Author: instakas

Draft Shram Shakti Niti, 2025 Unveiled

Syllabus: GS2/Government Policy & Intervention

Context

• Recently, the Union Ministry of Labour & Employment has unveiled the Draft National Labour and Employment Policy, titled as Shram Shakti Niti 2025, aimed at reshaping India’s labour landscape.

Shram Shakti Niti 2025 or National Labour and Employment Policy

ಶ್ರಮ ಶಕ್ತಿ ನೀತಿ 2025 ಅಥವಾ ರಾಷ್ಟ್ರೀಯ ಕಾರ್ಮಿಕ ಮತ್ತು ಉದ್ಯೋಗ ನೀತಿ

• Objective – It aims to build a labour ecosystem that is inclusive, equitable, and resilient, ensuring dignity, protection, and opportunity for every worker.

Key Features of the Policy

• Universal and Portable Social Security: Policy aims to establish universal and portable social security for all workers.
• It envisions the creation of a Universal Social Security Account (USSA) by integrating key welfare and insurance systems such as:

1. Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO);
2. Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC);
3. Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY);
4. e-SHRAM portal
5. State welfare boards.

• Skilling & Employment: The policy envisions a skill-employment creation with the help of programs like Skill India, the National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme, and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana.
• These will be supported by a digitally enhanced National Career Service–Digital Public Infrastructure (NCS-DPI), designed to connect talent with opportunity across India’s towns, cities, and MSME cluster
• Nodal ministry – The Ministry of Labour & Employment aims to act as National Employment Facilitator and regulator enabling convergence among workers, employers, and training institutions.

Invasive Alien Species

Syllabus: GS3/Environment

In News

• Conservation scientists warn that invasive alien species are destroying local biodiversity and habitats in India.

Invasive alien species

• Definition: They are non-native organisms introduced accidentally or intentionally (e.g., ornamental fish, decorative plants, or for land restoration).
• They often spread rapidly, outcompeting native species, harming biodiversity and damaging habitats.

Common Examples in India

• Lantana camara: Invades forests, outcompetes native plants, and hinders regeneration.
• Parthenium hysterophorus (Congress grass): Spreads over farmland and causes allergic reactions.
• Eichhornia crassipes (Water hyacinth): Chokes lakes and rivers, depleting oxygen and affecting fisheries.
• African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus): Outcompetes native fish species, threatening aquatic biodiversity.

Control and Management Measures

• Stricter quarantine checks on imports, trade, and shipping.
• Ballast water management in ships to prevent marine invasions.
• Mechanical Control: Manual removal, cutting, dredging, or uprooting.
• Chemical Control: Use of herbicides or pesticides — applied cautiously to avoid ecological harm.

Biometric, Wearable Glass Authentication for UPI Payments

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Reserve Bank of India launched biometric and wearable glass recognition-based authentication for UPI transactions at the Global Fintech Fest 2025.

About

• Face & Biometric Authentication: Users can authenticate UPI payments using face recognition or biometrics stored in Aadhaar.
• Authentication occurs entirely on the user’s device, ensuring data privacy and security.

Hands-Free Payments via Smart Glasses:

• Wearable smart glasses enable small-value transactions using voice commands.
• Users can scan a QR code and complete payments without using a phone, PIN, or touch.
• Multi-Signatory UPI Accounts: Allows joint account holders to authorize payments collectively.
• Enhances convenience, transparency, and control for family or business accounts.

Additional Information – National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)

• Established in – It serves as an umbrella body for the operation of retail payments in India.
• Established by – Reserve Bank of India along with the Indian Bank’s Association.
• Established under – It was set up under the provisions of the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.

Products of NPCI

1. RuPay
2. National Common Mobility Card
3. Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM)
4. Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
5. Bharat Bill Payment System

Central, State co-op Banks Brought under Ambit of RBI’s Ombudsman scheme

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• State co-operative banks and central co-operative banks will come under the ambit of the Reserve Bank Integrated Ombudsman Scheme, 2021.

Reserve Bank Integrated Ombudsman Scheme (RB-IOS)

• It was launched in 2021,
• Objective– to provide customers a speedy, cost-effective, and expeditious grievance redress mechanism.
• Coverage: All commercial banks, regional rural banks (RRBs), state co-operative banks, central co-operative banks, and scheduled/non-scheduled primary (urban) co-operative banks with a deposit size of ₹50 crore or more.
• All Non-Banking Financial Companies (excluding housing finance companies) with asset size of ₹100 crore or more that accept deposits or have a customer interface.

Significance:

• Strengthens consumer protection in the financial sector.
• Enhances trust and accountability in banks and NBFCs

PM-KUSUM Programme

Syllabus:GS3/Environment

In News

• The Union government is planning to promote the PM-KUSUM in African and island nations through the International Solar Alliance.

PM-KUSUM Scheme

• Launched in – 2019
• Implementation – Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.
• Aim: To provide financial support to farmers for installing solar-powered irrigation systems like solar pumps and grid-connected solar plants.
• Significance- To deliver affordable and reliable solar energy to the agricultural sector, reducing irrigation costs and cutting pollution caused by diesel use.
• Target: The scheme aims to add about 34,800 MW of solar capacity by March 2026.

93rd Air Force Day

Syllabus: GS3/Defence

Context

• The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 93rd anniversary with a ceremonial parade at Air Force Station Hindon.

Indian Air Force (IAF)

• Establishment – It is the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, officially established on October 8, 1932.
• Mission – to safeguard Indian airspace and conduct aerial warfare.
• Uniqueness – it is the fourth largest air force in the world,
• Motto – “Touch the sky with glory,” is inspired by the Bhagavad Gita.
• Theme: The 2025 theme is focused on the IAF’s contribution to Operation Sindoor.

VLGC Shivalik

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• The Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) received India’s third Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), Shivalik,

Very Large Gas Carrier (VLGC), Shivalik

• It is built in South Korea and named after the Himalayan range.
• It is an 82,000 cubic metre LPG carrier equipped with advanced safety, temperature control, and operational systems.
• The vessel joins the Shipping Corporation of India Limited’s (SCI) two existing VLGCs — Sahyadri and Anandamayi.
• Significance – The arrival of Shivalik symbolizes India’s march toward maritime self-reliance.

