The Study IAS

Month: June 2025

  • Government Launches Forest Rights Act (FRA) Cells

    Government Launches Forest Rights Act (FRA) Cells

    In forest rights push, Centre sanctions over 300 FRA cells to ‘facilitate’ implementation

    Context: In a notable shift from past policy, the Union Government has initiated direct involvement in the implementation of the Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006 by setting up structural mechanisms at both district and state levels.  The initiative is part of the Dharti Aba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyaan (DAJGUA).

    Historical Context

    • FRA Implementation Till Now: For 19 years, implementation was entirely under the domain of State/UT governments. Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs only issued advisories, funded trainings, and compiled progress data.
    • New Central Role: For the first time, the Centre is funding operational FRA structures directly, marking a policy shift. This signifies a departure from the previous hands-off approach in which the Centre only “exhorted” States to act.

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    Forest Rights Act (FRA), 2006

    • Officially known as the Scheduled Tribes(ST) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, recognises the rights of Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers over forest land and resources.

    Key Features

    • Recognition of Forest Rights – Grants legal rights to Scheduled Tribes and other traditional forest dwellers over forest land they have been residing in for generations.
    • Individual and Community Rights – Includes rights to land for habitation, self-cultivation, access to minor forest produce, and conservation of community forest resources.
    • Empowerment of Gram Sabhas – Local self-governance bodies play a crucial role in verifying and approving forest rights claims.
    • Protection Against Eviction – Prevents displacement of forest dwellers without proper recognition of their rights.
    • Sustainable Forest Management – Encourages conservation while ensuring livelihood security for forest-dependent communities.

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    What is DAJGUA?

    • The Dharti Aaba Janjatiya Gram Utkarsh Abhiyan (DAJGUA) is a comprehensive initiative launched by the Government of India to drive inclusive and sustainable development in tribal regions.
    • DAJGUA brings together 25 interventions from 17 Central ministries to accelerate development in over 68,000 tribal-dominated villages. One of its key components is to expedite pending FRA claims, especially those delayed despite DLC approvals.
    • According to a March 2025 progress report, 14.45% of the 51.11 lakh FRA claims across 21 States and Union Territories remain pending. Among the 43 lakh disposed claims, more than 42% have been rejected.

    What Are FRA Cells?

    • FRA Cells are newly established Forest Rights Act (FRA) facilitation units sanctioned by the Union Ministry of Tribal Affairs under the DAJGUA. 
    • As part of DAJGUA, the Union government has sanctioned 324 district-level FRA cells across 18 States and UTs, and State-level FRA cells in 17 of these regions. 
    • These cells are expected to serve as facilitators, helping individuals and Gram Sabhas prepare their claims and manage data, rather than functioning as decision-making bodies.

    Geographical Coverage

    • The establishment of these cells has been widespread, with notable distribution across the following States:
      • The highest number of FRA cells has been sanctioned in Madhya Pradesh (55), followed by Chhattisgarh (30), Telangana (29), Maharashtra (26), Assam (25), and Jharkhand (24). 
      • Notably, Assam and Telangana have some of the highest pendency rates — over 60% and 50.27%, respectively — while States like Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand have significantly lower pendency.

    Structure and Functions of FRA Cells

    • As per the DAJGUA guidelines, these cells are to operate under the supervision of State Tribal Welfare Departments and district administrations, helping claimants and Gram Sabhas with:
      • Paperwork preparation for claims, including evidence collection and Gram Sabha resolutions.
      • Conversion of forest and un-surveyed habitations into revenue villages.
      • Demarcation of forest land already vested to claimants.
      • Digitisation of records and updating government portals.
    • The government has clarified that these FRA cells will not interfere with the decisions made by the Gram Sabha, Sub-Divisional Level Committees (SDLCs), District Level Committees (DLCs), or State departments designated under the FRA.

    Central Funding and Administrative Shift

    • FRA cells are funded by the Centre through Grants-in-aid General.
    • Sanction orders reviewed in States like Assam, Himachal Pradesh, and Odisha confirm this central funding.
    • Budget allocation:
      • ₹8.67 lakh for each district-level FRA cell.
      • ₹25.85 lakh for each State-level FRA cell.
    • Although funded centrally, the cells operate under State government machinery, primarily directed by State Tribal Welfare Departments and district administrations.

     

     

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  • INS Tamal

    Stealth frigate INS Tamal to be commissioned on July 1

    Context: The Indian Navy is poised to induct its latest stealth multi-role frigate, INS Tamal, at a commissioning ceremony scheduled for July 1 in Kaliningrad, Russia. 

    What is INS Tamal?

    • INS Tamal is a Tushil-class guided-missile stealth frigate built under Project 11356 at Russia’s Yantar Shipyard, and is the eighth Krivak-class vessel inducted by the Indian Navy.
    • It is the fourth and final frigate under the 2016 Indo-Russian agreement, incorporating both Indian and Russian technologies.
    • This is the last major foreign-built warship for India, reflecting the shift toward Atmanirbhar Bharat and the Make in India defence initiative.

    What Are the Key Features and Technologies of INS Tamal?

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    Design and Capabilities

    • Length: ~125 metres
    • Beam: 15 metres
    • Displacement: ~3,900–4,000 tonnes
    • Propulsion: Gas turbine
    • Top speed: Over 30 knots
    • Crew capacity: 250+ trained in harsh Russian winter conditions (St. Petersburg & Kaliningrad)

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    • Warship blends Indian and Russian technologies, with 26% indigenous components.
    • It is equipped with the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system for both anti-ship and land-attack roles.
    • The arsenal includes vertical launched surface-to-air missiles, an improved 100mm gun, heavyweight torpedoes, urgent-attack anti-submarine rockets, and advanced surveillance and fire control radars.
    • The ship features next-generation network-centric warfare capabilities, a modern electronic warfare suite, and advanced communication systems.
    • Enhanced stealth and stability characteristics, along with a top speed exceeding 30 knots and extended endurance, make it a formidable platform.

    How Does INS Tamal Fit into the Indian Navy’s Broader Plans?

    • INS Tamal will join the Western Fleet, the “Sword Arm” of the Indian Navy, under the Western Naval Command.
    • India is also building two similar frigates under the Triput class at Goa Shipyard Ltd with Russian design assistance, aiming for a total of 10 ships with similar capabilities across four classes.
    • The Navy’s broader plan is to expand to around 180 warships and 350 aircraft and helicopters by 2030.

