SVAMITVA Scheme

• The SVAMITVA Scheme (Survey of Villages Abadi and Mapping with Improvised
Technology in Village Areas) was launched on 24th April, 2020 (National Panchayati
Raj Day).
• It is a Central Sector Scheme under the Ministry of Panchayati Raj.
• The scheme aims to provide legal ownership records to rural property owners by
issuing Property Cards, thereby enhancing rural governance and financial inclusion.
• The scheme ensures precise demarcation of land parcels in rural areas using drone
technology and Geographic Information System (GIS) tools, reducing disputes over land
boundaries.
• It provides Record of Rights (RoR) through SVAMITVA Property Cards, granting legal
recognition to property owners in inhabited rural areas (Abadi).

Exercise LA PEROUSE
• The exercise is scheduled from January 16 to 24, taking place in the strategic straits of
Malacca, Sunda, and Lombok, which connect the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean.
• Host nation: France leads the exercise, with its Carrier Strike Group spearheaded by
the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.
 • Participating Countries: Australia, Canada, France, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore,
the U.K., and the U.S. are involved in the exercise.
• The indigenously designed guided missile destroyer INS Mumbai is participating in the
fourth edition of the Multinational Exercise LA PEROUSE.

National Sports Awards

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

• India’s highest sporting honor, established in 1991-92.

• Recognizes outstanding performance over a period of four years.
• Named After: Major Dhyan Chand (1905– 79), an iconic hockey legend who led India to
three consecutive Olympic gold medals (1928, 1932, and 1936).
• 2024 Awardees- Gukesh D (Chess), Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey), Praveen Kumar
(Para-Athletics),Manu Bhaker (Shooting)
Arjuna Award

• Established in 1961 for consistent performance over the past four years.
• Named After: Arjuna, the legendary warrior from the Indian epic Mahabharata.
• First Recipient: P.K. Banerjee (Football).
Dronacharya Award

• Instituted in 1985, this is India’s highest honor for coaches.

• Awarded for producing medal winners at prestigious international events.
• Named After: Dronacharya, the guru of Arjuna in Mahabharata.
• First Female Recipient: Renu Kohli (Athletics).
• The first recipients of the award were Bhalchandra Bhaskar Bhagwat (Wrestling), Om
Prakash Bhardwaj (Boxing), and O. M. Nambiar (Athletics), who were honoured in
1985.
Major Dhyan Chand Award for Lifetime Achievement

• Instituted in 2002 for lifetime contributions to sports.

• First Recipients: Shahuraj Birajdar (Boxing) , Ashok Diwan (Hockey).
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy

• The oldest National Sports Award, instituted in 1956–57.

• Named in honor of Shri Abul Kalam Azad, India’s first Education Minister and a freedom
fighter.
• First Recipient: Bombay University.
Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar

• Instituted in 2009, awarded to organizations, corporates, and individuals for

significant contributions to sports promotion and development over the past three
years.
Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award

• Introduced in 2004 to honor achievements in adventure sports. Recognizes contributions

across land, water.
 White Goods
• Government has said, 24 companies have been selected under the Production Linked
Incentive, PLI Scheme for White Goods (Air Conditioners and LED Lights) with a
committed investment of three thousand 516 crore rupees.
• White goods are large home appliances used for routine domestic chores, such as
cleaning, cooking, and climate control. These products are durable and designed to
last for years.

Appliances Under White Goods:

• Kitchen Appliances: Refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, dishwashers.

• Laundry Room Appliances: Washing machines, dryers.
• Climate Control Devices: Air conditioners, heaters, dehumidifiers, fans.
• LED lights: Cover core component and components too.
 GLOBAL SOUTH
• Union Minister Commerce & Industry, during the World Congress on Disaster
Management, highlighted India’s efforts in aiding neighboring and Global South countries
through initiatives like Vaccine Maitri.
• The Global South refers to developing or lessdeveloped countries, mostly in Africa, Asia,
and Latin America.
• The term “Global South” was first used in 1969 by Carl Oglesby and gained prominence
after the 1991 Soviet Union breakup, replacing the term “Third World” which had been
used since 1952. It reflects shared political, geopolitical, and economic conditions.
• Global south is characterized by lower income, higher inequality, and poorer living
conditions compared to the Global North (rich nations in North America, Europe, and
Oceania).
• Countries in the Global South were largely victims of imperialism and colonialism, which
shaped their political and economic outlook, often leading to non-alignment with great
powers.
• The Brandt Line is a visual representation of the world's economic divide between the
North and South. It was proposed in the 1980s by West German Chancellor Willy
Brandt.
 Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme
• The Ministry of Women and Child Development is commemorating the 10th anniversary
of the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme, a flagship initiative to empower the girl
child and promote gender equality.
About Beti Bachao Beti Padhao:

• It is a government scheme aimed at addressing gender bias and promoting the rights,
survival, and education of the girl child.
• Launched in: January 22, 2015, in Panipat, Haryana.
• Ministry involved: Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with
the Ministries of Health and Family Welfare and Education.
Objectives:

• Improve Child Sex Ratio (CSR).

