Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) FISCAL HEALTH INDEX Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The Chairman of the 16th Finance Commission, Dr. Arvind Panagariya, launched the inaugural issue of NITI Aayog’s report titled “Fiscal Health Index (FHI) 2025”. Background: – The FHI aims to throw light on the fiscal status at the sub-national level and guide policy reforms for sustainable and resilient economic growth Key things to know about elections The report ranks 18 major States on the basis of composite fiscal index, which is based on five major sub-indices –  Quality of Expenditure: Assesses how effectively states allocate their expenditures. Revenue Mobilisation: Evaluates the ability of states to generate revenue. Fiscal Prudence: Measures the fiscal discipline of states in managing their finances. Debt Index: Assesses the debt burden and sustainability of states. Debt Sustainability: Evaluates the long-term sustainability of state debt. With a cumulative score of 67.8, Odisha tops the ranking in fiscal health among 18 major States, followed by Chhattisgarh and Goa with scores of 55.2 and 53.6, respectively. Goa, Telangana and Odisha are leading in revenue mobilization and fiscal prudence.  It was observed that Odisha, Jharkhand, Goa, and Chhattisgarh have effectively mobilised non-tax sources, with Odisha relying heavily on mining-linked premiums and Chhattisgarh benefitting from coal block auctions. Punjab emerged as the biggest laggard, followed by Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Kerala, and Haryana.  Kerala and Punjab struggle with low quality of expenditure and debt sustainability, while West Bengal faces revenue mobilization and debt index issues. Andhra Pradesh has high fiscal deficits, and Haryana has a poor debt profile. Source: PIB IRON AGE Syllabus: Prelims – ANCIENT HISTORY Context: In an announcement that challenges long-held assumptions about the origins of the Iron Age, a new study has found evidence that the use of iron in the area that is now Tamil Nadu dates back to the first quarter of the 4th millennium BCE. Background: – Globally, the Iron Age has long been attributed to the Hittite Empire in Anatolia, where iron technology is believed to have emerged around 1300 BCE. However, the Tamil Nadu findings challenge this and positions the region as a pioneering hub of early metallurgy, surpassing global timelines by nearly two millennia. Key takeaways The new findings, which provide evidence that iron technology in Tamil Nadu dates as far back as 3345 BCE, are supported by Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) analyses conducted on samples from sites such as Sivagalai, Adichanallur, Mayiladumparai, and Kilnamandi. Until recently, the Iron Age in India was believed to have emerged between 1500 and 2000 BCE, closely following the Indus Valley Civilisation. However, new data pushes this timeline back.  A paddy sample from a burial urn in Sivagalai was dated to 1155 BCE, while charcoal and potsherds (broken pieces of ceramic material) from the same site provided dates ranging from 2953 BCE to 3345 BCE, making it the earliest recorded evidence of iron technology globally. At Mayiladumparai, samples were dated to 2172 BCE, surpassing earlier benchmarks of iron usage in the region. Kilnamandi, meanwhile, yielded a sarcophagus burial dated to 1692 BCE, marking a significant milestone as the earliest-dated burial of its kind in Tamil Nadu. Study establishes that Tamil Nadu was not merely a participant in the evolution of metallurgy but an innovator, as the smelted iron findings have been dated to the middle of the third millennium BCE for the first time in the world. When cultural zones located north of Vindhyas experienced the Copper Age, the region south of Vindhyas might have entered into the Iron Age due to the limited availability of commercially exploitable copper ore. Thus, the Copper Age of North India and the Iron Age of South India are probably contemporary.  Archaeological sites in Tamil Nadu also revealed varied metallurgical techniques. Three types of iron-smelting furnaces were identified, showcasing early innovations in extracting iron. Circular furnaces in Kodumanal, for instance, reached temperatures of 1,300°C, sufficient to produce sponge iron. The study explains that the people in the area mastered the complex technology of smelting iron, which requires temperatures between 1,200°C and 1,400°C, as far back as 5,300 years ago. Source: Indian Express INLAND WATERWAYS AUTHORITY OF INDIA (IWAI) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: For effective implementation of Inland Water Transport activities in National Waterway-1 (NW-1), River Ganga, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has upgraded its existing sub-office at Varanasi to a full-fledged Regional Office.  Background: IWAI, presently has five regional offices in Guwahati (Assam), Patna (Bihar), Kochi (Kerala), Bhubaneswar (Odisha) and Kolkata (West Bengal). It will now have its sixth regional office in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Key takeaways The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is the statutory body responsible for the development, maintenance, and regulation of inland waterways for shipping and navigation across the country.  Established on October 27, 1986, under the IWAI Act of 1985, it operates under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways.  The headquarters of IWAI is located in Noida, Uttar Pradesh. Key Functions of IWAI: Infrastructure Development: IWAI is tasked with building and enhancing infrastructure on national waterways, including the construction of terminals, jetties, and navigational aids to facilitate smooth and efficient water transport. Regulation and Maintenance: The authority ensures the maintenance of navigable channels, conducts dredging operations, and implements measures to maintain desired depth and width for safe vessel movement. Project Feasibility Studies: IWAI conducts economic feasibility studies for new projects, assessing the potential and viability of developing additional waterways to expand the inland water transport network. National Waterways in India: To promote and develop inland water transport, several waterways have been designated as National Waterways (NWs). Some of the prominent NWs include: National Waterway 1 (NW-1): Extending from Prayagraj to Haldia over a length of 1,620 kilometers along the Ganges-Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system. National Waterway 2 (NW-2): Covering an 891-kilometer stretch from Sadiya to Dhubri on the Brahmaputra River. National Waterway 3 (NW-3): A 205-kilometer route from Kollam to Kottapuram in Kerala, encompassing the West Coast Canal along with Champakara and Udyogmandal canals.