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    SYMBOLISM AND LEGACY

    • Name meaning: Tamal – refers to a mythical sword of Indra, the king of gods
    • Mascot inspiration: Combination of Jambavant (immortal bear king from Indian mythology) and the Eurasian brown bear (Russia’s national animal)

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  • Sariska’s Critical Tiger Habitat

    Over 50 mines may benefit as Sariska’s Critical Tiger Habitat to be redrawn

    Context: The Rajasthan government has proposed a rationalisation plan to redraw the Critical Tiger Habitat (CTH) boundary of the Sariska Tiger Reserve.

    More on News:

    • If accepted, the new CTH boundary will exclude 48.39 sq km of degraded, hilly terrain and add 90.91 sq km of quality tiger habitat from the buffer zone.
    • This move may legalise over 50 marble and dolomite mines that were shut down following a Supreme Court order in May 2023 for being within 1 km of the CTH.

    About Sariska Tiger Reserve

    • Location & Size: Sariska National Park is a famous tiger reserve in Rajasthan, surrounded by the Aravalli Hills, covering over 800 square kilometres.
    • Renowned for its Royal Bengal Tigers, the park offers a rich blend of natural beauty, history, and biodiversity. 

    What is the History of Sariska National Park?

    • Sariska’s legacy is rooted in royalty. It once served as the hunting ground of the Maharaja of Alwar, a tradition that lasted until the mid-20th century. 
    • In 1955, the area was declared a natural reserve, and by 1979, it was designated a national park under Project Tiger—a major step in India’s conservation journey. 
    • Since then, Sariska has transformed from a royal playground into a sanctuary for endangered species and a model of ecological revival.

    What Kind of Flora and Fauna Can Be Found in Sariska Tiger Reserve?

    • The park’s landscape is diverse, featuring rocky terrain, scrub thorn forests, semi-deciduous woodlands, grasses, and hilly cliffs. Trees such as Dhok, Tendu, and Khair thrive here.
    • Key wildlife includes the iconic Royal Bengal Tiger, along with Chital, Leopard, Sambhar, Nilgai, Four-Horned Antelope, Rhesus Macaque, Langur, and Wild Boar.
    • Among the birds, it is home to species such as Peacocks, Sand Grouse, Golden-backed Woodpeckers, Crested Serpent Eagles and Harbour’s Quail.

  • India’s Economic Transformation

    Poverty Levels, Food and Fertiliser Subsidies

    Context: As the NDA government completes 11 years at the helm, it’s an opportune time to review India’s macroeconomic performance, welfare progress, and structural challenges that lie ahead. A comparison with the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) era from 2004 to 2014 also offers useful context for India’s evolving growth story.

    What are the Macroeconomic Milestones?

    • Nominal GDP: In 2014, India’s nominal GDP stood at $2.04 trillion, up from $709 billion in 2004 under the UPA. 
      • In 2025, India’s economy is estimated to touch $4.19 trillion, nearly doubling over the past decade. 
      • This positions India as the world’s fourth-largest economy, just behind the US, China, and Germany.
    • PPP: In Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) terms — which reflect actual living standards — India has grown from $2.75 trillion (2004) to $6.45 trillion (2014) and an estimated $17.65 trillion in 2025. 
      • This makes India the third-largest economy in PPP terms, trailing only China ($40.72 trillion) and the US ($30.51 trillion).
    • Per Capita Income: To assess economic inclusivity and welfare, per capita income in PPP terms offers better insight: 2004: $2,424, 2014: $4,935 and 2025: $12,131.
      • Global Rankings: India’s global rank improved from 181st in 2004 to 149th in 2025, yet it still lags behind most G20 countries and even some South Asian peers like Sri Lanka and Bhutan. 
      • China’s per capita PPP income stands at $28,978, while the US leads at $89,105. However, India continues to outperform Pakistan and Bangladesh on this metric.

    What about  Income Inequality?

    • Despite economic growth, income inequality has remained stable, with India’s Gini coefficient marginally fluctuating from 0.34 in 2004 to 0.33 in 2021, indicating moderate inequality. 
    • This suggests that while growth has expanded national income, its distribution remains an ongoing concern.

    Where stands Agriculture and Inclusive Growth?

    • Agriculture is central to inclusive development, employing 46.1% of India’s workforce as per PLFS 2023–24. 
    • Despite back-to-back droughts in 2014–16, the NDA government achieved 4% average annual growth in agriculture GDP (FY15–FY25), outperforming the 3.5% growth under UPA (FY05–FY14).

    What about Welfare Gains?

    • The NDA government’s expansive welfare delivery programs — including free food grains, affordable housing, PM-KISAN income support, and fertiliser subsidies — have played a pivotal role in reducing extreme poverty.
    • According to World Bank estimates (2021 PPP):
      • Extreme poverty ($3/day) dropped from 27.1% in 2011 to 5.3% in 2022, a remarkable 80% reduction.
      • Moderate poverty ($4.20/day) fell from 57.7% to 23.9%, marking a 60% decline in a single decade.
    • This is one of the fastest poverty reductions in India’s history and represents a significant achievement for the NDA government on the economic front.

    What is the Way Forward?

    • Rationalising Food Subsidy: India currently provides free rice or wheat (5kg/person/month) to over 800 million people. However, with extreme poverty reduced to 5.3%, there is a case for replacing free grains with digital food coupons. These could be used to buy nutritious foods like pulses, milk, and eggs from verified stores.
    • Reforming Fertiliser Subsidy: With fertiliser subsidies projected at ₹1.56 lakh crore in FY26, the government should consider direct benefit transfers (fertiliser coupons) to farmers. Deregulating fertiliser pricing and allowing choice between chemical and bio-fertilisers will improve soil health, reduce import dependency, and promote sustainable agriculture.
    • Identifying and Supporting Tenant Farmers: Policy success hinges on accurately identifying tenant farmers through data triangulation and effective communication. 

  • Navigating Global Trade Shifts

    Steering the Indian economy amidst global troubles

    Context: The global economy is witnessing a major transformation, driven by evolving trade policies and escalating geopolitical tensions. 

    More on News

    • The resurgence of trade wars, tariff revisions by major economies, and a growing push for bilateral trade agreements have all contributed to increased uncertainty. 
    • These disruptions are reshaping global trade patterns, impacting financial markets, and altering economic growth trajectories.
    • In this shifting landscape, Indian businesses must recalibrate strategies to balance short-term disruptions with long-term opportunities. 