• Ensure gender equality and empowerment of women.
• Prevent gender-biased, sex-selective elimination.
• Promote education and participation of the girl child.
The scheme is divided into three components:

• Advocacy campaigns were launched to address the issue of declining Child Sex Ratio
(CSR) and Sex Ratio at Birth (SBR).
• Multi-sectoral interventions were planned and are being implemented in gender-critical
districts across the country.
• A financial incentive-linked scheme—Sukanya Samriddhi scheme—was launched to
encourage parents to build a fund for female children.

Sukanya Samriddhi scheme

Beneficiaries:

• Primary: Pregnant/lactating mothers, young parents, and girl children.

• Secondary: Adolescents, medical professionals, private hospitals, and families.
• Tertiary: Community leaders, media, NGOs, and the public.
Eligibility:

• The family must have a girl child below 10 years of age.

• A Sukanya Samriddhi Account (SSA) should be opened in the girl’s name.
• The girl must be a resident Indian.
 Indus Water Treaty (IWT), 1960
• The World Bank-appointed Neutral Expert (NE) has declared that he is competent to
resolve differences between India and Pakistan regarding the design of hydroelectric
projects under the Indus Water Treaty (IWT), 1960.
About Indus Water Treaty

• Signed in 1960 by Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Pakistan President
Ayub Khan.
• Brokered by the World Bank, which also serves as a signatory.
Nations Involved

• India: Allocated water from eastern rivers – Beas, Ravi, and Sutlej.
• Pakistan: Allocated water from western rivers – Indus, Chenab, and Jhelum.
• However, India is permitted limited use of western rivers for Non-Consumptive Use;
Domestic Use; Agricultural Use, and Generation of hydro-electric power.
Features of the Treaty

• Equitable distribution of the Indus River system’s water.

• Permits certain uses of water by both nations, including hydroelectric projects.
 • Oversight by the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC), consisting of commissioners
from both countries.
• For resolving disputes, the IWT outlines distinct mechanisms:
‘Questions’ are addressed by the Permanent Indus Commission (PIC);
‘Differences’ are addressed by a Neutral Expert, and;
‘Disputes’ are addressed by a Court of Arbitration.
World Bank’s Role

• Appoints a Neutral Expert to resolve technical differences.

• Facilitates arbitration through a Court of Arbitration if disputes cannot be resolved.
• Ensures the treaty’s implementation and integrity.
Neutral Expert (NE)

• Appointed by: The World Bank, under Paragraph 7 of Annexure F of the IWT.
• Role: Resolving technical disputes arising under the treaty when the Permanent Indus
Commission (PIC) fails to find mutual agreement.
• Current Focus: Technical evaluation of the Kishenganga and Ratle hydroelectric projects.
Dams Under Issue:

• Kishenganga Hydroelectric Project: Location: Jhelum River, tributary of the Indus,

Jammu & Kashmir.
• Ratle Hydroelectric Project: Location: Chenab River, tributary of the Indus, Jammu &
Kashmir.

Indus River
• Origin of Indus River: Bokhar Chu in the Tibetan region in the Kailash Mountain
range near the Mansarovar Lake.
• In Tibet, it is known as ‘Singi Khamban’ or the Lion’s Mouth.
• It flows northwest and enters the Ladakh region of India at a place called Demchok.
 Takers, Not Makers Report
• The Oxfam International report, titled Takers, Not Makers, highlights the wealth
extracted from India during British colonial rule, emphasizing the enduring economic and
social inequalities shaped by colonial exploitation.
Released by

• Oxfam International at the World Economic Forum 2025.

Coverage

• Focuses on wealth extraction during colonial rule, particularly by Britain, and its impact
on global inequality.
• Highlights modern parallels of exploitation by multinational corporations.
Data Insights

• $64.82 trillion extracted from India by Britain (1765–1900), adjusted for today’s value.
• 33.8 trillion enriched the UK’s richest 10%; 32% benefited the middle class.
• India’s industrial output share fell from 25% (1750) to 2% (1900) due to protectionist
policies targeting Asian textiles.
• Systemic exploitation persists, with wages in the Global South 87–95% lower than in the
Global North.
About Oxfam

• Established in: 1942 as the Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, during World War II.
• Oxfam International was formed in 1995 by a group of independent non-governmental
organizations.
• The Oxfam International Secretariat is based in Nairobi, Kenya.
Aim

• To alleviate global poverty and address inequalities through advocacy, development

programs, and humanitarian aid.
Functions

• Operates in 79 countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas.

