from 5 in 2014 to
PPP Airports
24 by 2024
FDI Investment Reached $3.73 billion (2000–2022)
The rapid increase in operational airports and public-private
partnership (PPP) airports demonstrates India’s commitment to
expanding infrastructure. Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has also
surged, reflecting investor confidence in the industry.

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The potential of India’s Aviation Sector: Key Government Initiatives
The aviation sector holds immense promise for India’s economic
development, including enhanced connectivity, job creation, and Policy/Initiative Description
regional growth.
1.Increased Market Share: According to the International Air Transport National Civil Promotes international reach of Indian
Association (IATA), India is expected to be the world’s third-largest air Aviation Pol- airlines and mandates domestic
passenger market by 2030, overtaking China and the United States. icy, 2016 deployment for international operations.
2.Balanced Economic Growth: Aviation connectivity promotes
economic growth in remote areas, as seen in the North East, where Enhances regional connectivity to
UDAN Scheme
enhanced air connectivity has accelerated development. underserved cities in tier 2 and 3 regions.
3.Tourism Growth: The aviation sector acts as a growth catalyst for Liberalizes aviation, allowing private
tourism, generating employment in supporting sectors like hospitality, sector involvement in airport
retail, and transportation. Open Sky Policy
development, with 60% of traffic
4.Manufacturing Boost: India’s expanding aviation industry has managed under PPP.
created demand for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) facilities,
providing job opportunities in aerospace manufacturing and engine Open Sky
Enables unlimited flights between India
maintenance. Air Service
and signatory countries.
5.FDI in Infrastructure: With around $3 billion in FDI, the sector has Agreements
seen significant investments in projects such as greenfield airports in
Navi Mumbai and Noida (Jewar). Allows 100% FDI in greenfield projects
6.Employment Opportunities: The industry is expected to require FDI and Tax and 74% in brownfield under automatic
10,900 additional pilots by FY30, along with other skilled personnel, Incentives route, with tax exemptions for airport
highlighting its role in job creation. projects.

Challenges Facing India’s 3.Infrastructural Challenges

Aviation Sector a). Poor Rural Connectivity: Despite
initiatives like UDAN, there is limited air
Despite its growth potential, India’s aviation connectivity to tier-2 & tier-3 towns, with
sector faces challenges across Operational, major airports controlling air traffic &
Financial, Infrastructural, Regulatory, limited regional service.
and Environmental categories. Here is a b). Underdeveloped MRO Facilities: The
breakdown: lack of Maintenance, Repair, & Overhaul
(MRO) infrastructure forces airlines to rely
1.Operational Challenges on foreign services, making maintenance
a). Grounded Unsafe Aircraft: Financially more costly.
struggling airlines like SpiceJet and GoAir c). Gaps in Airport Infrastructure: India’s
have grounded a significant portion of airport infrastructure & Air Traffic Control
their fleets. Over 160 aircraft, or about (ATC) are insufficient to handle rapid
25% of the total fleet, are currently growth, requiring significant upgrades to
grounded, reducing service availability. support future demand.
b). Crew Shortage: A shortage of trained
pilots, engineers, and cabin crew 4.Regulatory Challenges
disrupts operations, leading to increased a). High Fuel Taxes: India imposes one of
turnaround times and higher operational the highest taxes on Aviation Turbine Fuel
costs. (ATF), significantly increasing operating
c). Supply Chain Disruptions: Delays in costs for airlines.
aircraft and component deliveries from b). Outdated Policies: The Aircraft Act,
original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) 1934, & Aircraft Rules, 1937, have not kept
hinder the sector’s ability to meet growing pace with modern aerospace technology,
demand. creating inefficiencies & limiting growth.
c). Market Duopoly: IndiGo & Tata group
2.Financial Challenges airlines dominate the market, with 60% &
a). Financial Losses: Indian airlines are 20% market shares, respectively, reducing
projected to lose between $1.6 and $1.8 competition & innovation. To unlock its potential,
billion in FY24 due to high operating costs India’s aviation sector
and low profitability, with major losses 5.Environmental Challenges
from carriers like Go First, SpiceJet, and a). Carbon Emissions Pressure: Under the requires strategic
Jet Airways. Carbon Offsetting & Reduction Scheme
b). High Operational Costs: Rising fuel for International Aviation (CORSIA),
reforms across these
prices, accounting for 45-50% of airline Indian airlines face increasing pressure areas, focusing on
expenses, further burden financially to adopt sustainable practices, adding to
struggling airlines. operational costs. improving infrastructure,
c). Low Domestic Travel Penetration: India’s b). Sustainability Concerns: The industry
modernizing regulations,
per capita air travel rate is 0.13 seats per is under growing scrutiny to minimize
capita, much lower than countries like its environmental impact, which may and addressing financial
China (0.49), indicating untapped market require additional investments in cleaner
potential. technology and fuel-efficient practices. sustainability.

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Way Forward b). Support for Startups: Encouraging These initiatives can collectively
1.Regulatory Reforms entrepreneurship in the Maintenance, Repair, strengthen India’s aviation sector,
a). DGCA Reforms: Appointing aviation and Overhaul (MRO) sector under the ‘Start-up making it more competitive,
professionals, rather than bureaucrats, to India’ initiative can promote local industry sustainable, and accessible.
lead the Directorate General of Civil Aviation development and reduce dependence on
(DGCA) can improve regulatory oversight and foreign services.
bring specialized knowledge to the regulatory Conclusion:
body. 3.Infrastructural Development The Indian aviation sector holds
b). Modernization of Aircraft Act and Rules: a). Enhanced Rural Connectivity: Expanding air transformative potential for
Updating the Aircraft Act, 1934, and Aircraft connectivity to Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities through economic growth, connectivity,
Rules, 1937, will help align regulations with initiatives like the UDAN scheme will increase and job creation. However,
modern aerospace technology, streamlining accessibility and help unlock demand in realizing this potential
operations and enhancing passenger growth. underserved markets. requires addressing structural
challenges, modernizing
2.Financial Reforms 4.Environmental Initiatives regulations, and adopting
a). T
 ax Rationalization: Reducing taxes on a). Environmental Sustainability: Implementing sustainable practices. With
aviation turbine fuel (ATF), cargo, and airport the Carbon Offsetting and Reduction Scheme targeted reforms and continued
operations can help alleviate cost pressures for International Aviation (CORSIA) and investment, India can become
on airlines, making operations more financially investing in sustainable aviation practices a global leader in aviation
sustainable. will reduce the environmental footprint of the and an attractive market for
sector, supporting long-term sustainability. international stakeholders.

Back2Basics
India’s Aviation Sector: A Snapshot of Progress
1.India’s Aviation Boom: 4.Passenger Growth:
India has skyrocketed to become the world’s third-largest domestic The sector is witnessing strong post-COVID growth. From January
aviation market, trailing only the USA and China. Once limited, the to September 2023, domestic airlines carried nearly 113 million
sector now thrives as a vibrant and competitive industry. Government passengers, a 29% increase over the previous year. International
policies and initiatives have played a significant role in creating an traffic also surged, with 46 million passengers, up by nearly 40%
environment ripe for growth and innovation. compared to the same period in 2022.

2.Infrastructure Development: 5.Carbon Neutrality Efforts:

India’s airport network has seen incredible expansion, doubling its The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is pushing for carbon-neutral
operational airports from 74 in 2014 to 148 as of April 2023, making air operations, advising airports to map their emissions and work towards
travel accessible to a larger population. net-zero carbon footprints. Newly built airports are also prioritizing
green initiatives. Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru airports
3.Regional Connectivity Scheme-UDAN: have achieved Level 4+ ACI Accreditation for carbon neutrality, and
Launched in 2016, UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) connects under- 66 airports in India now operate on 100% green energy.
served and unserved airports, enhancing connectivity and boosting
local economies. With 517 routes in operation linking 76 airports,
UDAN has made air travel accessible to over 13 million people.

India’s aviation sector isn’t just growing—it’s setting the stage

for sustainable, accessible, and inclusive air travel.

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 BURNING ISSUE #4

India’s Fight
Against
Tuberculosis
(TB)
Can India Achieve TB Elimination
by 2025 Amidst Persistent
Challenges?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The MoHFW has released the India [UPSC 2014, GS-3] Can overuse and free availability of antibiotics without Doctor’s
TB Report 2024. You should know prescription, be contributors to the emergence of drug-resistant diseases in India? What are
the basics of TB. From the Mains the available mechanisms for monitoring and control? Critically discuss the various issues
perspective, 3 key points in this article involved.
are the issue of drug resistance (we
have had PYQs in 2014), the challenges [UPSC 2020, GS-3] COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented devastation worldwide.
in eliminating TB (PYQs on Covid However, technological advancements are being availed readily to win over the crisis. Give an
challenges in 2020), and our target to account of how technology was sought to aid management to the pandemic.
eradicate it by 2025 (this makes it an
important theme for UPSC). Microthemes: Medical and Health Technologies;Achievements of Indians in S&T

t u b e r c u l o s i s ( t b ) r e m a i n s a major health issue for India,

which accounts for 26% of the world’s TB cases. The 2024 India had one of the best estimates
India TB Report by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
highlights significant achievements, challenges, and areas of
(>80%) of treatment Coverage
concern as the country strives toward its ambitious target of among 30-high burden countries.
TB elimination by 2025. Here’s a concise look at the findings,
challenges, and government initiatives to tackle TB.

Key Highlights: India TB Report 2024

Total TB Mortality Rate Private Sector
Year
Cases (lakh) (per lakh) TB Cases (lakh)
2015 19.1 28 1.9
2023 25.5 23 8.4
1.Decline in Mortality Rate: TB mortality dropped from 28 per
lakh in 2015 to 23 in 2022.
2.Increase in Private Sector Involvement: Private sector
notifications rose from 1.9 lakh in 2015 to 8.4 lakh in 2023,
showing improved engagement in TB detection.
3.Case and Mortality Trends: While estimated TB incidence
slightly increased to 27.8 lakh in 2023, TB mortality held
steady at 3.2 lakh

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Challenges to Eliminate TB by 2025
Challenge Explanation
India accounts for 28% of all global TB cases (Global TB Report 2022). This makes it difficult to identify
High burden of TB cases
and treat cases on time.
Drug-resistant TB is widespread in India, making treatment more expensive and complicated. This is
Drug-resistant TB
due to improper antibiotic use and poor adherence to treatment.
Limited access to Many people, especially in rural areas, lack access to quality healthcare, leading to delayed diagnosis,
healthcare treatment, and increased TB spread.
Stigma and The stigma surrounding TB prevents people from seeking treatment or disclosing their illness due to
discrimination fear of discrimination or isolation.
Poor living conditions Overcrowded homes, poor sanitation, and lack of clean water increase the risk of TB transmission.
Many people don’t know the symptoms of TB or the importance of completing treatment, leading to
Limited awareness
delays and further spread.
Despite the severity of TB in India, it receives inadequate funding and attention from policymakers and
Insufficient funding
healthcare providers.

Government Initiatives Against TB

Initiative Description

Community-based program
Pradhan Mantri TB
offering nutritional support
Mukt Bharat Abhiyan
through Ni-kshay Mitras
Aims to eliminate TB by 2025,
National Strate-
targeting no more than 44 new
gic Plan (NSP)
TB cases per lakh
Digital platform for monitoring
Digital Tracking
patient progress and ensuring
(Nikshay Portal)
treatment adherence
Free Treatment and Free supply of essential drugs
Drug Access like Bedaquiline and Delamanid
Increased use of molecular
Expanded Testing Access diagnostics (CB-NAAT,
TureNat) across districts

Innovative Approaches WHO Recommendations

Adopted by States: for TB Control
• Chhattisgarh: By involving 1. Molecular Diagnostics: Faster, more India’s path to TB
Village Health Committees in TPT
efforts, Chhattisgarh improved
accurate diagnostics similar to COVID-19
testing.
elimination by 2025
grassroots-level awareness, 2. MDR-TB Management: Better prescription requires a holistic,
screening, and treatment
adherence for TB prevention,
practices, drug quality, and treatment
completion.
coordinated approach,
leveraging local networks 3. Patient-Centered Care: Improved support addressing healthcare gaps
effectively. for managing treatment side effects,
• Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu adopted enhancing treatment completion.
and social determinants
local procurement of the 3HP to ensure accessible and
TPT regimen, ensuring a shorter,
accessible TB prevention Moving Forward: Key effective TB care. By
therapy, which enhanced patient Recommendations fostering cross-sector
compliance and streamlined • Strengthen Multi-Sectoral Collaboration:
medication availability. Engage healthcare, social services, and
collaboration, enhancing
• Maharashtra and Rajasthan: education to address TB’s root causes. diagnostics, and addressing
These states introduced TPT • Enhance Rural Access: Boost local healthcare
in high-risk groups like prison infrastructure, deploy mobile health units, and
the social factors
inmates, integrating preventive train community health workers. influencing TB, India can
therapy into Active Case- • Stigma Reduction and Awareness: Implement
Finding (ACF) efforts, reducing public campaigns to reduce stigma and
accelerate its progress
TB prevalence in vulnerable educate on TB prevention, symptoms, and toward a TB-free nation.
populations. treatment.

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Back2Basics
Understanding Tuberculosis
Parameter Details
Bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium
Cause
tuberculosis
Airborne, particularly in dense, poorly ventilated
Transmission
areas
Common Cough, chest pain, weakness, weight loss, fever,
Symptoms night sweats
Global TB infects 10 million and causes 1.5 million
Impact deaths annually, affecting HIV patients
Standard 6-month, four-drug course with
Treatment
supervised support

Drug-Resistant TB
• MDR-TB: Resistant to isoniazid and • XDR-TB: Highly resistant, responding
rifampicin, requiring second-line drugs like poorly to standard and even second-line
bedaquiline. treatments.

TREATMENT FOR TB
Standard 6-Month Treatment Course
Phase Details
For new TB cases, the intensive phase includes four drugs: Isoniazid (INH), Rifampicin, Pyrazinamide,
Intensive Phase (2 months)
and Ethambutol.
Continuous Phase (4 months) After completing the intensive phase, the continuous phase follows for 4 months.
For Previously Treated Cases The intensive phase lasts 12 weeks, with an injection of streptomycin given for 8 weeks along with 4 drugs.
Regimen Duration A strictly followed 6-month drug regimen cures most people with TB.

BPaLM Regimen Multidrug-Resistant TB (MDR-TB)

Feature Details Feature Details
Drugs CBNAAT (Cartridge Based
Bedaquiline, Pretomanid, Linezolid, and Moxifloxacin. Diagnosis Nucleic Acid Amplification Test)
Used
is used for early diagnosis.
Faster, safer, & more effective compared to traditional treatments. Cures
MDR-TB in 6 months (compared to 20 months with traditional treatment). MDR-TB is resistant to at least
Advan- Higher success rate for drug-resistant TB treatment. Resistance Isoniazid and Rifampicin, the two
tages most powerful anti-TB drugs.
Fewer and milder side effects.
Treatment Treatment options for MDR-TB
Shorter treatment duration & reduced side effects lead to lower overall costs. Challenges are limited and expensive.

Causes of MDR-TB Treatment for Drug-Resistant TB

Cause Details Treatment Type Details
Inappropriate or incorrect drug use, MDR-TB Treatment success for MDR-TB is
Mismanagement
ineffective drug formulations, or premature Treatment Success about 54%.
of Treatment
treatment interruption. XDR-TB Treatment success for XDR-TB is about
Transmission Person-to-person transmission of the disease. Treatment Success 30%.
XDR-TB requires a combination of 8
Treatment Duration
drugs for over a year.
Extensively Drug-Resistant TB (XDR-TB) Treatment success depends on
the extent of resistance, disease
Feature Details Success Factors
severity, immune system strength, and
XDR-TB is a form of MDR-TB with additional adherence to treatment.
Resistance resistance to fluoroquinolones and at least Drugs used for treating MDR-TB and
Profile one second-line injectable drug (amikacin, Side Effects XDR-TB can cause serious adverse
kanamycin, capreomycin). effects, including deafness.

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 BURNING ISSUE #5

Iran’s BRICS Membership

A Game Changer for India’s Strategy and Economy?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

BRICS+ Framework is an important development. UPSC [UPSC 2018, GS-2] In what ways would the ongoing US-Iran Nuclear
hasn’t touched BRICS in mains. So, you should be extra Pact Controversy affect the national interest of India? How should
prepared because it might spring up a question this year due India respond to its situation?
to its significance. You should be extra-ready to answer the
challenges it would face in today’s world. On the other hand, [UPSC 2017, GS-2] The question of India’s Energy Security
Iran has appeared in the Mains paper. constitutes the most important part of India’s economic progress.
So, exploring Iran’s inclusion in BRICS & its impact also Analyze India’s energy policy cooperation with West Asian Countries.
becomes critical. Adding to these layers, is a third aspect:
Multilaterals vs Minilaterals. While Minilateralism has been Microthemes: Groupings involving Immediate and Extended
covered in September issue, we have explored its differences neighbours, Groupings beyond South Asia
with Multilaterals here.

t h e 16 t h b r i c s s u m m i t , held in Kazan from October 22-24, 2024, marked India-Iran Relations: Historic Ties
a significant diplomatic development with the expanded BRICS+ framework, to Contemporary Interests
including Iran as a new member. This summit also presented an important bilateral India and Iran share ancient civilizational ties originating
engagement between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iranian President from the Indo-Iranian ancestry. Trade and cultural
Masoud Pezeshkian, especially since Pezeshkian’s recent election following exchange have flourished between the two since
former President Ebrahim Raisi’s passing. This article delves into the India-Iran prehistoric times.
meeting’s outcomes, Iran’s strategic importance to India, and how Iran’s BRICS
inclusion could reshape regional geopolitics and India’s interests. Period Details
Connections were established through
Key Focus Areas of India-Iran Bilateral Meeting historical trade routes; the Indus Valley
Ancient
Civilization traded goods like copper,
Topic Details
silver, and gems with ancient Persia.
Both leaders discussed expanding India-Iran ties, focusing Buddhism’s spread from India to Persia
Bilateral
on trade, connectivity, and energy security. They reiterated and the influence of Sufism fostered
Cooperation
their commitment to collaborate across strategic areas. Medieval deep cultural and literary ties, especially
Discussions covered projects like the Chabahar Port and during the Mughal-Safavid era, which
Strategic International North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), saw Persian literature thrive in India.
Projects which are vital for enhancing Central Asia trade and
providing an economic link for Afghanistan. Post-independence, India and Iran
Modern signed a friendship treaty in 1950,
Amid West Asia’s instability, India’s role in promoting
Diplomatic enhancing their strategic and
Regional peace was acknowledged. Modi emphasized de-escalation
Era commercial partnership, particularly
Stability efforts, and Iran appreciated India’s capacity to act as a
focusing on connectivity and energy.
mediator in regional conflicts.

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Strategic Importance of Iran’s BRICS Membership for India
Iran’s entry into BRICS can unlock various economic and geopolitical opportunities for India:

1). Economic Opportunities • Middle East Peace: Iran’s presence offers • Look West Policy (2005): Launched
• Trade & Connectivity: Iran’s membership a channel to address West Asian tensions, in 2005, the Look West Policy aims to
facilitates India’s access to Central Asia via aligning with India’s interest in regional deepen ties with West Asian nations, vital
Chabahar Port, bypassing Pakistan, which stability. for India’s economic and security needs.
can foster a robust trade corridor. • Complex Diplomatic Terrain: Iran’s Through BRICS, India and Iran can work
• Energy Security: Iran holds 12% of global inclusion could increase Chinese influence together on energy security, connectivity
natural gas and 24% of West Asia’s oil within BRICS, presenting a challenge for projects like Chabahar Port, and economic
reserves, presenting an opportunity for India in maintaining a balanced diplomatic cooperation, supporting India’s regional
India to diversify energy sources and strategy with Iran while nurturing ties with objectives.
resume oil imports. Western allies. • De-hyphenation Policy: India’s policy
• Direct Energy Projects: Potential of de-hyphenation, where it maintains
collaboration on projects like the Iran- 3). Policy Synchronisation separate, merit-based relations with
Oman-India gas pipeline could strengthen • Extended Neighbourhood Concept: countries like Israel and Palestine, allows
India’s gas supply lines. India views West Asia, especially the Gulf, India to pursue its own interests with Iran,
as part of its ‘extended neighbourhood,’ despite outside pressures. Within BRICS,
2). Geopolitical Dynamics with Iran in its ‘proximate neighbourhood.’ it gives India the flexibility to engage with
• Balanced Multipolar Order: BRICS This shared geographic and strategic Iran on shared goals—like countering a
serves as a platform for India to advocate space reinforces India’s need for robust unipolar world order—while balancing
a multipolar world that can challenge relations with Iran, and BRICS provides a other alliances.
Western dominance in global affairs. collaborative platform to support this.

Broader BRICS Summit Outcomes: Signals of a Changing Global Order

The 16th BRICS Summit’s broader outcomes signify a shift toward a multipolar world:

Key Outcomes Details

Kazan Declaration The declaration emphasized a balanced global governance structure and peaceful conflict resolution.
BRICS Pay A new financial system to reduce reliance on Western financial networks, supporting intra-BRICS trade.
BRICS Grain Exchange A cooperative platform for agricultural trade and food security among member states.
BRICS Cross-Bor-
Exploration of a unified payment system to deepen economic integration among BRICS+ members.
der Payment
Strong calls for UN and IMF reform to improve representation for developing nations and establish an
Reform Advocacy
equitable international framework.

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Challenges and Future Directions for BRICS influence, potentially leading to diplomatic
While BRICS+ has promising potential, several internal and external challenges could impact and economic countermeasures that
its unity and effectiveness. These challenges can be categorized as follows: strain member states.
c). Regional Rivalries: Rivalries within the
1.Political and Ideological Challenges technology and manufacturing, leading to group—such as India’s differing stances
a). Divergent Political Systems: BRICS friction in collective economic policies. with China and Russia—may limit BRICS’
members operate under vastly different b). Dependence on Western Systems: ability to adopt unified foreign policy
governance structures—India’s BRICS still depends on Western financial positions.
democracy, China’s one-party rule, and systems, making it challenging to
Russia’s semi-authoritarian regime— operationalize alternatives like BRICS Pay 4.Institutional and Structural Challenges
which complicates consensus-building on or a common currency. a). Lack of a Coordinated Vision: BRICS
democratic values. c). F
 unding and Infrastructure: Limited lacks a cohesive framework for managing
b). Expansion Strategy: Rapid expansion financial resources and infrastructure internal conflicts and addressing external
may dilute BRICS’ shared objectives, gaps among BRICS members may impede pressures, weakening its operational
especially as new members bring differing joint project development, such as in strength.
political agendas. technology and infrastructure funding. b). Limited Policy Coordination: Absence of
c). Internal Political Instability: Members robust mechanisms for policy alignment
like South Africa face domestic issues that 3.Geopolitical Challenges makes it difficult to implement cohesive
may detract from BRICS’ effectiveness on a). China’s Dominance: China’s economic actions on shared issues like climate
the global stage. and political clout could overshadow other change and trade.
members’ interests, pushing a Sino-centric c). Complex Expansion Process: With
2.Economic and Financial Challenges agenda within BRICS that may alienate diverse economies seeking membership,
a). Diverse Economic Interests: Members members like India. managing a principled expansion process
have varied economic priorities, with India b). US and EU Reactions: The West may view that ensures alignment without alienating
and China often competing in sectors like BRICS’ expansion as a challenge to their any faction is a challenging task.

Conclusion:
Path Forward for India-Iran
Cooperation in BRICS
India’s strategic vision for its relationship with Iran lies
in maintaining independent ties that allow it to balance
regional interests, like ties with Israel. Iran’s inclusion
in BRICS presents new avenues for collaboration,
especially in trade and energy security, where mutual
interests align. By fostering ties with Iran through
BRICS, India strengthens its influence in the Middle
East and Central Asia, while leveraging the bloc to
advocate for a multipolar world.

Back2Basics
MULTILATERALISM VS MINILATERALISM

Component Multilateralism Minilateralism

Involves a small, select group of countries with
Number of Involves a large number of countries, often on a global scale,
shared interests, allowing for more focused and
Participants such as the UN, WTO, or WHO.
flexible cooperation.
Covers broad, global issues like climate change, trade Focuses on specific, targeted issues relevant to the
Scope of Issues regulations, and human rights, aiming for universal norms and participating countries, such as regional security or
standards. economic collaboration.
Faster and more agile decision-making, with
Decision- Typically slow and consensus-driven due to diverse interests
fewer members leading to quicker consensus and
Making Process and the need for broad agreement among all members.
implementation on specific issues.
Requires formal commitments, often through legally binding Often less formal, with commitments that may be
Level of
agreements or treaties, promoting accountability but making flexible or tailored to the needs of the group, allowing
Commitment
flexibility difficult. for adaptability to changing circumstances.
More effective in addressing immediate or
Can be effective for setting global standards but may face
Efficiency and region-specific issues, though outcomes are
challenges in implementation due to varying national interests
Effectiveness often limited to the interests and influence of
and slower responses to urgent issues.
the smaller participating group.

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 BURNING ISSUE #6

PM E-DRIVE Scheme
The Key to Revolutionizing EV Adoption in India’s Public Transport?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The Union Cabinet has approved the PM E-DRIVE scheme, [UPSC 2022, GS-3] Why is Public Private Partnership (PPP)
allocating ₹ 4.4K crore to support the rollout of 14K electric buses in required in infrastructural projects? Examine the role of PPP model
9 cities. Big approval. Large allocation. Don’t just mug up the data. in the redevelopment of Railway Stations in India.
EV comes under ‘sunrise sectors’ and at this infant stage, such infant
sectors need a holistic view of future problems and challenges! [UPSC 2017, GS-3] Examine the development of Airports in India
through joint ventures under Public – Private Partnership (PPP)
Two problems plague EV ecosystem’s implementation: Financing & model. What are the challenges faced by the authorities in this
Infrastructure. regard?

Now scan PYQs to understand a potential line of questioning. In [UPSC 2013, GS-3] Adoption of PPP model for infrastructure
line with 2022, either UPSC will quiz you on the need of Private development of the country has not been free of criticism.
Partnerships for EV implementation; or in line with 2017 and 2013, Critically discuss the pros and cons of the model.
you will be asked to analyze the twin challenges of Finance & Infra
and their reddressal. We tackle them all here. Microthemes: PPP X Infrastructure, Airports X Infrastructure

Key Challenges in EV Adoption in Public Transport

1. High Upfront Costs: Electric buses cost 1.5–2 times more than 4. B attery Life and Maintenance: High battery replacement costs
diesel buses. Private operators face financial hurdles with high and the need for specialized maintenance are additional concerns.
interest rates and loan costs. 5. G rid Stability: High power demands for EV charging strain local
2. Limited Charging Infrastructure: Only 12,146 public charging grids, especially in areas with frequent power cuts.
stations are operational, mostly in urban centers. Expansion to 6. Lack of Skilled Workforce: Skilled maintenance personnel for EVs
semi-urban and rural areas is needed for comprehensive access. are limited, affecting operational efficiency and maintenance.
3. Access to Credit: Banks consider EV investments high-risk due 7. P
 rivate Sector Exclusion: Public initiatives primarily focus on
to concerns about battery life and resale value, resulting in higher state-run buses. Private operators, though making up 93% of the
interest rates. bus sector, have minimal inclusion in subsidy programs.