    India’s Trade Dependence on the U.S. Market

    • The United States is India’s largest export destination, accounting for nearly 20% of India’s total merchandise exports. This makes India’s trade highly sensitive to changes in U.S. tariff policies. 
    • However, the future of U.S. reciprocal tariffs remains unclear. Ongoing trade negotiations—including potential interim deals—and a recent U.S. Court of International Trade ruling challenging tariff impositions add layers of uncertainty. 
    • Experts suggest that the broader impact on India’s economy may remain limited due to its strong external sector fundamentals—buoyant services exports, stable remittance inflows, ample foreign exchange reserves, and a manageable current account deficit. 

    What are the Strategic Opportunities for India?

    Despite global headwinds, India has a golden opportunity to reposition itself in global supply chains and emerge as a manufacturing and export powerhouse. To fully leverage this moment, India must adopt a comprehensive, forward-looking strategy encompassing the following key pillars:

    • Pursue Strategic Bilateral Trade Agreements: India must continue its proactive stance in concluding Bilateral Trade Agreements (BTAs), especially with the U.S. Being among the first to finalise such a deal could offer India a first-mover advantage. 
      • The agreement should aim for zero tariffs in high-priority sectors while ensuring national interests are safeguarded. 
      • India must also protect its robust services exports to the U.S., which remain a vital strength. 
      • Addressing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) and exploring mutual recognition agreements will be essential for deeper market access.
    • Expand Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with Key Economies: India’s recent FTA with the United Kingdom is a promising step. 
      • Attention must now turn to fast-tracking deals with the European Union, Australia (under the Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement), and other strategic partners. 
    • Strengthen Anti-Dumping and Import Monitoring Mechanisms: To shield domestic industries from dumping risks, especially from China and ASEAN nations, India needs to enhance its import surveillance frameworks. 
      • Swift deployment of trade remedial measures will protect local manufacturers from unfair trade practices.
    • Sustain Public Capital Expenditure to Support Growth: In times of global slowdown, consistent public capital expenditure (capex) is crucial to sustaining domestic demand and investor confidence. 
    • Maintain Accommodative Monetary Policy: With inflation currently under control and expected to ease further, the Reserve Bank of India should consider further rate cuts to stimulate economic activity. 
    • Attract Foreign Investment Through Supply Chain Diversification: A sector-specific investment strategy targeting electronics, green tech, pharmaceuticals, and critical manufacturing will help India position itself as a credible alternative.
    • Accelerate Structural and Regulatory Reforms: Fast-tracking second-generation reforms, as outlined in recent Union Budgets, is vital. 
      • India must also expand the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes to emerging sectors like wearables, IoT devices, and battery materials. 

  • Foreign Universities Enter India

    How will foreign universities impact higher education?

    Context: India is witnessing a major shift in its higher education landscape as several foreign universities prepare to establish branch campuses on Indian soil. 

    What is the Current Status?

    • So far, seven institutions from the UK, five from Australia, and one each from the United States, Italy, and Canada have initiated or completed the approval process. 
    • Most of these campuses will be based in GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) and Navi Mumbai.
    • While India has aimed to attract global institutions for over a decade, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 gave fresh momentum to this goal. 
    • The government has since operationalised this vision by approving the University Grants Commission (UGC) Regulations 2023 for the establishment of foreign higher educational institutions (FHEIs) in India.

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    NEP 2020 and Foreign Universities in India

    The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 supported by University Grants Commission (UGC) guidelines, allows top-ranked foreign higher education institutions (HEIs) to establish campuses in India. Only foreign universities ranked in the global top 500 (overall or subject-wise) or those with exceptional expertise in specific fields are eligible to apply for setting up campuses in India. The UGC determines and updates these criteria periodically. The UGC provides autonomy to these institutions regarding academic, administrative, and financial operations. They must comply with Indian laws (such as FEMA and FCRA), submit annual audits, and can operate as either non-profit or for-profit entities. GIFT City in Gujarat has emerged as a flagship international education hub, offering regulatory and tax incentives to attract foreign universities. Deakin University (Australia) and University of Wollongong (Australia) are among the first to set up campuses in GIFT City, Gujarat. The University of Southampton (UK) is opening a campus in Gurugram, Haryana. In 2025, Letters of Intent were issued to five globally reputed universities: University of York, University of Aberdeen, University of Western Australia, Illinois Institute of Technology, and Instituto Europeo di Design (Italy), with operations expected to begin between 2026 and 2027.

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    Why Are Foreign Universities Setting Up Campuses in India?

    • Shifting Dynamics: The expansion is largely driven by shifting global higher education dynamics. 
    • Global North: Countries in the Global North—such as the UK, US, Canada, and Australia—witnessed a surge in higher education demand post-World War II. 
      • However, falling birth rates over the past two decades have led to stagnating or declining domestic student enrollments. 
    • Infrastructure and Funding: With overbuilt infrastructure and reduced public funding, foreign universities began depending heavily on international students for both enrollment and revenue.
    • Foreign Students: UK universities now enroll international students at 22% of their total intake.
      • Australia’s share is 24%, while Canada’s is around 30%.
      • In the US, although international students make up just 6% of total university enrollments, they account for over 27% at elite Ivy League institutions.
    • Recent Changes: But 2023–24 saw a sudden shift. Countries like Canada and Australia introduced strict caps on international student admissions, while the UK’s new student visa rules in 2024 further limited inflows. 
    • India: With traditional student pipelines narrowing, India has emerged as a strategic alternative.

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    Brain Drain and India

    Brain drain refers to the emigration of highly skilled and educated individuals from their home country to other nations in search of better job opportunities, higher salaries, advanced research facilities, and improved quality of life. In 2024 alone, over 600,000 people left India, with major destinations including the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and several European and Gulf countries.

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    • Its young population, growing economy, and increasing education aspirations make it a promising market for global universities looking to diversify revenue streams and maintain global presence.

    What are the Key Challenges for Foreign Universities in India?

    • Affordability Gap: India’s higher education market is massive in volume (over 40 million students) but constrained by the limited spending capacity of average households. 
      • However, rising incomes and an expanding middle class suggest that the demand for high-quality, premium education will likely grow in the coming years.
    • Lack of High-Quality Domestic Alternatives: A handful of public institutions (like the IITs and IIMs) and a few private universities offer global-standard education. But the vast majority remain mediocre or under-resourced. 
      • Foreign branch campuses can help fill this quality gap and meet the growing demand for international-caliber programs.
    • Shifting Student Preferences: While many Indian students still seek international degrees as a pathway to migration, an increasing number prefer to stay and work in India. 
      • Foreign branch campuses will cater to this segment, offering globally recognised degrees without the cost and logistics of studying abroad.