• Focuses on education, health, public services, and inequality reduction.
• Campaigns against issues like tax evasion, climate change, and gender disparity.
 Third Launch Pad
• The Union Cabinet of India, chaired by Prime Minister, approved the establishment of the
Third Launch Pad (TLP) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota, Andhra
Pradesh.
About Third Launch Pad (TLP)

• It is a state-of-the-art launch infrastructure to support Next Generation Launch

Vehicles (NGLV’s) and as a standby for the Second Launch Pad (SLP).
Location

• Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Aim

• Support launches of NGLVs, LVM3 vehicles, and human spaceflight missions like
Gaganyaan.
• Enhance India’s space exploration capabilities for the next 25–30 years.
First Launch Pad (FLP)

• Primary Purpose: Designed for Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) and supports
Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV)
Significance

• Foundation of India’s space transportation.

• Played a key role in India’s initial satellite launches.
Second Launch Pad (SLP)

• Primary Purpose: Dedicated to Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and

LVM3
Notable Contributions

• Supported Chandrayaan-3 and other national and commercial missions.

• Preparing for human-rated launches for Gaganyaan
 QS World Future Skills Index 2025
• It is a global ranking system that evaluates countries’ readiness to meet evolving job
market demands through skill development, education, and economic transformation.
• Released by: London-basedbased Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), known for its education and
skills-related rankings.
• Aim: To assess how well countries are preparing their workforce for future skills such as
digital competencies, AI, green technologies, and sustainability.
India’s Rank

• 25th overall globally.

• 2nd in the “Future of Work”” category,
showcasing high preparedness for tech-
tech
driven roles.
Key criteria in the QS Future Skills Index

• Skills Fit: Measures how aligned graduates’ skills are with current employer demands.
• Academic Readiness:: Assesses higher education systems’ ability to prepare students for
evolving job markets.
• Future of Work:: Evaluates preparedness for roles requiring future-focused
future focused skills like AI,
digital, and green technologies.
• Economic Transformation:: Analyzes capacity for sustainable
sustainable growth, innovation, and
workforce efficiency.
 • Australia achieved a perfect score (100.00) in Workforce Readiness, a sub-indicator of
Economic Transformation that measures unemployment rate, talent availability, and
gross graduation ratio/higher education output.

Enemy Property Act

• The Madhya Pradesh High Court dismissed Saif Ali Khan’s petition against the
government notice designating the property of the Pataudi family as ‘enemy property.’
What is the Enemy Property?

• Enemy Property refers to the assets, properties, or holdings in India that were owned
by individuals or entities from countries that were declared as enemies of India during
times of war.
• The legal framework governing such properties was established to prevent the transfer,
use, or exploitation of these assets by hostile nations.
• Enemy properties in India primarily relate to the Indo-Pak wars (1947, 1965, and
1971) and the Indo-China war (1962).
Enemy Property Act, 1968

• The Enemy Property Act, 1968, provides the legal basis for the management and
administration of enemy properties.
• It declares that enemy properties are vested in the Custodian for management and
cannot be reclaimed by the original owners or their successors unless approved by the
Central Government.

Maha Kumbh Mela

Prayagraj is hosting the Maha Kumbh, or Poorna Kumbh, which occurs every 12 years.
Kumbh Mela

• It is a major Hindu pilgrimage and festival, where devotees gather to bathe in sacred
rivers, seeking spiritual cleansing and divine blessings. It is known as the “largest
gathering of humanity on Earth.”
Types of Kumbh Mela

• Ardh Kumbh Mela: Held every 6 years at Prayagraj and Haridwar.

• Maha Kumbh Mela (Poorna Kumbh): Held every 12 years at Prayagraj, Haridwar,
Nashik-Trimbakeshwar, and Ujjain. Based on the relative positions of the Sun, the
Moon, and Jupiter.
Historical Origin

• Rooted in the mythological Samudra Manthan (churning of the ocean) where drops
of amrita (elixir of immortality) fell at four locations.
• Early records suggest it evolved from ancient Magh Melas in Prayagraj.
• Mentioned in the Skanda Purana and referenced by Chinese traveler Xuanzang in the
7th century CE.
Held at (Places and Rivers)

• Haridwar: River Ganga.

• Prayagraj: Confluence (Sangam) of Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati.
• Nashik-Trimbakeshwar: River Godavari.
• Ujjain: River Kshipra.
Significance:

• Spiritual Cleansing: Believed to wash away sins and grant moksha (liberation).
• Astrological Importance: Alignments of the Sun, Moon, and Jupiter dictate the timing
and location.
• Cultural and Economic Impact: A hub for spiritual guidance, daan (charity), and
commerce.
• Sadhu Akhada Processions: Sadhus gather for ritualistic shahi snan (royal baths),
attracting widespread attention.
 De-notified Tribes
The denotified tribes (DNTs), semi-nomadic tribes (SNTs), and nomadic tribes (NTs) in India
are facing significant challenges due to delays in implementing the Idate Commission
recommendations.

Nomadic Tribes (NTs)

• Nomadic Tribes are characterized by their nomadic lifestyle, moving from one place to
another in search of livelihood and sustenance. E.g. Van Gujjars, Lambadis, and Gujjar-
Bakarwals.