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture, GS3/ Environment

Context

• The Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY), launched in 2015 under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture, has emerged as a flagship initiative to promote organic farming in India.

Basics – Organic farming

• Organic farming is a sustainable agriculture system that excludes synthetic inputs like chemical fertilizers and pesticides.
• It relies on natural resources like crop residues, farmyard manure, and compost to maintain soil health and manage pests and diseases.

Organic farming in India

• India ranks at 4th place in organic farming globally in terms of area.
• Madhya Pradesh has the largest area under organic certification followed by Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Gujarat and Karnataka.
• Sikkim is India’s first fully organic state.
• India ranks first globally in terms of number of farmers practicing organic farming.

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)

• It was launched in 2015 under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
• Aim – The schemes stress on end-to-end support to farmers engaged in organic farminge. from production to processing, certification and marketing and post-harvest management.
• Objective – to advance a scalable model of eco-agriculture that integrates low-cost, chemical-free techniques.
• Significance – to enhance food safety, income generation, and environmental sustainability.

150th anniversary of Vande Matram

Syllabus: GS1/ Culture

In Context

• The Union Cabinet announced nationwide celebration of the 150th anniversary of the national song ‘Vande Mataram’.

Vande Matram

• Vande Mataram was composed by Bankim Chandra Chatterjee in Sanskrit and first appeared in the novel Anandamath(1882).
• Its first public recital by Rabindranath Tagore at the 1896 INC session gave it national exposure.
• The national song has equal status with Jana Gana Mana, as declared by a 1950 Presidential order.
• Article 51A(a) mandates respect for the anthem but not for a national song, indicating a sensitive balance.
• The song was a rallying cry for anti-colonial revolutionaries and a symbol of collective resolve during the independence movement.

Leprosy in India

Syllabus: GS2/ Health

Context

• India’s leprosy prevalence rate has fallen from 57.2 per 10,000 population in 1981 to just 0.57 in 2025.

Leprosy

• Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease.
• It is a chronic neuromuscular disorder. It is caused by several strains of Mycobacterium leprae.
• Leprosy can be cured with Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT).

National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP)

• It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the National Health Mission (NHM).
• Objective – It aims at eliminating leprosy in each of the districts by 2030.
• NIKUSTH- A real-time leprosy reporting software implemented across India..

Namchik Namphuk Coal Block

Syllabus: GS3/ Environment

In News

• Arunachal Pradesh has launched its first commercial coal mining project at the Namchik-Namphuk coal block in Changlang district.

Namchik-Namphuk Coal Block

• Location: Changlang district, southeastern Arunachal Pradesh, part of the Upper Assam coal belt region.
• Reserves: Estimated 5 crore tonnes of coal, enabling long-term production viability.
• Economic Impact: Expected to generate ₹100 crore annual revenue for the state.
• Environmental Features: Operates under Mission Green Coal Regions, focusing on land reclamation, afforestation, and eco-responsible mining.
• Social Impact: Creation of local employment; reduction of illegal mining activities.
• Strategic Alignment: Supports the PM EAST vision – balanced Northeast development.

Falling Camel Counts

Syllabus: GS3/Species in News

Context

• The Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying is planning to launch the National Camel Sustainability Initiative (NCSI) — a national mission aimed at reversing the steady decline in India’s camel population.

Key findings –

• India is witnessing a rapid and alarming decline in its camel population, especially in the traditionally camel-rearing states of Rajasthan and Gujarat.
• According to the 20th Livestock Census, India’s camel population stood at 2.52 lakh in 2019, down from about 11 lakh in 1977 and 4 lakh in 2013.
• Nearly 90% of these camels are concentrated in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Camels in India – Dromedary Camel (Camelus dromedarius) 

• India mainly has one species of camel. It is a one-humped camel, adapted to desert conditions.
• Chinkara and Camel are the two State Animals of Rajasthan.

Economic & Cultural Importance:

• Transport & Labor: Traditionally used for carrying goods, plowing, and transport in desert regions.
• Milk Production: Camel milk is nutritious and in demand.
• Tourism: Camel safaris are popular in Rajasthan.
• Cultural Festivals: Camel fairs, especially the Bikaner Camel Festival, celebrate the animal.
• Defense Use: Camels are used by the Border Security Force (BSF) in desert patrols.

Exercise KONKAN-25

Syllabus: GS3/Defence

Context

• India and the United Kingdom conducted the 2025 edition of Exercise KONKAN, an annual bilateral maritime exercise that began in 2004.

Exercise KONKAN-25

• Participating countries – India and the United Kingdom
• Type – It is an annual bilateral maritime exercise

Other India-UK Bilateral Exercises

• AJEYA WARRIOR (Army)
• Exercise Indradhanush (Air Force)
• Exercise Cobra Warrior (multinational air exercise hosted by the UK).

WHO Global Report on Trends in Prevalence of Tobacco Use

Syllabus: GS2/ Health

In News

• The WHO Global Report on Trends in Prevalence of Tobacco Use 2000–2024 and projections 2025–2030 has been released.

Key Highlights

Global Trends:

• Decline in Use: Global adult tobacco use dropped from 26.2% (2010) to 19.5% (2024).
• Still Prevalent: Despite progress, 1 in 5 adults globally still consumes tobacco.
• E-Cigarettes Rise: Over 100 million people worldwide now use e-cigarettes, posing new regulatory and health challenges.

India’s Progress & Status:

• Tobacco Users (2024): Around 48 million Indians aged 15+ use tobacco.
• Global Standing: India is the 2nd largest producer (after China) and 2nd largest exporter (after Brazil).