    What is the Way Forward? 

    • Enhancing Affordability and Accessibility:

        • Scholarships & Aid: Deakin University (Australia) offers scholarships for Indian students at its GIFT City campus.
        • Phased Fees: Introduce income-based tiered fee structures for wider access.
        • PPPs: Use public-private partnerships to cut costs and scale operations.

    • Ensuring Quality and Relevance:

        • Localised Curriculum: Align global courses with India’s emerging job sectors.
        • Industry Ties: Build strong industry links for internships and placements.
        • Faculty Exchange: Involve international faculty to raise academic standards.

    • Regulatory and Policy Support: 

        • Fast Approvals: Singapore’s ESG (EduTrust) certification model could be adopted to fast-track approvals for foreign universities.
        • Incentives: Extend tax and land benefits beyond GIFT City to key hubs.
        • Profit Rules: Allow limited profit repatriation to attract investment.

    • Strengthening India as a Global Education Hub: 

        • Joint Degrees: Promote dual programs with top Indian institutions.
        • Research Push: ETH Zurich (Switzerland) collaborates with Indian agri-tech firms for climate-resilient crops—similar models can be replicated.
        • Work Visas: Offer post-study work options to retain graduates.

    • Addressing Student Concerns: 

      • Degree Recognition: Ensure Indian branch degrees match global credibility.
      • Mobility Options: Provide pathways to transfer to home campuses.
      • Cultural Fit: Blend global education with local cultural inclusivity.

  • India’s New Drug Disposal Guidelines

    Indian drug regulator issues guidelines on disposal of expired and unused medicines

    Context: In May 2025, the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) issued national guidelines on the safe disposal of expired and unused drugs. These were circulated to all state and Union Territory drug controllers, with instructions to encourage adoption by stakeholders across the pharmaceutical supply chain.

    The Hidden Dangers of Improper Storage and Disposal

    • Unused medicines left unattended: Can be misused or accidentally ingested, especially by children or vulnerable populations, leading to poisonings and health risks.
    • Improperly disposed drugs can also leach into the environment, where they: Persist in water systems, Affect aquatic life, and, Pose health risks to humans through indirect exposure.
    • Specific environmental consequences include: 
      • Antibiotic residues in aquatic ecosystems worsening antibiotic resistance and altering microbial virulence.
      • Ethinyl estradiol (a component of oral contraceptives) causes endocrine disruption in fish species like roach.
      • Detection of organic pharmaceutical contaminants in drinking water treatment plants, raising public health concerns.

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    Background

    • A 2018 AIIMS study flagged the ecological dangers of disposing medicines in landfills.
    • A 2019 report by Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) highlighted unsafe disposal practices across the Delhi-NCR region—at household, retail, and wholesale levels.
    • CSE also advocated for drug take-back programmes and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) to ensure manufacturers play a role in medicine disposal.

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    What Do the Guidelines Cover?

    • Disposal Methods: Recommended methods include encapsulation, inertisation, and incineration.
    • Flush List: A list of 17 drugs permitted to be safely flushed down the toilet or sink to prevent harm.
    • Process Guidelines: Covers procedures for collection, storage, transportation, and final disposal.
    • Stakeholder Roles: Detailed responsibilities for retailers, suppliers, manufacturers, hospitals, and procurement agencies.

    Reverse Supply Chain: Who Does What?

    • The guidelines recommend a reverse flow of expired drugs through the supply chain:
      • Retailers must return expired stock to their suppliers or manufacturers.
      • Wholesalers and distributors must accept returns from those they supply and ensure segregation and return.
      • Manufacturers are to accept all expired or unused drugs and arrange for safe disposal.
      • Government and private hospitals may return expired stock or follow disposal procedures under the Biomedical Waste Management Rules, 2016.

    Gaps and Limitations

    • No Full EPR Mandate: Guidelines stop short of placing full responsibility on manufacturers, unlike global EPR models.
    • Consumers Excluded: Unlike drug take-back systems in Europe and the US, Indian consumers are not included in the reverse chain, limiting public participation.
    • Focus on Record-Keeping: Strong emphasis on maintaining disposal records and regulatory verification when needed.

    Public Drug Take-Back Initiatives

      • To encourage safe disposal by the general public, the guidelines recommend:
        • State drug departments and chemist associations urged to launch public drug take-back programmes.
        • Citizens can drop off expired or unused medicines at designated sites for safe disposal.

    • Kerala’s Model: Kerala has emerged as a pioneer with its New Programme on Removal of Unused Drugs (nPROUD), launched in December 2024. 

    • Piloted in Kozhikode Municipal Corporation and Ulliyeri panchayat, the programme already covers:

        • Coverage of approximately 200,000 households and thousands of medical stores
        • Features door-to-door collection and planned installation of blue bins in stores
        • Commercial operators (retailers, wholesalers, hospitals) pay ₹40 per kg for disposal
        • All collected medicines are incinerated at a facility in Ernakulam
      • This program runs in coordination with the Municipal Corporation, which is also responsible for collecting and segregating household medical waste under local bye-laws.

    Implementation and Future Outlook

    • Need for coordination among: Drug regulators, Pollution control boards, Municipal bodies.
    • Stakeholder concerns: Practical implementation by retailers and wholesalers is crucial, but may face feasibility and cost challenges. Addressing these concerns through efficient supply chains and supportive policies can help ensure wider adoption and market growth.
    • Industry Action: The All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists to hold a meeting in June 2025 to assess feasibility and roll-out strategies.

  • Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)

    CITIZENS’ FEEDBACK: WHY THE CENTRE WANTS QR CODES ON PMGSY ROADS

    Context: The Union Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD) has introduced a new initiative to improve the quality and maintenance of rural roads constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) by leveraging QR code-based public feedback.

    What is PMGSY?

    • The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is a flagship scheme aimed at improving rural road infrastructure.
    • Launched: December 25, 2000, under PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s NDA government.
    • Goal: Provide all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages and habitations.

    What are the different phases of the PMGSY?