Semi-Nomadic Tribes (SNTs)

• Semi-Nomadic Tribes have a lifestyle that combines settled and nomadic elements. They
may practice agriculture during specific seasons and engage in nomadic activities at other
times. Raikas and Banjaras.
Denotified Tribes (DNTs)

• Communities that were classified as “criminal tribes” under the Criminal Tribes Act,
1871 during British rule and “denotified” after the Act’s repeal in 1952.
• It includes 1,526 communities, with 269 yet to be categorized as SC, ST, or OBC.
Idate Commission (2015)
The Idate Commission (2015), chaired by Bhiku Ramji Idate, submitted its report in 2017,
recommending:

• A permanent commission for DNTs.

• A caste census column to count DNT populations.
• A sub-quota for DNTs under SC/ST/OBC categories.
Criteria for DNTs:

• Historical branding as “criminal tribes.”

• Lack of formal categorization under SC, ST, or OBC.
• Socio-economic deprivation and nomadic or semi-nomadic lifestyles.

SEED (Scheme for Economic Empowerment of DNTs) Scheme

• It is a flagship welfare scheme designed for the economic empowerment of DNT/NT/SNT

communities.
• Ministry: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Launched in: February 2022.
• Aim: To provide assistance for improving the socio-economic conditions of DNT/NT/SNT
communities.
Features:

• Livelihood Support: Financial aid for skill development and employment.

• Education Assistance: Scholarships for school and higher education.
• Healthcare Access: Subsidized healthcare services.
• Housing Support: Assistance for building or improving housing.

Ambedkar Pre-Matric and Post-Matric Scholarship for DNTs

• This Centrally Sponsored Scheme was launched in 2014-15 for the welfare of those
DNT students who are not covered under SC, ST, or OBC.
• The scheme of Pre-matric Scholarships for DNT students helps spread education amongst
DNT children, especially the girl child.

Nanaji Deshmukh Scheme of Construction of Hostels for DNT Boys and Girls

• This Centrally Sponsored Scheme, launched in 2014-15, is implemented through State

Governments/UT Administrations/Central Universities.
• The scheme aims to provide hostel facilities to those DNT students; who are not covered
under SC, ST, or OBC; to enable them to pursue higher education.
 Deep Ocean Mission (DOM)
• The Deep Ocean Mission is an ambitious program initiated by the Ministry of Earth
Sciences (MoES) to explore the deep sea, develop cutting-edge marine technologies, and
harness ocean resources for economic and environmental benefits.
• DOM was launched in 2021 as one of nine key missions under the Prime Minister’s
Science, Technology, and Innovation Advisory Council (PMSTIAC) framework.
Aims

• To develop advanced deep-sea exploration technologies.

• To identify and harness critical underwater resources like polymetallic nodules,
sulphides, and rare metals.
• To study marine biodiversity and ecosystems for conservation and sustainable fisheries.
• To contribute to India’s blue economy through innovation and knowledge-building.
Key features

• Samudrayaan and Matsya6000: India’s first crewed submersible, Matsya6000, aims to

reach 6,000 meters below the ocean surface, targeting polymetallic nodules and rare
resources.
 • Technological Advancements: Includes development of underwater mining systems
like Varaha, which has successfully operated at depths of 5,270 meters.
• Ocean Climate Change Services: Developing advisory systems for ocean climate
monitoring.
• Marine Biodiversity Conservation: Exploring and conserving unique underwater
ecosystems.
• Renewable Energy and Freshwater Harvesting: Leveraging Ocean resources for
energy and water needs.
• Marine Biology Station: Establishing a state-of-the-art marine research station for
advanced studies.
About Matsya 6000

• The Matsya 6000 is a human-occupied submersible designed and developed by India’s

National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT).
• It is part of India’s ambitious Samudrayaan Mission, aimed at deep-sea exploration and
research.
• Depth Capability: The Matsya 6000 is designed to operate at depths of up to 6000
meters (approximately 19,685 feet).
• Occupancy: It can accommodate three crew members.
• Duration: The submersible can stay submerged for up to 12 hours of operational time,
with an additional 96 hours of emergency endurance.
• Material: The pressure hull is made from titanium to withstand the extreme pressures of
deep-sea environments.
• Instruments: It is equipped with advanced scientific instruments for underwater
research, including high-definition cameras, sonar systems, and robotic arms for
sampling and interaction with the seabed.
 India Meteorological Department
• The India Meteorological Department (IMD), established in 1875, has played a critical
role in weather forecasting and climate services in India for nearly 150 years.
• The IMD is India’s national weather service agency responsible for meteorological
observations, forecasting, and research.
• Established in: 1875, following critical weather events like the 1864 Calcutta cyclone
and monsoon failures in 1866 and 1871.
• Headquarters: New Delhi, India.
• Ministry: Under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
History

• Origins: Began with provincial observatories in the 18th century (e.g., Madras
Observatory, 1793).
• Centralization: Unified meteorological services under a central authority in 1875.
Roles and Responsibilities

• Global Role: One of the six Regional Specialized Meteorological Centres of the World
Meteorological Organization.
 • IMD provides current and forecast meteorological information for weather-sensitive
sectors like agriculture, irrigation, shipping, aviation, and offshore oil exploration.
Major Initiatives of IMD

• National Monsoon Mission (NMM): Improves monsoon forecasts to help agriculture,

water management, and disaster planning.
• Mausam App: A mobile app for weather updates, forecasts, and severe weather alerts.
• Doppler Weather Radars (DWR): Tracks storms, rainfall, and wind patterns for
accurate weather predictions.
• Agro-Meteorological Advisory Services (AAS): Provides weather-based advice to
farmers for better crop planning.
• System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting (SAFAR): Monitors air quality and
weather in major cities to guide pollution management.
 Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
• It was launched in 2016 by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
Objective

• Provide insurance coverage for crop losses caused by natural calamities.