Initiatives taken by India to Control Tobacco Consumption

• Cigarettes Act, 1975 – The act mandated the display of statutory health warnings in advertising and cigarette packages.
• Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products Act (COTPA), 2003 – The act replaced the Cigarettes Act of 1975. It aims to provide smoke-free public places and also place restrictions on tobacco advertising and promotion.
• Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Bill, 2019 – To prohibit the Production, Manufacture, Import, Export, Transport, Sale, Distribution, Storage and Advertisement of e-Cigarettes.
• National Health Policy 2017 – It has set an ambitious target of reducing tobacco use by 30% by 2025.
• Tobacco Quit line service – 1800-112-356 – It was initiated in 2016 to reach a large number of tobacco users. It aims to provide telephone-based information, advice and support for tobacco cessation.
• National Tobacco Control Programme (launched in 2007-08): Aims to create awareness about harmful effects, aligned with the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).
• Tobacco-Free Film Rules (2024): Enforced new standards for tobacco depiction in films and TV.
• Yellow Line Campaign: Introduced visible indicators (yellow lines) around schools to reinforce bans on tobacco sales within 100 yards.
• Taxation and Price Interventions: Incremental increases in excise and GST duties, though experts recommend further hikes to maximize impact.

About Tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum)

• Cultivation – It is an annual herbaceous plant native to tropical and subtropical regions of South America and widely cultivated worldwide.
• Climatic conditions – It requires a frost-free period of 90–120 days, with optimal temperatures of 20°C–30°C and at least 500 mm of rainfall;
• Soil – It prefers well-drained sandy loam or alluvial soils.
• Nicotine content – Every part of the plant (except the seed) contains nicotine (2–8% nicotine), concentrated mostly in the leaves (about 64% of total plant nicotine content).

Reforming Passive Euthanasia in India

Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance; GS4/Ethics

Context

• Despite the legal validity of passive euthanasia, its implementation remains mired in procedural complexity, institutional gaps, and ethical ambiguity.
• Note – Karnataka is the second State after Kerala to implement the directive.

Supreme Court Ruling

• Common Cause vs. Union of India & Anr. (2018) case – It recognised right to die with dignity as a fundamental right under Article 21 and upheld legal validity of passive euthanasia.
• Definition of Euthanasia – It is an act of deliberately ending a person’s life to relieve suffering from painful and incurable disease or disorder.

Passive euthanasia v/s Active euthanasia

• Passive euthanasia – It is withholding or withdrawal of life-sustaining treatment for terminally ill patients undergoing prolonged medical treatment with no hope of recovery and do not have decision-making capacity.
• Active euthanasia – It is the intentional act of killing a terminally ill patient on voluntary request. It is illegal in India.

MY Bharat-National Service Scheme (NSS) Awards

Syllabus: Miscellaneous

Context

• President Droupadi Murmu presented the MY Bharat-National Service Scheme (NSS) Awards for the year 2022–23 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

MY Bharat-National Service Scheme (NSS) Awards

• Instituted by – Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports
• Aim – These awards are conferred annually to acknowledge outstanding voluntary community service.

National Service Scheme (NSS)

• Launched in – 1969 during the birth centenary of Mahatma Gandhi,
• It is one of the flagship youth programmes of the Government of India.
• It aims to foster the personality and character development of students through voluntary community service, inspired by the Gandhian ideals of selfless service.
• The motto of NSS – “Not Me, But You” (स्वयं से पहले आप) – reflects its core philosophy of prioritising community welfare above individual interest.

PM-SETU Yojana

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context

• The Prime Minister launched the Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs- PM – SETU.

PM-SETU Yojana

• Abbreviation – Pradhan Mantri Skilling and Employability Transformation through Upgraded ITIs
• Financing – It is a centrally sponsored scheme
• Objective – to transform 1,000 Government ITIs across India into modern, industry-aligned training institutions.

All Jal Jeevan mission Pipelines to be mapped

Syllabus :GS2/Governance

In News

• The Union government is planning  to map all drinking water assets, including pipelines under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), on the GIS-based PM Gati Shakti platform.

Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)

• Launched in – 2019
• Objective – to provide Functional Household Tap Connections
• Significance – to ensure 55 litres per capita per day of safe drinking water to all rural households by 2024.
• However, due to implementation challenges, the deadline has now been extended to 2028.
• Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Jal Shakti.
• Financing  – Central sponsored scheme

Securities Transaction Tax

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

In News

• The Supreme Court of India decided to examine a plea challenging the constitutional validity of the Securities Transaction Tax (STT).

Securities Transaction Tax (STT)

• It is a direct tax levied on the transaction value of securities traded on the Indian stock exchange under the Finance Act, 2004.
• It aims to combat tax evasion in the stock market.
• It includes – derivatives, shares, and equity-oriented mutual funds.
• It is applied on the buying and selling of securities irrespective of the profit or loss made in the transaction.

Abhidhamma Divas

Syllabus :GS1/History

In News

• The International Buddhist Confederation (IBC), in collaboration with Gautam Buddha University (GBU), Antarrashtriya Baudh Shodh Sansthan and the Ministry of Culture celebrated International Abhidhamma Day

Abhidhamma Divas

• It commemorates the Buddha’s descent from the Tāvatiṃsa Heaven after imparting Abhidhamma teachings.
• According to tradition, after attaining enlightenment, the Buddha spent three months in the Tāvatiṃsa Heaven. He taught the Abhidhamma to his mother, Māyā, who had passed away and was reborn there.

Significance in Modern Times:

• Abhidhamma Divas encourages mindfulness, self-reflection, and spiritual growth.
• It reinforces the core values of Buddhism, including compassion and the pursuit of wisdom.
• The observance also highlights the importance of connecting with the teachings of the Buddha to lead a life of peace and purpose.

Supermoon

Syllabus: GS1/Geography

Context

• The Supermoon, also known as the Harvest Moon, was observed recently.