    • Phase I (2000): Focused on providing basic road connectivity.
    • Phase II (2013): Consolidation of the existing rural road network.
    • Road Connectivity Project for Left Wing Extremism Affected Areas (RCPLWEA) in 2016: Aimed specifically at enhancing connectivity in insurgency-hit regions.
    • Phase III (2019): Focused on upgrading existing roads.
    • Phase IV (Approved on September 11, 2024): Targets connecting 25,000 unconnected habitations with population thresholds based on terrain:
      • 500+ in plains
      • 250+ in northeastern and hill states/UTs, special category areas (Tribal Schedule V, Aspirational Districts/Blocks, Desert areas)
      • 100+ in LWE-affected areas, as per Census 2011

    What’s New: QR Codes for Maintenance Feedback

    • New Directive from MoRD: The National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA), the technical arm under MoRD responsible for PMGSY implementation, has initiated the QR code project to incorporate public feedback into the maintenance monitoring process.
    • Purpose of QR Codes: This move addresses a critical gap—while contractors are obligated to maintain PMGSY roads for five years post-construction, and inspections are conducted via the e-MARG system (electronic Maintenance of Rural Roads), there was no structured mechanism to include citizen feedback on road conditions.

    How Does the New System Work?

    • A new utility within the eMARG platform enables the generation of a unique QR code for each road. These QR codes are to be prominently displayed on maintenance information boards at the roadside, accompanied by instructions in English and local languages on how to submit feedback.

    • Through this system:

      • Any road user can scan the QR code using a smartphone.
      • The user is directed to a page with road-specific details.
      • Users can click photographs of the road and report maintenance issues directly.

    • This citizen-captured data will then be:

      • Integrated into Routine Inspection (RI) reports
      • Assessed using Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) to assist in the Performance Evaluation (PE) of the road’s condition.
      • Reviewed by engineering staff, who will cross-check the data before finalising PE scores.

    • According to NRIDA, this mechanism will make the maintenance process under PMGSY more realistic and transparent, allowing for public participation in evaluating road quality. 

      • The eMARG system will now function as a more accountable platform, aligning feedback from both official inspections and everyday users.

    Funding and Progress: Initially, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, from 2015-16, the funding split changed to 60:40 between the Centre and states (except for northeastern and Himalayan states).

  • G20’s Role in Global Renewable Energy

    G20 countries could produce enough renewable energy for the whole world — what needs to happen

    Context: The world’s richest economies have caused the most climate damage through fossil fuel use, so a global phase-out by 2050 is essential, and African nations must adopt long-term renewable plans and secure G20 financing to benefit.

    Why Are G20 Countries Critical for Climate Change Mitigation?

    • The G20, comprising 19 major economies, the European Union, and the African Union, represents 67% of the global population and 85% of GDP.
    • They account for 87% of energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, making their shift to renewable energy vital to limit global warming.
    • A global fossil fuel phase-out by 2050 is essential to mitigate further climate change damage.

    What Is the Renewable Energy Potential of G20 Countries?

    • G20 nations have 33.6 million km² for solar projects and 31.1 million km² for wind projects, sufficient to meet global 2050 electricity demand.
    • Countries like Australia and Canada, major fossil fuel exporters, possess significant renewable energy potential.
    • Coordinated investment and policy efforts are needed to realise this potential fully.

    How Can G20 Support Africa’s Energy Transition?

    • Africa can generate solar and wind power exceeding its 2050 electricity needs by developing just 3% of its potential.
    • 600 million Africans lack electricity access, and new plants must prioritize renewables to align with Paris Agreement goals.
    • South Africa, as G20 president, should advocate for renewable energy investments in Africa at COP30.

    What Are the Main Obstacles to Renewable Energy Adoption?

    • Finance: Securing funds for renewable energy systems is critical, particularly in Africa, where long-term energy policies are scarce.
    • Regulations: Transparent, long-term policies are essential to attract investors and support solar and wind industries.
    • Manufacturing Capacity: Developing local renewable technology production is vital for scaling deployment.

    What Actions Should G20 Take at COP30 and Beyond?

    • South Africa must push for reduced greenhouse gas emissions and increased renewable energy funding at COP30.
    • G20 nations should establish fair carbon budgets, considering population, economic growth, and local renewable resources.
    • Redirecting over $1.4 trillion in fossil fuel subsidies (2022) to renewables can accelerate the energy transition.

    How Can Africa Benefit from G20 Collaboration?

    • G20 support can fund microgrids and regional power pools to improve electricity access and connectivity in Africa.
    • Developing renewable energy could enable Africa to export excess power, driving economic growth.
    • Aligning with Agenda 2063, Africa can transition to a middle-income continent using renewable energy.

    Why Is Global Cooperation Essential?

    • G20 countries must lead by phasing out fossil fuels and investing in clean energy globally.
    • Coordinated policies and investments can address grid bottlenecks, high borrowing costs, and technology shortages.
    • Tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, as pledged at COP28, requires unified global action.

    What Is the Role of Regional Power Pools?

    • Regional power pools, like the Southern African Power Pool, enable electricity sharing via interconnected grids.
    • They balance supply and demand, reduce transmission losses, and integrate renewable energy sources like hydro and solar.
    • G20 funding can enhance Africa’s power pools with smart meters and AI-driven grids to serve 600 million without electricity.

    Why Is the G20 Criticised for Elitism?

    • The G20, a self-selected group, excludes 90% of UN member states, limiting global representation.
    • South Africa can form an African G20 consultative group to amplify regional voices and address climate debt owed to Africa.

    What Is Climate Debt, and Why Does It Matter?

    • Wealthy G20 nations, responsible for most emissions, owe a climate debt to Africa, which faces severe climate impacts.
    • Action Aid estimates a $36 trillion debt to Africa, with only 5% of global climate finance reaching the continent.
    • South Africa’s G20 presidency can push for debt restructuring and grants to fund climate-resilient African cities.

    What Actions Should Be Taken?

    • G20 must enforce fair carbon budgets, prioritising decarbonisation and renewable investments.
    • Africa needs long-term energy policies and regulations to attract investors for solar and wind projects.
    • South Africa aims to develop three cross-border energy projects and two renewable energy corridors by 2030.

  • Assisted Dying Bill Passed by UK Parliament

    U.K. MPs approve Assisted Dying bill

    Context: Recently, the UK House of Commons has passed the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill, which now moves to the House of Lords for further scrutiny and possible amendments before becoming law.

    What is the Eligibility and legal procedure? 

    • Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be 18 or older, residents of England or Wales, registered with a GP for at least 12 months, diagnosed with a terminal illness (life expectancy of six months or less), and possess the mental capacity to decide.
    • Voluntary Declarations: Individuals must make two formal, witnessed declarations of their wish to die, spaced at least seven days apart.
    • Medical Assessments: Two independent doctors must evaluate and confirm the patient’s eligibility and mental capacity.
    • Procedure & Safeguards: After approval, a 14-day waiting period follows. A doctor prepares the life-ending medication, but the individual must self-administer it.
    • Legal Protections: Coercing or pressuring someone into assisted dying is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 14 years in prison.