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UNCOVERING SPECIFIC CHALLENGES
Challenge/
Opportunity Description and Potential Solutions Specific Examples
CHALLENGE 1: FINANCING CHALLENGES
E-buses have significantly higher upfront costs, A traditional diesel bus costs around $300,000, while an
making investment difficult despite long-term e-bus may cost $1.5 million.
High Initial Costs
savings. Subsidies, viability gap funding, payment Operators in cities like Mumbai have hesitated to replace
security mechanisms could help tackle such issues. diesel fleets due to high e-bus prices.
The Indian government’s Faster Adoption and
Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme
Need for Ded- Establishing dedicated financing facilities could provide
provides financial support for electric vehicles, including
icated Financ- concessional loans and grants, mitigating payment
e-buses.
ing Facilities security risks for manufacturers and operators.
A specialized e-bus fund offering long-term, low-interest
loans for operators.
FAME II provides interest subvention programs for electric
Implementing interest rate subventions of 4-6% on
Interest Rate vehicles in India, reducing loan costs for operators.
loans can encourage private operators to invest in
Subventions A private bank offering loans to e-bus operators at 5%
e-buses, easing financial burdens during repayment.
interest instead of the standard 9%.
Companies like BYD and Tata Motors offer leasing models
Financing institutions can offer leasing options that
that include maintenance and battery leasing options.
cover maintenance and battery replacement, sharing
Leasing Models A city implementing a lease agreement with a private
operational risks and lowering upfront costs for
operator covering the full operation and maintenance cost
operators.
for a specified period.
CHALLENGE 2: INFRASTRUCTURE
Deployment of 200 charging stations in Delhi to support
Establishing charging points within bus depots is
the city’s e-bus fleet.
Installation of crucial. A widespread infrastructure network will
The “Charging Infrastructure for Electric Vehicles” program
Charging Stations alleviate concerns about range and downtime, making
in India aims to establish stations along major routes and
e-buses viable.
depots.
Private operators face restrictions accessing Bengaluru allows private e-bus operators access to public
Depot Charging government bus depots for parking and charging. depots, reducing operational inefficiencies.
Facilities Allowing access would streamline operations and Partnerships between government transport bodies and
improve efficiency. private firms to share depot facilities.
The increased electricity demand from charging DISCOMs in Gujarat work with private operators on
Power Supply e-buses can strain local power grids. Collaboration demand management strategies for e-bus charging.
Management between operators and DISCOMs is essential for Smart grid technology in Pune monitors and controls
planning and management. electricity usage for e-bus charging.
A pilot project in Surat electrifies a specific route to
Implementing pilot projects in tier-2 and tier-3 cities gather data on charging times, operational costs, and rider
Pilot Projects can help assess infrastructure needs and operational experience.
challenges before scaling up to larger urban areas. Trials in smaller cities like Nagpur test e-bus
operations before deployment in metropolitan areas.

Government Initiatives to Boost EV Adoption

Initiative Details
Electric Mobility Promotion
₹778 crore to subsidize electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers.
Scheme 2024 (EMPS)
Incentivizes EV adoption with ₹11,500 crore budget under Phase II; includes support for buses and
FAME India Scheme
infrastructure.
Production Linked
Incentives for EV manufacturing (₹25,938 crore) and battery production (₹18,100 crore).
Incentive (PLI) Schemes
Support for Charging
₹800 crore allocated for establishing 7,432 public charging stations across major cities.
Infrastructure
Battery Swapping Policy Aims to streamline charging through standardized battery swapping for two- and three-wheelers.
State-Level Initiatives Various states offer additional subsidies, tax waivers, and charging infrastructure for EVs.

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Way Forward: Conclusion
India’s transition to electric vehicles
Enhancing Private Sector Involvement is essential for achieving climate
1. Priority Sector Lending: Classify feasible for private operators. goals and improving urban air
electric buses under priority lending, 4. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): quality. The PM E-DRIVE scheme
providing private operators with lower- Partnerships for infrastructure, is a promising step, yet including
interest loans. especially charging stations, can be private operators, who own most
2. Battery-as-a-Service (BaaS): Battery pivotal. States can offer incentives while of India’s buses, is crucial for broad
leasing or swapping reduces upfront private firms contribute capital. EV adoption. Enhanced financing,
costs and ensures timely battery 5. S
 kill Development Programs: Training infrastructure development,
replacement. programs for EV maintenance can public-private partnerships, and
3. Extended Loan Terms: Extending ensure a ready workforce for the growing skill-building initiatives can support
EV loans to 10-12 years could spread EV sector. a sustainable, inclusive shift to
repayment obligations, making EVs more electric mobility for a cleaner future.

Back2Basics
Benefits of Electric Vehicles (EVs)
Benefit Description

Zero tailpipe emissions, lower greenhouse gases; especially

Environmental Impact
effective when powered by renewable energy.

Electricity is cheaper than fuel; government incentives like

Lower Running Costs
reduced tariffs further reduce operational costs.

EVs have fewer moving parts than internal combustion engines,

Reduced Maintenance
leading to lower maintenance costs.

EVs convert up to 60% of electric energy into propulsion

Efficiency
(compared to 17-21% for diesel engines).

EVs are quieter, reducing urban noise pollution and enhancing

Noise Pollution
public health.

Government incentives, reduced taxes, and subsidies make EVs

Financial Incentives
more affordable and attractive for buyers.

EV Policy Ecosystem: Components and Challenges

Component Current Policy Initiatives Challenges Potential Solutions
Expand to Tier 2/3 cities
Charging FAME II supports urban Limited rural
and rural areas; incentivize
Infrastructure charging stations and PPPs access
solar-powered stations
Create a unified national
Harmonized BIS safety and Fragmented
EV framework with state
Standards interoperability standards state policies
adaptability
Focus on awareness
Awareness & ‘Go Electric’ campaign Consumer
campaigns; increase test
Advocacy promotes EV benefits hesitation
drives
Increase funding, promote
NEMMP incentivizes High R&D
R&D Support university-industry
battery and energy R&D costs
collaborations
Inconsistent
Green FAME II and GST Standardize subsidies
subsidies
Incentives reductions nationally
across states
Establish recycling centers,
Environmental Battery recycling Low recycling
incentivize battery take-
Responsibility mandated rates
backs

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 BURNING ISSUE #7

Myanmar’s Civil
War Can India Secure Its Strategic
Interests Amidst the Chaos?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

India-Myanmar relations have faced increasing challenges following recent [UPSC 2013, GS-2] Discuss the political
decisions by the India to fence the India-Myanmar border. While approaching developments in Maldives in the last two years.
IR, we usually study neighborhood policies and bilateral relations between the Should they be of any cause of concern to India?
countries.
But what we conveniently miss out on is knowing the domestic crisis in [UPSC 2022, GS-2] India is an age-old friend of Sri
the neighbourhood and its impact on India’ bilateral relations. If you look Lanka.’ Discuss India’s role in the recent crisis in Sri
at PYQs, this is one area where UPSC has been constantly asking questions. Lanka the light of the preceding statement.
In light of this, we have analysed India-Myanmar relations in the context of
Myanmar Civil War. Microthemes: Neighbourhood, Bilateral Relations,

i n d i a - m ya n m a r r e l at i o n s
are navigating some rough waters, How did myanmar reach here ?
especially with India’s recent decision to fence the India-Myanmar Since a military coup in 2021, Myanmar is in crisis. A brutal civil war
border due to growing security concerns. This step comes amid rages between the junta, Ethnic Armed Organisations (EAOs), and the
ethnic clashes in Manipur and rising instability in Myanmar following People’s Defence Forces (PDFs). Armed resistance groups hold large
the 2021 military coup. Here’s a clear snapshot of where things territories, even controlling six major border trade routes. The junta’s
stand, our shared history, why Myanmar matters strategically violent suppression has displaced hundreds of thousands, creating a
to India, key areas of collaboration, and what lies ahead for this humanitarian emergency. The United Nations estimates 18.6 million
complex relationship. people need aid, including 6 million children.

The Crisis in Myanmar: Escalation Key Figures:

Since the 2021 Coup • UN estimates: 18.6 Million
The 2021 military coup in Myanmar intensified internal conflict in need of aid, including 6
as the military (Tatmadaw) seized power, detaining leaders of Million children.
the National League for Democracy (NLD), including Aung San • Refugee Influx in
Suu Kyi. This has spurred an armed resistance involving Ethnic India: 54,100 Myanmar
Armed Organizations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs), nationals, especially
especially in the Chin and Sagaing regions. The junta’s crackdown in border states like
on dissent has displaced thousands, creating a significant refugee Mizoram, Manipur, and
influx in India, particularly affecting Mizoram and Manipur. Nagaland.

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Phase Description Details
Parliamentary
Democracy Phase Post-Independence Myanmar (formerly Burma) gained independence from British rule in 1948, establishing a
Democratic Setup parliamentary democracy.

First Phase of
Military Rule Military Coup and In 1962, General Ne Win led a coup, establishing a military dictatorship with the Burma
Dictatorship Socialist Programme Party (BSPP) as the sole political entity.

Phase of Political Internal Military In 1988, General Saw Maung seized control, overthrowing the BSPP amid economic decline
Conflict within Conflict and and corruption, continuing military rule under the State Peace and Development Council
the Military Overthrow (SPDC).
Phase of Demo-
cratic Transition Elections and In 2010, the SPDC held elections, leading to a quasi-civilian government. Aung San Suu Kyi’s
Civilian Governance National League for Democracy (NLD) won the 2015 elections.

Current Military The NLD’s landslide victory in the 2020 elections led to concerns within the military
Coup and Civilian Military Coup in
(Tatmadaw), which alleged electoral fraud and staged a coup in February 2021, detaining
Armed Struggle 2021
Aung San Suu Kyi and other leaders, sparking widespread protests.
Anti-Junta Armed
Struggle Resistance and Various Ethnic Armed Organizations (EAOs) and People’s Defence Forces (PDFs) intensified
Conflict Escalation resistance, leading to escalating armed conflicts nationwide.

Massive Influx of Ongoing conflicts, especially in Myanmar’s Chin and Sagaing regions, have led to a
Refugees into India Humanitarian and
significant refugee influx into Indian states like Mizoram and Manipur, sparking concerns
Security Challenges
over ethnic clashes, drug trafficking, and smuggling, straining India-Myanmar relations.

Unravelling India-Myanmar Ties

Historical Ties
• Colonial Era: Both were part of British India until 1935.
• Post-Independence: India and Myanmar signed a
Treaty of Friendship in 1951.
• Recent Relations: Myanmar joined India’s
“Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policies in 2014.

Key Areas of Cooperation

India-Myanmar relations cover diverse sectors, from
infrastructure to defense, that are pivotal to India’s
regional ambitions and security.

Area Details and Examples

Trade increased from $12.4 million
Trade and in 1980 to $2.18 billion in 2017;
Economy Myanmar benefits from duty-free
access for LDCs.
Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit
Connectivity Transport Project; Tamu-Kalewa-
Projects Kalemyo highway; India-Myanmar-
Thailand Highway.

Joint exercises (IMBEX), Operation

Defense
Sunrise for border security and
Cooperation
counter-insurgency.

ASEAN, BIMSTEC, and Mekong-

Multilateral Ganga Cooperation, leveraging
Engagement Myanmar’s position to bridge South
and Southeast Asia.

Assistance in disasters (Cyclone

Humanitar-
Mora 2017, COVID-19), development
ian Aid
support for agriculture, education.

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Challenges in India-Myanmar Relations
Challenges Description Examples
India’s Policy India faces a dilemma between supporting democracy and addressing Balancing relations with the Myanmar
Paradox on internal security concerns. India engages with the junta to control military for border security while promoting
Myanmar Coup insurgent groups, yet supports federal democracy in Myanmar. democratic governance.
Misuse of Free Cross-border illegal trade, weapons
The Free Movement Regime is exploited by militants and criminals for
Movement smuggling, and movement of fake Indian
smuggling weapons, contraband, and counterfeit currency.
Regime currency.
Violence in Myanmar has led over 54,100 Myanmar nationals to seek Influx of refugees in Arunachal Pradesh,
Refugee Influx
refuge in Indian states, raising security concerns. Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland.
Northeast The Myanmar-China border harbors local armed groups and
Activities of ULFA (Assam), NSCN (Nagaland),
Insurgency and Indian insurgents; Myanmar’s Golden Triangle is notorious for drug
and the Golden Triangle drug trade.
Drug Menace trafficking.
China’s Inroads China’s influence grows through investments in Myanmar’s China-Myanmar Economic Corridor and
in Myanmar infrastructure and economy, increasing its regional presence. investments in Myanmar’s infrastructure.
Delays in
Regional Prolonged delays in connectivity projects have weakened trust Kaladan Multimodal Connectivity Project
Connectivity between India and Myanmar. facing extended completion delays.
Projects

The Path Forward: India’s Strategy

To navigate the complex dynamics with Myanmar, India can adopt
a balanced approach emphasizing diplomacy, security, and regional
connectivity:

1. Support for Democracy and Human 4. Accelerating Infrastructure Projects: Conclusion

Rights: India should advocate for India must expedite connectivity projects, India-Myanmar relations are at a
democratic restoration, supporting especially the Kaladan and Trilateral crossroads, impacted by the Myanmar
ASEAN’s Five-Point Consensus while Highways, to solidify its presence and crisis, regional security, and the
ensuring stability in Myanmar. improve trust. strategic rivalry with China. By
2. Engagement with Multiple Stakeholders: 5. S
 trengthening Security Measures: promoting inclusive development,
Diplomatic outreach to all factions in Coordinated efforts on intelligence-sharing counter-insurgency measures,
Myanmar, including ethnic groups, can and border security are vital to counter and democratic support, India
foster stability and strengthen India’s role insurgencies and manage migration issues. can effectively balance its regional
as a mediator. 6. Humanitarian Assistance and Solidarity: interests and its commitment to
3. Leveraging Regional Platforms: Demonstrating support through aid stability in Myanmar. These steps will
Partnering with ASEAN and other regional programs, particularly in health and not only fortify bilateral ties but will
bodies will enhance peace efforts and education, strengthens India’s rapport also position India as a significant
foster broader cooperation for stability in with Myanmar’s people and aids regional player in Southeast Asia’s future,
Myanmar. stability. embodying its Act East vision.

Back2Basics
Significance of Myanmar for India
Significance Description Examples
Myanmar serves as India’s gateway to Southeast Asia and Development of the India-Myanmar-Thailand
Geo-strategic
supports the development of Northeast India. It is a key pillar of (IMT) trilateral highway and Kaladan Multi-
Importance
India’s “Neighborhood First” and “Act East” policies. Modal Transit Transport (KMMTT) corridor.
Tackling In-
Myanmar’s cooperation is crucial to control insurgent groups, Myanmar’s collaboration in controlling Naga
surgency in
such as ISCN-K and ISCN-IM, which have bases inside Myanmar. insurgency.
Northeast
India’s development of the Sittwe port in
Counter- Myanmar plays a strategic role in countering China’s growing
Myanmar’s Rakhine state as a counter to
ing China influence in Southeast Asia.
China’s Kyaukpyu port.
Reduction of A stable Myanmar helps mitigate illegal migration of Rohingya and Stabilizing regional migration flows to limit
Illegal Migration Chin communities into India. illegal migration to India.
Shared Buddhist heritage strengthens cultural bonds between Buddhism as the majority religion in Myanmar,
Cultural Ties
India and Myanmar. linking cultural roots with India.

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 BURNING ISSUE #8

India’s Fertilizer
Crisis
Can It Break Free from Global Supply
Chain Vulnerabilities?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

[UPSC 2021, GS-3] What is the present challenges before

Due to global conflicts, India faces critical challenges in crop diversification? How do emerging technologies provide an
securing its fertilizer supply, bringing the fertilizer sector back opportunity for crop diversification?
into focus. PYQs have highlighted various agricultural supply
chain issues, including irrigation and crop diversification. But [UPSC 2024, GS-3] What are the major challenges faced by
this war hits global supply chains in more ways than one. Indian irrigation system in recent times? State the measures taken
by the government for efficient irrigation management.
As an aspirant, you can include fertilizer and agri problems in a
globalization/ supply chain-related question. The Back2basics Microthemes: Tech in Agri Production and Marketing;
section gives you 5 perennial challenges in the Indian Fertilizer Cropping pattern
sector that are not available in standard recourses. Make notes!

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Impact of Global Conflicts on the India’s Current Fertilizer Scenario
Fertilizer Market
Worldwide impacts: 1.Dependency on Imports: 3.Impact of Global Crises:
1. Market Instability: Conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza disrupt global fertilizer a) India’s domestic fertilizer a) Conflicts in Ukraine and
market stability, particularly impacting oil-based fertilizer prices production does not meet Gaza lead to oil price
2. Supply Chain Disruptions: Ongoing conflicts hinder supply chains, demand, leading to high hikes, affecting petroleum-
notably affecting fertilizer imports from Russia, a key supplier for India import dependency. based fertilizers. Supply
3. Price Volatility: Geopolitical tensions lead to higher oil prices, • Urea: 20% imported disruptions from countries
which in turn raise fertilizer costs as they are often by-products of • Diammonium Phosphate like Russia strain India’s
petroleum (DAP): 50-60% imported import channels.
• Muriate of Potash (MOP): 4.High Fertilizer Demand:
Its effects on India: 100% imported a) High demand for fertilizers
1. Rising Import Costs: Increased global fertilizer prices elevate India’s b) 2023 Standing Committee during India’s rabi season,
import costs, straining the subsidy budget. Recommendation: Increase especially in states with
2. Potential Supply Constraints: India’s reliance on imports from domestic production to wheat cultivation.
conflict-affected regions like Russia and West Asia (including the reduce import dependence b) Some states, like Uttar
Middle East) poses risks of reduced fertilizer availability. Pradesh, report only 10
3. Budget Strain: India’s fertilizer subsidy allocation for 2023-24 2.Production vs. days’ worth of fertilizer
was ₹1.79 lakh crore, with substantial amounts dedicated to both Consumption: stock, raising concerns
indigenous and imported fertilizers. a) In 2021-22, India produced about availability.
4. Need for Self-Reliance: The conflicts highlight the necessity for 435.95 LMT but consumed
India to boost domestic production, promote alternatives like nano 579.67 LMT of chemical
urea, and adopt sustainable practices such as natural farming fertilizers

Steps Taken by India to Ensure Fertiliser Security

Category Measure Details
Domestic One Nation One Fertiliser Unified branding under “Bharat” reduces competition and transportation costs.
Measures Scheme
PM-Kisan Samruddhi 600+ centers offering seeds, fertilisers, soil testing, and agricultural tools nationwide.
Kendras (PM-KSK)
Subsidy Programs ₹2.56 lakh crore (2022-23) doubled subsidies under Urea and Nutrient-Based Subsidy (NBS)
schemes.
Boosting Domestic Revival of urea plants in Gorakhpur, Talcher, Barauni, etc., with an expected output of 6.5
Production million tonnes/year.
Nano-Urea Production Target of 5 million tonnes by 2025 to reduce reliance on traditional urea imports.
Enforcement Measures Fertiliser Flying Squad seized 70,000+ counterfeit urea bags to curb illegal trade and
black marketing.
International Import Diversification Fertiliser imports from Russia increased by 323.8% in 2022-23, reducing dependence on
Efforts China.
Long-Term Agreements Deals with Morocco (TSP and DAP), Saudi Arabia (phosphatic fertilisers), Jordan, Israel,
and Canada (MOP).
Investments in Mineral- Indian firms acquired stakes in Senegal’s rock phosphate reserves.
Rich Nations
Favorable Pricing from Benefited from Russian discounts and quotas, securing cost-effective imports.
Russia
Subsidies and Targeted Subsidies Urea and NBS subsidies ensure stable domestic prices despite international disruptions.
Financing PM PRANAM Scheme Promotes organic fertilizers and alternative nutrients with state-level incentives.
Infrastructure Expanded Testing and Development of nationwide testing centers and improved logistics for timely availability.
Development Distribution

Way Forward
1. Reduce Import Dependency: Strengthen 3. Diversify Supplier Base: Continue 5. C
 limate-Resilient Agriculture: Invest in
domestic fertilizer production through exploring long-term collaborations with sustainable farming practices to address
technological advancements, nano-urea mineral-rich nations to ensure supply the twin challenges of fertilizer demand
expansion, and reviving idle plants. stability. and climate change.
2. Promote Sustainable Practices: 4. Rationalize Subsidies: Implement targeted 6. I nfrastructure Development: Expand
Encourage balanced nutrient management subsidies to manage fiscal burdens testing and distribution networks,
and organic fertilizers to reduce over- effectively. especially in underserved regions.
reliance on chemical fertilizers.

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Back2Basics
Types of Fertilizers
Fertilizers can be categorized based on the nutrients they provide:

Category Description Examples

Supply essential nutrients like nitrogen, Urea (Nitrogen), DAP (Phosphorus),

Primary Fertilizers
phosphorous, potassium MOP (Potassium)

Secondary Fertilizers Provide other macronutrients, excluding N, P, K Sulphur

Micronutrient Fertilizers Provide essential micronutrients Iron, Zinc

Challenge Description Example

India heavily depends on importing raw India imports about 90% of its phosphatic and potassic
Dependency
materials, making the country vulnerable to fertilizers. During the 2022 Ukraine-Russia conflict, there were
on Imports
fluctuations in prices and supply. sharp price hikes due to supply disruptions.

Excessive use of urea leads to soil health From 2010 to 2020, urea use rose by 24%. States like Punjab
Imbalanced
issues by depleting essential nutrients like reported reduced soil fertility and crop yields due to overuse of
Fertilizer Use
phosphorus and potassium. urea.

Fertilizer subsidies put a heavy strain on

In 2022-23, fertilizer subsidies reached ₹2.25 lakh crore, with
Subsidy Burden government finances and often do not reach
inefficiencies causing high leakage and wastage in distribution.
the intended farmers effectively.

Overuse of fertilizers causes soil Excess nitrogen from urea runoff pollutes rivers and groundwater.
Environmen-
degradation, water pollution, and contributes India is one of the largest emitters of nitrous oxide due to
tal Impact
to greenhouse gas emissions. fertilizer overuse.

Bio-fertilizers and nano-fertilizers are Despite government support, bio-fertilizers account for only
Slow Adoption
underused due to low awareness and limited about 2% of total fertilizer use. The adoption of nano-urea has
of Alternatives
incentives for farmers to switch. been slow due to limited awareness and distribution.

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 BURNING ISSUE #9

Healthy
Longevity
Initiative
Can It Address
India’s Growing
Elderly Healthcare
Challenges?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The World Bank recently released a report on Healthy [UPSC 2019, GS-1] “Empowering women is the key to control
Longevity. This is important from 2 aspects- Firstly, UPSC population growth”. Discuss.
focuses on demographic groups (women, children etc.) and
Secondly, issues of the old-aged are bound to appear in the [UPSC 2024, GS-1] What is the concept of a ‘demographic
coming years as in 2024. In this respect, we have analysed winter’? Is the world moving towards such a situation? Elaborate.
a specific issue- Health of elderly. We have also analysed the
generic issues of elderly with specific examples and data points. Microthemes: Population and associated issues

the world bank released a report in

Category Issues Details/Examples
September 2024 titled Unlocking the Power of
Healthy Longevity: Demographic Change, Non- Health Risks for Age-related diseases and NCDs are expected
communicable Diseases, and Human Capital. the Elderly to surge with the growing elderly population,
It focuses on key issues affecting well-being, straining healthcare systems.
including aging populations, non-communicable
diseases, and human capital development. Lack of adequate Chronic disease treatment is hindered by
Public Health underdeveloped healthcare infrastructure,
Infra. particularly in rural areas.
Key Findings of the Report:
• Aging and NCD Burden: Global aging is Hospital Rising Healthcare Medical expenses for elderly care, especially
accelerating, with non-communicable diseases Expenses Costs chronic and long-term care, are escalating, with
(NCDs) causing over 70% of deaths, especially private hospitals charging exorbitant fees.
in low- and middle-income countries.
• Potential Life Savings: Investing in healthy Inaccessibility of Geographic and economic barriers delay
longevity could save 150 million lives and Healthcare diagnosis and treatment for many elderly
significantly improve productivity and individuals.
economic growth by 2050.
Life-Course Health Investments: Addressing Social Limited Coverage Schemes like Ayushman Bharat aim to help
health from maternal to elderly care, with a Security underprivileged populations but often fail to
focus on NCD prevention, is essential for Schemes sufficiently support the elderly. For example,The
promoting healthier aging populations. coverage is limited to 5 lakhs as a family floater.
• Gender & Social Equity: Women, who often This amount limit will be shared between family
bear caregiving responsibilities and live longer members who are part of the same family.
with NCDs, require targeted health and social
protections to ensure equity in aging. Vulnerable Elderly without formal employment or savings
• The Growing Burden: Elderly Healthcare Groups face financial distress from healthcare expenses
Struggles in India and inadequate social security.

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Challenges Hindering Steps taken by the Indian Government:
Healthy Longevity in India • National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE):
This program aims to provide comprehensive healthcare services
Healthy Lon- Challenges in India specifically tailored for older adults.
gevity Pillar • National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP): Aimed at providing
financial assistance to the elderly who are below the poverty line
Treat •Limited access to timely diagnosis • Maintenance and Welfare of Senior Citizens Act, 2007: This act
Non-Com- and treatment mandates maintenance and welfare provisions for senior citizens.
municable •Underdeveloped healthcare • Atal Vayo Abhyuday Yojana (AVYAY): A scheme focused on promoting
Diseases Early infrastructure, particularly in rural the welfare of senior citizens through various support services.
areas. • Elderline: A national helpline established to assist elderly individuals in
accessing information and services related to their needs
Make Health •Rising healthcare costs
Services •Dependence on private hospitals, and Way forward:
Affordable •High out-of-pocket expenses. • Enhance and Expand Social Security Coverage: Strengthen existing
social security schemes like Ayushman Bharat to ensure comprehensive
Expand Long- •Lack of elderly-friendly facilities like
health insurance and pension coverage for elderly populations, particularly
Term Care purpose-built old-age homes.
in rural and low-income areas. This can help alleviate financial strain from
Options •Insufficient long-term care policies.
healthcare costs.
Leverage the •Inadequate digital infrastructure. • Invest in Geriatric Healthcare Infrastructure: Improve healthcare
Power of •Low awareness among the elderly facilities and services for the elderly, focusing on chronic disease
Health Data limit the collection and use of health management and accessible healthcare, especially in rural areas. This
data for targeted interventions. includes training healthcare workers in geriatric care and increasing the
availability of affordable long-term care options.