• Stabilize farmers’ income and ensure continuance in farming.
• Promote modern agricultural practices and encourage credit flow to agriculture.
Premium rates

• Kharif crops: 2% of the sum insured.

• Rabi crops: 1.5% of the sum insured.
• Commercial/horticultural crops: 5% of the sum insured.
• Balance premium subsidized equally by the Central and State Governments.
Area-based approach

• Coverage is implemented on a notified area basis for major crops.

• Unit of insurance: Village/Village Panchayat level for major crops.
Beneficiary coverage

• All farmers growing notified crops with insurable interest.

• Voluntary participation from Kharif 2020.
Risks covered

• Yield Losses: Due to natural calamities like hailstorms, cyclones, droughts, floods, and
pest attacks.
• Prevented Sowing: Claims up to 25% of the insured sum for adverse weather.
• Post-Harvest Losses: Coverage for up to 14 days for drying crops.
• Localized Risks: Hailstorm, landslides, and inundation affecting specific farms.
Key features

• Technology Use: Satellite imagery, drones, remote sensing, and AI for yield assessment.
• YES-TECH Initiative: Technology-based yield estimation to reduce dependency on crop-
cutting experiments.
• No Upper Limit: Government subsidy without a cap.
• Ease of Reporting: Farmers can report crop loss within 72 hours via the Crop Insurance
App.
 Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4)
• Axiom Mission 4 (Ax-4) is a private spaceflight to the International Space Station
(ISS), operated by Axiom Space, a US-based space infrastructure company.
• It is the fourth mission in collaboration with NASA, following Axiom Missions 1, 2, and
3.
Aim

• Commercial Space Initiatives: Ax-4 aims to advance commercial activities in Low Earth
Orbit (LEO), including space tourism and the development of commercial space stations.
• International Collaboration: The mission emphasizes global cooperation in space
exploration, featuring a multinational crew.
• Research and Development: Ax-4 will support scientific experiments in microgravity,
focusing on areas like materials science, biology, and Earth observation.
 Key Features of Ax-4
Crew & Spacecraft

• The mission will use a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft, launched by a Falcon 9 rocket.
• The crew includes Commander Peggy Whitson (former NASA astronaut), Pilot
Shubhanshu Shukla (ISRO, India), and mission specialists Sławosz Uznanski-
Wisniewski (Poland, ESA) and Tibor Kapu (Hungary).
Mission Duration

• The 14-day mission will focus on scientific experiments, technology demonstrations, and
educational outreach aboard the ISS.
Commercial Space Station Development

• Ax-4 is part of Axiom Space’s vision to establish the first commercial space station,
transitioning from ISS-based operations to an independent orbital platform.
India’s Role in Ax-4

• Shubhanshu Shukla will be the first Indian astronaut to reach the ISS aboard a private
spacecraft.
• He is also a selected astronaut for India’s Gaganyaan mission.
 Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)
• The MPC is a statutory body established under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934, as
amended by the Finance Act, 2016. It is responsible for setting the benchmark policy
rate (repo rate) to control inflation within a specified target range.
Members

• RBI Governor (Chairperson)

• RBI Deputy Governor in charge of monetary policy
• One official nominated by the RBI Board
• Three external members representing the Government of India
Tenure:

• External members serve a four-year term.

• RBI Governor and Deputy Governor serve ex-officio.
Meetings:

• The MPC meets at least four times a year.

• Additional meetings can be convened if necessary.
Quorum for Decision:

• A minimum of four members is required for a quorum.

• The Governor (or Deputy Governor in their absence) must be present.
• Decisions are made by majority vote; in case of a tie, the Governor has the casting
vote.
Function and Role:

• Primary role: To determine the repo rate to maintain inflation within the target range
(currently 4% +/- 2%).
• Replaced the earlier Technical Advisory Committee.
• Decisions are binding on the RBI.
• The RBI’s Monetary Policy Department (MPD) assists the MPC in policy formulation.
 Navratna Status
• The Central Government has granted Navratna status to IRCTC and IRFC, making them
the 25th and 26th Navratna CPSEs in India.
What is Navratna Status?

• Navratna is a prestigious classification for Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs)

demonstrating exceptional financial and operational performance.
• It grants greater investment autonomy and decision-making flexibility.
Who Grants Navratna Status?