    What is people’s reaction?

    • Patients and their families support the bill because they believe it helps spare loved ones from prolonged and unbearable suffering.
    • Campaign groups argue that the proposed safeguards are “rigorous and safe,” ensuring responsible implementation.
    • Some clinicians support the bill, stating that it promotes honest, transparent, and patient-centred palliative care planning.
    • Opponents—including disability-rights advocates, religious leaders, and some doctors and politicians—argue that the bill may exert subtle pressure on vulnerable people, undermine the sanctity of life, strain National Health Service (NHS) resources, and potentially expand beyond its intended scope.

    How does the UK fit into global practice?

    • If enacted, England & Wales would join jurisdictions such as Canada, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand and ten U.S. states with similar assisted‑dying frameworks, while remaining distinct from countries (e.g., Netherlands) that allow doctor‑administered euthanasia. 

    What is the legal status of euthanasia in India?

    Which Supreme Court rulings shaped the law?

    • Aruna Ramchandra Shanbaug v. Union of India (2011) – first recognised passive euthanasia for patients in a permanent vegetative state; required High‑Court approval and a medical board.
    • Common Cause v. Union of India (9 March 2018) – declared the “right to die with dignity” a facet of Article 21 and allowed living wills/advance directives for competent adults.
    • SC Order (24 January 2023) – simplified the 2018 procedure: no magistrate signature, quicker twin‑board medical review, and e‑registry of living wills.

     What safeguards govern passive euthanasia today?

    • A living will be signed before two witnesses and attested by a notary/gazetted officer.
    • Primary medical board (treating hospital) + secondary, independent board must each unanimously certify: irreversible illness, no hope of recovery, and patient’s prior wish.
    • Time‑bound: Boards must act within 48 hours; decision communicated to patient’s family and hospital. These 2023 tweaks replaced the earlier high‑court route, making end‑of‑life decisions faster yet still court‑supervised.

    Why is the UK debate relevant for India?

    • Policy spill‑over: A UK‑style assisted‑dying framework (self‑administered lethal medication) would go beyond India’s passive model and reopen constitutional, ethical and religious questions.
    • Legislative vacuum: Despite two Law Commission reports, Parliament has yet to codify end‑of‑life law. The Supreme Court’s guidelines thus remain the de facto statute.
    • Public opinion & palliative care gaps: As palliative‑care access remains uneven, critics warn that introducing assisted dying without first improving hospice services could pressure the vulnerable—an argument that mirrors UK opponents’ concerns.

  • Biofuels and Global Energy Transition

    Energy Transition and Global South Cooperation

    Context: Biofuels are emerging as a critical component of the global energy transition, especially in the Global South. 

     

     

    More on News

    • As urbanisation and energy demand rise, fossil fuels remain dominant in transportation, but biofuels offer a lower-carbon alternative. 
    • Compatible with existing infrastructure and capable of decarbonising hard-to-abate sectors like aviation and shipping, biofuels enhance energy security, reduce emissions, and support rural economies.

    Role of Biofuels in Energy Transition

    • Market Dynamics & Growth Potential:

        • Biofuels must triple production by 2030 to meet Net Zero Emissions (NZE) targets.
        • The global biofuels market was valued at $113 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $261 billion by 2034, growing at a 6.9% CAGR.
        • Road transport leads in biofuel adoption, while aviation and shipping are emerging sectors, expected to drive 75% of new demand by 2030.
        • 58 countries have ethanol blending mandates, and 48 enforce biodiesel requirements.

    • Key Producers & Policies:

        • U.S., Brazil, EU, India, and Indonesia (80% of global supply).
        • Brazil leads with 21% of transport energy from biofuels, supported by RenovaBio, a carbon credit-based policy.
        • India aims for 20% ethanol blending by 2025, doubling its 2022 levels.
        • Indonesia targets 50% biodiesel blending by 2028, leveraging palm oil resources.

    • Investment & Innovation:

      • Private sector investments are shifting toward drop-in fuels (e.g., renewable diesel, biojet, biomethane).
      • Brazil’s Raízen is investing $2 billion in second-gen ethanol and biogas plants.
      • India is funding 5,000 compressed biogas plants and hydrogen-methane pilot projects.

    Challenges & Solutions

    • Cost & Feedstock Competition:

        • Biojet and biomethane remain 2x more expensive than fossil fuels.
        • Food vs. fuel debate: Expansion risks deforestation and biodiversity loss.
        • Solution: Invest in second- and third-generation biofuels (e.g., algae, agricultural waste).

    • Policy & Regulatory Gaps: 

        • Blending mandates and sustainability certifications (e.g., ISCC) are crucial.
        • Emerging economies need stronger incentives to match U.S. and EU policies.

    • Global Collaboration: 

      • The Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) fosters cross-country learning and technology transfer.
      • Brazil, India, and Indonesia serve as models for sustainable biofuel policies.

    Strategic Roadmap: Building a Resilient Biofuel Future

    To unlock the full potential of biofuel production in India, a multi-pronged strategy is essential:

    • Regulatory Strengthening: Standardise ethanol transport regulations across states. Expand permissible feedstock categories, especially untapped agricultural waste (estimated at ~500 million tonnes annually).
    • Institutional Reform: Establish inter-ministerial working groups. Implement a single-window approval system for biofuel-related projects.
    • Economic Incentives: Promote subsidies for non-traditional feedstocks like lignocellulosic biomass. Ensure timely farmer payments to encourage feedstock supply.
    • Infrastructure Development: Expand ethanol blending facilities and storage capacity. Invest in dedicated pipelines and rail-based transport networks. Create regional biofuel production clusters to optimise logistics and resource use.
    • Technology & R&D Investment: Support the development of second- and third-generation (2G & 3G) biofuels, which offer higher energy yields and lower emissions. Foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) to accelerate technology deployment.
  • India’s Pension System Reform

    India’s Pension System Reform

    India needs to design an inclusive pension system

    Context: Pension system play a critical role in ensuring financial stability and dignity after retirement, particularly in a country like India where economic vulnerability intensifies with age. 

    Present Status in India

    • With rising healthcare expenses, inflation, and limited income-generating options, the need for a robust pension framework is more urgent than ever.
    • However, India’s pension system remains underdeveloped and unevenly distributed. 
    • According to the Economic Survey 2025–26, Indian pension assets account for just 17% of GDP—far below the 60–80% seen in many advanced economies. 
    • Alarmingly, only about 12% of the Indian workforce is covered by formal pension schemes. 
    • Public sector and organised private sector employees enjoy relatively comprehensive protection, but the informal sector, which comprises nearly 85% of India’s workforce, remains largely outside the safety net.