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) DEEPSEEK Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Chinese startup DeepSeek’s launch of its latest AI models, which it says are on a par or better than industry-leading models in the United States at a fraction of the cost, is threatening to upset the technology world order.  Background: – DeepSeek is a Hangzhou-based startup whose controlling shareholder is Liang Wenfeng, co-founder of quantitative hedge fund High-Flyer, based on Chinese corporate records. What sets DeepSeek models apart is their performance and open-sourced nature with open weights, which essentially allows anyone to build on top of them. Key takeaways The release of OpenAI’s ChatGPT in late 2022 caused a scramble among Chinese tech firms, who rushed to create their own chatbots powered by artificial intelligence. But after the release of the first Chinese ChatGPT equivalent, made by search engine giant Baidu, there was widespread disappointment in China at the gap in AI capabilities between U.S. and Chinese firms. The quality and cost efficiency of DeepSeek’s models have flipped this narrative on its head. The two models, DeepSeek-V3 and DeepSeek-R1, are on par with OpenAI and Meta’s most advanced models. They are also cheaper to use. DeepSeek-V3 stands out because of its architecture, known as Mixture-of-Experts (MOE). The MOE models are like a team of specialist models working together to answer a question, instead of a single big model managing everything. The DeepSeek-V3 has been trained on a meager $5 million, which is a fraction of the hundreds of millions pumped in by OpenAI, Meta, Google, etc., into their frontier models. DeepSeek developed its AI models amidst US sanctions on China for Nvidia chips, which were intended to restrict the country’s ability to develop advanced AI systems. Source: The Hindu GUILLAIN-BARRE SYNDROME Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Pune on January 27 reported nine more suspected cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), taking the tally in Maharashtra’s second largest city to 110. Background: – Earlier, a man suspected to have contracted Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS)died in Maharashtra’s Solapur district. The 40-year-old, a native of Solapur, had come to Pune, where he is believed to have contracted the disease. This is possibly the first death in Maharashtra suspected to have been caused by GBS. Key takeaways Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) is a rare autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the peripheral nerves. Cause: GBS is often triggered by an infection, such as respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, including Campylobacter jejuni, influenza, and Zika virus. Symptoms: The syndrome typically starts with tingling and weakness in the feet and legs, which can spread to the upper body. Severe cases can lead to paralysis. Onset: Symptoms usually develop rapidly over days to weeks. Symptoms Initial Symptoms: Tingling and weakness in the extremities, often starting in the feet and legs. Progression: Weakness can spread to the upper body, leading to difficulty walking, climbing stairs, or performing daily activities. Severe Symptoms: In severe cases, GBS can cause paralysis, difficulty breathing, and changes in heart rate and blood pressure. Diagnosis Clinical Evaluation: Diagnosis is based on symptoms, medical history, and physical examination. Tests: Nerve conduction studies and examination of cerebrospinal fluid can help confirm the diagnosis. Treatment Supportive Care: Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Immunotherapy: Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and plasmapheresis are used to reduce the severity and duration of GBS. Recovery: Most people recover fully, but recovery can take weeks to years, and some may have lasting effects such as weakness or fatigue. Prevention Infection Control: Preventing infections that can trigger GBS is crucial. This includes practicing good hygiene, safe food handling, and staying up-to-date with vaccinations. Source: The Hindu WETLAND ACCREDITED CITIES Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: Indore and Udaipur have become the first two Indian cities to join the global list of accredited wetland cities under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands. Background: Indore, known for its cleanliness and innovative policies, is home to Sirpur Lake, a Ramsar site. Udaipur, renowned for its picturesque lakes, has five major wetlands: Pichola, Fateh Sagar, Rang Sagar, Swaroop Sagar, and Doodh Talai. Key takeaways The Wetland City Accreditation (WCA) is a voluntary scheme established by the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands in 2015.  It aims to recognize cities that have a positive relationship with wetlands, promoting their conservation and wise use. This accreditation encourages urban areas to integrate wetlands into their planning and decision-making processes, highlighting the benefits these ecosystems provide to urban communities. Eligibility Criteria: To be formally accredited, a candidate for the Wetland City Accreditation of the Ramsar Convention should satisfy the standards used to implement each of the following international criteria: It has one or more Ramsar Sites, or other wetland conservation sites fully or partly situated within its jurisdiction, which provide(s) a range of ecosystem services to the city;  It has adopted measures for conservation of wetlands and their ecosystem services;  It has implemented wetland restoration and/or management measures;  It considers the challenges and opportunities of integrated spatial/land-use planning for wetlands under its jurisdiction;  It has raised public awareness about the values of wetlands by delivering locally adapted information, and enabled participation of local stakeholders in decisionmaking processes;  It has established a local committee with appropriate knowledge and experience on wetlands and representation of and engagement with stakeholders to support the preparation work to apply for the Wetland City Accreditation and the implementation of proper measures to maintain the city’s qualifications for the accreditation. Benefits of Accreditation: International Recognition: Accredited cities gain global acknowledgment for their sustainable practices concerning wetlands. Enhanced Public Awareness: The accreditation promotes increased awareness among residents about the importance of wetlands. Tourism and Economic Opportunities: Recognition can boost eco-tourism and related economic activities. Source: Times of India NAMDAPHA NATIONAL PARK AND TIGER RESERVE Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: An elephant has been camera-trapped in India’s easternmost tiger reserve after 12 years, fuelling conservation hopes. Background: – According to the Arunachal Pradesh Forest Department, elephants have traditionally migrated between the Namsai area of the State and Myanmar through the Namdapha National Park

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PROMISE OF NUCLEAR FUSION Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: An experimental nuclear fusion reactor in China triggered a lot of excitement by keeping its operational state maintained for more than 1,000 seconds, or over 17 minutes, which is a new record. Background: – Nuclear fusion is what produces the energy in the Sun, or any other star. Scientists across the world have been trying to recreate this process to produce electricity. The technology can eliminate the world’s energy crisis, and the problem of climate change, but it has not been mastered yet. Key takeaways Nuclear fusion is a process where two light atomic nuclei combine to form a heavier nucleus, releasing a tremendous amount of energy. This is the same process that powers the Sun and other stars. How Does It Work? Fusion Fuel: The most common fusion reaction involves hydrogen isotopes: Deuterium (²H) and Tritium (³H) When these isotopes fuse under extremely high temperature and pressure, they form helium (⁴He) and release a neutron along with a vast amount of energy. Conditions for Fusion – To achieve fusion, the following conditions are required: High Temperature: Atomic nuclei are positively charged, so they naturally repel each other due to the electrostatic force. To overcome this repulsion, extremely high temperatures (millions of degrees Celsius) and pressures are required. High Pressure: The plasma must be confined at high density to increase the likelihood of collisions. Confinement Time: The plasma must be held together long enough for fusion reactions to occur. Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST) reactor The Chinese reactor did not produce electricity or carry out a fusion reaction. However, the reactor managed to maintain plasma in a steady state of confinement for a long time, longer than it had previously been possible. Fusion require very high temperatures. At such temperatures, matter exists only in the plasma state. But such hot plasma cannot be handled by or contained in any material. Within the reactor, this plasma needs to be kept suspended in a confined space, surrounded by very strong magnetic fields acting as walls. Charged particles respond to magnetic fields, and this property is used to guide the flow of plasma within an enclosed space, separated from any matter. This condition, necessary for facilitating fusion reactions, is extremely delicate. Scientists have not been able to maintain these conditions for longer than a few seconds. Real-life electricity-generating reactors would require this state to be maintained for hours, even days, at a stretch. Advantages of Fusion The fusion process produces far greater amounts of energy than any other source — one gram of fuel can yield as much energy as burning about eight tonnes of coal.  It uses cheap input materials, available in almost limitless supply (deuterium and tritium, two heavier isotopes of hydrogen that are used as fuel, are easily available in nature), has a zero emission footprint.  Unlike the fission process, it does not leave dangerous nuclear waste. International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) The largest fusion reactor, an international collaborative project called ITER, is coming up in southern France.  More than 30 countries are participating with India being one of the seven member countries contributing to the reactor’s construction and research. According to its current timeline, it would begin deuterium-tritium fusion reactions by 2039, producing 500 MW of fusion power. Source: Indian Express FEMINISATION OF AGRICULTURE Syllabus: Mains – GS 2 & GS 3 Context: Women contribute around 63 per cent of the agricultural labour force in India, yet they lack access to key resources such as land ownership, finance, and advanced farming technologies. Background: – Women’s involvement in agriculture does not necessarily equate to empowerment.  Key takeaways The female workforce participation rate in India reached its peak at 40.8 % in 2004-05 but has declined since. However, since 2017, the female labour force participation rate (FLPR) has seen a rising trend after years of decline.   The rural FLPR increased from 41.5% in 2022-23 to 47.6% in 2023-24, while the urban FLPR increased from 25.4% to 28% over the same time period. This growth in FLPR could be attributed to the economic recovery following covid, which prompted many women who were previously not part of the labour force to seek employment. In addition, the sudden rise in FLPR in the last few years has also been linked to economic distress. The rise in FLPR is largely driven by the rise in self-employment among women, especially in agriculture. This highlights the lack of non-farm job opportunities for women, with most employment opportunities for rural women remaining confined to agriculture. This leads to feminisation of agriculture.  Feminisation of agriculture can be interpreted  in two ways.  First, it refers to an increase in the proportion of farm related work undertaken by women, including their responsibilities as smallholder cultivators or casual agricultural wage workers.  Second, feminisation of agriculture can also imply an understanding of women’s control, ownership, and participation in agricultural resources and social processes. This includes women’s ownership of farmland, land rights, and decision-making powers. Factors such as declining production and productivity, increasing cost of inputs, higher risks of crop damage due to climate change and the growing aspirations of youth in rural areas have fueled male migration out of rural areas. As a result, women who are left behind take on farm work. Gender disparity in land ownership The Agriculture Census of 2015-16 reported that while 73% of rural women workers are engaged in agriculture, only about 11.72% of the total operated area in the country is managed by female operational holders. Additionally, women’s landholdings are predominantly small and marginal. In India, women can acquire land through inheritance, gift, purchase, or government transfers. However, these systems are often skewed. For instance, women are more likely to be financially constrained than men to purchase land, making inheritance the major means of ownership. Yet, social biases make it difficult for women to inherit. Towards gender equity in agriculture Women’s participation in paid work should not be confused with their empowerment. Women often face a

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) TRUMP AND GREENLAND Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: US President-elect Donald Trump has once again expressed interest in buying Greenland, and Greenland has again stated it is not for sale. Background: – Greenland, though geographically part of North America, has been under Denmark’s control—located nearly 3,000 km (1,860 miles) away—for around 300 years. Why Greenland matters to US? Greenland’s strategic importance rose during the Cold War, and the US has an air base there, the Pituffik Space Base, earlier the Thule Air Base. From Greenland, the US can monitor and prevent any missile coming towards it from Russia, China, or even North Korea. Similarly, it can launch missiles and ships towards Asia or Europe more easily from Greenland. Second, Greenland is rich in rare earth minerals. At present, China is a major supplier of these minerals. Third, as global warming leads to melting of ice, new waterways can open in the Arctic region, and all major powers are keen to boost their presence here. The US would want to pre-empt a larger Russian or Chinese role in Greenland and its neighbourhood. US bought territories In 1803, the US bought more than 2 million sq km of land from France in what is known as the Louisiana Purchase. US paid $ 15 million for the deal. Another example is Alaska, which the Russian empire transferred to the US in 1867, for $7.2 million. In 1917, the US bought the Danish West Indies, a group of islands in the Caribbean, and called them the US Virgin Islands. About Greenland Greenland, the largest island on Earth, is situated in the Arctic and is the most sparsely populated territory in the world. It is home to approximately 56,000 residents, primarily indigenous Inuit people. Around 80% of Greenland is covered by ice, with most of its population concentrated along the south-western coast near the capital, Nuuk. As an autonomous territory of Denmark, Greenland hosts both Danish and U.S. military bases. Its economy relies heavily on fishing, while substantial subsidies from the Danish government contribute about 20% of its GDP. Source: Indian Express ALGAL BLOOM Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ENVIRONMENT Context: A groundbreaking study, spearheaded by director of the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), identified nine key algal bloom hotspots along India’s east and west coasts. Background: – The research, done using cutting-edge satellite data and field reports, showed that factors driving these algal blooms range from nutrient flux during monsoons to coastal upwelling (cooler and nutrient-rich water rising to the ocean surface). Key takeaways India’s coastline, rich in biodiversity, is grappling with a growing phenomenon of algal blooms. These events, caused by a sudden surge in phytoplankton biomass, are becoming more frequent and intense owing to environmental and human factors. Causes of Algal Blooms Nutrient Pollution: Excessive nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, from agricultural runoff, wastewater, and industrial discharges, fuel the growth of algae. This process is called eutrophication. Warm Water Temperatures: Algal blooms are more common in warm water, which is why they often occur in summer or in regions with higher temperatures. Stagnant Water: Slow-moving or stagnant water bodies, such as lakes or ponds, are more prone to algal blooms because