• The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) under the Ministry of Finance awards
Navratna status to eligible CPSEs.
Eligibility Criteria for Navratna Status: To qualify as a Navratna CPSE, a company must:

• Be a Miniratna-I CPSE with a positive net worth.

• Secure an “Excellent” or “Very Good” MoU rating in three of the last five years.
• Score 60+ points on key financial indicators, including net profit, net worth, and
manpower cost.
• Have at least four independent directors on its board.
Benefits of Navratna Status to Firms:

• Investment Autonomy: Can invest up to ₹1,000 crore or 15% of net worth without
government approval.
• Expansion and Diversification: Freedom to form joint ventures, subsidiaries, and alliances
globally.
• Increased Market Credibility: Attracts investors and strategic partnerships, enhancing
business growth.
About Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC):

• IRCTC is a public sector enterprise providing ticketing, catering, and tourism services for
Indian Railways.
• Established in: 1999
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
Key Functions:

• E-Ticketing: Manages online train reservations through its portal and mobile apps.
• Catering Services: Operates onboard catering and manages railway food plazas.
• Tourism Services: Offers rail-based tourism packages, including luxury trains like
Maharajas’ Express.
• Rail Neer: Produces and supplies packaged drinking water for railway passengers.
About Indian Railway Finance Corporation (IRFC):

• IRFC is a public sector undertaking (PSU) responsible for raising financial resources for
the expansion and modernization of Indian Railways.
• It secures funding from capital markets, banks, and other financial institutions.
• Established in: 12 December 1986
• Ministry: Operates under the Ministry of Railways, Government of India.
Key Functions:

• Funding Indian Railways: Provides low-cost capital for railway expansion.

• Market Borrowings: Raises funds through bonds, external borrowings, and public
offerings.
• Rolling Stock Leasing: Finances the procurement of locomotives, coaches, and wagons.
• Infrastructure Development: Supports the modernization and electrification of railway
networks.

Criteria for Miniratna status –

Miniratna Category-I status

• Must have achieved profitability in the last three consecutive years.

• Need to demonstrate a pre-tax profit of Rs.30 crores or more in at least one of the
three years.
 • Must maintain a positive net worth.
Miniratna Category-II status

• Requires a consistent track record of profitability for the last three consecutive years.
• They should also have a positive net worth to be eligible for consideration.
• Not defaulted in the repayment of loans/Interest payment on any loans due to the
government.
• Not dependent on the budgetary support or government guarantees.
Criteria for granting Maharatna status

• CPSEs having Navaratna status.

• Listed on the Indian stock exchange with minimum prescribed public
shareholding under SEBI regulations.
• Should have a significant global presence/international operation.
• In the last three years, the company should have achieved,
1. Average annual turnover > Rs. 25,000 crores.
2. Average annual net worth > Rs. 15,000 crores.
3. Average annual net profit (after tax) > Rs. 5,000 crores.
 EPIC (Electors Photo Identification Card) Number
• EPIC (Electors Photo Identification Card) is a 10-digit alphanumeric voter ID number
issued by the Election Commission of India (ECI).
• Purpose: Proof of identity for Indian citizens aged 18+.
• Enables access to electoral services (voter status check, information updates,
applications).
• Helps prevent fraudulent voting.
• It is distinct from the EPIC card, which is a physical identity document for voters.
Launched in:

• Introduced in 1993 under the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960 to enhance electoral
transparency.
How is EPIC Different from EPIC Card?

• EPIC Number: A unique identifier linked to a voter’s registration.

• EPIC Card: A physical voter ID card containing personal details, a photograph, and
constituency details.
• EPIC does not confer voting rights; only electoral roll inclusion does.
How is EPIC Number Allocated?

• Assigned electronically via ERONET (Electoral Roll Management System)when a new

voter registers.
• Linked to state and constituency data to ensure regional uniqueness.
Key Features of EPIC Number:

• Alphanumeric format: Three-letter alphabetical codes followed by a seven-digit number.

• Assigned through ERONET: Automated allocation via ECI’s digital portal since 2017.
• Functional Unique Serial Number (FUSN): Ensures constituency-level uniqueness.
• Permanent Identification: Remains the same even after reissuing of voter ID.
Can Two Voters Have the Same EPIC Number?

• Yes, but only across different states due to past manual allocation before the ERONET
system.
• ECI has now initiated EPIC rectification under ERONET 2.0 to ensure uniqueness.
Can an EPIC Number Be Changed?

• Yes, if duplication is detected, ECI will reassign a unique EPIC number.

• The voter’s eligibility, polling station, and constituency details remain unchanged.
 National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)
• Prime Minister chaired the 7th National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) meeting at Gir
National Park, focusing on conservation strategies, protected area expansion, and
human-wildlife conflict mitigation.
What is the NBWL?

• The NBWL is the highest advisory body on wildlife conservation in India.

• Established under Section 5A of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
• Reconstituted in 2022, replacing the Indian Board for Wildlife (1952).
Chaired By:

• Prime Minister of India (Ex-officio Chairperson).