    Informal Sector and the Pension Coverage Gap

    • India’s informal workforce contributes more than half of the country’s GDP, and its exclusion from pension schemes is both a policy oversight and a looming financial crisis.
    • With the old-age dependency ratio expected to hit 30% by 2050, failing to integrate the informal sector into the pension system will hinder India’s goal of becoming a developed economy by 2047.
    • Currently, voluntary pension schemes like the National Pension System (NPS) and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) offer limited coverage—only about 5.3% of the total population as of FY24. 
    • The lack of mandatory participation, low awareness, and fragmented delivery mechanisms have stunted wider adoption.

    Global Lessons: Building a Structured and Scalable Pension System

    India can draw lessons from countries with inclusive, scalable pension ecosystems:

    • Japan: Japan runs a compulsory, flat-rate contributory scheme for all residents aged 20 to 59, covering both formal and informal workers.
    • New Zealand: New Zealand offers a universal flat-rate pension for those over 65, provided they meet a 10-year residency requirement.
    • UK: The UK has adopted an opt-out pension system for employees, effectively encouraging participation by default.
    • Nigeria: Nigeria has scaled pension access through an expansive digital infrastructure, boosting informal sector inclusion.

    Financial Literacy and Accessibility Are Key

    • Low financial literacy continues to hamper pension adoption in India. 
      • To address this, targeted educational campaigns at the grassroots level are critical. 
      • For instance, Australia integrates superannuation planning into its school curriculum, while the Netherlands ensures annual disclosure of pension entitlements by occupational pension funds.
    • Further, simplified digital enrolment systems and mobile-friendly platforms can boost accessibility for gig workers, self-employed individuals, and other informal sector participants.

    Ensuring Sustainability and Adequacy of Pension Funds

    • The Mercer CFA Institute Global Pension Index 2024 rated India’s pension system at just 44%, with a sharp decline in the adequacy sub-index. 
      • To address these concerns, India must focus on strengthening both public and private pension funds.
    • China’s experience shows that reliance on public pensions alone is risky without supplemental private funds. 
    • On the other hand, countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, Australia, and the US use private and occupational pension investments to bolster public systems and ensure long-term sustainability.

    A Three-Tier Pension Framework for India

    To overcome the challenges of scalability, sensitisation, and sustainability, India should move towards a unified, three-tier pension structure:

    • Tier 1 (Mandatory Basic Pension Guarantee): A flat-rate, contributory pension scheme covering all citizens, regardless of occupation.
    • Tier 2 (Occupational and Employer-Based Pensions): Auto-enrolment schemes for workers in formal and informal settings, with employer contributions and opt-out options.
    • Tier 3 (Voluntary Retirement Savings): Tax-incentivised and flexible investment options to complement the core pension.
      • A unified pension regulator would ensure harmonisation, accountability, and smoother integration across schemes.

    Way Forward

    With a rapidly ageing population, India must act now to ensure that every worker—formal or informal—has access to retirement security. Policymakers must prioritise:

    • Designing an inclusive, tiered pension architecture
    • Launching national-level financial literacy initiatives
    • Creating easy-to-use digital enrolment systems
    • Strengthening regulations for pension fund investments and disclosures

    A minimum pension guarantee, backed by smart policy reforms and global best practices, will secure the future of India’s ageing workforce and fortify its economic aspirations.

     

     

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  • Israel-Iran Conflict and Global Energy

    Strait of Hormuz, India’s energy imports and Global Energy

    Context: The escalating Israel-Iran conflict has drawn sharp global attention, particularly from the international energy markets. 

    More on News

    • As tensions rise in West Asia—a key hub for global oil and gas flows—India and other major importers are watching developments closely. 
    • Given India’s high dependence on West Asian oil, any disruption in the region could have serious implications for energy prices and national economic stability.

    India’s Vulnerability to Global Energy Shocks

    • India, the world’s third-largest consumer of crude oil, imports over 85% of its oil needs and nearly 50% of its natural gas demand. 
    • A major share of this comes from West Asian nations like Iraq, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, and Oman. 
    • While Russia is currently India’s largest oil supplier, the Strait of Hormuz—the narrow maritime passage between Iran and Oman—remains critical, facilitating nearly 47% of India’s oil imports, according to recent tanker traffic data.

    Geopolitical Risk Already Inflating Shipping Costs

    • Although oil and gas flows have not yet been significantly disrupted, energy analysts report a rising geopolitical risk premium. 
    • This is already inflating shipping and insurance costs for tankers navigating the region. 
    • Some global shipping lines are reportedly reassessing their routes through the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for one-fifth of global oil supply and a key corridor for LNG exports, especially from Qatar to India.
    • The benchmark Brent crude oil price spiked 7% to over $74 per barrel following Israeli airstrikes inside Iran and Tehran’s subsequent retaliation. 
      • While prices have moderated slightly in recent days, the threat of further escalation remains.

    Why the Strait of Hormuz Matters

    • Dubbed the world’s most important oil transit chokepoint by the US Energy Information Administration (EIA), the Strait of Hormuz carries a substantial portion of global crude oil and LNG trade. 
    • Much of India’s energy imports—including oil from Iraq, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and LNG from Qatar—pass through this strait.
    • Any closure of the Strait would significantly disrupt global energy supply chains and send oil prices skyrocketing, industry experts warn. 
      • Iran has threatened such a closure in the past, although it has never acted on it—even during major wars. 
      • Still, the possibility cannot be ruled out entirely amid the current tensions.

    What Happens If Iran Shuts the Strait?

    • According to Amena Bakr, head of Middle East energy insights at Kpler, a closure of the Strait of Hormuz remains unlikely, but if it occurs, oil prices could surge past $120 or even $150 per barrel. 
      • This would severely affect India’s economy, increasing the trade deficit, inflation, and putting pressure on the rupee and forex reserves.
    • While countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have developed alternative oil export routes to bypass the Strait, their effectiveness in a full-blown regional conflict would still depend on whether export infrastructure remains intact and supply lines stay open.

    Indian Refiners Brace for Higher Freight and Insurance Premiums

    • Even without a full shutdown of the Strait, Indian refiners expect a rise in freight and insurance premiums, pushing up the landed cost of crude and LNG. 
    • Although this is preferable to a complete supply shock, it will strain refinery margins and increase energy costs across the economy.