nutrients accumulate and are not flushed out. Climate Change: Rising global temperatures and changes in precipitation patterns can exacerbate the conditions that lead to algal blooms. Human Activities: Urbanization, deforestation, and agricultural practices contribute to nutrient runoff, increasing the likelihood of blooms. Types of Algal Blooms Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs): These blooms produce toxins that can harm aquatic life, humans, and animals. Examples include cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) blooms, which produce toxins like microcystins and anatoxins. Non-Toxic Blooms: Some algal blooms are not harmful but can still disrupt ecosystems by depleting oxygen levels in the water when the algae die and decompose. Examples of Harmful Algal Blooms Red Tide: Caused by dinoflagellates (a type of algae) in marine environments, leading to fish kills and respiratory issues in humans. Common in coastal areas like the Gulf of Mexico. Cyanobacteria Blooms: Often occur in freshwater lakes and ponds, producing toxins that can harm humans and animals. Source: The Hindu ANNUAL STATUS OF EDUCATION REPORT (ASER) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2024 was released, revealing improvements in basic reading and arithmetic among students of classes 3 and 5 in rural areas reverting back from the post-pandemic damage. Background: Unlike most other large-scale learning assessments, ASER is a household-based rather than school-based survey. This design enables all children to be included – those who have never been to school or have dropped out; those who are in government schools, private schools, religious or other types of schools; as well as those who are absent from school on the day of the assessment. Key takeaways The Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) is a nationwide household survey conducted by Pratham Foundation, an NGO, to assess the status of children’s enrollment and learning outcomes in rural India. The ‘basic’ ASER survey tracks enrollment for children aged 3-16 and assesses basic reading and arithmetic of children aged 5-16. It was conducted every year from 2005 to 2014 in almost all rural districts of India.  Beginning in 2016, an alternate-year model was introduced, where the ‘basic’ ASER survey is conducted in alternate years and in the gap years, a different lens is employed to examine different age groups and/or new aspects of children’s learning. Key findings from ASER 2024 Significant improvement in learning levels: The proportion of Class III students in government schools who can read a Class II textbook rose to 23.4 per cent in 2024, up from 16.3 per cent in 2022. Basic arithmetic levels among Class III students improved to 33.7 per cent in 2024, from 28.1 per cent in 2018, across both government and private schools. Enrolment trends: Government school enrolment, which surged during the pandemic, is now returning to pre-pandemic levels. It rose to 72.9 per cent in 2022, from 65.6

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) BENNU SAMPLE UNLOCKS SECRETS OF LIFE’S ORIGINS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: Studies of rock and dust from asteroid Bennu delivered to Earth by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft have revealed molecules that, on our planet, are key to life, as well as a history of saltwater that could have served as the “broth” for these compounds to interact and combine. Background: – The findings do not show evidence for life itself, but they do suggest the conditions necessary for the emergence of life were widespread across the early solar system, increasing the odds life could have formed on other planets and moons. Asteroids like Bennu are remnants from the formation of the solar system, offering a snapshot of conditions that existed more than 4.5 billion years ago. Key takeaways Scientists have revealed that rocks from Bennu contain key components of life: Amino acids, nucleobases and traces of ancient saltwater — the essential ingredients for biological processes. Among the most striking discoveries in the Bennu samples are 14 of the 20 amino acids that life on Earth uses to build proteins, as well as all five nucleobases needed for genetic material like DNA and RNA.  However, its amino acids show something unusual. Life on Earth mostly uses ‘left-handed’ amino acids, but Bennu has nearly equal amounts of both left- and right-handed types. The presence of ammonia and formaldehyde — compounds that can react to form more complex molecules — further strengthens the case for asteroids as potential incubators for prebiotic chemistry. Beyond the molecular building blocks, Bennu’s samples also contain traces of water in the form of mineral salts. Scientists detected 11 different evaporite minerals. These minerals suggest that Bennu once harboured briny water that evaporated over thousands, if not millions, of years. Similar salty water reservoirs have been detected elsewhere in the solar system, such as beneath the icy crust of Saturn’s moon Enceladus and on the dwarf planet Ceres. The presence of these minerals on Bennu further supports the idea that watery environments, which could facilitate chemical reactions leading to life, were once widespread. Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security–Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) The Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, and Security–Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx) is a NASA mission designed to study and return samples from the near-Earth asteroid 101955 Bennu. Key Milestones: Arrival at Bennu: OSIRIS-REx reached Bennu on December 3, 2018, initiating detailed mapping and analysis of the asteroid’s surface.  Sample Collection: On October 20, 2020, the spacecraft successfully collected surface material from Bennu using the Touch-And-Go Sample Acquisition Mechanism (TAGSAM).  Return to Earth: The sample capsule re-entered Earth’s atmosphere and landed in Utah on September 24, 2023, marking the United States’ first successful asteroid sample return mission. Following the successful delivery of Bennu’s samples, the spacecraft was renamed OSIRIS-APEX (Apophis Explorer). It is now tasked with a new mission to study the asteroid 99942 Apophis during its close approach to Earth in 2029. Source: Down To Earth HIMACHAL LAUNCHES PROJECT FOR CANNABIS FARMING Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: In the wake of popular demand for cultivation of cannabis in the Himalayan state, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu-led Himachal Pradesh government approved a pilot project for cannabis or hemp cultivation.  Background: – Cannabis is a naturally occurring weed found throughout Himachal Pradesh, yet its cultivation had been banned under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985. With this decision, Himachal Pradesh becomes one of the states, along with Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Manipur, to grant controlled permission for the cultivation of cannabis for medical and industrial purposes. Key takeaways What does the law say about cannabis cultivation? Cannabis cultivation is largely prohibited in India due to its psychoactive properties.  Section 2 of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985, prohibits the production and sale of cannabis resin and flowers. It defines charas as the separated resin, in any form (crude or purified), obtained from the cannabis plant. It also includes concentrated preparations such as hashish oil or liquid hashish. However, it provides exceptions for cannabis cultivation and use for industrial and medicinal purposes under government regulation.  Section 10 of the Act allows state governments to regulate, permit, or prohibit cannabis cultivation for medicinal and scientific purposes. Additionally, Section 14 grants the Central government the power to authorise and regulate cannabis cultivation for research or other approved purposes. What is controlled cannabis cultivation? It is the regulated cultivation of specific cannabis varieties having minimal intoxicating properties, along with strict monitoring to prevent misuse. Such varieties are commonly known as hemp. The tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) cannabinoid content (a kind of chemical that has an intoxicating effect) in controlled cannabis should be less than or equal to 0.3 per cent. Under controlled cannabis cultivation, authorities focus on its non-narcotic applications, particularly in the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors.  