• Vice-Chairperson: Minister of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
Structure of Organisation:

• 47-member committee including top government officials, conservationists, ecologists,

and environmentalists.
• Includes defence and expenditure secretaries, army chief, and other high-ranking
officials.
 • Member-Secretary: Additional Director General of Forests (Wildlife) & Director,
Wildlife Preservation.
• Standing Committee of NBWL: A smaller body under NBWL for project clearances
related to protected areas.
Functions and Powers of NBWL:

• Wildlife Conservation Policy: Advises the Central Government on wildlife protection

strategies.
• Approval for Projects in Protected Areas: Mandates clearance for any development
projects within PAs, Tiger Reserves, and wildlife habitats.
• Boundary Alterations in Protected Areas: No changes to PA boundaries without NBWL
recommendation.
• Tourism Regulation: Approves construction of tourist lodges and eco-tourism activities
in PAs.
• Mitigation of Human-Wildlife Conflict: Develops strategies to reduce habitat
destruction and human-animal interactions.
• Wildlife Health & Research: Supports scientific research, conservation programs, and
AI-based wildlife monitoring.
Key Outcomes of the Meeting

• A report on the country’s first riverine dolphin estimation was released. 6,327 river
dolphins recorded across 28 rivers in 8 states.
• Uttar Pradesh has the highest population followed by Bihar, West Bengal, and Assam.
• Foundation stone of National Referral Centre for Wildlife laid in Junagadh for wildlife
health and disease management hub.
• To deal with Human-Wildlife Conflict, a Centre of Excellence will be established at the
Wildlife Institute of India’s campus in SACON (Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and
Natural History), Coimbatore.Rapid Response Teams to be equipped with technology
for conflict mitigation.
• Plans to introduce cheetahs in Gandhisagar Sanctuary (Madhya Pradesh) and Banni
Grasslands (Gujarat) to strengthen reintroduction efforts
Gir National Park

• Location: Situated in the Saurashtra region of Gujarat.

• Established: In 1965, as a sanctuary, and later upgraded to a national park in 1975.
• It is the only place in the world outside Africa where a lion can be seen in its natural
habitat. Since the late 1960s, Asiastic lion numbers have increased from less than 200 to
674 (Census 2020).
• Gir is a home to 40 species of mammals and 425 species of birds.
 Reciprocal tariffs
• U.S. President Donald Trump announced reciprocal tariffs on nations imposing higher
levies on American goods, targeting India, China, the EU, Canada, and Mexico.
Reciprocal Tariffs

• A reciprocal tariff is a trade policy where a country imposes import duties equal to the
tariffs charged on its exports by other nations.
• It is designed to counter trade imbalances and discourage unfair tariff policies by foreign
governments.
How Does It Work?

• If a country imposes higher tariffs on U.S. goods, the U.S. will match the rate on imports
from that nation.
• The policy applies to goods, services, and non-tariff barriers restricting U.S. market
access.
• It aims to reduce trade deficits and encourage countries to lower their tariffs to maintain
access to the U.S. market.
Does It Violate WTO Rules?

• Yes, it may contradict WTO principles, which advocate non-discriminatory trade policies
under the Most-Favored-Nation (MFN) rule.
• However, the U.S. can justify it under Article XXI (national security exception) or Article
XX (general exceptions) of the WTO agreement.
Consequences of Reciprocal Tariffs

• Escalation of Trade Wars: Countries like China, Canada, and Mexico may impose
retaliatory tariffs, leading to supply chain disruptions and higher global trade tensions.
• Increase in Consumer Prices: Tariffs raise import costs, which businesses pass on to
consumers, causing inflation and reduced purchasing power.
• Economic Volatility: Unpredictable trade policies create market instability, lowering
investor confidence and slowing economic growth.
• Strained Diplomatic & WTO Disputes: Countries may challenge U.S. tariffs at the WTO,
worsening bilateral relations and risking trade retaliation.
• Boost to U.S. Manufacturing: Higher tariffs on imports may push companies to
manufacture domestically, creating jobs and reducing trade deficits.
 D Voters
• The Assam Assembly witnessed discussions on ‘D’ (Doubtful) voters, with the
Opposition demanding closure of the detention center and the tabling of the National
Register of Citizens (NRC) report.
‘D’ (Doubtful) voters

• ‘D’ (Doubtful) voters are individuals whose Indian citizenship is under question, and
they are barred from voting or contesting elections.
• The Election Commission of India (ECI) introduced this category in 1997 in Assam to
identify those who failed to prove their citizenship.
Classification as ‘D’ Voters

• Any person whose citizenship status is in doubt during electoral roll verification is
marked as a ‘D’ voter.
• Cases are referred to Foreigners Tribunals (FTs), which decide whether the person is
an Indian citizen or an illegal immigrant.
• Families may have some members recognized as citizens while others are marked as ‘D’
voters, causing legal and social distress.
Rules Governing ‘D’ Voters