Supermoon

• A supermoon occurs when a full moon or new moon coincides with the moon’s closest approach to the earth in its elliptical orbit — a point known as the perigee.
• Because the moon’s orbit is not a perfect circle, its distance from the earth varies throughout the month by around 50,000 km.
• When the moon is near its perigee and also directly opposite the sun, the full moon appears about 14% larger and 30% brighter than when it is at its farthest point. This is the supermoon.
• Culturally, supermoons have long captured human imagination, inspiring folklore and spiritual observances across civilisations.
• The term “supermoon” was first used by astrologer Richard Nolle in the 1970s and is now common in astronomy and the media.

Moscow Format Talks

Syllabus: GS2/ International Relation

In News

• India, China, Pakistan attend 10-nation Moscow Format talk.

Moscow Format Talks

• Established in – 2017
• Objective – It is a regional diplomatic initiative to address the Afghanistan conflict, promote stability, and foster national reconciliation.
• Significance – It serves as a platform for regional countries to coordinate on Afghan peace and stability.
• Members – India, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

Polar Silk Road

Syllabus: GS2/ International Relation

In News

• The Chinese ship “Istanbul Bridge” became the first commercial vessel to sail from Ningbo-Zhoushan (China) to Felixstowe (UK) via the Arctic in 18 days, marking the operational launch of the Polar Silk Route.

Polar Silk Road

• The Polar Silk Road is a part of China’s broader Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), envisioned as a “blue economic corridor” through the Arctic Ocean.
• It focuses on developing navigable Arctic sea routes connecting East Asia, North America, and Western Europe via the Northern Sea Route (NSR) along Russia’s coast.
• Significance – It establishes a new shipping corridor between Asia and Europe — shorter and more cost-effective than the Suez Canal route.

Additional Information – China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)

OBOR

1. One Belt One Road (OBOR) is an ambitious project of China that focuses on connectivity and cooperation among multiple countries spread across the continents of Asia, Africa and Europe. OBOR spans about 78 countries.
2. Initially announced in the year 2013, the project involves building networks of roadways, railways, maritime ports, power grids, oil and gas pipelines and associated infrastructure projects.

The project Covers two parts

• Silk Road Economic Belt – It is land-based and is expected to connect China with Central Asia, Eastern Europe and Western Europe.
• 21st Century Maritime Silk Road – It is sea-based and is expected to connect China’s southern coast to the Mediterranean, Africa, South-East Asia and Central Asia.

Operation HAECHI-VI

Syllabus: GS2/International Institutions; GS3/Cybersecurity

Context

• The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has arrested eight accused and identified 45 suspects as part of Interpol’s Operation HAECHI-VI.

Operation HAECHI-VI

• The operation focused on seven categories of offences:

1. cyber-enabled financial crime,
2. voice phishing,
3. love and romance scams,
4. online sextortion,
5. investment fraud,
6. money laundering linked to illegal online gambling,
7. business email compromise,
8. e-commerce fraud.

• Investigators worked together to detect and disrupt online fraud as well as money laundering activities, blocking over 68,000 associated bank accounts and freezing close to 400 cryptocurrency wallets.

Additional Information – International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL)

• It is an intergovernmental organization established in
• Objective – To facilitate worldwide police cooperation and crime control in around 195 countries.
• Headquarters – Lyon, France

Different Types of Notices issued by INTERPOL

• INTERPOL issues various notices to facilitate worldwide police cooperation and crime control.

1. Red Notice

• It is issued to seek the arrest of a person.
• The person is in the wanted list of an international tribunal or in a judicial jurisdiction.

2. Green Notice

• It is issued to warn about the criminal activities of a person.
• It is issued if the person is considered as a possible threat to public safety.

3. Blue Notice

• It is issued to obtain information about a person.

4. Yellow Notice

• To locate a missing person. It is also issued when a person is unable to identify himself or herself.

5. Black Notice

• To seek information about unidentified bodies.

6. Orange Notice

• It is issued to process an imminent threat or danger to property or person.

7. Purple Notice

• To provide information on procedures, modus operandi, devices or hiding place

Central Bureau of Investigation

• Set up in – It was set up in 1963 by a resolution of the Ministry of Home Affairs.
• Established under – It comes under the administrative control of the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) of the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.
• Recommended by – It was established on the recommendation of the Santhanam Committee.
• Legal status – The CBI is not a statutory body. It derives its powers from the Delhi Special Police Establishment (DSPE) Act, 1946.

Functions 

1. The CBI is the main investigating agency of the Central Government.
2. It also provides assistance to the Central Vigilance Commission and Lokpal.
3. It is also the nodal police agency in India which coordinates investigations on behalf of Interpol Member countries.

PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan

Syllabus: GS3/Infrastructure

Context

• The Union Cabinet on Economic Affairs approved four multi-tracking projects under the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan.
• These projects span across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh, adding about 894 km to the Indian Railways network.

PM GatiShakti

• It was launched in – 2021
• Objective – to enhance the country’s infrastructure and promote seamless connectivity across various sectors.
• Significance – It is a transformative approach for economic growth and sustainable development which is driven by seven engines – railway, roads, ports, waterways, airports, mass transport and logistics infrastructure.
• Implementation: PM Gati Shakti will incorporate the infrastructure schemes of various Ministries and State Governments like Bharatmala, Sagarmala, inland waterways, dry/land ports, UDAN etc.

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra

Syllabus: Personality in News

Context

• The Prime Minister has expressed deep sorrow at the passing away of Padma Vibhushan Pandit Chhannulal Mishra ji.

Pandit Chhannulal Mishra (1936–2025)

• Born: He was born on August 3, 1936, in Azamgarh U.P.
• He was a renowned Indian Hindustani classical music singer.
• Known for his mastery in khayal, Kirana gharana, thumri, dadra, and bhajans as well.
• Major Honours: Padma Bhushan (2010), Padma Vibhushan (2020), Sangeet Natak Akademi Fellowship
• Legacy: He is known for rigorous discipline in riyaaz and deep devotion to accuracy.

NATO Pipeline System (NPS)

Syllabus: GS2/IR

In News

• Recently, Poland announced plans to join NATO Pipeline System (NPS) with a €4.7 billion investment.