Hemp’s stalks, leaves, and seeds can also be converted into textile, paper, food, cosmetics, biofuel and more. Additionally, cannabidiol (CBD) compounds in the plant are effective in treating chronic pain. Before the tightening of restrictions in 2000, cannabis farming was a common practice in Himachal. Despite the ban, illegal cultivation continues in several districts. Countries like Canada, the United States, Japan, France, Italy, Hungary, China, Denmark, and Australia are leaders in cannabis farming and its processing. Source: Indian Express KARA SEA Syllabus: Prelims – GEOGRAPHY Context: Amid a rapid expansion of Russian activity in the Arctic region, a nuclear-powered icebreaker suffered damage after colliding with a cargo vessel in the Kara Sea. Background: During the winter, nuclear icebreakers frequently accompany oil tankers and LNG carriers across the waters of the Arctic. Key takeaways The Kara Sea is a marginal sea of the Arctic Ocean, located to the north of Siberia, Russia. Location: The Kara Sea is bordered by the Novaya Zemlya archipelago to the west, the Severnaya Zemlya archipelago to the east, and the Franz Josef Land to the northwest. Climate Ice Cover: The Kara

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) ECONOMIC SURVEY FOR 2024-25 Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: The Economic Survey for 2024-25 was tabled by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament on Friday.  Background: – The Survey is a report of the state of the Indian economy in the financial year that is coming to a close. It is prepared by the Department of Economic Affairs in the Union Finance Ministry, under the guidance of the Chief Economic Advisor (CEA). Key takeaways from Economic Survey Real Gross Domestic Product, which maps economic activity from the demand side of the economy, in the current financial year (FY25) is pegged at 6.4%; in the coming year (FY26), the Survey expects it to lie between 6.3% and 6.8%. The goal of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ in the 100th year of Independence, the Survey’s authors emphasised, will require about 8% growth for at least a decade — with the investment rate rising from the current rate of 31% of GDP to 35% of GDP. The survey noted that while the labour share of GVA (gross value added) shows a slight uptick, the disproportionate rise in corporate profits — predominantly among large firms — raises concern about income inequality. A higher profit share and stagnant wage growth risk are slowing the economy by curbing demand. The Economic Survey warns that excessive financialisation, driven by rising household savings in the stock market and increased retail investor participation, could harm the economy, especially in a low-middle-income country like India.  It highlights the risk of financial markets dominating policy decisions, making economic growth overly dependent on asset price inflation and leverage, which could widen inequality and unduly influence regulatory policies. India’s equity market has rapidly grown particularly after the pandemic, but its debt market remains undercapitalised, according to the Economic Survey. Corporate bond issuances in India for the period April to December 2024 rose to 7.3 lakh crore rupees. Still, the size of India’s corporate bond market stands at just 18% of the country’s total GDP as against 80% in Korea and 36% in China, the Survey noted. A majority of these funds were gathered by firms through private placements, thus deterring the participation of retail investors. India will need to focus on indigenisation of technology and raw materials as an “urgent task” to achieve the transition to electric mobility, even as the global automobile industry looks to reduce its dependence on China, the Economic Survey said. Pointing towards a decrease in regular jobs, the Survey found that the proportion of self-employed workers in the workforce has risen from 52.2% in 2017-18 to 58.4% in 2023-24. This shift reflects growing entrepreneurial activity and a preference for flexible work arrangements, the Survey claimed. It added that the agriculture sector still remains dominant in employment, with its share rising from 44.1% in 2017-18 to 46.1% in 2023-24. The share of workers (male and female) in regular or salaried jobs decreased from 22.8% to 21.7% during the same period. The decline in casual workers, from 24.9% to 19.8%, also indicates a shift toward more structured forms of self-employment. Micro, Small and Medium-scale Enterprises (MSMEs) that employ 23.24 crore people in the country continue to face challenges in the regulatory environment, the Survey noted. Regulatory compliance burden holds back formalisation and labour productivity, limits employment growth, chokes innovation and depresses growth, it said. There is an observed tendency for MSMEs in India to remain small. So, they lose access to capital, talent, and technology infusion and often operate outside the formal supply chains. This creates a parallel, informal economy, the Survey noted. The logic for staying small often is to remain under the regulatory radar and steer clear of the rules and labour and safety laws. Overexposure to social media, lack of exercise, not spending enough time with one’s family and overwork (hours exceeding 55-60 per week) have all worsened mental well-being among Indians, said the Economic Survey 2024-25. Establishing a link between good mental health and clean eating habits, the Survey noted that individuals who rarely consume ultra-processed or packaged junk food have better mental well-being than those who regularly do so. Source: The Hindu MURDER OF MAHATMA GANDHI Syllabus: Prelims – HISTORY Context: On January 30, 1948, at exactly 5.17 pm, Nathuram Godse fired three shots at Mahatma Gandhi from his Beretta M1934. The Mahatma died on the spot. Background: – During his trial, Godse tried to take sole responsibility for the crime. But his arguments were rejected. Key takeaways A Bench of the Punjab High Court in Shimla in 1949 upheld the convictions and sentences of five people for the larger conspiracy: Godse, his younger brother Gopal, Narayan Apte, Vishnu Karkare, and Madanlal Pahwa. Apart from these five convicts, the other accused were Savarkar, Shankar Kistayya, and Dattatraya Parchure. Digambar Badge confessed to his role in the conspiracy and became an approver in return for a pardon. The conspiracy Godse and Apte conceived of the plan to kill Gandhi in December 1947. The duo left Poona for Bombay on January 13. The same day, Badge, accompanied by his servant, Shankar Kistayya, also left for Bombay with a bag containing two gun-cotton slabs and four hand-grenades. Godse, Apte, and Badge were joined in Bombay by Pahwa and Karkare at the Hindu Mahasabha office, where the plan was chalked out. After some money was raised for the project — ostensibly to help Hindus in Hyderabad — Godse and Apte travelled to Delhi by plane. They stayed at the Marina hotel till January 20. The rest of the conspirators too arrived in Delhi by January 19. In the morning of January 20, Apte, Karkare, Badge and Shankar reconnoitered Birla House, where Gandhi was staying. The first attempt to kill Gandhi was made on January 20. The plan was to throw a grenade to disperse the crowd — and then throw another at Gandhi. However, Badge lost his courage and the second grenade was never thrown. Pahwa was arrested and interrogated by the police. The plan had failed. Subsequently, Godse decided to