Back2Basics
Issues related to the Elderly Population in India:
Issues Explained Examples
Decline in capacity Decline in physical and mental capacities, Memory loss, immobility, diabetes, heart diseases, cataracts;
susceptibility to diseases, and rising health costs. COVID-19 impacts on elderly with comorbidities like
cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Lack of accessibility Lack of affordable, quality healthcare and elderly- Absence of ramps in hospitals, inadequate healthcare near
friendly infrastructure in hospitals and public homes, and slow administrative processes.
services.
Financial Challenges Limited financial security post-retirement and Only 10% of the workforce eligible for pensions; elderly
reliance on others for livelihood. working as laborers, rickshaw pullers, or vendors to survive.
Homelessness Homelessness caused by family conflicts, abuse, or 56,000 elderlies homeless in Delhi (2013); forced
socio-economic struggles. homelessness due to property disputes or abuse in states
like Kerala.
Social Isolation Emotional neglect, lack of companionship, and Elder abuse: disrespect (79%), verbal abuse (76%), and
abuse by family members. neglect (69%) (HelpAge India Report 2013); sons and
daughters-in-law as primary abusers.
Physical Poor access to elderly-friendly facilities in public Lack of wheelchair access in public transport, elevators at
Infrastructure and private spaces. railway stations, and seating facilities in malls and offices.
Gender- Older women face additional disadvantages due Widowed women losing financial independence; longer
Specific Challenges to widowhood, gender bias, and lack of property lifespan leading to extended financial and emotional
rights. vulnerability.
Urban vs. Urban older women experience more social Urban women isolated in nuclear families; rural women
Rural Dynamics alienation, while rural women have limited but benefiting marginally from joint family systems.
better family support.
Policy and Admin- Insufficient awareness and outreach for elderly Illiteracy, language barriers, digital divide, and unhelpful
istrative Failures welfare programs. officials preventing access to benefits like pensions or
health schemes.
Abuse and Neglect Physical and mental abuse by family members and NCRB (2015): 20,532 IPC crimes against senior citizens,
society; social discrimination. including murder, extortion, and grievous hurt.
Old-Age Neglect of women’s health due to societal Hidden health issues due to cultural practices keeping older
Female Health norms, financial dependence, and limited public women confined to homes; lack of access to healthcare
interaction. facilities.

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 BURNING ISSUE #10

Urban Local Bodies in India

Can Financial and Staffing Gaps Undermine
Their Functionality?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

A recent CAG report has highlighted important trends [UPSC 2023, GS-2] The states in India seem reluctant to empower urban
about funds of ULBs. Funding of ULBs have appeared local bodies both func tionally as well as financially.
directly in 2023. The linkage of funding to functionality
was also explored in 2020. To keep your prep in line, we [UPSC 2020, GS-2] The strength and sustenance of local institutions in
have analysed the various trends of Municipal Finances India has shifted from their formative phase of ‘Functions, Functionaries
highlighted in the report and its related inferences. and Funds’ to the contemporary stage of ‘Functionality’. Highlight the
critical challenges faced by local institutions in terms of their functionality
The two systemic challenges in the article will help in recent times.
you attempt any specific question. The Principle of
Subsidiarity will give you that extra edge to add value Microthemes: Local Self Government
to your answer.

that urban local bodies in 18 states, serving 241 million people, face
t h e cag fou n d
a 42% gap between income and spending, with just 29% used for development work. State of Municipal Finances in India
Trend Details Inference
Revenue Fiscal transfers accounted for 50.22% of ULB revenue Heavy reliance on government transfers limits financial
Dependence (2015–2020), with own revenue contributing only 30.04%. autonomy and independent planning.
Delays in Fiscal Delays in grant disbursement, including short releases from Interruptions in fiscal transfers hinder timely execution
Transfers 14th Finance Commission funds, disrupted operations. of projects and service delivery.
Inefficient Revenue Poor recovery of property tax, advertisement fees, and user Weak enforcement and low institutional capacity
Collection charges (e.g., only 0.73% of SWM costs were recovered). prevent ULBs from optimizing revenue generation.
Unrealistic Budgets showed wide gaps, with actual income falling short Poor budget preparation and lack of scientific planning
Budgeting of estimates by 23% to 59% in some municipalities. lead to financial mismanagement and resource
wastage.
Underutiliza- ULBs utilized only 57% of available funds on average between Administrative delays and inefficiencies reduce the
tion of Funds 2015–2020. impact of available financial resources.
Dependency Development expenditure (34% of total spending) relied Over-dependence on external funding restricts ULBs’
on Grants for significantly on state and central grants. ability to pursue localized development initiatives.
Development
Manpower ULBs lack adequate trained staff for tax collection and Limited institutional capacity results in poor
Shortages efficient service delivery. governance and inadequate resource management.
Outdated Account- Cash-based, inconsistent accounting systems with no Weak accounting practices reduce transparency and
ing Practices standardized format undermine financial oversight. hinder effective financial planning and audits.

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SYSTEMIC CHALLENGE 1: Way Forward
Impact of Resource-expenditure gap • Enhancing Own Revenue Generation: ULBs should
• Reduced Development Expenditure: With only 29% of expenditure focus on improving their revenue generation capabilities,
directed toward programmatic and development work, the quality and particularly in property tax collection where they currently
quantity of essential urban services such as sanitation, housing, and realize only 56% of demand.
infrastructure suffer. a). Implementing technology-driven solutions like GIS
• Increased Dependence on Grants: Only 32% of urban local bodies’ for property assessments could enhance collection
(ULBs) revenue comes from their own sources, making them overly reliant efficiency.
on state and Union government transfers. This undermines their fiscal
autonomy. • Financial Management Training: Providing training for
• Poor Service Delivery: Insufficient resources hinder the ability of ULBs ULB officials on financial management could improve
to meet growing urban demands, exacerbating issues like inadequate budgeting practices, ensuring that funds are allocated
housing, poor waste management, and insufficient public health services. more effectively towards development projects.
• Impact on Urban Planning: The resource crunch constrains investment
in urban planning and critical services like fire safety, leading to unplanned • Strengthening Autonomy: Empowering ULBs with
growth and vulnerabilities. greater autonomy over recruitment and financial
decisions would enable them to respond more effectively
SYSTEMIC CHALLENGE 2: to local needs and improve service delivery.
Impact of 37% staff vacancy rate
• Operational Inefficiency: Vacant positions lead to delays in service • Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Encouraging
delivery, poor maintenance of urban infrastructure, and inefficiencies in partnerships with private entities can help leverage
governance. additional resources for urban development projects
• Overburdened Workforce: Existing staff must take on additional while sharing risks associated with large-scale
responsibilities, potentially leading to burnout and reduced productivity. investments.
• Limited Capacity for Resource Mobilization: Staff shortages in tax
collection departments result in only 56% of property tax demand being • Community Engagement Initiatives: Involving citizens
realised, reducing revenue potential. in budgetary processes can increase transparency and
• Weak Local Governance: Insufficient personnel to handle devolved accountability, potentially leading to better resource
functions hampers the implementation of policies and schemes meant for allocation aligned with community priorities.
urban development.

Back2Basics
Principle of Subsidiarity
The principle of subsidiarity ensures that governance and decision-making
happen at the lowest competent level to enhance efficiency and accountability.
The six components of subsidiarity and the performance of Urban Local Bodies
(ULBs) in India with respect to each are analyzed below:

Component Description Performance of ULBs in India

Although the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act (1992)

1. Functional Responsibilities and powers should be clearly
mandates devolution of 18 functions to ULBs, most states have
Devolution delegated to local governments.
not fully devolved powers, leading to inefficiency.

ULBs are heavily reliant on state and central transfers, with poor
2. Financial Local governments should have adequate financial
revenue-raising capacity from property taxes or user charges,
Autonomy resources to perform their functions.
limiting autonomy.

3. Institution- Local governments must have the institutional Most ULBs face severe staffing shortages, lack skilled personnel,
al Capacity mechanisms and manpower to deliver services. and have weak planning and implementation capacities.

Mechanisms like ward committees and area sabhas exist but

4. Participatory Citizens should be involved in local decision-
are often dysfunctional, leading to poor public participation in
Governance making processes.
governance.

5. Account- Many ULBs lack robust accountability mechanisms, with opaque

Local bodies should be accountable for their
ability and financial management and limited social audits undermining
actions and ensure transparency in operations.
Transparency trust.

6. Local Ad- ULBs often implement centrally designed schemes without

Policies and programs should reflect local needs
aptation and customization, which fails to address unique local urban problems
and innovate based on specific urban challenges.
Innovation effectively.

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 BURNING ISSUE #11

India-Middle East-Europe
Corridor (IMEC) What Challenges & Opportunities
Lie Ahead for India?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

[UPSC 2022, GS-2] How will I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE and USA) grouping
Big global projects like IMEC are shaking up how
transform India’s position in global politics ?
countries trade and connect. If you’ve seen questions
on I2U2 or AUKUS in exams, it’s clear there’s a
[UPSC 2021, GS-2] The newly tri-nation partnership AUKUS is aimed
big focus on India’s role in these global teams.
at countering China’s ambi tions in the Indo-Pacific region. Is it going to
This article breaks it down in a simple, real-world
supersede the existing partnerships in the region? Discuss the strength and
way—no fluff, just solid basics (Back2Basics) that
impact of AUKUS in the present scenario.
link concepts to what’s actually happening.We dive
deep into IMEC to show the real challenges and
[UPSC 2020, GS-2] ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad)’ is transforming
opportunities in these mega-collaborations. Plus, we
itself into a trade bloc from a military alliance, in present times. Discuss.
highlight how these efforts would revamp regional
partnerships, boost economies, and put India in the
Microthemes: Groupings beyond South Asia, Groupings involving
driver’s seat for global supply chains.
Immediate and Extended neighbours

the india-middle east-europe About IMEC (India-Middle Objectives:

corridor (imec), announced at the East-Europe Corridor) •S  trengthen regional partnerships
2023 G20 Summit, aims to reduce travel IMEC is a major trade route connecting India, through improved infrastructure, energy
time by 40% and costs by 30%. Once the Middle East, and Europe to enhance grids, and digital connectivity.
operational, it is expected to transform trade efficiency. Launched during the 2023 • Offer an alternative to traditional
global shipping dynamics. G20 Summit, it aims to cut transit time and maritime routes like the Suez Canal.
transportation costs.

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Current Challenges Facing IMEC
1. Geopolitical Tensions: The 2. Slow Progress in West Asia: 3. Incomplete Infrastructure 4. O
 rganizational and Logisti-
Israel-Palestine conflict (Oct Connectivity efforts are Development: Delays in imple- cal Challenges: Absence of
2023) has delayed progress on sluggish, especially in integrat- menting clean energy exports, a centralized governing body,
the corridor’s western segment. ing infrastructure and trade undersea fiber-optic cables, such as an IMEC Secretari-
Countries like Saudi Arabia and processes across key stake- and telecommunications at, creates inefficiencies in
Jordan face political and optics holders. infrastructure due to instability cross-border trade coordi-
challenges in collaborating with in West Asia. nation.
Israel.

Challenges India faces in multi-country connectivity projects

Challenge Description Examples
1. Geopolitical Regional conflicts and political Chabahar Port: Sanctions on Iran and its tensions with the U.S.
Instability tensions can disrupt connectivity delayed development and constrained operations.
plans. Kaladan Project: Political unrest in Myanmar hindered progress.
2. Financial Constraints High costs of infrastructure North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC): Requires significant
development and reliance on external investments in railways and ports, with delayed implementation due to
funding. financial challenges.
3. Lack of Coordination Difficulty aligning priorities among BBIN Initiative: Bhutan’s withdrawal slowed implementation of motor
multiple stakeholders and countries. vehicle agreements, affecting seamless regional connectivity.
4. Infrastructural Gaps Poor domestic infrastructure limits India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway: Delay in completing road
India’s ability to connect with sections in India’s northeast due to terrain challenges and inadequate
international corridors. infrastructure.
5. Security Concerns Threats from terrorism, piracy, International North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC): Security risks in
and geopolitical rivalries can deter conflict zones like Afghanistan and instability in Central Asia.
projects. Chabahar: Proximity to volatile regions creates vulnerability.

Implications of IMEC on Regional Way Forward

Cooperation and Economic Growth 1. Strengthen Geopolitical Stability: Resolve regional tensions in
1. Strengthening India-UAE Relations: India and the UAE are West Asia to ensure smoother collaboration and accelerate the
leveraging frameworks like the Comprehensive Economic development of the western segment.
Partnership Agreement (CEPA) and the Virtual Trade Corridor to 2. D evelop an IMEC Secretariat: Establish a central governing
standardize trade processes, reduce costs, and simplify logistics. body to coordinate operations, facilitate cross-border trade, and
2. Improving Eastern Connectivity: Enhanced trade between guide infrastructure projects systematically.
India and the UAE focuses on non-oil trade diversification, 3. Invest in Regional Connectivity: Prioritize the development
improving regional integration. of eastern segments, focusing on modernizing infrastructure,
3. Capacity Building: India is investing in port infrastructure, standardizing trade practices, and integrating digital logistics.
logistics digitization, and economic zones to support the eastern 4. Encourage Multilateral Collaboration: Promote cooperation
segment and reduce trade barriers. among stakeholders to address delays and align objectives for
4. Potential Economic Integration: Once operational, IMEC will long-term economic growth.
create deeper economic ties across South Asia, the Middle East,
and Europe, reducing costs and fostering regional development.
5. Green Energy Transition: Plans for hydrogen pipelines and
renewable energy trade align with global decarbonization goals,
benefiting Europe and Gulf countries. IMEC has the potential
to redefine global trade
Implications of IMEC for Global
Trade Dynamics dynamics, providing a
1. Reduced Dependency on the Suez Canal: IMEC provides an
alternative to the Suez Canal, cutting transit time by 40% and
robust framework for
costs by 30%, diversifying trade routes.
2. India’s Role in Global Supply Chains: IMEC strengthens India’s
economic integration
position as a supply chain hub, aligning with its manufacturing
ambitions and improving export competitiveness. and sustainable
3. Reshaping Trade Infrastructure: The project introduces
comprehensive trade frameworks, including energy and digital development across
linkages, which could influence future global trade models.
4. Attracting Broader Participation: A future IMEC Secretariat South Asia, the Middle
East, and Europe.
could encourage more countries to join, amplifying the corridor’s
impact on international trade and cooperation.

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Back2Basics
Multi-country Connectivity Projects of India
Component Objective Examples (Other than IMEC)
Facilitate trade and Chabahar Port in Iran: Provides access to Afghanistan and Central Asia while bypassing
Economic investment, improve Pakistan.
Integration access to global India-ASEAN Connectivity: Initiatives like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway to
markets. strengthen Southeast Asian ties.
Create alternatives to North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC): Links India to Russia and Europe via Iran and
Strategic China-led initiatives Central Asia.
Counterbalance like the Belt and Road Mongolia Refinery Project: Helps Mongolia reduce reliance on China by developing its
Initiative (BRI). energy infrastructure with Indian support.
International Solar Alliance (ISA): Promotes global cooperation on renewable energy
Sustainable Ensure environmental
development.
and Inclusive sustainability and
Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Initiative: Focuses on sustainable regional
Development equitable development.
connectivity for shared prosperity.
Strengthen ties Asia-Africa Growth Corridor (AAGC): A joint initiative with Japan to enhance connectivity
Geopolitical with diverse global with Africa.
Diplomacy partners and foster Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
multilateralism. (BIMSTEC): Regional cooperation among South and Southeast Asian nations.
Diversify trade and Sagarmala Project: Focuses on port-led development to boost trade efficiency.
Multi-Alignment
partnerships, enhance Act East Policy: Strengthens trade and connectivity with Southeast Asia to reduce
and Resilience
supply chain resilience. dependence on specific nations like China.

Chabahar Port

NSTC

INDIA-ASEAN
Connectivity

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 BURNING ISSUE #12

Net Borrowing
Ceiling
A Barrier or a Boon
for India’s Fiscal
Federalism and State
Autonomy?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The theme of Indian Federalismhas consistently featured in UPSC’s [UPSC 2015, GS-2] The concept of cooperative federalism has
question papers, reflecting. Consider questions like, IN 2015 OR been increasingly emphasized in recent years. Highlight the
2020. These questions emphasize the need for aspirants to explore drawbacks in the existing structure and the extent to which
not only the conceptual foundations but also the contemporary cooperative federalism would answer the shortcomings.
challenges of federalism in India. In this edition, we anchor our
discussion around the Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) case—a live [UPSC 2020, GS-2] How far do you think cooperation,
example showcasing the delicate interplay between fiscal federalism competition and confrontation have shaped the nature of
and SC judgement. By integrating the various components of Fiscal federation in India? Cite some recent examples to validate your
Federalism with the BACK2BASICS framework, we bridge the gap answer.
between theory and practice, ensuring aspirants are equipped to
navigate PYQs and tackle emerging themes effectively. Microthemes: Nature of Indian Federalism

the supreme court of India is currently reviewing a case filed by Constitutional Provisions on
the Kerala government challenging the Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) Borrowing Powers
imposed by the central government. This case raises critical issues The Constitution outlines the borrowing powers of the Union and
surrounding federalism and fiscal autonomy, particularly regarding states under Chapter II of Part XII:
the borrowing powers of state governments.
1. Article 266(2):
What is the Net Borrowing Ceiling (NBC)? •Stipulates that all government revenue must be credited to the
The NBC is a fiscal policy tool imposed by the central government to Consolidated Fund of India or the Consolidated Fund of the State.
regulate the borrowing capacity of state governments. •Suggests that certain state revenues outside these funds may not
be included in borrowing limit calculations.
Key Features: 2. Article 292:
1. Borrowing Limit: For FY 2023–24, the NBC is set at 3% of the •Empowers the central government to borrow against the
Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP), as recommended by the Consolidated Fund of India.
Fifteenth Finance Commission. 3. Article 293:
2. Inclusions: Encompasses all forms of borrowing, including: •Allows states to borrow against their own Consolidated Funds but
•Loans from financial institutions mandates prior central consent if previous loans are outstanding.
•Open market borrowings 4. Entry 43 of the State List:
•Liabilities from public accounts of states •Grants states the authority to legislate on public debt, indicating
Extends to borrowings by state-owned enterprises (SOEs) serviced autonomy over financial matters.
through state budgets to prevent bypassing borrowing limits.

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As the Case unfolded: Key Points Way Forward
Without reforms to the current borrowing
Kerala’s Position framework, states like Kerala may face severe
Violation The National Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) undermines Kerala’s financial constraints, jeopardizing essential
of Fiscal constitutional autonomy and the federal principles enshrined in the expenditures and developmental goals.
Federalism Constitution. Recommendations:
1. Decentralized Fiscal Governance:
State- Kerala argues that borrowing limits should be flexible, enabling •C  reate a balanced framework that
Specific states to address their unique financial situations. empowers states to address local needs
Needs while maintaining national fiscal discipline.
Union Government’s Defense 2. Reinforce Cooperative Federalism:
•Ensure fiscal policies respect state
Uniform The Union government states that borrowing limits are based on autonomy, promoting collaboration between
Framework Finance Commission recommendations and applied uniformly the Centre and states.
across all states.
Fiscal The Union argues that Kerala’s financial crisis is a result of fiscal The ongoing legal discourse on NBC
Discipline mismanagement over decades and that exceptions could set a underscores the need to address broader issues
dangerous precedent for other states. of fiscal decentralization and redefine the
balance of power between state and central
Supreme Court’s Interim Ruling governments in India.
No The Court declined to grant interim relief, stating that Kerala’s
Immediate
Relief
financial difficulties cannot be solely blamed on the NBC.
Back2Basics
Broader The Court warned that additional funds to Kerala could negatively FISCAL FEDERALISM
Implications impact the national fiscal health, despite Kerala receiving substantial
relief during its crisis. What does Fiscal Federalism
truly mean ?
1. F - Fiscal Autonomy: Assess the degree of
Impact of Borrowing Restrictions on Fiscal Federalism fiscal independence each level of government
has. Are there constraints on state revenue
Aspect Analysis of Supreme Court Judgment and NBC Framework generation or spending? How flexible is the
of Fiscal financial framework for regional governments?
Federalism 2. E  – Equity: Look at the fairness of revenue
F - Fiscal The National Borrowing Ceiling (NBC) restricts states’ fiscal autonomy distribution among states. Are fiscal policies
Autonomy by requiring central approval for borrowing, limiting their ability to promoting equitable development, or do
address unique financial needs. Kerala contends that this undermines certain regions face systemic disadvantages?
federal principles and hampers its capacity to manage regional Consider measures like vertical and
priorities. The Supreme Court’s refusal for interim relief highlights the horizontal equity in resource allocation.
need for balancing state autonomy with national fiscal discipline. 3. D – Devolution: Examine the extent to which
power and resources are devolved from the
E - Equity Kerala argues that the uniform application of NBC ignores states’ Centre to the States. This includes analyzing
differing financial conditions, with wealthier states better able to the role of Finance Commissions and
comply. The Court highlighted Kerala’s prior central aid, suggesting that intergovernmental transfers in empowering
state-specific adjustments might be needed for fairness instead of a states.
blanket policy. 4. E – Efficiency: Evaluate the economic
D- Borrowing decisions remain centralized, limiting states’ control efficiency of the current fiscal federal
Devolution over financial strategies. Kerala’s challenge to NBC calls for more structure. How effectively does it minimize
decentralization to address local needs, with states feeling excluded waste, and are funds allocated to maximize
from shaping borrowing policies. social welfare and economic growth?
5. R  - Revenue Sharing: Analyze the
E- NBC aims for fiscal discipline, but Kerala argues rigid limits hinder
mechanisms of revenue sharing. Are the
Efficiency investment in infrastructure and services. Restrictions on entities like
methods of tax devolution and grants-in-
KIIFB delay development, counteracting the goal of maximizing social
aid well-structured? How do cesses and
welfare.
surcharges outside the divisible pool affect
R - Revenue Kerala relies heavily on central transfers, reflecting the imbalance the fiscal health of states?
Sharing in resource allocation. The NBC forces states to seek more central 6. A – Accountability: Investigate
support, weakening fiscal federalism and promoting dependency accountability structures at various levels.
instead of self-sufficiency. Are local governments answerable to citizens
A- Central control over borrowing reduces state accountability to for financial decisions? Are intergovernmental
Account- citizens, as states can’t fully address regional needs. The Court transfers tied to performance metrics, and is
ability suggests balancing national fiscal health with local priorities to ensure there fiscal transparency?
responsible borrowing. 7. L – Legitimacy: Assess the perceived
legitimacy of the fiscal federalism framework.
L- Kerala’s legal challenge highlights concerns over NBC infringing Do states and citizens see the system as
Legitimacy on constitutional rights and federalism. The Court’s interim ruling just and representative? Are institutions like
emphasizes balancing fiscal responsibility with state autonomy, the Finance Commission and GST Council
suggesting reforms to Article 293 for better governance. perceived as fair arbitrators?

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 BURNING ISSUE #13

CBAM How India could

counter the CBAM?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) [UPSC 2017, GS-2] The question of India’s Energy Security constitutes the
is a European Union (EU) tariff on carbon most important part of India’s economic progress. Analyze India’s energy policy
intensive products. Candidates often fail to focus cooperation with West Asian Countries.
on interlinking key concepts like trade, diplomacy,
and climate policies, leading to superficial [UPSC 2019, GS-2] The long-sustained image of India as a leader of the
answers. oppressed and marginalised nations has disappeared on account of its new
found role in the emerging global order”. Elaborate.
This article explores these aspects through
impact of CBAM on India’s industries and role of [UPSC 2024, GS-2] The West is fostering India as an alternative to reduce
International Cooperation in Addressing CBAM dependence on China’s supply chain and as a strategic ally to counter China’s
Challenges. The Back2Basics section explores political and economic dominance.’ Explain this statement with examples.
the effect of CBAM on other countries to give you
clarity on concepts. Microthemes: Geo-politics affecting India’s Interest

I n d i a h a s c a l l e d protectionist policies like the EU’s Carbon Border

Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence
Directive, and Deforestation Regulation as “unfair” and “unjust”.

Impact of CBAM on India’s 3. Vulnerability of the Iron and Steel 5. T

 echnological and Sustainability
industries Sector: The iron and steel sector, Demands: To mitigate the impact, Indian
1. Disruption to Trade: CBAM targets accounting for 76.83% of India’s exports industries will need to invest in carbon
key sectors like iron, steel, aluminum, affected by CBAM, is at the highest risk. Its capture technologies, renewable energy,
cement, and fertilizers, which constitute a carbon-intensive nature makes compliance and process efficiency improvements.
significant share of India’s exports to the costly, and the sector could experience These changes require significant financial
EU. With tariffs ranging from 20-35%, these a steep decline in EU-bound exports, and infrastructural resources, posing a
industries face reduced demand in one impacting revenues for major players like challenge, particularly for MSMEs.
of their major markets, threatening trade Tata Steel and JSW Steel. 6. O
 pportunity for Green Transition: While
revenues and market stability. 4. Economic Strain on Developing CBAM presents immediate hurdles, it
2. Increased Export Costs and Compliance Economies: The imposition of CBAM could serve as a catalyst for long-term
Challenges: Indian exporters will need creates additional economic pressure sustainability. Indian industries may be
to purchase carbon emission certificates on developing nations like India. Without incentivized to adopt greener practices,
under CBAM, significantly raising adequate support or a longer transition invest in renewable energy, and align with
production costs. The added compliance period, industries may struggle to adapt, global decarbonization goals, fostering
requirements could make Indian goods less exacerbating financial challenges and resilience in the face of stricter climate
competitive in the global market compared reducing their global competitiveness. regulations.
to low-carbon or EU-produced alternatives.

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This multifaceted impact underscores the need for strategic action to address
CBAM challenges while leveraging opportunities for sustainable growth.

Role of International Cooperation in Addressing CBAM Challenges

Aspect Role of International Cooperation Examples
Technology Sharing low-carbon and decarbonization technologies can help EU-India partnership on clean energy, joint development
Transfer Indian industries meet emissions standards more efficiently. of carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies.
Financial Providing financial support to developing countries for transitioning to Green Climate Fund (GCF) under the Paris Agreement,
Assistance green technologies and meeting compliance costs. EU’s funding for renewable energy projects in India.
Capacity Training and skill development programs for industries in developing EU technical assistance to India for carbon footprint
Building nations to adapt to carbon accounting and compliance requirements. assessment and CBAM compliance training.
Policy Engaging in diplomatic talks to ensure CBAM is implemented India-EU negotiations on CBAM to address its impact on
Dialogue fairly and with exemptions or support for vulnerable economies. Indian exports, WTO discussions on fair trade practices.
Trade Revising trade agreements to factor in the unique challenges Exploring carbon-equivalent adjustments in India-EU free
Agreements faced by developing nations due to CBAM. trade agreements (FTA) to mitigate CBAM’s economic
strain on Indian exports.
Collaborative Joint research initiatives to explore sustainable practices and EU-India Horizon 2020 program on renewable energy
Research low-carbon substitutes for industrial processes. and sustainable manufacturing innovations.