    Impact of Disrupted Iranian Oil Exports

    • Though India does not import oil from Iran due to US-led sanctions, any disruption in Iranian oil exports would ripple across global markets. 
    • Chinese refiners, which buy most of Iran’s oil, may turn to Middle Eastern and Russian suppliers, tightening global supply and raising prices further. 
    • According to S&P Global Commodity Insights, such a shift would also boost freight rates and hurt Asian refinery margins.

    Will Spare Capacity Help?

    • The OPEC cartel, led by countries in the same conflict-prone region, holds significant spare oil production capacity. 
    • However, its utility in a crisis would depend on the operability of export routes like the Strait of Hormuz. 
    • If both infrastructure and maritime channels are compromised, even spare capacity might not prevent a global oil supply crunch.

    The Israel-Iran conflict has not yet led to a direct disruption of global energy flows—but the risk of escalation remains high. For India, a major oil importer, this is a stark reminder of the country’s energy vulnerability. As refiners and policymakers prepare for higher freight costs and oil prices, the situation underlines the urgency of diversifying energy sources, ramping up domestic production, and investing in strategic petroleum reserves.

  • Understanding Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and the NISAR Mission

    Introduction: SAR is a remote sensing technology that creates sharp, high-resolution images even in dark, cloudy, or smoky conditions. Instead of relying on visible light like traditional cameras, SAR uses microwave pulses to scan surfaces such as land, oceans, ice, or man-made structures. 

    • The system records the echoes of these pulses bouncing off various surfaces and uses advanced signal processing to reconstruct detailed images.

    How SAR Works?

    • The key component in SAR is the antenna used to receive the returning microwave echoes.
    • Typically, image resolution improves with longer antennas. However, large physical antennas are difficult to build and maintain.
    • SAR overcomes this by using a small antenna on a moving platform (like a satellite). Each pulse is received from a slightly different location due to the movement.
    • By combining these echoes with precise timing and phase data, software can simulate a much larger antenna, effectively hundreds of metres long.

    Advantages of SAR

    • Microwaves penetrate clouds, smoke, and light rain, enabling continuous data collection, day and night, in all weather conditions.
    • Mounted on satellites, SAR can map wide areas, covering hundreds of kilometres in a single pass.
    • Because different surfaces (soil, vegetation, water, metal) reflect microwaves differently, SAR can detect subtle environmental changes that optical sensors may miss.

    The NASA-ISRO SAR (NISAR) Mission

    • On June 12, NASA announced that the NISAR spacecraft had arrived at ISRO’s spaceport in Sriharikota.
    • NISAR is a joint mission between NASA and ISRO designed to study Earth using SAR technology.
    • Once launched, NISAR will:
      • Scan nearly all of Earth’s land and ice surfaces.
      • Repeat this coverage twice every 12 days.
      • Provide unprecedented volumes of environmental data, aiding research in areas like deforestation, glacier melt, soil moisture, and natural disasters.

  • India’s Green Mission Revised

    India’s Green Mission revised plan: Centre to focus on Aravalli, Western Ghats restoration

    Context: The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has revised India’s Green Mission document for the period 2021-2030. The revised plan was released by Union Environment Minister in Jodhpur on the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought.

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    World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought 

    About: Established by the UN General Assembly in 1994, this day is observed annually on June 17 to promote awareness and action against desertification and drought.

    • The day commemorates the adoption of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in 1994 and was first celebrated in 1995.

    Theme 2025: “Restore the Land. Unlock the Opportunities” – emphasising land restoration and sustainable development.

    Importance: Raises awareness about land degradation, promotes policy action, and encourages global cooperation for sustainable land management and climate resilience.

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    What is the Green India Mission?

    • Launched in February 2014 as one of the eight core missions under India’s National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), GIM aims to:

      • Protect, restore, and enhance India’s forest and tree cover
      • Use a blend of climate adaptation and mitigation strategies
      • Increase forest/tree cover on 5 million hectares of land
      • Improve forest quality on an additional 5 million hectares

    • Revised GIM Overview (2021-2030): The revised mission will focus on restoring ecologically vulnerable landscapes, including:

    • Aravalli Hills
    • Western Ghats
    • Mangrove forests
    • Indian Himalayan region
    • Arid regions of North-West India

    How Will Restoration Be Achieved?

    • A micro-ecosystem approach will be adopted for targeted interventions.
    • Restoration of degraded forests, soil and moisture conservation, and planting of native high-carbon-sequestration species.
    • Strategies include reforestation, tree plantation on wastelands, and along railways & highways.
    • Ensuring land degradation neutrality through best practices.

    What is the Expected Carbon Sequestration Impact?

    • The revised mission projects a carbon sink of 3.39 billion tonnes, based on Forest Survey of India (FSI) estimates.
    • To achieve this, an increase of forest and tree cover of over 24.7 million hectares is required.
    • The mission aligns with India’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) goal of creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.

    Why is the Restoration of the Western Ghats Important?

    • The Western Ghats ecosystem has suffered from deforestation, illegal mining, and pollution.
    • Depletion of groundwater, air and water pollution, and increased human-wildlife conflict have further worsened conditions.
    • Restorative measures will include:
      • Planting native trees
      • Controlling land degradation
      • Enhancing biodiversity through sustainable forest management

    What Are the Challenges and Achievements of GIM?

    • Between 2021 and 2023, India’s net forest cover increased by only 156.41 sq km (as per the 2023 State of India’s Forest Report).
    • The country has also witnessed a loss of old-growth forests, mangroves, and a decline in forest cover across the Western Ghats.
    • Since its 2015-16 intervention, about 11.22 million hectares have been included under plantation efforts.

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    About Aravalli Hills and Western Ghats

    Aravalli Hills:

    • One of the oldest fold mountain ranges in the world, dating back to the Proterozoic era.
    • Stretches across Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, and Gujarat.
    •  Guru Shikhar (5,650 ft) on Mount Arbuda is the highest peak.
    • Acts as a natural barrier preventing desertification from spreading eastward from the Thar Desert.
    • Rich in minerals and biodiversity, but faces threats from illegal mining and deforestation.

    Western Ghats:

    • The Western Ghats stretch approximately 1,600 km along the western coast of India, covering the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
    • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s eight “hottest hotspots” of biodiversity.
    • Home to over 7,400 species of plants and animals, many of them endemic.
    • Plays a crucial role in monsoon regulation and is a major watershed for peninsular rivers.

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