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) THE BUDGET Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – ECONOMY Context: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her eighth consecutive Budget on Feb 1st. Background: – Finance Minister lists four engines of development in the Union Budget 2025-26. These are agriculture, MSMEs, investments, and exports. Key takeaways Agriculture The government will promote self-sufficiency in pulses, focusing on the production and procurement of toor, urad, and masur.  Bihar will get a Makhana board, to boost the cultivation and marketing of fox nuts. The people engaged in Makhana cultivation will be organized in FPOs. Bihar accounts for about 85 per cent of the total Makhana production of the country. ‘Rural Prosperity and Resilience’ program will be launched in collaboration with states. This initiative aims to tackle under-employment in agriculture by promoting skill development, investment, technology adoption, and revitalization of the rural economy. The objective is to create abundant opportunities in rural areas, ensuring migration remains a choice rather than a necessity. A National Mission on High Yielding Seeds will be launched. The loan limit under the Modified Interest Subvention Scheme will be enhanced from  Rs. 3 lakh to 5 lakh for loans taken through the KCC. A new scheme for the agriculture sector—Prime Minister Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY). The scheme will be on the lines of Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) and  will be implemented across agriculture districts. MSMEs To help them achieve higher efficiencies of scale, technological upgradation and better access to capital, the investment and turnover limits for classification of all MSMEs will be enhanced. In a boost to credit to Micro industries, the government will provide customised credit cards with limit of Rs 5 lakh under Udyam portal. Building on the National Action Plan for Toys, the government will implement a scheme to make India a global hub for toys – promoting ‘Make in India’ brand. The government will launch the National Manufacturing Mission covering small, medium, and large enterprises for furthering Make in India. The Mission will also support clean tech manufacturing, given India’s commitment to climate-friendly development. Investments Extension of Jal Jeevan Mission until 2028 to obtain 100 percent coverage. The Government will establish a ₹1 lakh crore Urban Challenge Fund to support initiatives like ‘Cities as Growth Hubs,’ ‘Creative Redevelopment,’ and ‘Water & Sanitation’. The fund will cover up to 25% of viable project costs, requiring at least 50% funding from bonds, bank loans, or PPPs. A Nuclear Energy Mission for research & development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR) with an outlay of Rs. 20,000 crore will be set up. The Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy will be revised to offset cost disadvantages, including Credit Notes for shipbreaking in Indian yards to support the circular economy. Budget announced a ‘Deep Tech Fund of Funds’ for next generation startups and ten thousand PM research fellowships for technological research in IITs and IISc in next 5 years. The 2nd Gene Bank was announced with 10 lakh germplasm lines will be set up for future food and nutritional security. (Supporting both public and private sector.)  Exports Establish an Export Promotion Mission to enhance export credit access and support MSMEs in global markets. BharatTradeNet: Develop a unified digital platform for international trade documentation and financing solutions. Global Supply Chain Integration: Support domestic manufacturing to integrate India’s economy into global supply chains, focusing on Industry 4.0 and youth talent. National Framework for GCC: Create a framework to promote Global Capability Centres in tier 2 cities, focusing on talent and infrastructure. Source: Indian Express CITIZENSHIP LAWS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – POLITY Context: In the gale of executive orders announced after Trump assumed office for a second term, the President issued one diluting birthright citizenship, which has been written into the U.S. Constitution since 1866. The order has been challenged in court in more than 20 States and a federal judge has temporarily blocked it.  Background: – If implemented, it will mean that children born to illegal immigrants — as well as those legally in the U.S. on temporary visas for study, work or tourism purposes — will not be eligible for automatic U.S. citizenship. At least one parent must now be a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, the order says. Key takeaways The 14th amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which granted citizenship to “all persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof” was enacted in 1866, against the backdrop of the Civil War which had just ended. Trump’s supporters rail against the practice of birth tourism, or anchor babies, where foreign nationals seek to give birth in the U.S., in the hope that those babies will be able to help their families migrate to the country as well. How do citizenship laws vary? The U.S. follows the principle of jus soli (the right of soil), based on geography regardless of parental citizenship, as opposed to jus sanguinis (the right of blood), which gives citizenship based on the nationality of the child’s parents.  There are only 37 countries which currently enforce the jus soli principle, of which 29 are in the Americas. Of the other eight, two are in India’s neighbourhood: Nepal and Pakistan, though the latter introduced a Bill seeking to end this. Jus soli historically allowed colonisers to quickly outnumber native populations as citizens. Countries that have traditionally built their national character through diverse immigrant populations have used jus soli as a way of integrating diversity into the common stream of nationhood.  Countries protective of their culture and identity have generally followed the principle of jus sanguinis.  Jus soli derives from English common law and, until anti-migrant backlash a few decades ago, was implemented in the U.K. and most of its former colonies, including India. India offered automatic citizenship to all those born on Indian soil before 1987. Introducing the Citizenship Bill in Parliament in 1955, then-Home Minister Govind Ballabh Pant said, “The mere fact of birth in India invests with it the right of citizenship in India. We have taken a cosmopolitan view and it is

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) MAKHANA Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Union Finance Minister, while presenting the Union Budget, said that a “Makhana Board” will be set up in Bihar to boost the cultivation and marketing of fox nuts. Background: – Bihar accounts for approximately 90% of India’s makhana production. This production is primarily concentrated in northern and eastern Bihar. Key takeaways Makhana (fox nut), is the dried edible seed of the prickly water lily or gorgon plant (Euryale ferox). This plant is found in freshwater ponds throughout South and East Asia. It is recognized for its violet and white flowers, as well as its large, round, and prickly leaves, which can often exceed a meter in diameter. The edible part of the Makhana plant consists of small, round seeds that have an outer layer ranging from black to brown. This has led to it being referred to as the ‘Black Diamond.’ After processing, these seeds are often consumed as popped snacks known as ‘lava.’ Makhana is highly nutritious and provides an excellent source of carbohydrates, protein, and minerals. Due to its versatile applications in medicine, healthcare, and nutrition, this plant can be consumed in various forms. In 2022, ‘Mithila Makhana’ was conferred a Geographical Indication tag. In addition to Bihar, makhana is cultivated in smaller quantities in the states of Assam, Manipur, West Bengal, Tripura, and Odisha, as well as in neighboring countries like Nepal, Bangladesh, China, Japan, and Korea. Climatic Conditions for Cultivation Makhana (Gorgon Nut or Foxnut) is an aquatic crop and is mainly grown in tropical and subtropical regions.  It is traditionally cultivated in stagnant water bodies such as ponds, land depressions, lakes, ditches, or wetlands with shallow water depths of up to 4-6 feet. For optimal growth and development, Makhana requires a temperature range of 20-35°C, relative humidity of 50-90%, and annual rainfall between 100-250 cm. Source: Indian Express DOMESTIC WORKERS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Domestic workers and those who work towards the well-being of this vulnerable segment of the workforce have found hope with the Supreme Court’s recent direction to the Union government to look into a law to regulate the sector. Background: – SC ordered the government to form an inter-ministerial committee to consider the desirability of recommending a legal framework for the benefit, protection and regulation of the rights of domestic workers. India is yet to ratify the ILO Convention 189 on domestic workers. Key takeaways The court noted that the poor conditions of domestic workers are largely due to the lack of appropriate regulations. The court highlighted the exclusion of these workers from many labour legislation, including the Minimum Wages Act and the Equal Remuneration Act.  