Way Forward Conclusion:

• Coordination with Other Developing Countries: India should align its India should actively engage with other developing countries
arguments with other developing economies to present a unified stance, and form a coalition to present a unified front against the
ensuring a coordinated response to the EU-CBAM that reflects shared discriminatory nature of CBAM. This could involve joint
concerns. lobbying at international forums such as the UNFCCC and
• Arguing for Adequate Time for Adaptation: India can argue that COP summits.
developing nations should be given sufficient time to adapt to the CBAM,

Back2Basics
similar to the EU’s phased climate targets, to avoid disproportionate burden.
• Revenue Sharing: India can advocate for the EU to share the revenues
generated from CBAM with non-EU countries to support capacity building,
technology transfer, & emission reduction initiatives in developing nations. About CBAM
• Equity-Based Accounting (EBA) Proposal: India can push for a more CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) is a
equitable framework for emission reductions, suggesting the adoption of proposed policy by the European Union (EU) aimed at
an EBA that takes into account historical contributions to climate change, addressing carbon leakage, ensuring that imported goods
trade benefits, & the developmental needs of nations. face a similar carbon cost as those produced within the EU.
• Highlighting the CBAM’s Discriminatory Nature: India should emphasize The mechanism requires companies that export goods
that CBAM imposes an unjust transfer of climate responsibilities to to the EU from non-EU countries to purchase carbon
developing countries without considering their economic realities or certificates, reflecting the carbon emissions involved in the
historical emissions. production of these goods.
This is intended to create a level playing field for EU
industries that have to meet strict carbon emissions
How Does CBAM Impact Other regulations.
Countries’ Carbon Pricing Systems?
1.Undermines Other Carbon Pricing Systems: CBAM sets a global
benchmark by recognizing only the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) or
equivalent mechanisms. This can devalue other countries’ unique climate
policies, making their efforts seem less credible or impactful on the global stage.
2.Adds Burden on Developing Countries: Many developing
nations lack the resources and infrastructure to meet CBAM’s
complex requirements for tracking and reporting carbon emissions.
This additional burden could divert their focus from implementing
their own climate initiatives, slowing down progress.
3. Creates Confusion Over “Equivalence”: CBAM requires other
nations to prove their climate policies are “equivalent” to the EU’s system.
However, many countries have tailored regulations under their climate
pledges (NDCs), which may not align perfectly with CBAM’s standards.
This mismatch could lead to trade disadvantages and inequalities.
4. Raises Issues of Overreach: CBAM indirectly enforces EU carbon
rules on countries outside its jurisdiction, which can strain international
trade and climate agreements. These “extraterritorial effects” could spark
debates about fairness and sovereignty in global climate governance.

I n essence, CBAM risks creating challenges for other countries

by imposing rigid standards that may not account for the
diversity in global climate policies.

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 BURNING ISSUE #14

SC’s Directive on Disability

Accessibility Bridging the Gaps in RPwD Act
Enforcement or Just a Step Forward?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

Recently, SC direction to make public spaces accessible to [UPSC 2017, GS-2] Does the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
PwDs. When it comes to disability rights and accessibility, Act, 2016 ensure effective mechanism for empowerment and
most UPSC aspirants focus solely on legal frameworks like inclusion of the intended beneficiaries in the society? Discuss.
the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act (RPwD), 2016.
However, what separates good answers from great ones is [UPSC 2022, GS-2] The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act,
the depth of understanding beyond the legalities. This article 2016 remains only a legal document without intense sensitisation
does just that by exploring how the Supreme Court’s recent of government functionaries and citizens regarding disability.
ruling goes beyond laws to address practical challenges, Comment.
intersectionality, and the role of media in stereotyping.
Microthemes: Disabled

R e c e n t ly , t h e S u p r e m e Court has directed the Union Highlights of the NALSAR Report

government to frame binding rules to ensure accessibility of
public spaces and services for persons with disabilities. The There is huge interstate variation in the transport
court has emphasized that accessibility is a fundamental Lack of accessibility in India. In Delhi, 3,775 low-floor CNG
right under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Transport buses were available for accessible travel, while Tamil
Act. SC Verdict on accessibility rights of Persons with accessibility Nadu lagged significantly, with only 1,917 out of 21,669
Disabilities. buses accessible for disabled travelling.

However, the Supreme Court noted a lack of enforcement The report noted that accessibility challenges were
Intersec-
mechanisms under the RPwD rules. The SC held that the rules compounded by factors such as caste, gender, and
tionality of
offered self-regulatory guidelines. region. For instance, Job portals often exclude visually
accessibility
A report by the National Academy of Legal Studies and Research impaired users, and lack of sign language recognition
with other
(NALSAR) has also highlighted the gaps in accessibility for is disadvantageous for individuals with hearing and
challenges
persons with disabilities in India. speech impairments.

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Key highlights of the SC ruling SC guidelines to prevent stereotyping and discrimination
on accessibility for disabled 1. A
 voiding Derogatory Language: The court has emphasized on avoiding words
The SC ruling on accessibility for the disabled stems that cultivate institutional discrimination, such as ‘cripple‘ and ‘spastic‘. These
from a 2005 writ petition filed by Rajive Raturi, a words contribute to negative self-image and perpetuate discriminatory attitudes.
visually impaired petitioner advocating for safety and Also, language and words that individualize the impairment and overlook
accessibility in public spaces. disabling social barriers, like ‘afflicted‘, ‘suffering‘ and ‘victim‘, should be avoided.
2. Focus on Accurate Representation: The court has held that stereotyping
Key highlights of the ruling of differently abled persons in visual media and films must end. Creators
a). Mandatory Rules to be drafted by the central must focus on providing an accurate representation of disabilities rather
government: The Court declared Rule 15(1) of than mocking them. Creators should practice the principle of “nothing about
the RPwD Rules ultra vires. The court held that us, without us,” and involve persons with disabilities in the creation and
the RPwD rules only provided recommendatory assessment of visual media content.
guidelines. It directed the Union government 3. C reative Freedom vs Marginalizing Portrayals: The court has clarified
to frame enforceable, “non-negotiable” standards that creative freedom of filmmakers cannot include the freedom to
within three months. lampoon, stereotype, misrepresent or disparage marginalized communities.
b). Stakeholder Consultation: The government must If the overall message of the content infringes with the rights of Persons with
consult stakeholders, including NALSAR’s Centre for Disabilities (PwDs), then the right of creative freedom will not be protected.
Disability Studies (CDS), while drafting the rules. 4. C ollaboration with Disability Advocacy Groups: The court has emphasized
c). Compliance and Penalties: The SC has directed on collaboration with disability advocacy groups to gain insights and guidance
that non-compliance with accessibility standards on respectful and accurate portrayals. The training programmes for writers,
would be penalized. The penalty will include directors, producers, and actors must be developed to emphasize the impact of
withholding completion certificates and imposing fines. portrayals on public perceptions and experiences of PwDs.

Way Forward 3. F
 ocus on Early Prevention:
1. Promote Inclusion and Equal Expanding programs like the
Opportunities: Society needs to Comprehensive Newborn Screening
create more opportunities for people (CNS) under Rashtriya Bal Swasthya
with disabilities by improving access Karyakram can help detect and
to quality education, offering equal prevent disabilities early in life,
job opportunities, and encouraging improving outcomes.
their active participation in social and 4. S
 trengthen Public Policies and
political decisions. Budgets: Allocate a larger share of
2. Raise Awareness and Break the budget specifically for the welfare
Stigma: It’s crucial to educate people of people with disabilities. Similar to
and spread awareness about the gender budgeting, disability-focused
challenges faced by persons with budgeting should be implemented to
disabilities (PwDs). Using respectful ensure better support and resources
language, like “Divyangjan” (divine for PwDs. Proportion of disabled Indian Population
body), can help reduce stigma and by type of disability
foster acceptance.

Back2Basics
PERSONS WITH DISABILITY Types of Disabilities
Who are classified as Persons with Disabilities? Category Subcategories/Details
What is the status of differently abled people in Locomotor Disability: Leprosy-cured
India? person, Cerebral Palsy, Dwarfism, Muscular
According to The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Dystrophy, Acid Attack Victims
Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD), Persons with disabilities are Physical
the ones who have long-term physical, mental, intellectual or sensory Disability Visual Impairment: Blindness, Low Vision
impairments, which hinder their full and effective participation in Hearing Impairment: Deaf, Hard of Hearing
society on an equal basis with others.
Speech and Language Disability
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, uses the same
definition as the UN CRPD. It further defines ‘Person with Benchmark Intellectual Specific Learning Disabilities, Autism
Disability‘ as ‘A person with not less than 40% of a specified Disability Spectrum Disorder
disability‘. Mental Illness N/A
Chronic
• Expansion of Disabilities: The Rights of Persons with Disabilities
Neurological Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s Disease
Act, 2016 has expanded the types of disabilities from 7 (under the
Conditions
Person with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights
and Full Participation) Act, 1995) to 21. The act also provides the Blood
Hemophilia, Thalassemia, Sickle Cell Disease
Union Government the power to add more types of disabilities. Disorders
Multiple
Includes Deaf-Blindness
Disabilities

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Provisions for Persons with Disabilities in India
Type Provision/Act Details
Consti- Preamble Seeks social, economic, and political justice for all citizens, including
tutional persons with disabilities, ensuring equality of status and opportunity.
Provisions Fundamental Rights Ensures dignity and fundamental rights for persons with disabilities.
Directive Principles Article 41: Ensures the right to work, education, and public assistance for
those with disabilities.
Article 46: Promotes the welfare and protection of weaker sections,
including PwDs.
Schedules of the Constitution Relief of Disabled is a State Subject (Entry 9 in List II). Welfare is listed in
the Eleventh (item 26) and Twelfth (item 9) Schedules.
Legal Mental Health Act, 2017 Replaces the Mental Health Act of 1987 to provide mental healthcare
Provisions services and protect the rights of those with mental illness.
The Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPwD) Replaced the 1995 Act and aligns with UNCRPD. Provides increased
Act, 2016 reservations (4% for jobs, 5% in higher education) and mandates
accessibility in public buildings.
Rehabilitation Council of India Act, 1992 Grants statutory status to the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and
monitors disability services, standards, and personnel qualifications.
The National Trust for the Welfare of Persons Constitutes a trust for persons with autism, cerebral palsy, and other
with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation, disabilities, aiming for their protection and integration into society.
and Multiple Disabilities Act, 1999
Welfare Accessible India Campaign Aims to create an accessible environment for PwDs, focusing on the built-
Programs up environment, transportation, and ICT ecosystem.
Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme Supports NGOs running rehabilitation projects for persons with disabilities
(DDRS) to ensure social justice and empowerment.
Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase of Provides financial aid to disabled persons for procuring assistive devices
Aids and Appliances (ADIP) to improve their rehabilitation and economic potential.
Indian Sign Language Research and Training Promotes the use of sign language and trains professionals in this field.
Centre
National Institute of Mental Health Rehabilitation Focuses on capacity building in mental health rehabilitation and
(NIMHR) community-based protocols for mainstreaming individuals who have
recovered from mental illnesses.

Challenges faced by PWDs Barriers to Healthcare

1. Social Challenges: The following are the challenges faced by According to WHO, people with disability encounter a range of
the people suffering from disability in India. barriers in accessing health care
a). D  iscrimination and Inequality: They face several types of
discrimination like reluctance to hire PwDs for employment Attitudinal Barriers Physical Barriers
b). Loss of Social Status: Lack of opportunities results in lack • Prejudice, stigma, • Lack of appropriate
of employment, money etc. discrimination by health service infrastructure to access
c). Inhuman Treatment: People suffering from mental illness or providers. healthcare facilities like ramps
mental retardation are subject to social exclusion • Service providers lack to access passages, doorways,
d). Loss of Identity: The identity of PwDs becomes linked with knowledge about needs of the toilets on wheelchairs.
their disability and become a subject of pity. disabled. • Fixed-height furniture, including
2. Barriers to Education: There is lack of special • Women with disability face examination beds and chairs,
schools and trained teachers for children with learning barriers to sexual, reproductive can be difficult for people with
disabilities. Persons with visual impairment lack education health services and disability to use.
materials for their studies. Children with learning disabilities are information. • Lack of healthcare facilities in
shunned and not admitted to schools. remote areas.
3. Lack of adequate Healthcare facilities: The persons with Communication Barriers
disabilities lack quality healthcare facilities which further • Limited availability of written Financial Barriers
marginalises them. material or sign language • Over half of all people with
4. Prevelance of Unemployment: Disabled persons have lower interpreters at health services disability in low-income
employment rates. Private sector is reluctant to hire PwDs for persons with hearing countries cannot afford proper
due to stereotypes and stigma. It impacts their ability to be impairment. health care.
financially independent and be self-sufficient. • Lack of information and • Inability to afford the costs
5. Accessibility: Lack of appropriate disabled-friendly physical prescription in accessible associated with travelling to a
infrastructure creates accessibility issues for persons suffering formats, like Braille or large health service and paying for
with disabilities. For ex- PwDs find it difficult to commute in print for persons with vision medicine.
public transportation, or access buildings. impairment.

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 BURNING ISSUE #15

Supreme Court’s Ruling on

AMU’s Minority Status
What Does It Mean for Minority Educational
Institutions in India?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

Understanding minority rights in the context of educational institutions is not [UPSC 2017, GS-2] Examine the scope of
just about memorizing articles from the Constitution but grasping the nuanced Fundamental Rights in the light of the latest
relationship between law, history, and community rights. The recent Supreme judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to
Court ruling on Aligarh Muslim University’s (AMU) minority status offers Privacy.
a perfect case study to explore these themes for UPSC Mains. Students often
focus on just Article 30 and reservation provisions, missing out on the broader [UPSC 2022, GS-2] Right of movement and
implications of minority rights on autonomy, governance, and community residence throughout the territory of India are
upliftment. This article arms you with detailed legal reasoning and real-world freely available to the Indian citizens, but these
examples to craft nuanced answers. It also explores cooperative federalism and rights are not absolute. Comment.
equity in governance, ensuring that you can approach questions on minority
rights from multiple angles. Microthemes: Fundamental Rights

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I n a 4 : 3 m a j o r i t y decision, the Supreme Court overturned its 1967
Azeez Basha ruling, which had denied Aligarh Muslim University (AMU)
minority status. The Court directed that AMU’s status be reassessed
according to the principles outlined in the current judgment.

Historical Background 4.The 1967 Azeez Basha Case:

1.Establishment of AMU: • The Supreme Court ruled
• AMU was founded in 1875 and that AMU was not a minority
incorporated under imperial law institution as it was established
in 1920. by a central act and categorized it Recent ruling of the Supreme Court
2.Article 30: as a central university. The recent Supreme Court ruling on minority institutions
• Empowers religious and • This judgment denied AMU the outlines key points to determine if an institution retains its
linguistic minorities to establish minority rights under Article 30. minority status.
and administer educational 5.The 1981 Amendment to the 1. Purpose: The main aim of a minority institution should be
institutions. AMU Act: to preserve the minority’s language and culture, though it
• Historically, AMU enjoyed minority • Attempted to restore AMU’s doesn’t have to be the only purpose.
status under this provision. minority character and secure its 2. Admission: Allowing non-minority students doesn’t change
3.Amendments and Restrictions: rights as a minority-administered the institution’s minority status.
• In 1951, the AMU Act was institution. 3. Secular Education: Minority institutions can provide non-
amended to remove compulsory 6.Allahabad High Court Ruling religious (secular) education without losing their minority
religious instructions for Muslim (2006): status.
students. • Struck down the 1981 amendment, 4. Religious Instruction: Institutions receiving government
• Article 28 prohibits compulsory reiterating the Supreme Court’s funding can’t force religious teachings on students. Fully
religious instruction in state- earlier stance that AMU did not state-funded institutions can’t offer religious instruction
funded institutions. qualify as a minority institution. but still maintain their minority status.

2-Fold implication of the judgement The Court’s Test for Minority Character:
The Court created a two-part test to evaluate if an
Implications of Overturning Implications for Educational institution qualifies as a minority institution:
the Azeez Basha Precedent Rights and Reservations 1.Establishment:
1. Overruling the 1967 Ruling 1. Potential for Reservations • Genesis: Was the institution created to serve the minority
community’s needs?
If recognized as a minority institution, • Funding and Implementation: Who funded the
Challenges the earlier ruling that AMU can reserve seats for Muslim institution, acquired the land, and managed its
statutory establishment negates students, bypassing general development?
minority status. reservation policies for SCs, STs, and
OBCs under Article 15(5). 2.Administration:
Acknowledges the historical and • Minority institutions have the choice to appoint people
community intent behind AMU’s 2. Autonomy in Administration from their community to run the institution. If the
establishment. administration doesn’t align with the community’s
interests, it could suggest the institution wasn’t intended
AMU would gain greater
for the minority.
independence in admissions, staff
2. New Framework for Minority
appointments, and governance,
Status
aligning policies with the interests of
the Muslim community.
Way Forward
1.Define Minority Status Framework:
Establishes a broader • Parliament could establish a comprehensive legislative
interpretation of minority framework based on the Supreme Court’s criteria to ensure
institutions, focusing on 3. Broader Educational Rights consistent and transparent recognition of minority institutions.
historical context over formal
legal definitions. 2.Promote Cooperative Federalism:
Strengthens minority rights under • Enhance collaboration between the state and central
3. Reaffirmation of Legal Article 30(1), ensuring minorities can governments to respect the rights of minority communities
Autonomy establish and administer institutions while ensuring quality education.
without undue state interference.
3.Encourage Judicial Review:
Confirms that legislative • Allow courts to periodically reassess institutional status
Promotes educational diversity in
recognition does not eliminate in light of evolving social and historical contexts, fostering
India.
an institution’s minority status. inclusivity.

The Supreme Court’s ruling marks a pivotal moment in reinforcing the educational rights
of minorities, ensuring alignment with constitutional principles while fostering diversity in
India’s educational landscape.

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Back2Basics
Point Description Example

Legal and Constitutional Protection

Article 30(1) Grants minorities the right to establish and Example: The Jamia Millia Islamia University, established by a
manage educational institutions of their choice. group of Indian Muslims, is an example of a minority educational
institution under Article 30(1).
Article 15(5) Exempts Minority Educational Institutions Example: St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, reserves seats for Christian
(MEIs) from reservations for SCs and STs. students and doesn’t follow general SC/ST reservation policies.

Control over MEIs have the authority to reserve seats and Example: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) reserves a significant
Administration appoint staff from their community. portion of its seats for Muslim students & appoints faculty from the
community to maintain its minority character.

Benefits of Minority Institutions

Greater Au- Institutions can design their curricula to Example: Banaras Hindu University (BHU) includes courses that
tonomy over preserve and promote community culture. promote Hindu culture and traditions alongside mainstream
Curriculum academic subjects, preserving cultural education.
Promotion Institutions preserve and promote their Example: Jamia Millia Islamia offers courses in Urdu language and
of Heritage community’s languages, scripts, and cultures. Islamic studies to preserve and promote the culture of the Muslim
community.
Community Provides education in a familiar cultural Example: Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar, strengthens Sikh
Cohesion context, reinforcing shared values and community ties through education in a cultural and spiritual
traditions. context.
Access to Focuses on improving educational outcomes Example: Minority-run schools in Kerala have been instrumental in
Quality Ed- within minority communities, resulting in higher improving literacy rates among the Muslim community in the state.
ucation literacy and better academic achievement.
Reservation MEIs can reserve seats for their community Example: Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) reserves 50% of its
for Minorities members, giving them prioritized access to seats for Muslim students, ensuring priority education for the
education. community.

Challenges of Minority Institutions

Inadequate Many minority institutions lack proper Example: Some minority-run rural schools in India face shortages of
Resources infrastructure, teaching materials, and qualified teachers, and their buildings lack basic facilities, resulting in subpar
educators. education quality.
Misuse of Some institutions misrepresent themselves as Example: Some private schools claim to be minority institutions to
Minority Status minority-run to avoid regulations like the Right bypass RTE norms, despite admitting mostly non-minority students.
to Education (RTE) Act.
Corruption Financial irregularities and lack of transparency Example: Reports of financial mismanagement have surfaced in
and Misman- in operations. certain private minority-run institutions in India, leading to misuse
agement of funds allocated for educational purposes.
Lack of Insufficient oversight leads to poor governance Example: A few minority-run private colleges face criticism for their
Accountability and educational standards. lack of proper governance structures, resulting in a failure to meet
educational and financial standards.

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 BURNING ISSUE #16

Private Properties Are They Truly a

Common Good?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

For UPSC aspirants, mastering property rights in India isn’t just about [UPSC 2015, GS-2] Does the right to clean environment entail
understanding constitutional amendments—it’s about recognizing legal regulations on burning crackers during Diwali? Discuss in the
the historical evolution & how judicial interpretations shape this light of Article 21 of the Indian Constitution and Judgement(s) of
dynamic right. Many candidates focus solely on the constitutional the Apex Court in this regard.
provisions (like Article 300A) but miss out on the nuanced shifts in
judicial perspectives, such as the impact of cases like Kesavananda [UPSC 2017, GS-2] Examine the scope of Fundamental Rights in
Bharati or the Bela Banerjee case. This results in incomplete or surface- the light of the latest judgement of the Supreme Court on Right to
level analysis. The article outlines the transition from a Fundamental Privacy..
Right to a Constitutional Right & explains how each amendment. each
judgement influenced this shift. Microthemes: Fundamental Rights

i n a n o v e m b e r 2 0 24 r u l i n g , the Supreme Court of India ruled that

not all private properties can be considered “material resources of the
community” and used by the government to serve the common good. The
court’s 7:2 majority decision overturned an earlier interpretation that had
been followed from 1977 to 1997.

Right to Property: Controversies

1.Changes in Property Rights: Property rights in India have changed 5.Shifting Property Rights: The shift from property being a
a lot over time, especially regarding how compensation for property fundamental right to a constitutional right reflects larger policy
acquisition is handled. This has created a complicated legal history changes, much like how gender-based policies influence workforce
involving both the courts and the government. participation and social fairness.
2.Debate Over Compensation: Initially, the Supreme Court 6.Avoiding Social Stigma: It’s important to ensure fair compensation
interpreted compensation (as mentioned in Article 31(2)) as the fair when the government acquires property without reinforcing social
value of what the owner lost. This led to several changes in the law stigmas, similar to how we aim to address issues like menstrual
to limit the courts’ ability to question whether the compensation was health without reinforcing gender stereotypes.
adequate. 7.Implementation Challenges: Making sure property owners
3.From Compensation to Amount: In 1971, the Constitution (Twenty- receive fair compensation is challenging. It requires transparency,
Fifth Amendment) Act replaced the word “compensation” with accountability, and fairness in applying the law to ensure justice for
“amount.” This change was made to prevent courts from questioning all parties.
whether the amount offered for the property was enough, helping the 8.Enforcement Issues: When property laws are misused or not
government more easily acquire property. properly enforced, it leads to public distrust and legal challenges.
4.Gender Equality and Property Rights: The discussion about This highlights the need for strong legal systems and enforcement to
property rights also connects with issues of gender equality. Changes maintain confidence in the process.
in property laws can affect marginalized groups, especially women,
in different ways, highlighting how legal changes can impact social
justice.

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Implications of the Supreme Court Judgment Conclusion
1.Limits on Government Power in Property goals for policy-making, but they are not legally Government had to
Acquisition: enforceable like fundamental rights. follow the authority of
The Supreme Court ruling limits the government’s 5.People’s Role in Economic Direction: law and due procedure
ability to acquire private property under Article The judgment reinforces that the people of India of law before taking the
39(b). It places a stronger emphasis on individual play a crucial role in shaping the country’s economic private property of a
property rights, setting clear boundaries on how the direction. It highlights how the nation must adapt person.The fierce tussle
government can use private resources. to changing global and domestic conditions, between the judiciary and
2.Support for “Economic Democracy”: empowering citizens to influence economic legislature had reiterated
The Court made it clear that its role isn’t to decisions. that deprivation or
decide economic policies but to support the 6.Protection for Marginalized Communities: extinguishment of right
idea of “economic democracy” as laid out in This ruling offers better protection for marginalized to property is permissible
the Constitution, where economic freedom and groups, particularly small farmers and forest dwellers, only upon restitution,
participation are key principles. from unfair property acquisition. It advocates for be it in the form of
3.Acknowledging Changing Market Realities: responsible management of public resources monetary compensation,
The ruling recognizes how private property has while ensuring the rights of these communities are rehabilitation or similar
evolved, particularly with new assets like data and respected. means.
advancements in space exploration. It emphasizes 7.Emphasis on Market-Oriented Economy:
the importance of adapting legal frameworks to The judgment supports the view that India is
respect these changes in the market. now following a market-driven economic model,
4.DPSPs as Guiding Principles: reinforcing policies that favor economic growth
The Court reaffirmed that the Directive Principles through market mechanisms rather than state
of State Policy (DPSPs) are intended as guiding control.

Back2Basics
LEGAL EVOLUTION
RIGHT TO PROPERTY
Property rights have been a contentious issue in India, Judicial Inter- Details
reflecting the dynamic interplay between judicial pretation
interpretations and legislative amendments. The Bela Baner- This case involved Articles 19(1)(f) and 31(2) of the
evolution of these rights in post-colonial India is marked jee Case Indian Constitution, leading to the interpretation of
by a series of legal battles between the judiciary and “compensation” as a fair equivalent for what the owner lost.
the legislature, each seeking to assert its perspective
on the sanctity and scope of property rights.No other 4th Constitu- The amendment stated that courts could not
right as enshrined in the Constitution has witnessed a tional Amend- question the adequacy of compensation, responding
tussle as fierce as between courts and the legislature. ment, 1955 to the interpretation in the Bela Banerjee case.
Supreme Court’s The court held that “compensation” in Article 31(2)
CONSTITUTIONAL PROVISIONS Verdict in Bela meant a fair equivalent for what the owner had lost.
Banerjee Case
Provision/Aspect Description
Judiciary’s Courts maintained oversight on the principles used
Article “No person shall be deprived of his Counter to the to determine compensation, even though the final
300A - Provision property except by authority of law.” Legislative Move amount was not subject to judicial review.
Authority Empowers the government to seize 25th Constitu- This amendment substituted “compensation”
property for public welfare purposes. tional Amend- with “amount” in Article 31(2), aiming to eliminate
Right to Notice Individuals must be informed ment, 1971 judicial review by dissociating fair market value from
before their property is acquired. compensation.

Right to Be Property owners have the right Kesavanan- Upheld the 25th Amendment, preventing courts
Heard to present their case before the da Bharti from reviewing the adequacy of the amount, but
acquisition. Case, 1973 maintaining judicial review over the principles of
compensation determination.
Right to a Rea- Authorities must provide a clear
soned Decision rationale for property acquisition. Justice K.K. Argued that the right to property was closely linked
Mathew’s Dis- to civilization and culture, and should not be excluded
Public Purpose Property can only be acquired for sent in Kesav- from the Constitution’s basic structure.
Requirement public purposes. ananda Bharti
Right to Fair Property owners are entitled to fair Supreme Court’s After the deletion of Articles 19(1)(f) and 31, the Court
Compensation compensation for their loss due to Ruling on Right held that the right to property is both a constitutional
acquisition. to Property and human right.
44th The 44th Amendment Act of 1978 M.C. Mehta Case The Court stated that any law depriving a person of
Constitutional deleted the right to property from the property must be just, fair, and reasonable.
Amendment list of Fundamental Rights and placed
it as a Constitutional Right under B.K. Ravichan- The Court noted that Article 300-A’s phrasing was
Article 300-A. dra Case similar to Articles 21 and 265, and its guarantee could
not be read down.
Article Article 31, which caused debate on
31 Removal compensation, was removed by the Kolkata Mu- The recent decision expanded the protections under
44th Amendment. nicipal Corpo- Article 300-A, including the right to notice and the
ration Case right to be heard, among others.

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 BURNING ISSUE #17

Wind Energy in India

How Can We Harness Its Full Potential?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

The solar and wind energy sectors are crucial areas, frequently [UPSC 2022, GS-1] Examine the potential of wind energy in India
explored in GS Paper 1 and 3, especially under the themes of energy and explain the reasons for their limited spatial spread.
security and sustainable development. Many candidates often
restrict their answers to installed capacity or policy names, missing [UPSC 2020, GS-1] India has immense potential of solar energy
the critical analysis of challenges like land acquisition, intermittency, though there are regional variations in its development. Elaborate.
or outdated policies that affect wind energy. Along with exploring
these aspects, the following Article, a deeper comparison with solar Microthemes: Energy
energy development would add richness to the responses of aspirants.

R e c e n t ly ,
t h e w i n d energy generators opposed the
Tamil Nadu Government’s Wind power policy- “Tamil Nadu Installed Generation Capacity (Fuelwise) as on 31.08.2024
Repowering, Refurbishment and Life Extension Policy for Wind
Installed % Share
Power Projects – 2024.” The wind energy operators seek a Category Generation in
framework that better promotes wind energy generation. In Capacity (MW) Total
this article, we will look at the status of wind energy sector
in India, the benefits the sector presents and the challenges Coal 2,10,970 46.80%
Fossil Fuel

faced by the wind energy sector in India. Lignite 6,620 1.50%

Gas 24,818 5.50%
Status of Wind Energy in India
1.Global Leader in Wind Energy Diesel 589 0.10%
India ranks fourth globally in installed wind energy capacity, Total Fossil Fuel : 2,42,997 53.90%
highlighting its strong commitment to renewable energy.
With a potential of 1,163.86 GW at 150 meters above ground RES (Incl. Hydro) 1,99,583 44.30%
level (as per the National Institute of Wind Energy), India has
Hydro 46,928
immense untapped wind energy resources.
2.Significant Contribution to Renewable Energy Wind, Solar & Other RE 1,52,654
Non-Fossil Fuel

As of September 2024, wind energy contributes Wind 47,192

approximately 47 GW to India’s total installed renewable Solar 89,432
energy capacity of 200 GW (including large hydro). This
makes wind energy a vital component of the country’s BM Power/Cogen. 10,355
renewable energy mix. Waste to Energy 604
3.Key States Driving Wind Energy Small Hydro Power 5,071
Wind energy generation is concentrated in a few states—
Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, and
Nuclear 8,180 1.80%
Andhra Pradesh—accounting for over 93% of the country’s
wind capacity. Tamil Nadu, with 10,603.5 MW of installed Total Non-Fossil Fuel : 2,07,763 46.10%
wind power, holds the second-highest capacity, reflecting its
robust wind energy infrastructure.
Total Installed Capacity
(Fossil Fuel & Non-Fossil Fuel) 4,50,760 100%

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Benefits of Wind Energy What Should be
the Way Forward?
Benefit Details Examples 1. Comprehensive and
Renewable and Wind energy is inexhaustible, Denmark generates nearly 50% of its beneficial policy:
Sustainable replenishes naturally, and is a electricity from wind energy, ensuring a Commercially beneficial,
sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. steady and renewable energy supply. field-responsive policy should
be implemented for long-term
Reduced Wind turbines produce electricity In 2021, wind energy in the U.S. avoided investment in wind energy.
Greenhouse without emitting CO₂, reducing the 189 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions,
Gas Emissions carbon footprint and mitigating climate equivalent to removing 41 million cars from 2. Promoting Land
change. the road. Use Efficiency:
Energy Inde- Reduces reliance on imported fuels, Countries like Germany and India have Wind farms can coexist with
pendence increasing energy security and leveraged wind energy to decrease agricultural or grazing land,
resilience. dependence on foreign energy imports. allowing dual use and enabling
Local Econom- Boosts local economies through Wind projects in states like Gujarat and farmers to earn additional
ic Growth infrastructure development and energy Tamil Nadu have significantly contributed income through land leases
production revenues. to regional development. for wind turbines. For Ex- In
Iowa, USA, many farmers
Job Creation Generates employment opportunities India’s wind sector has created thousands lease portions of their land for
in manufacturing, installation, of jobs, with Tamil Nadu alone offering wind turbines, supplementing
maintenance, and operations. opportunities for technicians and their agricultural income
engineers. without significantly
disrupting farming activities.
Challenges in Wind Energy Development in India
3. Rapid Deployment
Challenge Details Examples and Scalability:
Land Acqui- Acquiring large areas for wind farms is Delayed projects in states like Tamil Wind farms should be built
sition Issues complex, leading to delays and cost increases Nadu and Rajasthan due to land quickly and scaled to meet
due to bureaucratic hurdles and disputes. acquisition bottlenecks. local electricity demand. For
ex- UK’s recent rapid
Intermittency Wind energy relies on weather, making Variability affects grid stability,
expansion of offshore wind
and Unpre- generation inconsistent, especially during particularly in high-potential areas
energy plants in recent years.
dictability monsoons and rough weather. like Gujarat and Karnataka.
Inadequate Grid systems are insufficient for large-scale Curtailment issues reported in 4. Promotion of Hybrid
Transmission wind energy integration, causing curtailment Gujarat and Tamil Nadu due to limited Renewable Projects:
Infrastructure of energy production. connectivity. Wind-solar hybrid systems
Outdated Policies often fail to address modern Tamil Nadu’s wind policy criticized for can help overcome
Policies and technology or sector needs, discouraging excluding older turbines, affecting intermittency issues by
Incentives investment. investor confidence. ensuring energy availability
even during low-wind periods.
High Initial Lack of financial mechanisms, like banking Post-2018 turbines in Tamil Nadu face Such hybrid projects will also
Costs facilities, impacts project feasibility. financial challenges as repowered help in the maximization of
energy cannot be banked. land use and improvement
Inconsistent Poor resource assessment leads to inefficient Inadequate mapping in Andhra of grid reliability.
Wind Mapping site selection and underperforming projects. Pradesh has resulted in suboptimal
wind farm performance.
Increased Expansion of human settlements near wind Urban growth near wind sites in
Urbanization farms impacts project viability. Maharashtra and Karnataka has
caused operational challenges.
Local Ecolog- Wind farm construction disrupts ecosystems Rajasthan has seen opposition over
ical Concerns and wildlife habitats, leading to resistance potential harm to migratory birds and
from environmentalists and communities. local wildlife near wind installation sites.

Policy Initiatives
Policy Objective
National Wind-Solar Encourages hybrid projects combining wind and solar power to improve
Hybrid Policy (2018) grid stability and diversify energy sources.
Repowering Policy for Upgrades older turbines (below 2 MW) with higher-capacity turbines to
Wind Power Projects maximize energy output from existing sites.
Guidelines for Tariff-Based Promotes competitive bidding to reduce wind energy tariffs, ensuring
Competitive Bidding (2017) transparency and cost-efficiency.
National Offshore Wind Provides a framework for offshore wind energy development and
Energy Policy (2015) empowers NIWE to identify and support offshore sites.
Green Energy Cor- Develops transmission infrastructure to integrate renewable energy,
ridor Project including wind, into the national grid.

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Back2Basics
SOLAR ENERGY VS WIND ENERGY IN INDIA
Current Development in India
India has made significant progress in its renewable energy sector,
particularly in solar and wind energy, positioning itself as a global leader.

Solar Energy Wind Energy

1. Installed Capacity: Solar energy is India’s fastest-growing 1. Installed Capacity: Wind energy contributes nearly 47 GW to
renewable energy source, contributing over 74 GW to the total India’s renewable energy mix, making it a crucial component of the
renewable capacity by September 2024. The rooftop solar segment total capacity. The focus remains on repowering older turbines and
is gaining traction, adding approximately 4 GW in the first half of expanding offshore wind projects.
2024. 2. O  ffshore Projects: The National Offshore Wind Energy Policy has
2. Growth Trends: In 2024, India achieved record installations, been instrumental in identifying high-potential zones along India’s
particularly in solar parks and rooftop systems, due to increased coastline for future installations.
government support and declining costs. 3. Cost Trends: Wind energy tariffs have stabilized in recent tenders,
3. Challenges: The sector faces hurdles like grid integration, high reflecting cost-efficiency improvements.
module prices, and financing issues, but policy measures aim to
address these concerns.

Why Solar energy is more developed than wind energy ?

1. Scalability and Suitability for Urban Areas advancements. Wind energy, though cost-competitive for large-scale
S
 olar panels can be installed in diverse settings, including rooftops projects, has not seen as steep a decline in costs per unit.
in urban areas, which makes them highly accessible for individual 5. Integration Flexibility
households and businesses. In contrast, wind turbines require S
 olar energy aligns well with existing grid infrastructure and storage
large, open spaces free from obstructions, limiting their feasibility in solutions. Hybrid solar systems with batteries enable energy use
densely populated regions​. even when sunlight is unavailable. Wind energy, however, faces
2. Ease of Installation challenges in grid stability due to its dependence on inconsistent
S
 olar installations are simpler and faster to deploy compared wind patterns​
to wind turbines. Solar systems can be installed on rooftops or 6. Geographic Flexibility
ground-mounted with minimal structural changes, while wind W
 hile wind energy potential is concentrated in specific high-wind
turbines demand significant groundwork and infrastructure, such as zones (e.g., Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka), solar energy can be
dedicated transmission lines​. harnessed in almost all regions of India, given the country's high solar
3. Policy and Incentives insolation​
Government policies, such as subsidies and incentives for rooftop solar 7. Consumer Awareness and Adoption
systems, have directly benefited solar energy adoption. Programs like S
 olar energy systems are more consumer-friendly and have higher
the PM-KUSUM scheme target agricultural use of solar, further boosting visibility among individual users, driving adoption. Wind energy, on
deployment. Wind energy policies, while supportive, have not been as the other hand, is predominantly limited to large-scale commercial
aggressively targeted at small-scale or urban users. applications
4. Declining Costs
T
 he cost of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels has significantly decreased
over the years due to global production scale and technological

The convergence of accessibility, policy support, cost reductions, and geographic flexibility has driven
solar energy to outpace wind energy development in India. Both energy sources play a crucial role, but
solar's versatility makes it more suitable for a broader range of applications and users.

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 BURNING ISSUE #18

Biodiversity Goals 2030

Real Deal or Just Talk?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

Questions on biodiversity conservation, global conventions, and [UPSC 2018, GS-3] How does biodiversity vary in India? How is the
India’s commitments regularly feature in GS Paper 3, demanding Biological Diversity Act, 2002 helpful in conservation of flora & fauna?
nuanced answers that balance facts and analysis. Many students
miss out on linking biodiversity frameworks like the CBD to national- [UPSC 2021, GS-3] Describe the major outcomes of the 26th
level initiatives or fail to address the challenges in implementation. session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations
They often focus on memorizing protocols rather than understanding Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). What are the
the policy implications and outcomes. This Article breaks down the commitments made by India in this conference?
outcomes, challenges, and funding mechanisms emerging from
recent COP discussions. From the Cali Fund to EBSAs, it offers real- Microthemes: Biodiversity
world examples you can integrate into answers.

the 16th meeting of the Conference Key Outcomes of Biodiversity COP16

of the Parties (COP-16) to the Convention on 1. Establishment of the Cali Fund: Cali Fund 4. M  anagement of Invasive Alien Species:
Biological Diversity (CBD) took place in Cali, was established to ensure fair and equitable New guidelines were proposed for the
Colombia. Although initially scheduled to sharing of benefits from the use of digital management of invasive alien species
end on November 1, the conference extended sequence information (DSI) on genetic through new databases, improved cross-
beyond this date as representatives from resources. At least 50% of the Cali Fund border trade regulations, and enhanced
around 190 countries worked to finalize will focus on the self-identified needs of coordination with e-commerce platforms.
agreements on biodiversity targets and fund- Indigenous Peoples and local communities,
ing mechanisms. particularly women and youth. 5. E
 cologically or Biologically Significant
The primary aim of COP-16 was to build Marine Areas (EBSAs): COP 16 agreed
on the progress made during COP-15 in Mon- 2. Permanent Subsidiary Body: A on a new and evolved process to identify
treal (2022), where the Kunming-Montreal permanent subsidiary body will be set up EBSAs.
Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF) was to include the indigenous groups and local
adopted. This framework sets out four over- communities in biodiversity conservation. 6. G
 lobal Action Plan on Biodiversity and
arching goals and 23 specific targets to ad- Health: Global Action Plan on Biodiversity
dress biodiversity challenges globally, with a 3. Resource Mobilisation: Parties agreed and Health designed to help curb the
collective deadline of 2030. COP-16 focused to develop a new “Strategy for Resource emergence of zoonotic diseases, prevent
on ensuring these targets are actionable Mobilization” to help secure USD 200 non-communicable diseases, and promote
and adequately financed to safeguard global billion annually by 2030 to support sustainable ecosystems, was approved at
biodiversity effectively. biodiversity initiatives worldwide. COP-16.

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Challenges in Protecting Biodiversity
Challenge Description Example
Population Growth and Increasing population leads to overuse of natural Rapid deforestation in the Amazon contributes to
Resource Demand resources, causing significant environmental species extinction.
degradation.

Habitat Human activities like deforestation, fragmentation, Many species face multiple threats, making
Degradation and overexploitation destroy ecosystems and conservation efforts more difficult.
accelerate species extinction.

Climate Change Alters ecosystems, disrupts ecological balance, and Over half of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef corals have
drives species to extinction. died since 1995 due to warming seas.

Invasive Species Introduction of non-native species (accidental or Invasive alien species have caused 40% of
deliberate) displaces native species and disrupts documented animal extinctions since the 17th century.
ecosystems.

Government Policies Development-focused policies lacking environmental Brazilian policies contributing to Amazon
safeguards can lead to significant biodiversity loss. deforestation are a notable example.

Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)

Pointers Details

Aims to halt and reverse biodiversity loss globally by 2030,

Purpose
aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Adopted in December 2022 during the 15th Conference of the

Adoption
Parties (CoP-15).

Includes restoring at least 30% of degraded terrestrial, inland

Goals water, marine, and coastal ecosystems by 2030. Features 23
actionable global targets. This treaty serves as a global blueprint for
biodiversity conservation, addressing urgent
Envisions living in harmony with nature by 2050, guiding current ecological challenges with clear objectives
Long-Term Vision
biodiversity conservation efforts & sustainable use policies. and timelines.

Concerns of the New Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF)

Concern Details Examples
Weak Legal Language Goals like reversing biodiversity loss by 2030 may WWF highlights gaps in legal enforcement for
for Protection fail without strong national commitments to protect intact ecosystem protection.
ecosystems.

Lack of Mandatory No system for periodic review and enhancement of Aichi Biodiversity Targets (2010-2020) remained
Ratcheting Mechanism biodiversity targets, unlike the Paris Agreement’s NDC largely unmet due to weak monitoring frameworks.
updates.

Lack of Proper Imple- Absence of binding mechanisms could lead to failure The Aichi Targets fell short due to ineffective
mentation Mechanisms in achieving the set targets, as seen with previous execution at the national level.
agreements.

Insufficient Fund- Developing nations lack access to adequate financing Developing countries criticized COP15 for
ing Commitments for biodiversity initiatives. insufficient commitments to financial support for
biodiversity.

Insufficient Integration Biodiversity goals are not adequately synchronized Overlapping policies for ecosystems and carbon
with Climate Goals with climate change targets, causing fragmented sequestration remain unaligned globally.
efforts.

Limited Public Aware- The framework lacks provisions for enhancing global Studies show minimal community involvement in
ness and Participation awareness and active participation in biodiversity biodiversity projects in underrepresented regions.
conservation.

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Way Forward
1. Involve All Stakeholders: Effective bio-
diversity protection needs active partici-
pation from all relevant sectors, including
agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy,
tourism, and finance.
2. Mainstream Biodiversity: Conservation
efforts should be integrated into national
economic, societal, and policy frameworks
to make biodiversity a key component of
overall development strategies.
3. Adopt Integrated Resource Man-
agement: Using an ecosystem-based
approach to manage natural resources
ensures that biodiversity is conserved
while balancing human needs.
4. Strengthen Governance: Countries,
especially developing ones, must improve
governance, strengthen rule of law, and
enhance social and economic manage-
ment to curb over-exploitation of biological
resources.
5. A  lign Financial Institutions: Multilateral
development banks and international
financial institutions must align their
portfolios with biodiversity conservation
goals to provide necessary funding for
sustainability.

The outcomes of COP-16 offer

hope for reversing biodiversity
loss, but success now depends on
robust implementation of targets.
Without action, the framework
could risk being another unfulfilled
agreement.

Back2Basics
About Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)?
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) was the outcome of Protocols Under the Convention:
the 1992 Rio Earth Summit (United Nations Conference on Envi- There are two protocols under the Convention (CBD):
ronment and Development (UNCED)) along with the UN Framework a) The Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety seeks to protect biodiversity
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Convention to from genetically modified organisms by ensuring their safe han-
Combat Desertification (CCD). dling, transport and use;
The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) came into force in b) The Nagoya Protocol on Access and Benefit Sharing deals with the
December 1993. India became a party to the convention in February commercial utilisation of bilogical and genetic resources.
1994. With 196 Parties, the CBD has near universal participation
among countries.
Structure: The CBD’s governing body is the Conference of the
The Convention seeks to address all threats to biodiversity and eco- Parties (COP). It includes all nations that have ratified the treaty and
system services, including threats from climate change, through: it meets every two years to review progress, set priorities and commit
a) Scientific assessments to work plans.
b) Development of tools, incentives and processes
c) Transfer of technologies and good practices The Secretariat of the Convention on Biological Diversity (SCBD)
d) Full and active involvement of relevant stakeholders including is based in Montreal, Canada. Its main function is to assist govern-
indigenous peoples and local communities, youth, women, NGOs, ments in the implementation of the CBD and its programmes of work,
sub-national actors and the business community. to organize meetings, draft documents, and coordinate with other
international organizations and collect and spread information. The
Objectives: 3 main objectives of the Convention are: Executive Secretary is the head of the Secretariat.
a) Conservation of biological diversity
b) Sustainable use of resources
c) Fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use
of these resources and associated traditional knowledge.

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 BURNING ISSUE #19

Immunisation
in India
Are We Closing the
Coverage Gap?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

For UPSC aspirants, questions on immunization are not just about [UPSC 2013, GS-3] What do you understand by fixed dose
memorizing vaccines & programs. Many focus narrowly on the drug combinations (FDCs)? Discuss their merits & demerits.
mechanics of vaccines or schemes like UIP, overlooking the broader socio-
economic & geopolitical implications. They also miss the chance to discuss [UPSC 2022, GS-3] What is the basic principle behind
vaccine hesitancy, infrastructure challenges, & global health security, vaccine development? How do vaccines work? What
which can elevate answers from average to exceptional. This article covers approaches were adopted by the Indian vaccine
not just the types & benefits of vaccines but also the challenges India faces, manufacturers to produce COVID-19 vaccines
from funding gaps to workforce shortages. Futher the discussion on data
systems, community engagement, & the One Health approach gives a Microthemes: Medical and Health Technologies
forward-looking dimension, crucial for essay-type questions.

one of the greatest

i m m u n i s at i o n h a s b e e n India’s immunisation measures
triumphs in public health in India. Immunisation
Program Details
has helped in the eradication of diseases
like smallpox and polio in India, by drastically reducing Universal One of the largest public health initiatives in India, targeting 2.67
their devastating impact. Despite these successes in Immunization crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually. Provides
immunisation, the persistence of gaps in vaccination Programme (UIP) free vaccines for 12 diseases, including 9 national (DPT, Polio,
coverage poses future health and economic challenges. Measles, Rubella) and 3 sub-national (Rotavirus, Pneumococcal,
Japanese Encephalitis).
Mission Indrad- A special drive to vaccinate unvaccinated and partially vaccinated
What is immunisation? What is the status hanush (IMI) children and pregnant women under UIP. Vaccinated 5.46 crore
of immunisation in India? children and 1.32 crore pregnant women.
Immunisation is a process by which a person becomes Intensified A catch-up vaccination campaign for children up to 5 years and
protected against a disease through vaccination. This Mission Indrad- pregnant women, covering 12 diseases (Diphtheria, Polio, Measles,
term is often used interchangeably with vaccination or hanush (IMI) 5.0 Hepatitis B, and more).
inoculation. Capacity Building National Cold Chain Training Centre (NCCTE) and National Cold
Increased Coverage: According to the National Family Initiatives Chain & Vaccine Management Resource Centre (NCCVMRC)
Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–2021) over 76% of children established to train cold chain technicians in the repair and
aged 12–23 months were fully immunized. This maintenance of cold chain equipment.
has increased from 62% in NFHS-4 (2015–2016). Electronic Vaccine A digital system that manages vaccine stock, logistics, and
Polio and Smallpox Eradication: Polio and smallpox have Intelligence temperature tracking at all levels, from national to sub-district,
been eradicated by the successful implementation of the Network (eVIN) ensuring vaccine integrity during storage and distribution.
immunisation programme.
National Cold Tracks inventory, availability, and functionality of cold chain
COVID-19 Vaccination/Immunisation Drive: India
Chain Manage- equipment, ensuring that vaccines are stored and transported
conducted one of the world’s largest COVID-19 vaccination
ment Information under the required conditions.
drives, administering over 2 billion doses by 2023.
System (NCCMIS)

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Advantages of Immunisation In India
Benefit Explanation Example

Protection from Vaccines save lives by preventing deadly diseases Smallpox eradicated in 1977 and polio in 2014, thanks
Life-threatening Diseases like polio, measles, and tetanus. to vaccination campaigns in India.

Reduction of Vaccines significantly lower child deaths by Immunizing children under five reduces deaths from
Infant Mortality preventing common, fatal diseases. diseases like measles and rotavirus.

Vaccinating is cheaper than treating diseases, The rotavirus vaccine prevents severe diarrhea,
Cost-Effectiveness
saving money for families and health systems. reducing costly hospitalizations for children.

Promotion of Herd When most people are vaccinated, the disease High vaccine coverage limits outbreaks, safeguarding
Immunity spreads less, protecting everyone. even those who can’t be vaccinated.

India’s Mission Indradhanush improved health

Economic and Healthier populations boost economic productivity
outcomes, enhancing productivity and reducing
Social Benefits and reduce healthcare costs.
disease impacts.

Control of Vaccines are crucial for controlling new and re- COVID-19 vaccination with Covishield and Covaxin
Emerging Diseases emerging disease outbreaks. reduced severe cases and deaths in India.

Strengthened Immunization supports global efforts to prevent India, through the Serum Institute, supplies vaccines
Global Health Security disease and improve public health. worldwide, enhancing global health security.

Encouragement of Vaccine programs drive research and development, India’s development of Covaxin showcases its growing
Scientific Innovation fostering innovation. capability in vaccine innovation.

Addressing Antimicro- Widespread vaccine use lowers the need for Vaccines reduce infections, cutting down unnecessary
bial Resistance (AMR) antibiotics, slowing AMR. antibiotic use and tackling AMR challenges.

Challenges With The Immunisation Programme In India

Way Forward
Challenge Simplified Explanation Example 1. Strengthen Healthcare Infrastructure:
It’s essential to improve cold chain
Geographical Immunization rates vary Kerala has over 90% coverage, while
systems and healthcare facilities,
Disparities across regions due to poor parts of Bihar and UP have less than 60%
particularly in underserved regions,
infrastructure and remote areas (NFHS-5).
to ensure vaccines are stored and
being hard to reach.
administered safely.
Vaccine People avoid vaccines due to WHO survey (2021): 15% of some 2. T  argeted Interventions for High-
Hesitancy misinformation, cultural beliefs, communities were hesitant about Risk Areas: Focus on regions
or fear of side effects. COVID-19 vaccines. with low vaccination coverage by
Inadequate Lack of cold storage, vaccines, Only 60% of PHCs have proper cold implementing tailored strategies to
Health and health workers limits access chain equipment (National Cold Chain reach vulnerable populations and
Infrastructure in rural areas. Assessment). close immunization gaps.
3. Enhance Data Systems: Building
Migrant Mobile populations and Slum areas in Mumbai and Delhi have stronger health information
Populations slum residents often miss lower vaccination rates compared to the management systems will improve
vaccinations due to lack of urban average. data accuracy and enable better
access and documents. decision-making with real-time
Low Many families don’t understand UNICEF found 25% of rural families monitoring of immunization efforts.
Awareness the importance of vaccines, unaware of the rotavirus vaccine. 4. Community Engagement and
leading to poor participation. Education: It’s crucial to run outreach
programs that educate communities
Funding Gaps Immunization programs often India spends $9 per child on vaccines
about the benefits of immunization,
lack money for staff, logistics, compared to $58 in other middle-income
tackling vaccine hesitancy, and
and outreach. countries.
improving public awareness.
Vaccine Improper storage and distribution WHO estimates 15-30% vaccine wastage 5. Integrate Immunization with a
Wastage cause vaccines to go unused or expire. during routine immunization in India. One Health Approach: Linking
Workforce There aren’t enough trained 30% shortage of ANMs at sub-centers immunization programs with broader
Shortages healthcare workers, especially in (Rural Health Statistics 2021–22). health and welfare schemes will
rural areas. create a more comprehensive and
holistic approach to public health.
Pandemic COVID-19 shifted focus, delaying DPT3 coverage dropped by 12% during
Disruptions routine vaccinations and the pandemic (UNICEF report).
affecting coverage.

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Back2Basics
Basics of Immunization 4. Key Benefits:
1. Definition: • Prevents Life-Threatening Diseases: Reduces incidence of
Immunization is the process by which a person becomes protected diseases like polio, measles, and tetanus.
against diseases through vaccination. It helps the immune system • Promotes Herd Immunity: Protects the community by reducing the
recognize and fight pathogens, preventing illness. spread of infectious diseases.
• Reduces Healthcare Costs: Prevents costly treatments and
2. How It Works: hospitalizations.
Vaccines introduce a harmless part of the pathogen (like proteins)
or an inactivated/killed form into the body. This triggers the immune 5. Schedule:
system to produce antibodies, providing immunity without causing India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) covers 12 vaccine-
disease. preventable diseases, including diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis
(DPT), and hepatitis B. Childhood vaccines are given according to a
3. Types of Vaccines: schedule recommended by health authorities like WHO and UNICEF.
• Inactivated Vaccines: Contain killed pathogens (e.g., polio
vaccine).
• Live Attenuated Vaccines: Use a weakened form of the pathogen
(e.g., measles, mumps, rubella).
• Subunit, Recombinant, or Conjugate Vaccines: Include only parts
of the pathogen (e.g., HPV, Hepatitis B).
• mRNA Vaccines: Use messenger RNA to teach cells how to make
a protein that triggers immunity (e.g., COVID-19 vaccines).

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 BURNING ISSUE #20

Natural Farming in India

Revolution or Just a Trend?

Note4Students PYQs & Microthemes

For UPSC aspirants, Integrated Farming Systems (IFS) and [UPSC 2019, GS-3] How far is the Integrated Farming System
Natural Farming are not just buzzwords but critical tools for (IFS) helpful in sustaining agricultural production?
sustainable agricultural development. Many candidates focus
narrowly on the definition and benefits of IFS or Natural Farming [UPSC 2022, GS-3] What is Integrated Farming System ? How is
but miss the systemic challenges—like scalability, scientific it helpful to small and marginal farmers in India ?
validation, and policy gaps. This article delves into the ground
realities of implementing Natural Farming, such as the Karnataka [UPSC 2018, GS-3] Sikkim is the first ‘Organic State’ in India.
and Andhra Pradesh models, and highlights systemic bottlenecks What are the ecological and economi cal benefits of Organic
like funding and inclusivity. The distinction between Natural and State?
Organic Farming offers a conceptual clarity that can sharpen
answer writing. Microthemes: Organic Farming, Integrated Farming System

t h e g o v e r n m e n t h a s introduced the National What is Natural Farming?

Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF) to promote eco- Natural Farming is a farming approach where farmers use only natural and
friendly, chemical-free agriculture. It’s a nationwide locally sourced inputs, avoiding chemical fertilizers and pesticides entirely.
initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture aimed at
encouraging farmers to adopt natural methods of Why Natural Farming is Gaining Attention Now ?
cultivation. The mission focuses on reducing the use India’s Green Revolution in the 1960s helped boost food production using
of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, lowering farming chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and hybrid seeds. While effective initially, it has
costs, improving soil health, and boosting sustainable led to several long-term issues:
farming practices. This shift is expected to benefit both •Productivity stagnation due to overuse of chemicals.
farmers and the environment by promoting healthier •High input costs forcing farmers into debt.
produce and long-term agricultural sustainability. •Groundwater depletion from excessive water use.
•Loss of biodiversity as traditional crops were replaced.
Natural Farming offers a solution by
The high costs of seeds and chemicals have left many farmers in financial
drastically cutting costs through distress, contributing to increased farmer suicides. For example, over 12,000
natural methods, promoting sustainable farmer suicides were reported in Maharashtra from 2015 to 2018.

farming. Subash Palekar, a pioneer of Natural Farming vs. Organic Farming

NATURAL FARMING, popularized this While organic farming also avoids chemicals, it often requires expensive inputs
like organic fertilizers and vermicompost. NATURAL FARMING, on the other
practice in India. hand, relies solely on local resources, making it more affordable for farmers.

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FOUR PILLARS OF NATURAL FARMING :
1 Jeevamrutha It is a fermented microbial culture. It is made from cow dung, urine, jaggery, pulse flour and soil.
It promotes microbial activities to generate nutrients and protects against pathogens.

2 Beejamrita It is microbial coating for seeds. The coating is made from cow dung, urine, lime and soil.
(Seed Treatment) It protects young plant roots from fungus and seed-borne or soil-borne diseases.

3 Acchadana It refers to covering the top soil with dead matters of any living organism (plants, animals, etc).
(Mulching) It produces humus, conserves top-soil, increases water retention, encourages soil fauna and prevents the growth of weeds.

4 Waaphasa Waaphasa means the mixture of 50 % air and 50 % water vapour in the cavities between two soil particles.
(Soil aeration) It helps in reducing the amount of water that needs to be provided through irrigation.

THE PROS & CONS

Pros of natural farming are as follows :
ECONOMIC
1 Improve farm- Natural Farming encourages the use of locally available inputs and eliminates the need for buying pesticides. Thus,
er’s income it reduces the input costs which leads to an increase in disposable income of the farmer.
2 Energy security Natural Farming eliminates the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. It reduces the demand for fertilizers.
Thus, it helps in reducing the energy demand utilised in fertilizer production.
Natural Farming ensures improved water efficiency. Thus, it reduces the energy used in pump-sets used for
groundwater extraction. This would also help the government reduce outlay on subsidies for electricity in
agriculture.
3 Rural em- Natural Farming provides the scope of employment opportunities across the agricultural value chain(for example -
ployment production of natural fertilizers, maintenance of local water bodies etc.)
4 Food and nutri- Small farmers can earn more due to the improvements in yield. It also ensures increasing the amount of food
tional security available for their families. Thus, it provides them with food & nutritional security.
5 Reducing reli- Natural Farming helps in improving the farmers income and reduce input costs. This would help in reducing the
ance on loans reliance of farmers on loans. Thus, it breaks their debt cycle and reduces dependence on informal moneylenders.

ECOLOGICAL
1 Water security Natural Farming can help prevent over extraction of groundwater, enable aquifer recharge and eventually contribute
to increasing water table levels.
Natural Farming eliminates the use of inorganic chemical inputs and thus improve the quality of groundwater.
The use of natural fertilizers in Natural Farming will help to reduce the contamination of rivers and oceans. It would
help reduce ocean acidification and marine pollution from land based activities.
2 Decreased C02 Natural Farming eliminates use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. It thus reduces CO2 emissions during
emissions manufacturing of fertilizers and pesticides.
3 Makes Agricul- Natural Farming ensures water use efficiency. It thus helps vulnerable farming communities in drought prone areas.
ture Climate It will enable farmers to tackle the problem of climate change.
Resilient
4 Environment Natural Farming reduces the need for irrigation and eliminates external use of chemical fertilizer. It thus help reduce
Friendly the release of harmful chemicals to air, water and soil.
Natural Farming encourages farmers to make use of agricultural waste instead of discarding or burning it. Crop
residues are reused for mulching. It may help in reducing air pollution.
5 Restores Natural Farming help restore degraded soil and improves fertility of drought prone land. It plays a pivotal role in
ecosystem landscape restoration and prevention of biodiversity loss.
health of farm

SOCIAL
1 Gender em- The International Food Policy Research Institute cites gender gap in access to inputs as a major constraint for
powerment women in agriculture.
Natural Farming advocates natural inputs. Thus, it reduces the gender gap that exists in access to agricultural
inputs(chemical fertilizers, pesticides etc).
2 Impact farm- Improved incomes due to higher yields might help farmers cope better with crop loans and the stress due to it. This
er suicides would help to bring down the number of farmer suicides.
3 Improve hu- Natural Farming would help to reduce the incidence of non-communicable diseases (such as respiratory diseases
man health and even cancer), which are associated with the use and application of inorganic chemicals in agriculture.
Pesticides contain endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). EDCs enter humans through food and can have
negative health impacts(such as breast cancer, reproductive disorders, etc). Thus, Natural Farming helps in
preventing the intake of EDCs.
4 Preserve tradi- Natural Farming educates farmers regarding conventional farming practices. It depends upon the materials available
tional knowledge locally. Thus, it would help in preserving the traditional knowledge of farming practices in a particular region.

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The cons of NATURAL FARMING include the following :

1 Scientific NITI Aayog experts have warned that multi-location studies are needed to scientifically validate its viability.
Validation Further, no independent, detailed economic assessment of this farming model are available in the public domain.

2 Non-inclusive As per a case study conducted in 2016 by the La Via Campesina(LVC) mentioned that most of the farmers involved
in nature in Natural Farming are from the middle peasantry. This has raised concerns regarding the exclusion of small and
marginal farmers.

3 Scalability The Natural Farming model is yet to be tried out as a large-scale food production model.

4 Profitability The sustainability of the model will depend upon the profits it is able to generate for the farmers. However, it is
noticed that the yields start to drop after a few years. There have been several instances where the Natural Farming
farmers have returned to input-intensive farming practices due to low profits.

5 Systemic Natural Farming doesn’t resolve issues associated with agricultural marketing, land ownership, value addition etc.
challenges
unresolved

6 Not really In reality, Natural Farming is not really zero input as it assumes that the farmer has a cow and availability of water.
zero input It is not a low-cost farming system as it is claimed to be. For instance, Andhra Pradesh has provided a fund of Rs.
17,000 crore for its Climate Resilient Zero Budget Natural Farming programme.

7 Lack of a co- Absence of a comprehensive national policy to boost Natural Farming has prevented its adoption on a large scale.
herent policy

Back2Basics
Basics of Natural Farming
Definition: Key Principles of Natural Farming
Natural farming is an agricultural practice that relies on working in 1. No Tillage: Avoid plowing to maintain soil health.
harmony with nature rather than imposing control over it. It seeks 2. N o Fertilizers: Rely on natural mulches and crop residues instead
to create a self-sustaining ecosystem for plants without relying on of chemical inputs.
chemical inputs like fertilizers or pesticides. 3. No Weeding: Manage weeds naturally, often using them as mulch.
4. No Chemical Pesticides: Use natural pest control methods like
How Natural Farming Works? companion planting.
1. Leave the Soil Undisturbed: No tilling; soil structure is maintained, 5. P olyculture and Crop Rotation: Grow multiple crops together or
supporting beneficial organisms like earthworms and fungi. rotate to maintain soil balance and reduce pests.

2. Use of Mulch and Cover Crops: Mulch with organic material and Benefits:
cover crops helps retain moisture, improve soil health, and control 1. Soil Health: Natural farming helps in maintaining and improving
weeds. soil fertility, making it rich in microorganisms and nutrients.
2. Environment-Friendly: Reduces pollution by avoiding synthetic
3. Natural Nutrient Cycle: Enrich soil with crop residues and green chemicals.
manure, relying on natural decomposition. 3. Cost-Effective: Lower input costs for fertilizers, pesticides, and
heavy machinery.
4. Pest Control Through Biodiversity: Use companion planting and
crop diversity to control pests naturally. Challenges:
1. Yield Uncertainty: Initially, yields might be lower compared to
5. Seed Balls: Seeds are coated with clay and compost to protect conventional farming methods.
them until germination. 2. Labor-Intensive: It often requires more manual effort, especially
in managing weeds without chemicals.

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PRELIMS
TIDBIDS
NOVEMBER 2024

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Economics
• SBI: Bucket 4 (highest risk)
Kalka-Shimla Heritage • HDFC Bank: Bucket 3
• ICICI Bank: Bucket 1 (lowest risk)
Railway Track: • Capital Requirements: SBI: 80% CET1; HDFC Bank: 0.40%
CET1; ICICI Bank: 0.20% CET1
• H
 imachal CM requested the Centre to run the Kalka-Shimla
• Selection Process:
narrow-gauge railway on green hydrogen to promote clean
• Sample Selection: Banks with assets over 2% of GDP are
energy.
assessed.
• K
 alka-Shimla Railway: A 2 ft 6 in narrow-gauge railway con-
• Systemic Importance: Evaluated through indicators like lack of
structed in 1898 to connect Shimla with the Indian rail system
substitutability, interconnectedness, and composite score.
under S. Harington.
 ength: 6 km, with 107 tunnels (102 in use) and 864 bridges.
• L
 eatures: 1 in 33 gradient, 919 curves (sharpest at 48 degrees).
• F
• E
 levation: Starts at 656 meters (Kalka), rises to 2,076 meters Bhu-Neer Portal:
(Shimla), with a height difference of 1,420 meters.
• D
 iesel locomotives introduced in 1955, followed by diesel-hy- • Launched digitally by Minister of Jal Shakti during India Water
draulic models in 1970. Week 2024.
• U
 NESCO Heritage: Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage • A centralized platform for managing groundwater withdrawal
Site on 8 July 2008, part of the “Mountain Railways of India.” permits.
 he Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, Nilgiri Mountain Railway,
• T • Developed by CGWA and NIC to regulate groundwater use
and Kalka–Shimla Railway are part of the “Mountain Railways across India, ensuring transparency and sustainability.
of India.” • User-friendly interface with PAN-based single ID, NOC with
• M
 atheran Hill and Kangra Valley Railways are also included. QR code, and simplified processes.
• Improved version compared to its predecessor, NOCAP.
• Ensures groundwater compliance and promotes sustainable
practices.
Asia Tea Alliance (ATA): • Portal is live for queries, tracking, and payments.
• Accessible to both project proponents and the general public
• R ejected GM tea in response to climate challenges affecting
for groundwater services.
global tea production.
• CGWA regulates groundwater development and management
• India’s tea production dropped by 10% due to climate change,
in India, constituted under the Environment (Protection) Act,
prompting push for GM tea.
1986.
• A TA establishment: April 19, 2019, in Guizhou, China.
• Issues advisories, public notices, and grants No Objection
• 5 Members: India, China, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, Japan.
Certificates for groundwater withdrawal.
• G oals: Promote tea trade, cultural exchange, and global tea
advocacy.
• A bout Indian Tea Industry:
• 2 nd largest tea producer and largest black tea producer after Coffee Board of India:
China, the 4th largest exporter.
• L argest consumer of black tea, accounting for 18% of global • Coffee Board of India (CB) launched a 10-year roadmap to
consumption. double coffee production and exports by 2034.
• 1 6 million workers are directly employed, with an equal number • Coffee cultivation began in 1600 AD by Baba Budan in Chik-
working indirectly. magalur, Karnataka.
• G overned by the Tea Board of India under Union Government • Until 1995, coffee was marketed through a pooled supply
• K ey regions: Northeast India, north Bengal (Darjeeling, Terai, • Post-1995, coffee marketing shifted to the private sector
Dooars), Nilgiris in the south. following economic liberalisation.
• R equires cool to warm temperatures (15–23°C), 5 hours of • CB is managed by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry,
sunlight, and 150-200 cm rainfall. established in 1942, based in Bangalore.
• D arjeeling Tea: Known as the “Champagne of teas,” first GI • 33 members, including a Chairman appointed by the Govern-
tagged in 2004–05. ment of India.
• Functions:
• Enhance production, productivity, and quality.
• Promote exports to increase value returns.
Domestic Systemically • Support the domestic coffee market.
• Coffee Industry in India – Imports/Exports:
Important Banks (D-SIBs): • Karnataka is the largest producer (70%), followed by Kerala
and Tamil Nadu.
 BI retains SBI, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank as D-SIBs.
• R
• India exports over 70% of its coffee production.
• S
 BI designated in 2015, ICICI Bank: 2016, HDFC Bank: 2017.
• India is the 8th largest coffee exporter globally (by volume).
 eemed ‘Too Big to Fail’ due to size, complexity, and intercon-
• D
• Peak exports: March to June.
nectedness in the economy.
• Agro-climatic Conditions for Coffee:
• S
 ubjected to additional regulations like capital buffers, stress
• Tropical plant; grows in semi-tropical climates.
tests, and recovery planning to ensure financial stability.
• Requires 16°-28°C temperature, 150-250cm rainfall, and well-
• B
 ucketing: D-SIBs classified into 4 buckets based on systemic
drained slopes.
importance.
• Harmful conditions: Low temperature, frost, dry weather, and

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 harsh sunshine. • Can accept deposits up to ₹2,00,000 in savings and current
• B
 est growth: Laterite soils of Karnataka. accounts.
• M
 ajor Coffee Varieties: • Investment: 75% of deposits in government securities (SLR),
• A
 rabica: High market value, mild aromatic flavor. 25% in time deposits with commercial banks.
• R
 obusta: Less valuable than Arabica.
• Liberica: Cultivated in smaller quantities.

Atmanirbhar Clean Plant

Organisation for the Programme (CPP):
Prohibition of Chemical • $98 million ADB loan to establish advanced laboratories and
diagnostic testing at Clean Plant Centres.
Weapons (OPCW)- • Announced in Union Budget 2023-24 to improve plant health
management in India.
The Hague Award: • Goal: Provide farmers with access to clean, disease-free
planting materials.
• C onferred upon the Indian Chemical Council (ICC) of OPCW • Implemented by: National Horticulture Board (NHB), estab-
in The Hague. lishing Clean Plant Centres
• I CC is premier body representing India’s chemical industry, • Objective: Enhance global competitiveness of India’s horticul-
established in 1938. ture sector.
• C hemical Weapons Convention (CWC) bans development, • Key Objectives:
use, stockpiling of chemical weapons, mandates their destruc- • Strengthen the regulatory framework for plant health.
tion. • Establish Clean Plant Centres for disease-free horticultural
• G enesis: Negotiations began in 1980. crops.
• E stablished: Opened for signature on Jan 13, 1993, entered into • Collaborate with private nurseries, researchers, state govern-
force on April 29, 1997. ments, and growers’ associations.
• M ore comprehensive than 1925 Geneva Protocol, which only • Introduce certification schemes for private nurseries to en-
banned use of chemical weapons. sure disease-free materials.
• C SP (Conference of States Parties): Main decision-making
body, meets annually.
• E xecutive Council comprises 41-member body overseeing
CWC implementation.
• 1 93 States-Parties, open to all nations meeting requirements. India’s Horticulture Sector:
• N on-Signatories: Egypt, North Korea, and South Sudan have • In 2022-23, 351.92 million tonnes of horticulture production,
not signed or ratified the CWC. surpassing foodgrain output.
• O PCW implements CWC, headquartered in The Hague. • 2nd largest producer of fruits and vegetables globally.
• R ole: Oversees destruction of chemical weapons and ensures • Contributes 33% to agriculture Gross Value Added (GVA).
treaty compliance. • Leading producer of Bananas, Lime, Papaya, and Okra.
• I nspection: Conducts inspections of chemical facilities • Government policies driving steady increase in horticulture
• N obel Peace Prize: OPCW won in 2013 for efforts in chemical production.
weapons elimination.

India Post Payments Nutrient Based Subsidy

Bank (IPPB): (NBS) Scheme:
• L
 aunched: 2018 as a division of India Post under the Ministry
• Regulates subsidies for Phosphatic (P) and Potassic (K) fertil-
of Communications.
izers based on nutrient content, EXCLUDING Urea.
• O
 perates as a payments bank.
• Introduced in 2010, by the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertiliz-
• O ffers savings and current accounts, money transfers, bill
ers to promote balanced fertilization.
payments, and insurance.
• Encourages use of multiple fertilizers to ensure optimal plant
• Implements Aadhaar-enabled Payment System (AePS) for
nutrition.
secure transactions.
• Implemented by Department of Fertilizers, Ministry of Chemi-
• S ervices provided by 3 lakh postmen and Grameen Dak
cals and Fertilizers.
Sewaks.
• Applies only to P&K fertilizers, excluding Urea.
• 4 crore customers by Dec 2020, 8 crore by Jan 2022, 9 crore
• Subsidy Rates: Decided annually or bi-annually, based on
by Mar 2024.
market prices of fertilizers and raw materials.
• P
 ayments Bank:
• Aims & Objectives:
 perates like a regular bank but without credit risk.
• O
• Encourages balanced use of Phosphorus and Potassium with
 egistered as a public limited company under the Companies
• R
Nitrogen to improve soil health.
Act, 2013, and licensed under the Banking Regulation Act,
• Reduces over-reliance on Urea, improving the use of other
1949.
essential nutrients.
 overned by Banking Regulation Act, RBI Act, 1934, and
• G
• Makes P&K fertilizers more affordable and accessible.
FEMA, 1999.
 inimum Paid-up Capital: ₹100 crore.
• M

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Governance
• Eligibility: Students admitted to quality Higher Education
Indian Council of Social Institutions (QHEIs) eligible for collateral-free, guarantor-free
loans covering tuition and course expenses.
Science Research (ICSSR): • Administered digitally through a simple, transparent, stu-
dent-friendly system.
• E mployees of ICSSR institutions expressed concerns over the
• Applies to top-ranked institutions (NIRF top 100, state HEIs
delay in revising their pay
ranked 101-200, all central government institutions).
• ICSSR was established in 1969 as an autonomous organiza-
• List of eligible institutions updated annually based on NIRF
tion based on the recommendation of V. K. R. V. Rao Commit-
rankings.
tee.
• Up to ₹7.5 lakh loans with 75% credit guarantee for defaults.
• O perates under the Ministry of Education.
• For students with family income up to ₹8 lakh, 3% interest sub-
• P romotes, funds, and supports social science research in
vention for loans up to ₹10 lakh during the moratorium period (if
India.
not eligible for other government scholarships).
• O bjectives: Encourage social science research, fund and coordi-
• Support for 1 lakh students annually, with preference for gov-
nate research, collaborate with international research organiza-
ernment institutions or technical/professional courses.
tions, provide policy recommendations.
• Unified portal managed by the Department of Higher Educa-
• G overned by a Council of eminent scholars and policymakers,
tion to oversee the scheme.
supported by 24 research institutes and 6 regional centers.
• F unds institutes like CDS in Thiruvananthapuram, ISEC in Ben-
galuru, CSSS in Kolkata, and GIPE in Pune.
• K ey programs: ICSSR Data Service (national repository for QS Asia University Rankings:
social science data), NASSDOC (documentation and library
services), workshops, and conferences to enhance research • Shows India’s growth in higher education with 2 institutions in
capabilities. the top 50 and 7 in the top 100.
• C ollaborates with international organizations like UNESCO • QS: London-based global higher education analyst known for
and the Indian Council of World Affairs for joint projects and World University Rankings.
scholar exchanges. • Assessment: Based on research reputation, learning environ-
ment, research impact, and internationalisation.
• India in Top 50: IIT Delhi (44th) and IIT Bombay (48th).
• IIT Madras (56th), IIT Kharagpur (60th), Indian Institute of
Namo Drone Didi Scheme: Science (62nd), IIT Kanpur (67th), and University of Delhi
(81st).
• O perational Guidelines for the Namo Drone Didi Scheme
• Other Notable Institutions: IIT Guwahati, IIT Roorkee,
(2024-2026) released.
Jawaharlal Nehru University, Chandigarh University, VIT are
• C entral Sector Scheme to provide drones to 14,500 Women
ranked in the Top 150 globally.
Self Help Groups (SHGs) for agricultural services (fertilizer/pes-
ticide application).
• T otal Funding: Rs. 1,261 crore allocated by the Ministry of Agri-
culture and Farmers Welfare. World Toilet Day, 2024:
• 8 0% cost covered (up to ₹8 lakh per drone); 20% financed
through loans under AIF with 3% interest subvention. • Observed annually on November 19.
• S HGs can also access loans from other Rural Development • To raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis and pro-
programs. mote action for safe toilets
• 1 5-day mandatory training for drone pilots, additional training • 2024 Theme: “Sanitation for Peace” – highlights the role of
for assistants on repairs/maintenance. sanitation in promoting peace, security, and resilience.
• T raining Providers: Remote Pilot Training Organizations (RP- • Became an official UN observance in 2013 under SDG 6 (clean
TOs) approved by DGCA. water and sanitation).
• I mplementing Agency: Lead Fertilizer Companies (LFCs) coor- • First Proposed: By Jack Sim of the World Toilet Organization
dinate with State Departments, drone manufacturers, and SHGs; in 2001.
drones procured transparently and owned by SHGs or Cluster • To address health, dignity, and environmental challenges
Level Federations (CLFs). linked to inadequate sanitation.
• O perational Limits: Drones to operate within visual line of sight
(vLOS) and below 400 feet (120 meters).
• E xpected Outcomes: Each SHG to cover 2,000-2,500 acres
annually; Drone Portal for tracking usage, fund disbursement,
One Nation One Subscription
and service monitoring. (ONOS) Scheme:
• Cabinet-approved digital Central Sector Scheme providing

PM-Vidyalaxmi Scheme:
nationwide access to research articles and journals.
• Unified access to scholarly journals for government HEIs and
• A
 pproved by the Union Cabinet to provide financial support to R&D labs.
meritorious students for higher education. • Support research via the Anusandhan National Research
 Central Sector Scheme; Outlay: ₹3,600 Crore for 2024-25
• A Foundation (ANRF), especially in tier 2 and tier 3 cities.
to 2030-31. • Centralize subscriptions to reduce financial burden on individ-
ual institutions.

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• A ligns with Viksit Bharat@2047, NEP 2020, and National torized transport
Research Foundation (NRF). • Funds are equally divided among States/UTs with a 50:50
• I NFLIBNET (under UGC) will coordinate ONOS, ensuring seam- weightage.
less access. • Covers 500 cities and towns with populations over 1 lakh and
• 6 ,300 institutions (central and state) eligible, including univer- notified Municipalities.
sities, colleges, and R&D labs.
• D edicated digital portal for easy and wide access.
• E ligibility: All government-run HEIs and R&D institutions.
• 1 3,000 journals from 30 international publishers available Urban Infrastructure
• ₹
free of cost.
 6,000 crore allocated for 2025-2027, payments to publishers Development Fund (UIDF):
made centrally by INFLIBNET. • Announced in 2023-24 Budget to address urban infrastructure
gaps in Tier-2 and Tier-3
• Managed by the National Housing Bank (NHB).
The Copyright Act, 1957: • Initial Corpus: ₹10,000 crore.
• Modeled after the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund
• D
 hanush sued Nayanthara for using excerpts from their 2015 (RIDF).
film in a biopic without consent. • Target Cities:
 he Copyright Act, 1957 aims to protect creators’ rights over
• T • Tier-2 Cities: Populations between 50,000 and 1 lakh.
original works. • Tier-3 Cities: Populations below 50,000.
• A
 uthors and creators have the right to reproduce, distribute, • Objectives & Focus:
and perform their works. • Funding for water supply, sanitation, sewerage, and waste
 overs literary, musical, artistic works, cinematograph films,
• C management.
and sound recordings. • Prioritize projects improving urban services.
 opyright lasts for life of author + 60 years (literary, musical,
• C • Beneficiaries: 459 Tier-2 cities and 580 Tier-3 cities.
dramatic works) and 60 years for films/sound recordings. • Loan Features:
• E
 xclusive Rights: Reproduction, distribution, performance, and • Interest Rate: Bank Rate minus 1.5%.
adaptation of works. • Repayment Terms: Repayable in five equal instalments over
• S
 ection 52 provides exceptions for Use Without Permission. seven years.
• F
 air Use: Includes criticism, review, news reporting, teaching, • 2-year moratorium before repayments start.
research, and private use. • Interest payments made quarterly during the loan period.
• E xceptions for libraries, archives, and government use.
• Important for education and public access, enabling non-com-
mercial use.
• S
 ection 38 is about performer’s rights. National AYUSH Mission
• P
 rotects artists (singers, actors) for their performances in
works like films and songs. (NAM) and Related Schemes:
 ights last for 50 years after the performance.
• R • Launched in September 2014 under the Ministry of Health
and Family Welfare during the 12th FYP.
• Promotes traditional systems of medicine – AYUSH (Ayurve-
Atal Mission for Rejuvenation da, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy).
• Strengthen healthcare in rural/remote areas, improve access
and Urban Transformation to AYUSH services, and promote holistic health across India.
• Now under the Ministry of AYUSH for nationwide execution.
(AMRUT) 2.0 Scheme: • Works in partnership with States and UTs to bridge healthcare
gaps in underserved areas.
• L aunched on October 1, 2021, as the continuation of AMRUT • Provisions under NAM:
1.0. • Integrates AYUSH into mainstream healthcare, especially in rural
• E nhance urban infrastructure in 500 cities, concentrating on areas.
water supply, wastewater management, and rejuvenation of • Provides funding to establish AYUSH dispensaries, clinics,
water bodies. colleges, and hospitals.
• R uns for 5 years (FY 2021-22 to FY 2025-26). • Financial assistance to expand AYUSH services in remote
• E nsures coverage of water supply and sewerage in 500 cities regions.
and 4,900 statutory towns. • Supports R&D to standardize practices and develop better
• F ocus on water recycling, reuse of treated sewage, and water treatments in AYUSH.
conservation. • AYURSWASTHYA Yojana:
• Incorporates global technologies for better water manage- • Promotes AYUSH healthcare and education under the Ministry
ment. of AYUSH.
• P ey Jal Survekshan to assess water distribution, wastewater • Key Components:
reuse, and promote healthy competition among cities. • AYUSH and Public Health: Promotes community healthcare
• A MRUT: with AYUSH interventions.
• L aunched in June 2015, a flagship urban development scheme. • Upgradation of Facilities: Establishes Centers of Excellence
• O perated as a Central Sponsored Scheme. in AYUSH and Allopathic institutions.
• P rovide basic urban infrastructure to improve quality of life in • Funding: Provides a maximum assistance of ₹10 crore for CoE
cities and towns. • AYURGYAN Scheme:
• E nsure tap water and sewerage connections for every house- • Focuses on medical education and healthcare infrastructure
hold. for AYUSH in the country.
• I ncrease green areas in cities.
• R educe pollution by promoting public transport and non-mo-

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Polity
• Designs and Research (D&R) Wing.
United States’ • River Management (RM) Wing.
• Water Planning and Projects (WP&P) Wing.
Electoral College:
• D onald Trump has been elected President of the United States
(POTUS). Supreme Court Judgement
• P resident (+Vice President) must be a natural-born US citizen,
at least 35 years old, and a US resident for 14 years. on Private Property:
• I ndia: Naturalized citizens and candidates need 50 proposers
and 50 seconders for nomination. • Supreme Court in Property Owners Association v State of
• In the US, a person can serve only 2 terms as President; India Maharashtra Case 2024 set limits on the government’s power
has no such term limit. to take over private resources for public distribution.
• T wo-party system, mainly Democratic and Republican parties, • Petitioners argued private properties cannot be taken by the
with third parties like the Libertarian Party. state under constitutional schemes of Articles 39(b) and 31C.
• P arties conduct primaries and caucuses to choose a presiden- • Article 39(b): State aims to ensure distribution of material
tial nominee. resources for the common good.
• P rimaries are run by state governments with secret ballots; • Article 31C: Prevents challenges to Articles 39(b) and 39(c) on
Caucuses are private meetings by political parties. grounds of Article 14 (right to equality) or Article 19 (freedoms
• D elegates, chosen in primaries and caucuses, vote for the like speech, assembly).
nominee at the convention. • Acquisition of private resources: Only scarce or vital resources
• D emocratic Party delegates include Superdelegates (party for community well-being qualify for state acquisition, not all
leaders) who can vote for any candidate. private properties.
• R epublican Party delegates include pledged delegates and • Public trust doctrine: State holds certain resources in trust
unpledged delegates (top party officials). for the public, which may guide the determination of resource
• U S territories can elect delegates for party conventions, unlike acquisition.
in the general election. • Tests for resource qualification: A resource must be both
• E lectoral College was established as a compromise between material and serve the community.
Congressional and popular vote selection. • Materiality refers to the impact of assets like land, minerals,
• V oters elect electors, NOT the President directly; electors or water on economic, social, and environmental
pledge to vote for specific candidates. • Overturned Ranganath Reddy case 1977: Majority overturned
• N umber of electors per state equals its Congressional repre- Sanjeev Coke ruling 1982, which upheld Ranganath Reddy’s
sentation, totaling 538 electors. argument that all private property could be deemed “material
• M ost states use a winner-take-all system for electoral votes. resources of the community” for redistribution.
• A candidate can win the presidency without the popular vote • Dissent: Justice Sudhanshu Dhulia argued for broader legisla-
by securing large states with more electors, as in 2000. tive discretion in defining “material resources” of the community.
• E lections occur every four years on the first Tuesday after the
first Monday in November.
Inter-State Council (ISC):
Central Water
• Indian government reconstituted the ISC after 2 years, last
reconstitution in 2022.

Commission (CWC):
• Established under Article 263 of the Constitution to promote
Centre-State and Inter-State cooperation.
 imalayan glacial lakes are expanding rapidly according to a
• H • Sarkaria Commission (1988) recommended making ISC a per-
CWC report. manent body, formalized in 1990 via Presidential Order.
 WC established in 1945 as the Central Waterways, Irrigation
• C • Functions: Discusses common issues between states and
and Navigation Commission (CWINC), on Dr. B. R. Ambedkar’s Union, coordinates policies and actions, investigates Cen-
advice. tre-State and Inter-State relations.
 odal Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti, under the Department of
• N • Composition:
Water Resources, River Development, and Ganga Rejuvenation. • Chairperson: PM.
• S
 tatutory body advising the GoI on water resources manage- • Members: CMs of all States, CMs of UTs with Legislative As-
ment. sembly, Administrators of UTs without Legislative Assembly, 6
 eadquarters: New Delhi.
• H Cabinet Ministers nominated by the PM.
• G
 eneral Responsibilities: • Amendments:
• C
 oordinates schemes for water resources control, conserva- • 1990: Governor under President’s rule can attend meetings.
tion, and utilization. • 1996: Chairman can nominate permanent invitees from Union
 aintains the National Register of Large Dams (NRLD).
• M Ministers.
 onducts hydrological surveys.
• C • Standing Committee: Set up in 1996 under Home Minister for
• D
 eals with surface water only; groundwater is managed by the continuous consultation.
Central Groundwater Board (CGWB). • Secretariat in New Delhi, headed by Secretary to the Govern-
• C
 hairman serves as Ex-Officio Secretary to the GoI. ment of India.
• W
 ings of CWC:

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Press Council of India (PCI): Women Pioneers of
• N ational Press Day is celebrated on November 16.
• It marks the start of the PCI in 1966, established as a moral
Indian Constitution:
watchdog. • On Constitution Day (November 26), President Murmu
• C onstituted on July 4, 1966, as an autonomous, statutory, acknowledged the significant role of women members in the
and quasi-judicial Constituent Assembly of India.
• E stablished to ensure press ethics and independence. • 5 Notable Women in the Constituent Assembly:
• F irst Press Commission of India (1954) recommended forming • Ammu Swaminathan (1894-1978)
PCI. • Co-founded the Women’s India Association in 1917 with Annie
• Initially governed by Press Council Act of 1965, replaced by Besant.
Press Council Act of 1978. • Advocated for women’s education and rights.
• 2 8 members, including a Chairperson. • Spoke on the Hindu Code Bill and gender equality in the
• C hairperson appointed by a committee with the Chief Justice Assembly.
of India, Lok Sabha Speaker, and a Presidential representa- • Became the first woman elected to the Madras legislature.
tive. • Served as India’s goodwill ambassador to Russia, China, and
• M embers include: the US after independence.
• 1 3 working journalists from various news organizations. • Annie Mascarene (1902-1963)
• 6 from editors and newspaper owners. • Born in Travancore, from a Latin Christian family at the bottom
• 5 members from Parliament (3 from Lok Sabha, 2 from Rajya of the caste system.
Sabha). • Advocated for universal adult franchise and opposed caste-
• 1 nominee each from UGC, BCI, and Sahitya Akademi. based voting rights.
1• 3  -year term, re-election possible. • Fought for political representation of marginalized communi-
1• P  owers and Functions of PCI: ties.
• H old inquiries into press complaints. • Called for a strong Centre and autonomy for local governments
• C an summon witnesses and request documents. in the Constituent Assembly.
• C an censure or admonish journalists, editors, or newspapers • Elected as an independent candidate in 1952 from Thiruva-
for ethics nanthapuram.
• C an recommend actions to authorities, but cannot enforce • Begum Qudsia Aizaz Rasul (1909-2001)
laws or impose penalties. • From a prominent family in Punjab, faced resistance for her edu-
cation, including a fatwa against her convent schooling.
• Fought for women’s rights and opposed separate electorates
based on religion.
• Stayed in India post-partition, joined Indian National Congress.
• Elected to Rajya Sabha in 1952.
• Promoted women’s hockey in India.
• Dakshayani Velayudhan (1912-1978)
• First Dalit woman to graduate in science and first Dalit woman
in the Cochin Legislative Council.
• Advocated for nationalism and opposed separate electorates
for Dalits.
• Strongly committed to social justice despite facing discrimina-
tion.

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International Relations
various African and Asian languages.
Horn of Africa: • Geographical spread: from The Bahamas in the north to Suri-
name and Guyana in the south, spanning the Caribbean Sea.

Loaita Island:

• Philippine forces conducted combat exercises in the South

• 6
 5 million people are food insecure in the China Sea to practice retaking Loaita Island.
Horn of Africa (UN-IGAD report). • 45 hectares in size and the 10th largest of the Spratly Islands.
• H orn of Africa is a large peninsula in Northeast Africa. • Administered by Philippines as part of Kalayaan, Palawan, but
• K nown as Bilad al Barbar or Berber Land in ancient times. also claimed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam.
• L ocated on the easternmost part of the African mainland, it is • Fringes the Loaita Bank, with shoals and reefs, and its western
the 4th largest peninsula. side has calcarenite outcrops visible at low tide.
• L ies along the southern Red Sea and extends into the Guarda- • Covered with mangrove bushes, coconut palms, and small
fui Channel, Gulf of Aden, and Indian Ocean. trees.
• E quidistant from the equator and Tropic of Cancer. • May 22, 1963: South Vietnam rebuilt a sovereignty stele on the
• Includes the Ethiopian Plateau, Ogaden desert, and Eritrean island, marking its claim.
and Somali coasts. • Philippines has stationed soldiers since 1968, with minimal
• Includes Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, and Somalia. structures for shelter.
• C haracterized by a mix of arid, semi-arid, and temperate cli- • China also reasserted its claim over Flashpoint Reef (Scarbor-
mates, influencing agriculture and livelihoods in the region. ough Shoal) after the Philippines defined its sea boundaries.
• F aced imperialism in past, conflict, poverty, disease, and
famine.

Chancay Port Project in Peru:

CARICOM (Caribbean • Inaugurated in Peru by Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Community): • Inaugurated as part of a new land-sea corridor linking China

with Latin America.
• S econd India-CARICOM Joint Commission meeting took • Funded under Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) with a cost of $3.6
place virtually on November 6. billion.
• F irst meeting was in Georgetown, Guyana on June 2, 2015. • Capacity: Can accommodate vessels up to 18,000 TEUs, the
• C ARICOM is a grouping of 21 countries: 15 Member States and largest in the world.
6 Associate Members, including island states and mainland • Ownership: 60% owned by COSCO (China Ocean Shipping
territories like Suriname and Guyana. Group), the rest by a local company.
• F ounded in 1973 with the Treaty of Chaguaramas signed by • Expected to generate $4.5 billion annually for Peru (1.8% of
Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, and Trinidad & Tobago. GDP).
• CARICOM Secretariat in Georgetown, Guyana, serves as the • Key Exports: Copper, blueberries, soybeans, lithium (from Lithi-
main administrative body, led by the Secretary-General. um Triangle: Bolivia, Chile, Argentina).
• Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ): Established in 2007, the • Proximity to Lima: 78 km north of Lima in Chancay
CCJ acts as the final appellate court for CARICOM members. • Natural Deep-Water Port: Ideal for large vessels.
• Includes people from African, Indian, European, Chinese, Por- • Trade Gateway: Facilitates South America-Asia trade, reduc-
tuguese, and Indigenous ing transit time.
• P opulation of 16 million, with 60% under the age of 30. • Alternative to North America: Avoids North American ports,
• M ultilingual region, primarily English, with French, Dutch, and offering a direct route to Asia.

BURNING ISSUES Nov 2024 HQ: Ground Floor, Apsara Arcade, ORN, New Delhi-05 80765 17832 72
International Criminal ic sustainability, and advocacy.
• Powers and Functions:

Court (ICC): • Represents cooperatives in international forums like the UN.

• Shapes international policies on social development and
• I CC issues arrest warrant for Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu sustainable business.
for war crimes and crimes against humanity. • Promotes and ensures adherence to cooperative principles.
• E stablished under the Rome Statute (1998, effective 2002). • Publishes reports like the World Cooperative Monitor and ICA
• F irst permanent court to prosecute individuals for serious Global 300 Index.
international crimes.
• H eadquarters: The Hague, Netherlands.
• S tates Parties: 124 countries, including Palestine (2015) and
Malaysia (2019).
Global Alliance against
• N
• L
 on-members: India, Israel, US, Russia, Ukraine, China.
 anguages: English, French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, Spanish.
Hunger and Poverty:
• F unding: Contributions from member states and voluntary dona- • Launched at G20 Summit in Brazil to tackle global hunger and
tions. poverty.
• E nforcement: Relies on state cooperation as it lacks its own • Builds on the Deccan High-Level Principles on Food Security
police force. and Nutrition 2023 adopted at G20 New Delhi Summit.
• C omposition: • Voluntary coalition of governments, international organiza-
• J udges: 18 judges elected for 9-year terms. tions, NGOs, and other stakeholders focusing on SDG 1 (pover-
• P rosecutor: Leads investigations into crimes. ty), SDG 2 (hunger), and SDG 10 (inequality).
• Includes Trust Fund for Victims (2004), Detention Centre, and • 3 pillars: knowledge, finance, and knowledge at the country
Assembly of States Parties. level.
• P rosecutes 4 main crimes: • Programs:
• W ar Crimes: Violations of war laws. • Food assistance, social protection schemes (cash/in-kind
• C rimes against Humanity: Acts like murder, enslavement, transfers).
torture. • School feeding programs, maternal and child nutrition, early
• G enocide: Intent to destroy specific groups. childhood support.
• C rimes of Aggression: Unjustified military actions. • Promote local food markets, smallholder farmers, and sus-
• C ab only prosecute crimes after July 1, 2002 (Rome Statute tainable farming.
entry). • Provide health and care services for vulnerable groups (e.g.,
children, women, elderly).

International Cooperative
UNSC Resolution 1701:
Alliance (ICA): • Passed on August 11, 2006, after the 34-day war between
• I ndia to host the ICA Global Cooperative Conference in Delhi Israel and Hezbollah.
this month. • Aim:
• F irst time in 130 years the event is held in India. • End hostilities, ensure security for Israel and Lebanon.
• E stablished in 1895, to unite and represent cooperatives glob- • Establish long-term peace along the Israel-Lebanon border.
ally. • Prevent Hezbollah from using southern Lebanon as a base for
• R epresents 315 cooperative federations from 107 countries, military operations.
serving about 1 billion individuals across sectors like agricul- • Halted the conflict between Hezbollah and Israel.
ture, banking, fisheries, health, housing, insurance, etc. • Disarmament of Hezbollah and all other armed groups in Leba-
• U N ECOSOC has consultative status since 1946, first NGO with non.
this status. • Full withdrawal of Israel from southern Lebanon, occupied
• O versees cooperative values, principles, and definitions. since 1982 Lebanon War.
• S tructure: • Directed Lebanese government to deploy its army in southern
• G overning Board: 20-member board overseeing activities. Lebanon to ensure peace and prevent Hezbollah rearmament.
• G eneral Assembly: Highest governing body, with representa- • UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) deployment
tives from member organizations, convened at least annually. increased to monitor the border and ensure compliance.
• R egional Organizations: • Restrictions on weapon transfers to Hezbollah.
• ICA Asia-Pacific (New Delhi) • Full implementation of the Taif Accords (1989) for disarma-
• ICA Africa (Nairobi) ment and strengthening Lebanese state authority.
• C ooperatives Europe (Brussels) • Israel withdrew, but Hezbollah retained weapons and contin-
• ICA Americas (San José) ued terror operations.
• S ectoral Organizations: 8 groups representing agriculture, • Lebanese army struggled to assert full control in southern
banking, and more. Lebanon due to Hezbollah’s persistent influence.
• 5 committees focused on cooperative development, econom-

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Security Issues
Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR: Exercise ‘Poorvi Prahar’:
• I ndian Army contingent departed for the 15th edition, a joint • Indian Army conducting high-intensity tri-services exercise in
Special Forces exercise with the US Army. Arunachal Pradesh.
• A imed at enhancing military cooperation between India and the • Joint effort of Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force to improve
US. combat effectiveness for Integrated Joint Operations in chal-
• S tarted in 2010 as part of bilateral defense cooperation. lenging mountainous terrain.
• N o exercises were held in 2012, 2015 and 2020. • Military platforms involved:
• H eld annually, alternating between India and the US. • Aircraft & Helicopters: Includes fighter aircraft, reconnais-
• 1 5th Edition scheduled in, Idaho, USA. sance platforms, Chinook helicopters, and Advanced Light
• O bjectives: Enhance military cooperation, promote interopera- Helicopter (Rudra).
bility, improve joint operations capabilities. • Artillery: Deployment of M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
• K ey focus: High physical fitness standards, joint planning, and • Capabilities: High mobility, firepower, and precision suited to
tactical drills. tough terrain.
• S ignificance: Joint Team Mission Planning, reconnaissance
missions, use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), execution of
special operations, roles of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers,
psychological warfare. Armed Forces (Special
Powers) Act, 1958:
Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24: • Central government reinstated Disturbed Areas status under
AFSPA in six Manipur police station jurisdictions after ethnic
• Indian contingent has departed for Indonesia, for the 9th edi- violence.
tion of this exercise. • Originated from British-era legislation to suppress Quit India
• A bilateral joint Special Forces exercise between India and Movement.
Indonesia. • Introduced in 1947 as four ordinances, replaced by 1948 Act.
• H eld alternatively in India and Indonesia. • Enacted in 1958 by Home Minister G.B. Pant, initially for As-
• I nitiated in 2012 as part of defense cooperation between India sam and Manipur.
and Indonesia. • Extended to Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Naga-
• O bjectives: Enhance mutual understanding, share best prac- land as new states formed.
tices in counter-terrorism, conduct joint operations to improve • Enacted to control disturbed areas as per government of India.
interoperability. • First implemented in Northeast, later in Punjab.
• S ignificance: Strengthens bilateral relations, fosters trust, con- • Empowers armed forces to open fire, search without warrant,
tributes to regional security, enhances operational capabilities arrest cognisable offenders.
of both armies. • Prosecution of officers requires prior Central Government
• N inth Edition (2024): Scheduled from November 1 to 12, focus- • AFSPA applied after an area is declared disturbed.
ing on enhancing understanding, cooperation, and interopera- • Currently active in parts of Nagaland, Assam, Manipur,
bility. Arunachal Pradesh.
• Lifted from Meghalaya (2018) and repealed in Tripura (2015).
• Disturbed Area: Declared through notification under Section
3 of AFSPA.

MAHASAGAR Initiative: • Section 3 empowers Governor to issue notification in Gazette

of India.
• 3
 rd edition of the high-level virtual interaction MAHASAGAR
was conducted by the Indian Navy.
• M
 AHASAGAR stands for “Maritime Heads for Active (MAHA)
Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)”.
Operation Sagar Manthan:
• S
 AGAR Doctrine was culminated out of PM’s vision in 2015. • Initiated by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) to dismantle
 he initiative started by the Indian Navy is bi-annual and has
• T the drug empire of Haji Salim, the “Lord of Drugs.”
gained wide acceptance since its launch in 2023. • Launched under the direction of Union Home Minister Amit
• P
 articipating countries: Indian Ocean Region littoral nations: Shah.
Bangladesh, Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauri- • A comprehensive crackdown on Salim’s syndicate linked to
tius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. narco-terrorism.
 he theme of this edition: ‘Training Cooperation to Mitigate
• T • Aims and Objectives:
Common Maritime Security Challenges in IOR’. • Break supply lines, seize narcotics, and arrest operatives.
 ocused on training cooperation to address common mari-
• F • Disrupt funding for cross-border terrorism.
time challenges in the Indian Ocean Region. • Strengthen surveillance in remote coastal areas used by the
syndicate.

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• C
 ounter aid from entities like Pakistan’s ISI and disrupt links • Educational outreach by the Ministry of Defence to engage
with figures like Dawood Ibrahim. students.
• G
 oals: • Launched in 2021 to honor the Gallantry Awardees and their
 educe cartel influence in the Indian Ocean region.
• R selfless sacrifice.
 itigate narco-terrorism to improve regional security.
• M • Conducted annually with increasing participation.
 nhance maritime security to prevent future networks.
• E • Objectives: Instill patriotism and national pride; Foster creativ-
ity through artistic expression.
• Feature competitions: poems, paintings, essays, videos.

Project Veer Gatha 4.0: • 100 national-level winners annually, ₹10,000 prize, recognition
by Ministry of Education and Ministry of Defence.
 aw over 76 crore school students participate, honoring the
• S • District and state awards for outstanding students.
bravery and sacrifice of Armed Forces. • Digital submission via MyGov portal for easy participation.

Enviro & Biodiversity

Amchang Wildlife Sanctuary: Article 6.4 of the
• D
 ecomposed elephant carcass found in Khanapara Range,
Amchang WLS, Assam.
Paris Agreement:
• A
 ssam Sanctuary includes Khanapara, Amchang, and South • COP29 in Baku, Azerbaijan adopted Article 6.4 for global
Amchang reserve forests. carbon trading under UN supervision.
 tretches from Brahmaputra River (north) to Meghalaya’s hilly
• S • Article 6.4 establishes a global carbon market for trading
forests (south), forming a continuous forest belt with Maradak- carbon credits among countries.
dola Reserve Forest. • Aims to help countries offset emissions through investments
• F
 lora: Khasi Hill Sal Forests, East Himalayan Mixed Deciduous in emission reduction projects globally.
Forest, Eastern Alluvial Secondary Semi-evergreen Forests, East • Overseen by UNFCCC Supervisory Body, which monitors cred-
Himalayan Sal Forests. it issuance and compliance with international standards.
• F
 auna: • Countries can generate Emission Reduction Credits (ERCs)
• F
 lying fox, Slow loris, Assamese macaque, Rhesus macaque, through approved projects, which can be traded worldwide.
Hoolock gibbon, Porcupine. • Subsections like Article 6.2 allow tradeable units, ITMOs, to
• W
 hite-backed vulture, Slender-billed vulture. help countries meet their NDCs.
• Y
 ellow butterflies (Gancana harina) found in Thailand, Malay- • Could save $250 billion annually in climate plan implementa-
sia, Singapore, and NE India. tion.
 ecognized as an Important Bird & Biodiversity Area (IBA).
• R • Supports NDC targets and incentivizes investments in green
projects.

Artificial Reef Project

No Dual Eco-Clearance for
in Kerala:
• 2
 0,000 pompano fingerlings released off Vizhinjam as part of
39 Categories of Industry:
an artificial reef project to replenish marine fishery resources • MoEFCC issued notification to address industry demand by re-
and promote sustainable fishing. moving need for dual compliance of Environmental Clearance
• L
 ocation: Covers 42 fishing villages in Thiruvananthapuram (EC) and Consent to Establish (CTE).
district, from Pozhiyoor to Varkala. • Dual approval: Requires both EC and CTE from State Pollution
• A
 ims: Control Boards (SPCBs) under Air Act (1981) and Water Act
 nhance fish resources along Kerala’s coast.
• E (1974) before industrial operations.
 upport sustainable fishing and improve livelihoods of fishing
• S • Exemption: Non-polluting ‘white category’ industries exempt
communities. from CTE and Consent to Operate (CTO).
• F
 unding: ₹02 crore under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada • Industries with EC no longer need separate CTE.
Yojana (PMMSY); ₹302 crore allocated for sustainable fisher- • Exempted Industries: 39 white category industries, including:
ies in Kerala. • Solar cell/module manufacturing
• M
 anaged by KSCADC (Kerala State Coastal Area Development • Wind/hydel power units
Corporation). • Fly ash brick manufacturing
• T
 echnical support from CMFRI (Central Marine Fisheries Re- • Leather cutting/stitching
search Institute). • Air-cooler/AC assembling, repairing, servicing
• Exemption Process:

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• S
 PCBs consulted during EC process to ensure CTE aspects NCR and metros.
addressed. • After BS-IV, India skipped BS-V in favor of BS-VI in 2016 due to
• S
 OP issued for integrated process. rising pollution.
• Industries still pay CTE fee to avoid revenue loss for States. • BS-VI norms mandated for all new cars from 2020.
• Has stricter sulphur limits (10 ppm) than BS-IV (50 ppm).
• Reduces nitrogen oxide and particulate matter emissions,

Barak River: making vehicles more environmentally friendly.

• Standard includes stricter diesel vehicle limits on particulate
• P olice found dead bodies floating in the Barak River due to matter and NOx.
Manipur violence.
• O riginates from Japvo mountain in Manipur hills at 3,015 m.
• F
• F
 orms border between Assam and Manipur up to Jirimat.
 lows 524 km in India, enters Bangladesh as Surma and Kushi-
Salt Chimneys discovered
yara, later becomes Meghna
• National Waterway 6 (121 km) is navigable.
in the Dead Sea:
• Physical Features:
• Length: 564 km (524 km in India).
• D rainage area: 41,157 sq. km (1.38% of India’s area).
• T ributaries: Jiri, Dhaleswari, Singla, Longai, Sonai, Katakhal.
• F lora & Fauna:
• F auna: Over 2,000 fish species, Siamese crocodile, susu dol-
phin, smooth-coated otter, black mugger crocodile.
• F lora: Varzea forest, Los llamjao, tidal forests (mangroves), Pats
(flat-topped mountains), tropical swamps.
• W etlands: Support farming and biodiversity.
• H ydropower Projects: Tipaimukh Dam, Tista Champamati,
Dhansiri Barrages.

Asian Development
Bank (ADB):
• A DB to boost climate-related lending by up to $7.2 billion.
• U S and Japan to provide risk guarantees for existing loans. • Unique salt chimneys discovered on the Dead Sea floor by
• U S to guarantee $1 billion, Japan to underwrite $600 million. Helmholtz Centre
• F irst-ever use of sovereign guarantees for climate finance. • Dead Sea is located between Jordan and Israel, with the Al-
• A DB founded: 1966, post Asian Economic Cooperation Lisan peninsula dividing two basins.
• H eadquarters: Manila, Philippines; Status: Official UN Ob- • Southern half of the western shore belongs to Israel, northern
server. to West Bank.
• A
 ims: Reduce poverty in Asia-Pacific; Provide loans, technical • Lowest land-based feature on Earth at 5 m below sea level.
assistance, and grants. • 50 km long, 15 km wide at its widest point.
• E nhance effectiveness through policy dialogues, advisory • Surrounded by Judaea hills (west) and Transjordanian pla-
services, and co-financing. teaus (east).
• G oals: Raise $100 billion for climate finance from 2019-2030. • Salinity: 34.2%, nearly 10x saltier than seawater, 4th saltiest in
• L ending over 5 years, guarantees for 25 years. the world.
• E xample: Sustainable aviation fuel in Pakistan ($90M cost, • Density: 1.240 kg/L, enabling people to float easily.
ADB covers half). • Inlets: Jordan River; No outlet, water loss mainly through evap-
• M embership: 67 members, 48 from Asia-Pacific. oration.
• Includes members of UNESCAP and non-regional developed • No life except for algae and microorganisms due to high salin-
countries. ity.
•  ajor Shareholders: Japan & US (607%); China (6.444%); India
M
(6.331%); Australia (5.786%).

Guru Ghasidas-Tamor
Bharat Stage Emissions Pingla Tiger Reserve:
Standards: • India’s 56th TR and the third-largest in the country. (First:
Nagarjunasagar-Srisailam in AP; Second: Manas in Assam)
• G RAP Stage III effective from 15 November 2024, banning BS- • Situated in northern Chhattisgarh, bordering Madhya Pradesh
III petrol and BS-IV diesel vehicles in the NCR. and Jharkhand.
• B S norms regulate air pollutants from engine equipment, • Connected to Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve (MP) to the West
including vehicles. and Palamau Tiger Reserve (Jharkhand) to the East.
• I ntroduced in 1991, updated in 1996 requiring catalytic con- • Lies in the Chota Nagpur plateau and partially in the Ba-
verters. ghelkhand plateau.
• 1 996 fuel specifications, implemented by 2000. • Contiguous with Sanjay Dubri Tiger Reserve (Madhya
• India followed Euro norms but with a 5-year delay. Pradesh).
• 1 999 Supreme Court order led to BS-I and BS-II norms for • Features dense forests, streams, and rivers, creating ideal

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 habitats for tigers. • Effective: 2020 through an ordinance.
• O
 rigin of significant rivers: Hasdeo Gopad, Baranga. • Chairperson: Senior government official (Secretary/Chief Sec-
• C
 atchment areas for Neur, Bijadhur, Banas, Rehand, and retary).
other smaller rivers. • Members:
• 7
 53 species documented, including 365 invertebrates and 388 • 5 ex-officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan,
vertebrates (Zoological Survey of India). Uttar Pradesh.
• 3 full-time technical members.
• 3 members from NGOs.

4 distinct Species • Technical Support: From CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.
• Functions:

of King Cobra: • Monitor & Coordinate: Air quality management efforts in NCR
and adjoining areas.
• A 12-year study by the Kalinga Centre for Rainforest Ecology • Research: Sources of air pollution and propose mitigation
has shown the king cobra actually consists of four distinct strategies.
species. • Implement Policies: Collaborate with state agencies on air qual-
• S cientific Name: Ophiophagus hannah ity measures.
• L argest venomous snake, reaching up to 18 feet (5.5 meters). • Public Awareness: Raise awareness and engage communities in
• V enom: Neurotoxic, affects the nervous system. air quality management.
• Identified as 4 species by Kalinga Centre: • Powers:
• H annah (Northern) • Jurisdiction: Over air quality issues in NCR, including Delhi,
• B ungarus (Sunda) Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan.
• K aalinga (Western Ghats) • Authority:
• S alvatana (Luzon) • Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals.
• S pecies differ 1-4% genetically, supporting their reclassifica- • Restrict activities harming air quality.
tion. • Investigate and enforce environmental pollution measures.
• F ound in tropical, subtropical, and temperate regions (India, • Strict actions against non-compliance under CAQM Act 2021.
Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia, Philippines). • Enforce regulations and initiate complaints.
• S olitary and territorial, preys on snakes, lizards, birds, and
rodents.
• M ates annually during the monsoon, lays up to 40 eggs in self-
made nests.
Arittapatti Biodiversity
• H
• P
 ood display when threatened to appear larger.
 lays a vital role in controlling snake populations and maintain-
Heritage Site (BHS):
ing ecological balance.
• C onservation Status: IUCN Red List: Vulnerable; CITES: Ap-
pendix II; WPA 1972: Schedule II.

Ashtamudi Lake:
• D
 ead fish floating in Ashtamudi Lake, Kerala, due to illegal use
of ‘thotta’ (explosives) and ‘nanchu’ (poisons) in fishing.
• B
 rackish-water estuarine lake, covers 5,700 hectares, Ram-
sar Wetland of International Importance (2002).
• S
 econd largest lake in Kerala, drains into the sea via Neenda-
kara estuary.
• K
 allada River is the main water source.
 istorically a major port city of Quilon, recorded by Ibn Battuta.
• H
• M
 angrove species: Avicennia officinalis, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza,
Sonneratia caseolaris.
• E
 ndangered species: Syzygium travancoricum, Calamus rotang.
• 5
 7 species of birds, including 6 migratory and 51 resident
• 2
 014: Clam Governing Council became India’s first Marine
Stewardship Council certified fishery for sustainable clam
fishing.

Commission for Air Quality

Management (CAQM):
• D
 elhi’s air pollution has worsened, prompted Supreme Court
to criticize the CAQM for its poor response.
• S
 tatutory body for air quality management in National Capital
Region (NCR) and adjoining areas.
• E
 stablished: Under the CAQM Act 2021, replacing EPCA (Envi- • First BHS in Tamil Nadu, notified for ecological and historical
ronmental Pollution Control Authority), formed in 1998. significance.
• Surrounded by a chain of seven hillocks (inselbergs), acting as

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 a watershed. 2002.
• W atershed feeds 72 lakes, 200 natural springs, and 3 check • K ey Features:
dams. • High Biodiversity: Hosts rare, threatened, and keystone
• Includes Anaikondan tank, built during the Pandiyan kings in species.
the 16th century. • Ecological Fragility: Crucial for local ecosystems.
• H ome to 250 species of birds including Laggar Falcon, Sha- • Community Involvement: Managed by local communities for
heen Falcon, and Bonelli’s Eagle. long-term conservation.
• H osts Indian Pangolin, Slender Loris, and pythons. • State Governments can notify BHS areas in consultation with
• P resence of megalithic structures, rock-cut temples, Tamil local bodies.
Brahmi inscriptions, and Jain beds. • First BHS in India: the Nallur Tamarind Grove in Bengaluru,
• B HS are ecologically sensitive areas recognized for high bio- Karnataka, declared in 2007.
logical diversity. • Focuses on conservation and sustainable management rather
• D eclared under Section 37(1) of the Biological Diversity Act, than activity restrictions.

Science Tech
NOT a supernova explosion.
The Gompertz Model: • V404 Cygni likely formed via direct collapse (a “failed super-
nova”), where the star imploded without exploding.
• I ndian researchers used the Gompertz Model to estimate
• V404 Cygni may eventually consume the nearby star.
newborn birth weight from pregnancy scans.
• Discovery suggests some binary systems may have originally
• D eveloped by Benjamin Gompertz in the early 19th century,
been triples, with the black hole consuming one member.
originally for population growth modeling.
• U ses an S-shaped curve to show growth: (1) slow start, (2)
rapid increase, and (3) slowing to a plateau.
• A pplications: Variations in Sun’s Rotation:
• B iology: Models tumor growth and cancer cell dynamics.
• E pidemiology: Predicts infectious disease spread, e.g.,
COVID-19.
• E cology: Models species growth in resource-limited environ-
ments.
• H ealthcare: Predicts foetal birth weight, highlighting risk fac-
tors.
• A ging Research: Analyzes mortality rates and lifespan.
• I ISER Pune and IMSc Chennai applied the model to predict
foetal birth weight non-invasively.

First ‘Black Hole Triple’

System Discovered:

• Indian astronomers mapped the variation in the Sun’s rotation

speed from its equator to poles for the first time.
• The study used 100 years of daily solar observations from
Kodaikanal Solar Observatory, Tamil Nadu.
• Chromosphere, a thin plasma layer between the photosphere
(visible surface) and the corona (upper atmosphere), was stud-
ied.
• Sun’s equator rotates faster than its poles: 25 days for the
equator, 35 days for the poles.
• S
 cientists discovered the first “black hole triple” system in
• Equator rotates at 13.98 degrees/day, while at 80 degrees
space.
latitude, it slows to 10.5 degrees/day.
 system with two stars orbiting a black hole.
• A
• Used solar plages and network cells from 100 years of records
 he nearer star orbits the black hole every 6.5 days.
• T
to measure rotation speeds across latitudes.
 he distant star orbits approximately every 70,000 years.
• T
• Plages: Brighter regions with weaker magnetic fields, 3-10
• L
 ocated in Cygnus, it features V404 Cygni, an old black hole
times larger than sunspots, found in the chromosphere.
9x the Sun’s mass, 8,000 light years away.
• Network Cells: Weaker magnetic fields, larger than sunspots
 he triple system suggests a less violent formation process,
• T

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 but smaller than sunspot groups, always present on the Sun’s
surface. Caterpillar fungus:
 nlike sunspots, plages and network cells help track rotation
• U • Researchers found a fungal chemical that may slow cancer cell
even at the poles. growth.
• Cordyceps militaris (caterpillar fungus) is a parasitic fungus
infecting caterpillars and insects.
Proba-3 Mission: • Found in the Himalayan region and parts of Asia.
• Used in traditional medicine for immune support, anti-inflam-
• I ndia will launch the ESA’s PROBA-3 Mission in December matory properties, and energy enhancement.
from Sriharikota. • Considered a delicacy in some Asian cultures for its wellness
• U ses ISRO’s PSLV rocket to place two satellites in orbit to effects.
study the Sun’s corona (outer atmosphere). • Cordycepin, a compound from Cordyceps militaris, slows
• E SA’s first mission for precision formation flying. cancer cell growth.
• T o demonstrate precision flying between two satellites to • It interrupts overactive cell growth signals, allowing targeted
create an artificial eclipse, revealing views of the Sun’s faint treatment.
corona. • May be less harmful to healthy tissues than traditional cancer
• C ore objective: To create an artificial eclipse by coordinating treatments, offering targeted therapies.
two satellites, enabling observation of the Sun’s corona, which is • It helps control insect populations in forest ecosystems.
typically obscured by its brightness. • Advances in research enable large-scale studies on cordy-
• 2 satellites: Coronagraph spacecraft and Occulter space- cepin, focusing on its derivatives for enhanced anti-cancer
craft (solar-disc-shaped). effects.
• W orking: Occulter flies 150 meters apart from Coronagraph, • The fungus shows how natural compounds can provide sus-
casting its shadow to block direct sunlight, allowing the Corona- tainable, less toxic oncology treatments.
graph to image the faint corona in visible, UV, and polarized light.
• P rovides insights into coronal mass ejections (CMEs), which

• A
can disrupt satellites and power grids.
 lso measures total solar irradiance, tracking changes in the LignoSat- the First
Sun’s energy output, which may affect Earth’s climate.
Wooden Satellite:
• World’s first wood-panelled satellite, LignoSat, launched to
IDF working on new test timber for space missions.
• LignoSat = ligno (wood) + satellite.
guidelines to treat • Developed by Kyoto University & Sumitomo Forestry.
• Objective: Use eco-friendly, cost-effective wood in space
Type 2 Diabetes: exploration.
• Constructed from magnolia wood for durability and adaptabil-
• I nternational Diabetes Federation (IDF) is developing new ity.
Type 2 diabetes treatment guidelines. • Launched via SpaceX from Kennedy Space Center to ISS.
• T ype 1 Diabetes: Affects children and young adults; immune • Released from Japanese experiment module to test durability
system attacks insulin-producing cells. and strength.
• T ype 2 Diabetes: A chronic condition where the body becomes • Monitors performance: strain and temperature resistance.
insulin resistant or doesn’t produce enough, leading to high • Wooden satellites considered environmentally friendly during
blood sugar. reentry, unlike metal satellites.
• C ommonly linked to obesity, physical inactivity, and poor diet.
• S ymptoms: increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, and

• T
blurred vision.
 reatment includes lifestyle changes (healthy diet, exercise, Centenary of Bose-
weight management), Metformin (for blood sugar regulation),
and sometimes insulin therapy. Einstein Statistics:
• International Diabetes Federation (IDF): • Celebrated, honouring Satyendra Nath Bose’s work on particle
• E stablished in 1950, based in Brussels, Belgium. in-distinguishability.
• O ver 230 national diabetes associations in 170 countries. • Key to advancements in quantum mechanics and the
• C ollaborates with global organizations like WHO, UNICEF for Bose-Einstein Condensate.
health initiatives. • Bose was born 1st January 1894, in Kolkata.
• L ed by an elected President and supported by a Board of • Inspired by Jagadish Chandra Bose, excelled in mathematics;
Directors. Ventured into quantum mechanics.
• H as regional offices in Africa, Europe, North America, Asia, • In 1924, Bose introduced a new way of counting photons as
Latin America, and the Middle East. indistinguishable.
• K ey Programs: World Diabetes Day (November 14); Global • Einstein expanded Bose’s work, leading to the development of
Diabetes Atlas; Educational initiatives for healthcare profes- Bose-Einstein condensates.
sionals.a • Bose-Einstein statistics challenged the classical assumption
that particles are distinguishable.

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• B
 osons vs Fermions: • CBG: Renewable natural gas made from the biochemical conver-
• B
 osons: Can occupy the same quantum state (superconductiv- sion of organic waste into methane.
ity, superfluidity). • Similar to CNG, used as an alternative to fossil fuels in trans-
• F
 ermions: Follow the Pauli exclusion principle (e.g., electrons portation, cooking, and power generation.
cannot share quantum numbers). • Process of Making CBG:
• B
 ose-Einstein Condensate (BEC): Expanded work led to the • Collection of Organic Waste: Agricultural residue, animal dung,
prediction of the BEC, a state of matter where bosons form a food waste, municipal solid waste collected.
superfluid at near absolute zero. • Anaerobic Digestion: Waste broken down by microorganisms in
an airtight chamber, producing biogas (methane, CO2).
• Purification: Raw biogas is purified to remove impurities.

Nafithromycin- India’s First

Indigenous Antibiotic: Major Atmospheric
• S
• D
 &T Ministry launched; combats AMR infections.
 eveloped with BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research
Cherenkov Experiment
Assistance Council), a unit under the Department of Biotech-
nology.
(MACE) Telescope:
• T argets Community-Acquired Bacterial Pneumonia (CABP) • Inaugurated in Hanle, Ladakh—advancement in gamma-ray
caused by drug-resistant bacteria. astronomy.
• A waiting final approval from CDSCO for manufacturing and • To detect gamma rays with energies > 20 billion eV, emitted
public use. from cosmic sources like pulsars, blazars, and gamma-ray
• D eveloped over 14 years of clinical trials across S., Europe, and bursts.
India. • Investigate dark matter via weakly interacting massive particles
• 1 0x more effective than azithromycin (only 3 doses for (WIMP) annihilation events, which may explain a significant
drug-resistant pneumonia). part of the universe’s mass.
• M inimal side effects, no significant drug interactions, and • Agencies involved: Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC);
food-independent. Indian Institute of Astrophysics.
• T argets both typical and atypical pathogens. • Located at 3 km, MACE is the highest imaging Cherenkov
telescope in the world and the largest in Asia, second-largest
globally.

India’s first modern • Uses Imaging Atmospheric Cherenkov Telescope (IACT) to

detect gamma rays indirectly via Cherenkov radiation.

Compressed Biogas • Gamma Rays create electron-positron pairs, emitting faint

Cherenkov radiation (blue light).

(CBG) Plant: • MACE captures this light using 356 mirror panels in a honey-
comb structure for stability and enhanced reflection.
• P
 M Modi inaugurated the 100 TPD cattle dung-based Com- • Equipped with a high-resolution camera featuring 1,088
pressed Bio-Gas (CBG) plant in Gwalior. photomultiplier tubes for detecting and amplifying Cherenkov
 ocated in Laltipara, Gwalior, in the Adarsh Gaushala, housing
• L radiation.
10,000 cattle. • High altitude enables clearer observations, minimizing atmo-
 pans 5 acres; India’s first self-sufficient gaushala with a
• S spheric interference.
modern CBG plant.
• P
 rocesses cow dung and organic waste (e.g., vegetable and
fruit waste) into biogas.
• D
 eveloped at ₹31 crores, collaboration between Gwalior Mu-
nicipal Corporation and Indian Oil Corporation.
• Bio CNG: Produces 2 tons of compressed Bio CNG daily from
100 tons of cattle dung, an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.
• Organic Manure: Generates 10-15 tons of dry bio-manure
daily for organic farming.
• Windrow Composting: Enhances organic waste processing at a
facility adjacent to the plant.

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History and Art & Culture
• Architectural Features:
Jagannath Puri Temple: • Constructed from trap rock with stone and mortar walls.
• Notable for Islamic and Persian architecture:
• A uthorities confirmed that no secret chamber inside the
• Seven main entrances.
treasury.
• 37 octagonal bastions with metal-shielded cannons.
• A fter 46 years, the sacred treasury was reopened amid legal
• Mosques, mahals, and over 30 Islamic monuments.
battles and controversies.
• Entrance gate features a brightly painted dome.
• S tores gold and jewels offered by devotees to Lord Jagannath,
Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra.
• L ocated adjacent to the prayer hall on the north side of the
temple.
• C onsists of two sections: ‘Bhitar Bhandar’ (Inner Treasury)
and ‘Bahar Bhandar’ (Outer Treasury).
Janjatiya Gaurav Divas:
• L ast inventory in 1978 noted significant amounts of gold and • Nov 15th honors tribal contributions to India’s freedom struggle,
silver items. marking Sri Birsa Munda’s birth anniversary.
• O disha’s King Anangabhima Dev (1211 to 1238) donated 2.5 • Birsa born Nov 15, 1875, led tribal rights advocacy in Chotanag-
lakh madhas of gold for jewellery. pur, Jharkhand.
• O disha government passed the Jagannath Temple Act, 1952, to • Educated under Jaipal Nag, inspired by Sardari agitation
manage the temple and maintain an inventory of offerings. against British rule.
• M anaged by the Temple’s Committee, chaired by the titular • Impact of Colonial Policies: Permanent Settlement Act (1793)
‘King of Puri’ with IAS officers and state-appointed members. disrupted traditional land ownership.
• K eys originally held by the Puri royal family, temple committee, • Khuntkatti System: Jagirdars and thikadars undermined Munda
and collectorate. land rights.
• O wnership and access protocols changed over the years due • Non-tribal migration led to exploitation through money lend-
to legal rulings. ing and forced labor.
• R ath Yatra: Annual Hindu festival that celebrates the journey • Missionary Activity: Spread of education deepened tribal social
of Lord Jagannath, Lord Balabhadra, and Goddess Subhadra awareness, sparked movements.
from their home temple in Puri to their aunt’s temple in Gundi- • Birsa initiated ‘Birsait’ to counter British conversion efforts.
cha. • ‘Birsait’ gained traction among Munda and Oraon communi-
• B egins on second day of Ashadha (June-July) and lasts for nine ties, challenging British conversions.
days. • Known as Dharati Aaba, or father of earth, among Mundas.
• D ates back to 12th century CE when the Jagannath temple was • Birsa Munda led the Ulgulan rebellion (1899-1900) in Khunti,
built by King Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva. Tamar, Sarwada, and Bandgaon.
• F estival of Chariots as the deities are carried on three massive • Rebellion aimed at establishing Munda Raj and independence,
wooden chariots. suppressed by British forces.
• 3 Rathas: Lord Jagannath’s chariot is Nandighosh, Lord • Resulted in government reforms: repeal of Begar system, enact-
Balabhadra’s chariot is Taladhwaja, and Goddess Subhadra’s ment of Tenancy Act (1903).
chariot is Darpadalana. • Permanent Settlement System (1793): Lord Cornwallis intro-
• S killed craftsmen called Rupakar servitors carve intricate duced land revenue system in British India.
figures of birds, animals, flowers, and guardian deities on the • Fixed land revenue payments for peasants (ryots) based on
chariots. land productivity, established Zamindari system.
• J agannath Puri Temple also known as “White Pagoda” and part • Zamindars collected revenue from peasants, paid to British
of the Char Dham pilgrimages. Kalinga architecture, featuring government, retained portion as income (10-15%).
curvilinear towers, intricate carvings, and ornate sculptures.
• F our structures: Vimana (sanctum), Jagamohana (assembly
hall), Nata-mandira (festival hall), and bhoga-mandapa (offering
hall).
Guru Tegh Bahadur:
• R evered as ‘Yamanika Tirtha,‘ where the power of Yama, the • November 24 celebrated as the Shaheedi Divas of Guru Tegh
god of death, is believed to be nullified in the presence of Lord Bahadur, the 9th Guru of Sikhs.
Jagannath. • Birth: April 1, 1621, Amritsar, Punjab, son of Guru Hargobind
(6th Guru) and Mata Nanaki.
• Death: November 11, 1675, executed by Aurangzeb.

Bidar Fort: • Guru (1665–1675): Advocated Nirbhau (fearlessness) and Nir-

vair (without enmity), emphasizing oneness of God.
• K
 arnataka Waqf Board identified 17 monuments within Bidar • Referred to as ‘Hind Ki Chadar’ (Shield of India).
Fort as its property, including: • Defended Hindu Kashmiri Pandits’ rights against Aurangzeb’s
• 1 6-Khamba Mosque (Sixteen Pillar Mosque). oppressive policies.
• 1 4 tombs of Bahmani rulers, including Ahmed Shah-IV, Allaud- • Refused to convert to Islam despite torture and persecution,
din, and Hassan Khan. leading to execution.
• L ocated in Bidar City, Karnataka, on the northern plateau. • Advocated for one God, rejected idol worship, and preached
• H istory dates back over 500 years, starting with the Western unity among religions.
Chalukya dynasty. • Promoted meditation, self-discipline, moral living, and serv-
• S ultan Ahmed Shah Wali of the Bahmani dynasty made Bidar ing others.
his capital in 1430, renovating it into a strong citadel. • Urged Sikhs to be spiritually committed while defending the
rights of the innocent.

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• 1 15 hymns compiled in the Guru Granth Sahib.
• S everal Gurdwaras dedicated to him, including Gurdwara Sis Protected Monuments
• F
Ganj Sahib in Delhi (execution site).
 ather of Guru Gobind Singh, the 10th Guru, born in 1666. in News:
• Hoyasaleshwara Temple (Halebidu, Karnataka)
• Location:.
How did Portuguese • 12th century, during Hoysala dynasty under King Vishnuvard-
hana.
conquer Goa: • Dedicated to Lord Shiva.
• Hoysala style, star-shaped platform, intricate stone carvings.
• P ortuguese conquered Goa on November 25, 1510 marking • Detailed sculptures depicting mythological stories, deities,
the beginning of their 400-year colonial rule in India. and animals.
• V asco da Gama’s voyage (1498) revealed thriving Indian Ocean • Tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.
trade networks. • Amrutheshwara Temple (Amruthapura, near Tarikere, Karna-
• P ortuguese sought wealth from Indian Ocean trade. taka)
• R ivalry with Muslim-controlled trade routes pushed Portugal • Built: 14th century by King Harihara II of the Vijayanagara
to establish a military presence. Empire.
• P ortuguese State of India was formally established in 1505, six • Dedicated to: Lord Shiva.
years after Vasco da Gama’s arrival. • Influenced by Vijayanagara, with a prominent pillared hall.
• F rancisco de Almeida, first Viceroy, set up the first base in • Notable Features: Stone carvings, particularly on the Shiva
Fort Manuel (now part of Kochi). Linga, a tank, and a beautiful courtyard.
• P ortuguese controlled Bom Bahia (later Bombay) until it was • Architectural Blend: Mix of Chola, Hoysala, and Vijayanagara
ceded to England in 1661. styles.
• A lbuquerque (Viceroy 1509–1515) saw Goa’s strategic impor- • Gol Gumbaz (Vijayapura, Karnataka)
tance for controlling maritime trade. • 17th century by Sultan Muhammad Adil Shah of the Bijapur
• Influenced by Timmayya, a debated figure—pirate or aristocrat Sultanate.
with links to the Vijayanagara Empire. • Purpose: Sultan’s tomb.
• T immayya was a key figure in Goa’s conquest, described as • Notable Features: Second-largest dome in the world (after St.
either a Malabari pirate or an aristocrat with links to the Vi- Peter’s Basilica).
jayanagara Empire. • Acoustic Marvel: Whispering gallery, where sounds travel
• F irst attack on Goa (Feb-Mar 1510) successful due to unpop- across great distances.
ularity of Sultan Yusuf Adil Shah among Goa’s Hindu popula- • Structure: Central dome spans 44 meters, flanked by four
tion. towers.
• L ocals supported the Portuguese against the Sultan. • Architectural Style: Combines Persian, Ottoman, and Indian
• A fter monsoon delays on Mandovi River, reinforcements elements.
arrived from Portugal. • Gomatesvara Temple (Shravanabelagola, Karnataka)
• In November 1510, with reinforcements, Albuquerque retook • 57-feet monolithic statue of Gomatesvara (Bahubali), a major
Goa. Jain pilgrimage site.

Zonal Cultural
Centres (ZCCs):
• E
 stablished by Ministry of Culture in 1985; operations started
in 1986-87.
• 7
 ZCCs located in Patiala, Nagpur, Udaipur, Prayagraj, Kolk-
ata, Dimapur, and Thanjavur.
• A ims & Objectives:
• P reserve and promote regional folk, tribal, and traditional
arts.
• C elebrate India’s cultural diversity and encourage folk arts.
• P romote cultural education and engage youth in creative
programs.
• S trengthen regional linkages to showcase cultural contribu-
tions across India.
• 1 0 crore allocated to each ZCC during 7th and 10th Five-Year
Plans.
• S
 tate governments provide free land for ZCC headquarters.
• O
 rganizes 42 regional festivals annually and 14 Rashtriya
Sanskriti Mahotsavs (RSMs) since 2015.

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We were the pioneers in UPSC to introduce Mentorship.

How Civilsdaily Does

Mentorship?

Third Phase Fourth Phse

First Phase Second phase
(Pre-Prelims) (Post-Prelims)

Aspirants struggle with Aspirants may

Switching to prelims Intensive preparation for
content overload and experience burnout
mindset. the Mains exam.
basic concepts. and self-doubt.

Mentors help them make Pre-tests and post-

sense of what to read, Mentors provide per- tests to discussions to
Hands-on classes and
how to approach subjects, sonalized support and assess retention and
post-test discussions.
and how to revise motivation. identify strengths and
effectively. weaknesses.

Regular tests are giv- Focus on consolidating

Personalized strategies
en to anchor marks to notes and knowledge Value enrichment sessions
for improving accuracy
understand performance gained. Introduction and X-factor notes are
and tackling difficult
through personalized to more complex and needed to gain an edge.
questions.
feedback. challenging subjects.

Double down on GS and

Answer writing practice Guidance on revising Guidance on online re-
Optional answer writing.
begins in the first few material and reflecting sources and study mate-
Frequent practice and
weeks. it in answers. rials
continuous feedback.

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Key aspects of Civilsdaily’s Mentorship:

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We precisely know where you are in your prep journey. We are constantly trying to ensure
that you stay on top of your preparation and hit your next milestone. Be it strategy, doubts,
post test discussions. We got your back.

CD Mentorship is not loose calls between mentors and mentees. It is a SYSTEM. Designed to
help you put your best foot forward. Our propriety technology ensures there are no lapses at
the end. Such sophisticated systems don’t exist anywhere.

Here’s how Mentor Dashboard looks like.

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How do our stats look like?

As of 20th September, 2024. Our stats are as

82.3% 8.70% students are not-regular with Mentor

calls but are making progress.

students are REGULAR. They are

in touch with their Mentors, are 5.68% students are Ghost meaning they
have been absconding.
working on their targets.

These numbers flip for classroom-style Foundation programs

where 20% students quit by 2nd week. By nearly 2 months, 40% have quit.

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Mentorship is a busy department.
We have had a rather busy week before Mains with our mentors being on calls around the clock.

The heart of the Civilsdaily platform is the Foundation Program and Ultimate Assessment
Program (UAP). For years, aspirants have enrolled here because they couldn’t find such depth
and passion towards quality content and Mentorship anywhere. Their search inevitably ends
at Civilsdaily. Enrollment in these programs and Mentorship also makes us accountable to
aspirants for the value they get.

In the past few years, we’ve worked quietly in the background with hundreds of aspirants;
many now serve as IAS, IPS, IFS, and more. We are very proud of what we’ve achieved.

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Here are some of the
recent rankers who
show us gratitude.