• The Citizenship Act, 1955, and the Citizenship Rules, 2003, do not define ‘D’ voters
explicitly.
• The 2003 Citizenship Rules mandate that details of individuals whose citizenship is
doubtful be entered in the National Population Register (NPR) with a remark for
further verification.
• They are not allowed to vote or contest elections until they get clearance from the
Foreigners Tribunal (FT).
Key Features of ‘D’ Voter Status

• Temporary Classification: The ‘D’ voter status cannot be prolonged indefinitely, and a
final decision must be taken within a definite period.
• Legal Recourse: Individuals can appeal to the Foreigners Tribunal and seek clearance
for inclusion in NRC.
• Detention & Deportation: If declared a foreigner, the person may be deported or placed
in a detention center.
• Impact on Families: Many cases involve split families, where some members are
marked as ‘D’ voters while others hold Indian citizenship.
• Plight of Detainees: Many Indian citizens have been detained, with no clear mechanism
for their release even after years.
 National Register of Citizens (NRC)

• NRC is an official record of those who are “Legal Indian Citizens”.

• It includes demographic information about all those individuals who qualify as citizens of
India as per the “Citizenship Act, 1955”.
• The register was first prepared after the 1951 census of India and since then it has not
been updated until 2019 (Only in Assam).
National Population Register (NPR)

• It is a register of “Usual Residents” of the country.

• A usual resident is defined for the purpose of NPR as a person who has resided in a local
area for the past 6 months or more or a person who intends to reside in that area for the
next 6 months or more.
• It is mandatory for every usual resident of India to register in the NPR. The objective is to
create a comprehensive identity database of every usual resident in the country.
• The NPR was first collected in 2010 and then updated in 2015.
 Six years of Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-
SYM)
• The Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhann(PM-SYM) Scheme was launched in 2019 to
provide pension security for unorganized workers.
• India’s unorganized sector contributes nearly 50% of the GDP, employing millions in
occupations like street vending, construction, agriculture, and domestic work.
• However, financial insecurity after retirement remains a major concern, to address this
issue the PM-SYM scheme was launched.
• As of 2024, over 30.51 crore workers are registered on the e-Shram portal. E-Shram
portal is a flagship initiative by the Government of India to support and empower the
unorganized workforce.
• Registered workers receive a UAN linked to their Aadhaar, enabling seamless access to
benefits.
Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM) Scheme

• Launched in 2019.
• It is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme, ensuring a minimum ₹3,000
monthly pension after the age of 60 years.
• Spouses receive 50% of pension if the subscriber dies after retirement.
• Spouses can continue or exit the scheme if the beneficiary dies before 60.
• Implementation: Ministry of Labour & Employment and managed by the Life Insurance
Corporation of India (LIC).
• Eligibility: Age: 18–40 years, monthly income ₹15,000 or less, not covered under
EPF/ESIC/NPS.
• Contribution Structure: monthly contribution ₹55 to ₹200, depending on the age of
joining.
• Enrollment: Through Common Service Centres (CSC) or the Maandhan portal.
• Implementation and Current Status: 46.12 lakh enrollments (March 2025) across 36
States/UTs. Top 3 States are Haryana, Uttar Pradesh,Maharashtra.
 Offshore Mining
• The Kerala Assembly unanimously passed a resolution, opposing the Central
government’s plans to permit offshore mining along the Kerala coast.
• 2023 Amendment: Amendments to the Offshore Areas Mineral (Development and
Regulation) Act, 2002, allows the Union Ministry of Mines to auction deep-sea mineral
blocks.
• Offshore mining is the process of retrieving mineral deposits from the deep seabed, at a
depth of more than 200 metres.
Types of Resources:

• Oil and Gas: Extracted from offshore oil rigs or platforms.

• Minerals: Includes precious metals, polymetallic nodules, and other rare minerals found
on or beneath the seafloor.
• Sand and Gravel: Used for construction and other purposes.
Concerns

• Disruption of Habitats: Mining robots destroy the ocean floor, harming over 5,000
species and fragile ecosystems.
• Sediment Plumes: Sediment clouds smother marine life, disrupt feeding, and reduce
water quality.
• Technical Challenges: Deep-sea mining technology is underdeveloped; equipment
repair is difficult due to extreme pressure.
• Ethical Considerations: Companies (SAP, BMW,Google, etc.) oppose using seafloor
materials, citing environmental concerns.
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

• UNCLOS was adopted in 1982, and came into force in 1994.

• It lays down a comprehensive regime of law and order in the world’s oceans and seas
establishing rules governing all uses of the oceans and their resources.
• It establishes the International Seabed Authority to regulate mining and related
activities on the ocean floor beyond national jurisdiction.
The International Seabed Authority (ISA)

• The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is an autonomous international organization

established under The 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)
and The 1994 Agreement relating to the Implementation of Part XI of the United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea.
• All States Parties to UNCLOS are members of ISA.
• As of May 2023, ISA has 169 Members (India is also a member), including 168 Member
States and the European Union.
• Headquarters: Kingston, Jamaica