NATO Pipeline System (NPS)

• Mandate – It was established during the Cold War. It supplies fuel and lubricants to NATO forces with modern flexibility.
• It spans about 10,000 km across 12 countries, has a storage capacity of 4.1 million cubic meters, and connects depots, air bases, airports, refineries, and transport points.

Additional Information – North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)

• NATO, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance.
• Headquarters: Brussels, Belgium
• Background: It was established by 12 countries from Europe and North America with the signing of the North Atlantic Treaty (also known as Washington Treaty) in 1949 in Washington, D.C to provide collective security against the Soviet Union attack in the aftermath of World War II.
• Collective Defense: According to Article 5, NATO works on the principle of collective defense, where an attack on any NATO member is considered an attack on all NATO members. So far, Article 5 has been invoked once – in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks in the United States in 2001.
• Members: It comprises 32 member states. Sweden became the 32nd member.

Aspirational Agriculture Districts

Syllabus:GS3/Economy

In News

• The Centre announced 100 Aspirational Agriculture Districts to be developed under the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PMDDKY) across 29 states and UTs.
• Uttar Pradesh leads with 12 districts, followed by Maharashtra (9), Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan (8 each) and Bihar (7).

Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana

• Launched in – The scheme will be launched in partnership with states.

Key Focus Areas:

• Enhancing agricultural productivity.
• Promoting crop diversification and sustainable practices.
• Expanding post-harvest storage at Panchayat and Block levels.
• Improving irrigation facilities.
• Facilitating long-term and short-term credit access.

Building Rural Prosperity and Resilience Program

• Purpose: launched in partnership with states to address under-employment in agriculture.
• Key Focus Areas: Skilling, investment, and technology to invigorate rural economy. Modernizing agriculture with improved productivity and warehousing.
• Target Beneficiaries: Rural women, young farmers, marginal & small farmers and landless families.

Additional Information – Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP)

• Launched in – 2018
• Objective – It aims to rapidly and effectively transform 112 of the country’s most socio-economically underdeveloped districts.
• Implementation – NITI Aayog

H125 Helicopters

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

Context

• Airbus Helicopters, in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems, is setting up a final assembly line for the Indian made H125 utility helicopter in Vemagal, Karnataka.

H125 Helicopters

• The Airbus H125 is a light, single-engine utility helicopter.
• It is known for its versatility and exceptional performance in high-altitude and high-temperature conditions.
• The H125 was formerly known as the Eurocopter AS350.
• The H125 will cater to civil needs like emergency medical services, tourism, disaster relief, and law enforcement,
• Its military version (H125M) will serve India’s armed forces, especially in high-altitude areas like the Himalayas.

Ladakh Delegates Offered Terms of Article 371

Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance

Context

• Ladakh’s two key socio-political amalgams, Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) decided to resume talks with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Statehood and Sixth Schedule.
• The Centre has reportedly proposed special provisions under Article 371 of the Constitution as a potential alternative to Sixth Schedule status.

Background

• In 2019, the former State of Jammu & Kashmir was bifurcated into two Union Territories — Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh, the latter without a Legislative Assembly.
• After its special status was removed, several political groups in Ladakh have been demanding that land, employment, and the cultural identity of Ladakh, should be protected under the Sixth Schedule.
• In 2019, the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes recommended the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule.

Sixth Schedule

• The Sixth Schedule under Article 244 provides for the formation of autonomous administrative divisions — Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) — that have some legislative, judicial, and administrative autonomy within a state.
• This Schedule contains provisions regarding the administration of tribal areas in the states of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram.
• The Schedule also gives ARCs and ADCs the power to collect land revenue, impose taxes, regulate money lending and trading, collect royalties from licenses or leases for the extraction of minerals in their areas, and establish public facilities such as schools, markets, and roads.

Protections offered under Article 371

• Articles 371 and 371-A through J provide “special provisions” for specific states, often to give representation to certain religious and social groups and to allow these groups to exercise autonomy over their affairs without interference from the state and central governments.
• Special provisions under Article 371 would allow protections to be extended to the local population of Ladakh.

100 Years of UPSC : the guardian of meritocracy

Syllabus: GS2/Polity and Governance

Context

• The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) marks a century of its establishment on October 1.

Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)

• Establishment: The Government of India Act, 1919, first provided for such a body, and in October 1926, the Public Service Commission was set up, following the recommendations of the Lee Commission (1924).
• Later named the Federal Public Service Commission (1937), it was renamed the Union Public Service Commission with the adoption of India’s Constitution on 26th January 1950.
• Functions- The UPSC conducts civil services examinations to select officers for the Indian Administrative Service , Indian Foreign Service and the Indian Police Service , among others.
• Members: Besides the chairman, it can have a maximum of 10 members.
• Appointment – A UPSC chairman is appointed for a term of six years or until attaining 65 years of age, all members have the same term.
• Reappointment: The UPSC Chairman is not eligible for reappointment after completing their term.
• Removal (317): Removal by President:

1. Can only be done on the ground of misbehaviour.
2. Requires a Supreme Court inquiry and report confirming the misbehaviour.
3. Reference to the Supreme Court is made by the President.
4. Can remove without Supreme Court inquiry if the person: Is adjudged insolvent, engages in paid employment outside office duties, is unfit due to mental or physical infirmity.

Civil Services Day

• Civil Services Day is observed on 21st April every year
• Reason – to commemorate the day in 1947 when Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel addressed the first batch of civil servants at the Metcalfe House, New Delhi.
• He termed civil servants as the “Steel frame of India,” emphasizing their role in maintaining unity and integrity.

Biomedical Research Career Programme

Syllabus: GS3/ S&T

In News

• The Union Cabinet has approved Phase-III (2025-26 to 2030-31) of the Biomedical Research Career Programme (BRCP) to significantly boost India’s biomedical research ecosystem and global impact.

Biomedical Research Career Programme

• Objective – The programme aims to strengthen research systems, reduce regional disparities in scientific capabilities, and establish world-class biomedical research capacity.
• BRCP is implemented through a partnership between the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India; the Wellcome Trust (WT), United Kingdom; and the India Alliance—a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) created for this initiative.