While acknowledging existing state-specific regulations, SC noted the importance of having national-level legislation that is binding on all states. Domestic work is a feminised occupation, with migrants from marginalised communities constituting a considerable proportion.  Low wages, unfair working conditions, the obligation to attend to additional tasks, increased workload without additional compensation are the key features that mark the sector.  Job insecurity and complete absence of social security measures force the workers to accept vulnerable conditions of work. Why domestic workers needs separate legislation The Code on Wages (2019), unlike the Minimum Wages Act, by definition covers the sector. But the intricacies, complexities and hierarchies of the occupation which intersects with gender, caste, and class makes the sector distinct.  The different systems of employment of workers — part-time/full-time, live in/live out — have contributed to the complexity of the sector.  The asymmetric relationship between employer and employee, where the workplace is the former’s private space and the latter’s workplace is an issue that makes the sector qualitatively different.  Further, the work undertaken — mundane cleaning tasks and cooking or care work — are all socially devalued. Challenges and way forward The definition of what constitutes domestic work needs to be carefully worked out.  One of the prerequisites for enforcement of any labour regulation is proof of employment. Most employers do not view themselves as “employers” or their homes as “workplaces”. The recent attempts in the direction of the states of Kerala and Delhi could be looked at for learning. Source: Indian Express ELS COTTON Syllabus: Prelims – CURRENT EVENT Context: Union Finance Minister, while presenting the Union Budget, announced a five-year mission to “facilitate significant improvements in productivity and sustainability of cotton farming, and promote extra-long staple (ELS) cotton varieties”. Background: Currently, India’s per acre yields are significantly lower than others. Brazil boasts an average yield of 20 quintals per acre, while China boasts a yield of 15 quintals.  Better seeds, timely agronomic advice, and adoption of technology would help India improve in this regard, and grow premium varieties such as ELS cotton. Key takeaways What is Extra-long Staple cotton? Cotton is classified, based on the length of its fibres, as long, medium, or short staple.  Gossypium hirsutum, which constitutes roughly 96% of the cotton grown in India, falls in the medium staple category, with fibre lengths ranging from 25 to 28.6 mm. On the other hand, ELS varieties boast fibre lengths of 30 mm and above. Most ELS cotton comes from the species Gossypium barbadense, commonly known as Egyptian or Pima cotton. ELS cotton today is mainly grown in China, Egypt, Australia, and Peru. In India, some ELS cotton is grown along rain fed parts of Maharashtra and around Coimbatore in Tamil Nadu. Fabric produced using ELS cotton is of the highest quality. Brands producing top-of-the-line fabrics mix a small quantity of ELS with medium staple cotton to improve quality. Why is ELS cotton not grown in India? For the 2024-25 season, the Minimum Support Price (MSP) of medium staple cotton was Rs 7,121 (per quintal) while that of long staple cotton was Rs 7,521. Nonetheless, farmers in India have thus far been reluctant to adopt ELS cotton. This is mainly due to lower than average per acre yields. While the medium staple variety yields between 10 and 12 quintals per acre, ELS cotton has a yield of only 7-8 quintals. Additionally, farmers

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) PINEAPPLE EXPRESS Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – GEOGRAPHY Context: Following an unusually dry January, a powerful atmospheric river known as the ‘Pineapple Express’ has been sweeping through northern and central California, bringing periods of strong winds, heavy rain, and snowfall in the hills. Background: – Pineapple Express gets its name from the warm, moist air drawn into the system, originating near Hawaii, a region known for its pineapple production. Key takeaways Pineapple Express is a type of atmospheric river— a narrow, fast-moving “river in the sky” that transports significant moisture over long distances. The warm air and high humidity it carries from the Pacific lead to heavy rainfall when the system reaches land. The atmospheric rivers are long, narrow bands in the atmosphere that transport vast amounts of water vapour from the tropics. Their size and strength can differ significantly, but on average, they carry a volume comparable to the flow of the Mississippi River at its mouth. Exceptionally strong atmospheric rivers can transport up to 15 times that amount. When atmospheric rivers make landfall, they typically release this moisture as rain or snow, often covering a vast region as they move inland. The atmospheric rivers in the sky occur often on the West Coast but can happen in other locations, including the eastern United States, where they often channel moisture from the Caribbean.When this moisture begins to interact with land, it can fall as rain or snow.  Although atmospheric rivers come in different shapes and sizes, for one to be a “true Pineapple Express,” location matters. The tail end, where the moisture is pulled into the atmosphere, must start near Hawaii. Then the river must stretch continuously through the atmosphere to the US West Coast. Source: Indian Express INTERNATIONAL BIG CAT ALLIANCE (IBCA) Syllabus: Prelims – ENVIRONMENT Context: The International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) has officially come into force as a treaty-based, inter-governmental organisation, becoming a fully functional international legal entity. Background: – The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), acting as the Depository for the Framework Agreement, confirmed that five countries – Nicaragua, Eswatini, India, Somalia, and Liberia – have deposited their instruments of ratification, acceptance, or approval, making them the founding members of the IBCA. Key takeaways The IBCA was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on April 9, 2023, during an event commemorating the 50th anniversary of Project Tiger.  The initiative’s main objective is the conservation of seven major big cat species: the Tiger, Lion, Leopard, Snow Leopard, Cheetah, Jaguar, and Puma. Members: As of now, 27 countries have consented to join, including India, Nicaragua, Eswatini, Somalia, and Liberia. The membership of the IBCA is open to all UN member countries, especially those that host these species, and to non-range countries that are interested in supporting big cat conservation efforts. The IBCA has a framework agreement, and its headquarters is in India. It includes an Assembly of Members, a Standing Committee, and a Secretariat. The Union Cabinet approved a one-time budgetary support of Rs 150 crore for the IBCA for the period from 2023-24 to 2027-28. The IBCA aims to become self-sustaining after the initial five years through membership fees, contributions from bilateral and multilateral organizations, and the private sector. Source: DD News PM SURYA GHAR MUFT BIJLI YOJANA Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: The Union Budget 2025 has increased the allocation for PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (SGMBY) scheme to ₹20,000 crore, a sharp rise from the ₹11,100 crore in the FY25 Revised Estimates (RE) and ₹6,250 crore in the FY25 Budget Estimates (BE). Background: According to Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets, India has committed to reducing the emission intensity of its GDP by 45 percent by 2030 from the 2005 level and achieving about 50 percent cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030. Key takeaways The Pradhan Mantri Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana (PMSG) is a flagship initiative launched by the Government of India with the twin objectives of promoting renewable energy and ensuring affordable electricity access. The scheme aims to install rooftop solar systems in one crore residential households. This is expected to not only reduce household electricity bills (by providing up to 300 units of free electricity per month) but also help reduce the nation’s carbon footprint. Key Components of the Scheme Residential consumers are provided with a subsidy based on their system capacity. For example, for the first 2 kW of rooftop solar capacity, a subsidy of up to 60% (at benchmark costs) is available, while for the next 1 kW (i.e. capacity between 2 and 3 kW), the subsidy is capped at 40% of the additional cost. No subsidy is provided beyond 3 kW capacity. Loan Facilities: In addition to the subsidy, the scheme offers access to collateral-free, low-interest loans for eligible households to finance the installation of rooftop solar systems. National Portal: Applications are processed through a dedicated online portal, where households register using their consumer details and select from a network of government-registered vendors.  