US Tomahawk Missiles

Syllabus: GS3/ Defence

Context

• Ukraine has requested long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States.

Tomahawk missiles

• Tomahawks are long-range subsonic cruise missiles that can be launched from ships, submarines or ground launchers.
• They have long-range, deep-strike capabilities, and can hit targets 1,250km-2,500km away.
• They carry high-explosive warheads designed to penetrate hardened targets like military bunkers.
• They avoid radar detection by flying at high subsonic speeds while maintaining low altitudes.

India Emerges as the Fastest-Growing Dairy Producer Worldwide

Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture

Context

• India’s dairy sector has expanded by 70% in the past 11 years, with milk production rising from 146 million tonnes in 2014-15 to 239 million tonnes in 2023-24.

Dairy Sector of India

• Global Leadership: India is the world’s largest milk producer, contributing 76% of global milk output.
• Economic Contribution: Dairy is India’s single largest agricultural commodity, contributing 5% to GDP and employing over 8 crore farmers.
• Per Capita Availability: Rose to 471 g/day in 2023–24, substantially above the world average of 322 g/day.
• Top Producing states: Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Madhya Pradesh.

Key Enablers of India’s Dairy Success

• National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) – It was established in 1965 at Anand to replicate the Amul cooperative model across India.
• Operation Flood(1970) – It transformed India into the world’s largest milk producer by creating a nationwide cooperative structure for procurement and distribution.

India-Russia Celebrate 25 Years of Strategic Partnership

Syllabus: GS2/IR

In News

• Russia and India have significantly advanced their 25-year strategic partnership amid a changing global landscape.

Background

• In 2000, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee signed the declaration on strategic partnership, which opened a new chapter in bilateral relations.
• In December 2010, the Strategic Partnership was upgraded to a “Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership.”
• Multiple institutional dialogues, including the Intergovernmental Commission and 2+2 Dialogue, ensure strong cooperation across politics, defense, trade, science, and culture.

Leadership-level engagements

• The India-Russia Annual Summit is the highest dialogue mechanism, with 22 meetings held alternately in both countries.
• The Indian PM received Russia’s highest honor, the Order of Saint Andrew.

Multilateral engagement

• India and Russia closely cooperate in multilateral forums like the UN, G20, BRICS, and SCO.
• Russia supports India’s bid for a permanent UN Security Council seat.

Trade & Economic relations

• India and Russia aim to boost bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030 and investment to $50 billion by 2025.
• In FY 2023-24, trade hit a record $65.7 billion, with India exporting pharmaceuticals and machinery, and importing oil, fertilizers, and minerals from Russia.

Defence & Security Cooperation

• Joint military exercises – INDRA, Vostok & ZAPAD.
• Defence projects include – S-400 systems, T-90 tanks, Su-30 MKI jets, MiG-29 and Kamov helicopters, INS Vikramaditya, AK-203 rifles, and BrahMos missiles..
• Science & Technology Cooperation – nanotech, quantum computing, and nuclear energy (Kudankulam plant).

Amazon’s ‘flying rivers’

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography

In News

• The Amazon rainforest plays a critical role in South America’s water cycle through the phenomenon called “flying rivers”.

Flying Rivers

• “Flying rivers” are massive streams of water vapour carried in the atmosphere, invisible to the eye.

Flying Rivers

Process:

• Moisture originates from the Atlantic Ocean.
• Trade winds push moist air westward across the equator.
• Amazon trees act as a “biological pump” – absorb water from soil → transpire it back into the air → release huge amounts of water vapour.
• This recycled water forms clouds and rainfall further inland, supplying regions as far as the Andes and southern South America.

Sir Creek

Syllabus: GS1/Places

In News

• Defence Minister Rajnath Singh warned Pakistan that any aggression in the disputed Sir Creek area will be met with a strong response.

Sir Creek region

• Sir Creek is a 96-km-long tidal estuary between Gujarat’s Rann of Kutch and Pakistan.
• The Rann lies on the border between Gujarat and the Pakistani province of Sind.
• It is considered a disputed region due to varying interpretations of maritime boundary lines by both sides.
• Sir Creek is a strategic and sensitive zone along the Gujarat coastline

DigiLocker

Syllabus: GS2/ Governance

Context

• The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) has announced that candidates’ documents, including caste, income, and disability certificates, will now be verified through DigiLocker.

DigiLocker

• Launched by – It is a flagship initiative launched in 2015 of the Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY) under the Digital India programme.
• Mandate – It is a digital platform and a paperless solution designed to ensure that a user can access the latest and updated versions of their documents online.
• Significance – It aims to provide a digital wallet to every citizen so that all lifelong documents, including educational, identity, health records, insurance policy papers, PAN records, and driving licences and certificates, can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

Hike in Wheat MSP

Syllabus: GS3/ Agriculture

Context

• The Union Cabinet, approved a 6.59% increase in the Minimum Support Price (MSP) for wheat to Rs 2,585 per quintal for 2026-27 marketing year.

Minimum Support Prices (MSP)

• Definition – It is a form of market intervention by the Government of India to insure agricultural producers against any sharp fall in farm prices.
• Announcement and Recommendation – The Cabinet Committee of Economic

Affairs announces the MSP at the start of each sowing season, taking into account the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP)

• Significance – MSP protects the producer- farmers against distress sale during bumper production years.

Crops Covered

• The Centre announces the MSP (which is not legally guaranteed) for 22 mandated crops and Fair & Remunerative Price for sugarcane.

These include

• 14 kharif crops – paddy, jowar, bajra, maize, ragi, tur/arhar, moong, urad, groundnut, soyabean, sunflower, sesamum, niger seed, cotton,
• 6 rabi crops – wheat, barley, gram, masur/lentil, rapeseed and mustard, and safflower
• 2 commercial crops – Jute and Copra

Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane

• Recommended by – Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP)
• Objective – to assure margins on account of profit and risk to farmers, irrespective of the fact whether sugar mills generate profit or not.

Wheat Production in India

• Area: In 2023-24, the area under wheat stood at 33 lakh hectares, while the production is estimated at 113.92 million tonnes.
• In India wheat is the second largest crop after paddy in terms of area coverage.
• Major producing states – Uttar Pradesh,Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Bihar, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• Major Export Destinations (2023-24): Nepal, Iraq, South Korea, UAE and Mongolia.

Condition for Wheat Cultivation

• Climate: Temperature: Requires 10-15°C during sowing (germination) and 21-26°C during ripening and harvesting.
• Rainfall: Optimal rainfall is 50-100 cm. Excess rainfall can damage the crop.
• Soil Type: Grows best in well-drained loamy and clayey soil.

Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India: NCRB Report (2023)

Syllabus: GS2/Governance; Government Policy & Intervention

Context

• Recently, the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) released its Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India 2023 report, offering a snapshot of the India’s public health and safety landscape.

Key Findings of Report (2023)

• Age Groups: 30-45 Years (31.7%; 1,40,933 deaths); 18-30 Years (24.4%; 1,08,254 deaths).
• Road Accidents: India witnessed a staggering 73 lakh deaths and 4.47 lakh injuries due to road accidents in 2023—a 1.6% increase from the previous year.
• Accidents due to Forces of Nature: 6,444 deaths were attributed to natural forces like lightning (39.7%), heat stroke (12.5%), exposure of cold (11.4%) and floods.
• Accidents due to Other Causes: The major causes of accidental deaths were traffic accidents (45.2%), sudden deaths (14.5%), drowning (8.6%), falls (5.7%), poisoning, and electrocution (3.2%).
• Farmer Suicides: The agricultural sector saw 10,786 suicides in 2023 (declined by 10% from 2022), including 4,690 farmers and 6,096 agricultural laborers.
• It translates to nearly one farmer suicide every day, underscoring the deep-rooted agrarian distress.
• Maharashtra led with 2,518 farmer suicides, followed by Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

Accidental Deaths and Suicides in India: NCRB Report (2023)

• Mental Health and Illness-Linked Suicides: Report highlights a 3.2% rise in suicides due to illnesses, with nearly 20% of cases linked to conditions like cancer, paralysis, and mental health disorders.
• Mental illness accounted for 13,978 suicides.
• Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka reported the highest illness-related suicides.
• Alarmingly, suicides due to cancer rose by 14%, and abortion-related fatalities spiked by 59%.

Additional Information – National Crime Record Bureau

• Set-up in – 1986
• Functions under – Ministry of Home Affairs
• Objective – It acts as a repository of information on crime and criminals so as to assist the investigators in linking crime to the perpetrators.
• Headquarter – New Delhi

Projects being implemented by NCRB

• Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) project
• Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems(CCTNS)
• Reports – NCRB brings out three annual reports i.e. These reports are principal reference points for police officers, researchers, media & policymakers.

1. Crime in India
2. Accidental Deaths & Suicides in India
3. Prison Statistics India.

Model Youth Gram Sabha initiative

Syllabus: GS2/Governance

Context

• The Union Government is set to launch the Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS) initiative from October 2025.
• It is inspired by the Model UN framework, to instill awareness about Panchayati Raj institutions among school students.

Model Youth Gram Sabha (MYGS)

• The initiative will train rural and tribal students in grassroots democracy.
• Vision: To create a new generation of informed and responsible citizens who see local governance as central to development and social justice.
• The program involves students in mock Gram Sabha sessions, where they take on roles like sarpanch and ward members to discuss village issues and pass resolutions.
• Each school receives ₹20,000 financial support to conduct the activity.
• Implementing Ministries: Ministry of Panchayati Raj, in collaboration with the Ministries of Education and Tribal Affairs.

Bathukamma Festival Creates Two Guinness World Records

Syllabus: GS1/Culture

Context

• The Bathukamma festival set Guinness World Records for the largest floral arrangement and the most synchronized female dance participants.

Bathukamma Festival

• The Bathukamma festival is celebrated predominantly in Telangana.
• The term “Bathukamma” translates to “Mother Goddess Come Alive”, reflecting the divine feminine energy and protection.
• Folklore connects the festival to legends of Goddess Gauri as well as King Dhramangada and Queen Satyavati of the Chola dynasty.
• Bathukamma’s timing coincides with Navratri, celebrating life, devotion and the triumph of good over evil.

Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) incentive scheme

Syllabus: GS3/Economy

Context

• The Government has extended the Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP) incentive scheme for exporters until March 31, 2026.

RoDTEP incentive scheme

• Launched in – 2021.
• It replaced the older Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), which was not compliant with World Trade Organization (WTO) norms.
• Objective – It is an incentive scheme by the Indian government to refund various embedded central, state, and local duties and taxes that were previously not reimbursed for exporters.
• Significance – By neutralizing these costs, the scheme aims to make Indian products more competitive in the global market.
• Implementation – Ministry of Commerce and Industry.

India-European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership

Syllabus GS3/Economy

In News

• India-European Free Trade Association(EFTA) Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA) came into effect .

European Free Trade Association Trade and Economic Partnership

• It is the intergovernmental organisation of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.
• It was set up in 1960 by its then seven Member States for the promotion of free trade and economic integration between its members.

The India-EFTA Trade and Economic Partnership Agreement (TEPA)

• It is a modern and ambitious agreement signed by India with a commitment linked to investment and job creation.

The agreement was signed in March 2024 at New Delhi.

Climate Change Spurs Growth in Amazon Rainforest Trees

Syllabus: GS1/ Geography,  GS3/ Environment

Context

• A recent study published in Nature Plants reveals that trees in the Amazon rainforest are steadily increasing in size due to rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂).

Amazon Rain Forests

• Location: The region belongs to nine nations of the South American continent.
• Surrounded by – It is bounded by the Guiana Highlands to the north, the Andes Mountains to the west, the Brazilian central plateau to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east.
• Area Covered: The majority of the forest, 60%, is in Brazil, followed by Peru with 13%, Colombia with 10%, and with minor amounts in Bolivia,Ecuador,French Guiana, Guyana, Suriname and Venezuela.
• Climate: Hot and humid climate with temperatures of 26-30°C throughout the year.There are no periodic seasons.The precipitation ranges from 2,000 mm to 10,920 mm annually.
• Tribes: Yanomamo,Kayapo,Akuntsu,Matses,Tupi etc.
• Fauna: Anaconda,Jesus lizard,howler monkey, golden lion tamarin, jaguar,sloth, spider monkey,Amazon River dolphin,toucan and the scarlet macaw,poison dart frog and the glass frog.
• Flora: Moist broadleaf tropical rainforest like myrtle,laurel,palm, acacia,rosewood,Brazil nut,rubber tree, mahogany and Amazonian cedar.

Significance of the Rainforests

• Lungs of the planet: Rainforests generate about 20% of the world’s oxygen and its trees play a key role in reducing pollutant levels.
• Fight climate change: They act as a crucial buffer in the global fight against climate change as it holds tremendous capacity to store carbon.
• Medicinal Properties: Many of these plants contain bioactive compounds capable of treatmenting diseases that are not yet curable, especially cancer.

Threat to the forests

• Climate Change: Due to climate change the forests are witnessing various challenges like changes in rainfall patterns,pollution etc.
• Deforestation: The size of the Amazon forest shrank dramatically as a result of settlers’ clearance of the land to obtain lumber and to create grazing pastures and farmland.
• Wildfires: It causes threat to the survival of ecosystems and biodiversity. The 2019 forest fires in the region have led to widespread devastation in the region.

Additional Information – Amazon River

• It is the largest river by volume of water and second longest river after the Nile river of Africa in the world.
• Source:River has its source in the Peruvian Andes, at an elevation of 5,598 m.
• Length:6400 km.
• Basin:The basin includes the greater part of Brazil and Peru,some parts of Colombia, Ecuador and Bolivia and a small area of Venezuela.
• Tributaries:Japurá , Juruá, Madeira, Negro, Purus, and Xingu rivers.

Mouth:Atlantic Ocean on the northeastern coast of Brazil.

Historic India–Bhutan Railway Projects Set to Transform Connectivity

Syllabus: GS2/ International Relations

Context

• The Union Government announced two cross-border railway projects which will connect Bhutan with the bordering areas of Assam and West Bengal.

Basics – Gelephu and Samtse

• Gelephu and Samtse are the major export-import hubs in Bhutan and serve the 700-km long India-Bhutan border.
• Gelephu is being developed as “Mindfulness City” and Samtse is being developed as an industrial town by the Government of Bhutan.

Rail Projects

• Kokrajhar–Gelephu Line: It will connect Sarpang district in Bhutan with Kokrajhar and Chirang districts in Assam.
• It will span 69 km and is estimated to cost Rs 3,456 crore.
• Banarhat–Samtse Line: It will connect Samtse district in Bhutan with Jalpaiguri district in West Bengal.

The line will cover 20 km and is estimated to cost Rs 577 crore.

Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP)

Syllabus :GS3/Science and Technology

In News

• NASA launched the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) to map the heliosphere’s boundary, track energetic particles, and enhance space weather forecasting.

Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP)

• It is a space mission designed to explore the heliosphere—the Sun’s protective bubble around the solar system—and its interaction with interstellar space.
• It is positioned at the Earth-Sun Lagrange Point 1 (L1).
• It uses 10 instruments to study solar wind, energetic particles, magnetic fields, and cosmic remnants.

Features and Objectives

• It aims to uncover how solar particles are energized and how the heliosphere shields Earth from galactic radiation.

It also provides real-time space weather data to protect astronauts and technology, while advancing our understanding of cosmic materials and the habitability of planetary systems.

India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay

Syllabus :GS3/Species

In News

• The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has officially recognized India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve in Palk Bay, Tamil Nadu, at the 2025 IUCN World Conservation Congress.

India’s first Dugong Conservation Reserve

• It was established in September 2022, by the Tamil Nadu government under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
• It covers34 sq. km. in northern Palk Bay and is home to over 12,250 hectares of seagrass meadows, vital feeding grounds for dugongs (Dugong dugon)

Dugongs(Dugong dugon)

• Dugongs are primarily herbivorous, grazing on 30 kg-40 kg of seagrass a day.
• They are known as “sea cows,” and peacefully graze on seagrass in shallow coastal waters of the Indian and western Pacific Oceans.
• They are often referred to as the “farmers or gardeners of the sea” for their important role in preserving the coastal ecosystems and aiding fish production.
• Geographic Range: These gentle giants are found in warm waters along coastlines, mainly confined to seagrass beds which occur in calm sheltered habitats such as bays and lagoons.
• Distribution – They are found in the Gulf of Mannar, the Palk Bay, the Gulf of Kutch and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India.
• Threats – Their population was on the decline over the past several decades owing to a variety of factors, including hunting for meat, commercial fishing practices leading to accidental drowning, and habitat degradation.

Protection status :

• International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List – Vulnerable

Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 – Schedule I

Payments Regulatory Board (PRB)

Syllabus :GS3/Economy

In News

• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has constituted a six-member Payments Regulatory Board (PRB) to oversee the country’s payment systems.

Payments Regulatory Board (PRB)

• It replaces the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and Settlement Systems (BPSS), a committee of the RBI’s Central Board.
• Legal status – The new board derives its authority from the Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007.
• It will be supported by the RBI’s Department of Payment and Settlement Systems (DPSS), which will report directly to it.

Composition( total members)

• Chaired by – RBI Governor
• Two other RBI officials – the Deputy Governor and Executive Director for Payment Systems
• Three Central Government nominees.
• Note – Decisions will be made by majority vote, with the chairperson (or deputy governor in absence) holding a casting vote in case of a tie.
• The Board must meet at least twice annually.

Functions

The Board is responsible for the regulation and supervision of all payment systems including electronic and non-electronic, domestic and cross-border systems.