Vendor and DISCOM Coordination: The implementation is carried out by registered vendors and coordinated at the state level by Distribution Companies (DISCOMs) or power departments, ensuring that installations meet the technical and quality benchmarks. Model Solar Village Initiative: To further promote renewable energy at the grassroots, the scheme includes establishing one Model Solar Village per district. Who are eligible to apply for the Scheme? The applicant must be an Indian citizen. Must own a house with a roof that is suitable for installing solar panels. The household must have a valid electricity connection. The household must not have availed of any other subsidy for solar panels. Source: Moneycontrol NAVIGATION WITH INDIA CONSTELLATION (NAVIC) Syllabus: Prelims – SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Context: ISRO reported the partial failure of its NVS-02 navigation satellite due to the non-firing of its engines in space. This was the latest in a series of setbacks suffered by the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS), operationally referred to as the

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) INDIA-MIDDLE EAST-EUROPE ECONOMIC CORRIDOR (IMEC) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: Greek Foreign Minister George Gerapetritis has affirmed Greece’s full support for the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), describing it as a project for peace. Background: – Minister acknowledged that the initiative, launched in September 2023, has faced delays due to conflicts in West Asia, particularly the Israel-Gaza war. Key takeaways The India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) aims at boosting economic development and enhancing inter-regional connectivity between Asia, the Persian Gulf, and Europe.  Announced during the 2023 G20 New Delhi summit, the project seeks to create a modern trade route that reconnects historical pathways, linking India to Europe via key partners including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Greece. Key Features and Objectives Bifurcated Route: IMEC is envisioned with two main legs: an eastern corridor that channels container traffic from India to the Gulf region and a northern corridor that connects the Gulf to Europe. This multimodal pathway will integrate high-speed rail, shipping lanes, digital connectivity (through undersea cables), and even renewable energy infrastructure like clean hydrogen pipelines Economic and Logistical Advantages: The corridor is expected to reduce transit times by up to 40 percent and lower logistics costs significantly. It is seen as a strategic tool to diversify trade routes away from traditional chokepoints like the Suez Canal Counterbalance to China’s Belt and Road Initiative: IMEC is interpreted as a counterweight to China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Geopolitical Implications Enhanced Regional Integration: The corridor is designed to strengthen economic ties and promote regional stability. Strategic Diversification: In addition to facilitating faster and cheaper trade, IMEC is intended to reduce reliance on existing maritime routes, thereby mitigating vulnerabilities exposed by conflicts. This diversification is critical for future-proofing supply chains. Diplomatic and Economic Synergies: By linking diverse economies through coordinated infrastructure projects, the corridor can serve as a catalyst for deeper engagement among the participating countries. Source: The Hindu CRIMINALISING BEGGING Syllabus: Mains – GS 1 & GS 2 Context: Bhopal district collector issued orders prohibiting begging in the district, a month after the Indore collector passed similar orders, and introduced stringent measures including registration of FIRs for receiving and giving alms. Background: – The criminalisation of begging has been a contentious issue in many parts of the country with some states having stringent laws, often criticised for being ‘anti-poor’ and mandated in the place of rehabilitation-centric interventions. Key takeaways The orders are under section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS), 2023. This law gives officials including the district magistrate, sub-divisional magistrate or any other executive magistrate, the power to issue an order in urgent cases of ‘nuisance or apprehended danger’. The order can direct any person from abstaining from a certain act. It may apply to persons residing in a particular place or area, or the public generally frequenting or visiting a particular place or area. The orders state that action will be taken under section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The section punishes those disobeying an order announced by a public servant, who is lawfully empowered to do so. If an order under the section is not obeyed, the person can be punished with imprisonment or fine or both. Section 163 BNSS, however, also says that an order under the section shall remain in force for not more than two months, provided the state government considers it necessary that the order remain in force for a period not exceeding six months. Is begging termed illegal anywhere else? The first law against begging was the Bombay Prevention of Beggary Act, 1959. Its roots were colonial, when there were laws against ‘vagrants’, in various provinces, including the Bengal Vagrancy Act, 1943 and the Cochin Vagrancy Act, 1945. In 2018, the Delhi High Court struck down various sections of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959, as extended to the NCT of Delhi, declaring them unconstitutional and effectively decriminalizing begging. However, the court did not invalidate provisions related to ancillary offences, such as Section 11, which penalizes those who employ or cause others to beg. Many states including Maharashtra continue to criminalise begging under the Act. There is no central Act on begging in the country but many states have enacted their own laws, most of them based on the 1959 Act. While some argue that Act is needed to address forced begging or ‘begging rackets’, activists say that it can be addressed in existing provisions, like laws against trafficking. Source: Indian Express UNITED NATIONS HUMAN RIGHTS COUNCIL (UNHRC) Syllabus: Prelims & Mains – CURRENT EVENT Context: President Donald Trump signed an executive order withdrawing the US from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC). Background: Trump pulled the US out of UNHRC in 2018 during his first term in office. Former President Joe Biden reinstated the US’ membership of the organization in 2021. Key takeaways The United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) is an intergovernmental body within the United Nations system.  It was established in 2006 to replace the former United Nations Commission on Human Rights. The UNHRC is responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights around the globe. Membership: The Council consists of 47 Member States elected directly and individually by a majority of the 193 UN General Assembly states. Members serve for three-year terms and can serve a maximum of two consecutive terms. Functions: The UNHRC addresses human rights violations and makes recommendations on them. It holds regular sessions three times a year and can also hold special sessions to respond to urgent human rights situations. Universal Periodic Review (UPR): The Council reviews the human rights records of all UN Member States through the UPR process. Special Procedures: The UNHRC appoints independent human rights experts, known as Special Rapporteurs, who monitor and report on human rights situations in specific countries or themes. Commissions of Inquiry: The Council can authorize commissions of inquiry and fact-finding missions to investigate human rights violations. Source: DW GARBHINI-DRISHTI Syllabus: