India’s Third Aircraft Carrier

•  Early this month, health officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo reported that an unknown, flu-like
• As India’s ambitions for regional leadership in the Indo-Pacific grow, its maritime strategy is being scrutinised. Central to this debate is the proposed construction of a third aircraft carrier, a project projected to cost Rs 40,000–50,000 crore
• While critics view the initiative as a costly indulgence, proponents argue it is not merely a defence requirement but a long-term economic stimulus.
•  A third carrier could represent a strategic and economic imperative for a nation seeking to bolster its industrial capacity, enhance its global standing, and secure vital trade routes.

Economic Boost Through Shipbuilding

• India’s shipbuilding industry has long been an underutilised asset. The construction of the INS Vikrant, India’s first indigenously built aircraft carrier, demonstrated its transformative potential.
• The project catalysed regional development and skill enhancement in coastal areas by engaging over 500 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and creating 14,000 direct and indirect jobs.
• The proposed Indigenous Aircraft Carrier-2 (IAC-2) could amplify these benefits. Shipbuilding projects in India have one of the highest economic multipliers, with every Rs 1 invested generating an additional Rs 1.82 in economic activity.
• Beyond direct employment, ancillary industries such as steel, electronics, and engineering would see significant demand, boosting their growth and aligning with India’s broader “Make in India” objectives.
• Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), the epicentre of India’s aircraft carrier construction, stands to gain immensely. Building the IAC-2 would ensure that expertise developed during the Vikrant project is not lost, avoiding the costly erosion of skills witnessed during a hiatus in submarine production at Mazagaon Dock in the 1990s.

Infrastructure and Regional Development:

• Large-scale naval projects drive infrastructure upgrades, particularly in regions surrounding major shipyards and naval bases. During the construction of the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers in the UK, ports and docks underwent substantial modernisation, boosting local economies. A similar trajectory is expected in India.
• Developing the IAC-2 would necessitate investments in berthing facilities, dredging, and logistical hubs, particularly in cities like Kochi or Visakhapatnam.
• These enhancements would support defence activities and bolster India’s commercial maritime infrastructure, a critical component of the Sagarmala Initiative aimed at port-led economic development

Job Creation and Skill Development

• The third carrier’s construction is poised to generate substantial employment directly and indirectly. It is estimated that such a project could create over 15,000 jobs, from shipyard workers to engineers and project managers.
• The demand for specialised training would also drive the establishment of new educational programs and partnerships with institutions like the Indian Maritime University.
• Furthermore, the skills developed through carrier construction have broader applications.
•  Advanced technologies like Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems (EMALS) and unmanned aerial systems (UAS) would enhance India’s technological ecosystem, fostering innovation and creating spillover benefits for industries such as aerospace and robotics.

Export Opportunities and Global Positioning

• Joining the elite club of nations capable of building aircraft carriers positions India as a significant player in the global defence market. While only seven nations currently construct carriers, several others operate them, often struggling with maintenance and refits.
• India’s growing expertise in carrier construction could enable it to tap into this niche market, offering maintenance services or exporting smaller platforms to friendly nations. Such ventures would align with India’s goal of achieving $5 billion in annual defence exports by 2025, providing a steady revenue stream and enhancing its geopolitical influence

Safeguarding Trade Routes and Economic Security.

• The economic rationale for a third carrier extends to India’s maritime trade security. With 95% of trade by volume and 70% by value conducted via sea routes, ensuring the safety of shipping lanes is critical.
• A robust carrier fleet would allow India to project power and deter threats, from piracy to state-sponsored aggression.
• Furthermore, as China expands its naval footprint in the Indian Ocean through projects like the Fujian aircraft carrier, India must counterbalance this influence to secure its trade lifelines. The economic stakes are high, as any disruption to these routes could have cascading effects on India’s economy.

Addressing Cost Concerns

• Critics of the project point to its hefty price tag and competing defence priorities, including modernising the Army and Air Force.
• However, strategic public-private partnerships could help mitigate costs while increasing efficiency. The long-term benefits—job creation, industrial growth, and enhanced trade security—justify the initial investment.

A Strategic and Economic NecessitY

• The debate over India’s third aircraft carrier is not merely about military capabilities but also about economic opportunity.
•  By driving industrial growth, creating jobs, and safeguarding trade, the IAC-2 could serve as both a catalyst for national development and a symbol of India’s maritime aspirations.
• As India seeks to establish itself as a global power, investments like the third carrier are essential. They ensure the country’s security, economic resilience, and leadership in the Indo-Pacific. The carrier is more than a naval asset—it is a strategic investment in India’s future.

India’s Deep Ocean Mission achieves major success with first-ever image of active hydrothermal vent at 4,500 metres – Here’s all you need to know

• India’s ambitious Deep Ocean Mission has achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the discovery of an active hydrothermal vent 4,500 meters below the surface of the Indian Ocean.
• This achievement is set to bolster scientists’ confidence and provide critical experience for future deep-sea explorations, according to the country’s leading ocean researchers.

What is Deep Sea Exploration?

• In a joint effort by the National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) and the National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research (NCPOR), Indian scientists captured the first-ever image of an active hydrothermal vent in the Indian Ocean.
• Director of NCPOR, called the discovery a landmark moment for India’s Rs 4,000-crore Deep Ocean Mission, which aims to uncover new minerals, study unique ecosystems, and advance understanding of the ocean’s role in climate change.

The Science Behind Hydrothermal Vents

• Hydrothermal vents, often described as underwater hot springs, form along mid-ocean ridges where tectonic plates diverge. Magma from the Earth’s mantle rises, creating new crust and volcanic mountain chains. Seawater seeps into the crust, heats up, and shoots back out, carrying dissolved minerals that solidify into chimney-like structures when they meet cold seawater.
• The first hydrothermal vent was discovered in 1977 on the Galapagos Rift, but this is India’s first direct observation of such a phenomenon.
• Hydrothermal vents are valuable for two primary reasons:

Why Hydrothermal Vents Matter

• Mineral Resources: These vents produce rare minerals like nickel, cobalt, and manganese, essential for modern technology and clean energy solutions.
• Unique Ecosystems: They host life forms that thrive without sunlight, relying on chemosynthesis—a process where organisms convert inorganic chemicals like hydrogen sulfide into energy.
• “This discovery opens up opportunities to study life forms in extreme conditions, offering potential insights into the origins of life on Earth

India’s Exploration Challenges and Success

• The discovery follows four expeditions over the past two years, with scientists relying on an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) to navigate rugged underwater terrains and capture high-resolution images.
• “The Indian Ocean is like searching for a needle in a haystack,” ,referring to the vast area and challenging conditions. With depths of 3,000 to 5,000 meters and complete darkness, the search is arduous.
• The Southern Ocean’s extreme weather, ocean currents, and windy conditions further complicate operations. “During a one-month survey, we might get only one or two weeks of suitable weather,” Meloth noted.
• India is building a new ship for deep-sea surveys, expected to be ready within three years as part of the Deep Ocean Mission. This will enable more advanced studies of the Indian Ocean’s Central and Southern Ridges, home to hydrothermal vents and potential mineral reserves.
• The discovery also offers a unique opportunity to study the role of chemosynthesis in supporting life in extreme environments.
• Russian biochemist Aleksandr Oparin’s chemosynthetic theory of life’s origin, proposed in 1922, posits that life may have originated in water through chemical reactions—a hypothesis reinforced by studying hydrothermal vent ecosystems.
• Despite the success, the sheer scale of the Indian Ocean and the precision required to locate small vents present significant challenges. The instruments must be highly accurate, and finding these vents often requires a combination of experience and luck.
• However, with advancements in technology and growing expertise, India is well-positioned to make significant strides in deep-sea exploration, contributing to global knowledge and resource development.
• India’s Deep Ocean Mission is not just a technological or scientific achievement; it is a testament to the country’s commitment to exploring the unknown and unlocking the ocean’s secrets.

President Droupadi Murmu appoints governors of five states.

• In a major government reshuffle, Indian President Droupadi Murmu on Tuesday (Dec 24) appointed the governors of five states—Odisha, Mizoram, Kerala, Bihar, and Manipur. 
• Former Union home secretary of the country, Ajay Kumar Bhalla, has been appointed as the governor of Manipur. Bhalla''s appointment is crucial at this time since Manipur has been reeling under ethnic violence that has rocked the state since May 2023.
• According to a statement released by the President''s Secretariat, the new appointments would take effect from the dates the governors would assume charge of their respective offices.
• President Droupadi Murmu appointed former Union Home Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla as Governor of Manipur.
• Bhalla, who has the rare distinction of being the longest-serving Union Home Secretary, completed his five-year tenure in August this year. He is a 1984-batch retired Indian Administrative Service (IAS) officer of the Assam-Meghalaya cadre. Assam Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya was holding the additional charge of Manipur.
• Former Army chief General (retd) Vijay Kumar Singh, who was also a minister in the last two terms of the Modi government, has been named the new Mizoram Governor.
• General (retd) Vijay Kumar Singh retired as Army chief in 2012 and joined the BJP ahead of the 2014 Lok Sabha election, which he successfully contested from Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh. He retained the Ghaziabad seat in 2019. Singh did not contest general elections this year.
•  Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan has been shifted to Bihar.
• Bihar Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been named the new Governor of Kerala.
• Mizoram Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati has been appointed as new Odisha Governor. President Murmu has also accepted the resignation of Odisha Governor Raghubar Das. 

The role of Governor

 The Governor is the chief executive of a state and his position is analogous to that of the President at the Centre. Despite being a nominal executive head (titular or constitutional head), the Governor has “a right to be consulted, to warn and encourage” and his role is overwhelmingly that of a “friend, philosopher and guide” to the council of ministers. 

• Under this role, he also functions as a sentinel of the Constitution and a live link with the Union.
• The Constitution, under Article 153, provides for a Governor for each state. However, the Article was amended by the Seventh Constitutional Amendment (1956), which came as a result of the State Reorganisation Commission and currently, the same person may be appointed as Governor of two or more states.
•  According to Article 154, the executive power of the state shall be vested in the Governor and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him in accordance with this Constitution.
• Article 155 says that “the Governor of a state shall be appointed by the President by warrant under his hand and seal”. 
•  Article 156 provides that “the Governor shall hold office during the pleasure of the President”. A Governor shall hold office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his/her office. 
•  The Governor may, by writing under his/her hand addressed to the President, resign his/her office.
•  The only qualifications for appointment as Governor are that he/she should be a citizen of India and must have completed the age of 35 years.
• The Governor shall not be a member of the Legislature or Parliament; shall not hold any office of profit, shall be entitled to without payment of rent to the use of his official residences and shall also be entitled to such emoluments and allowances as may be determined by Parliament by law (Article 158).
• The Chief Minister is appointed by the Governor who also appoints other ministers on the advice of the Chief Minister (Article 164).
• The Governor appoints the Advocate General for the State (Article 165).
• Article 174 of the Constitution empowers the Governor to summon, prorogue or dissolve the House. Article 174(1) provides that the Governor shall from time to time summon the House to meet at such time and place as they think fit.

Kashmir Artisans give wings to the DODO

• This Christmas, artisans in Srinagar, Kashmir, have brought a unique twist to the region''s famed papier mâché craft by recreating the dodo, a bird that became extinct in 1681, just 80 years after human contact.
• The dodo (Raphus cucullatus) was a flightless bird native to Mauritius in the Indian Ocean.
•  It became extinct in 1681, largely due to human activity, habitat destruction, and the introduction of non-native animals.
• The bird is often used as a symbol of extinction and ecological awareness..
• Now, over three centuries later, Kashmir''s artisans are giving the dodo a new lease of life through their vibrant papier mâché creations.

The Dodo:

• The dodo was a flightless bird, approximately three feet tall, with greyish-brown plumage and a large, hooked beak.
• Native to the island of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean, the dodo was fearless and had no natural predators before humans arrived.
• Its inability to escape from hunters or defend itself against newly introduced animals like rats, pigs, and monkeys, coupled with rapid deforestation, led to its extinction by 1681.
• The bird’s extinction is often seen as a symbol of human impact on nature and environmental degradation.
• The dodo’s disappearance marks a tragic chapter in the history of wildlife conservation, making it a significant figure in discussions about extinct species and their environmental causes.

 Details of the Craft:

• Kashmiri Papier-mâché is a traditional handicraft of the Kashmir Valley, introduced in the 14th century by Muslim saint Mir Sayyid Ali Hamadani from Persia.
• This craft is known for its intricate designs and use of paper pulp to create colorful, richly decorated items.
• Made primarily from paper pulp. Items are handcrafted in homes and workshops, mainly in Srinagar and other parts of the Kashmir Valley
• Vases, bowls, cups (with or without metal rims), boxes, trays, and lamp bases.
• Recently, products like papier-mâché models of extinct birds (e.g., dodos) have also gained attention.
• The designs feature floral motifs, forest prints, and other intricate patterns symbolizing cultural and ecological themes.
• While the products have a significant domestic market, they are also highly demanded internationally in Europe, Mauritius, and other regions.
• A papier mâché artisan from Srinagar’s Zadibal area, who has never seen a real dodo, first became familiar with its shape and size through images, later downloading photos from the internet.
• The artisans recreate the bird with hooked tips and stout legs, which are then decorated with rich, dark green shades for the curly feathers and yellow for the tips.
• Over 50,000 papier mâché dodos have already been exported this year, with a significant number heading to Europe and Mauritius, where the bird is deeply symbolic.

Importance of the Dodo:

• The dodo was last seen in Mauritius, and it holds a national significance there, even being the country’s national emblem.
• In recent years, demand for papier mâché dodos has been particularly high in Mauritius, with many dodo products being made for export to the island country.
• These dodo figures come in various sizes, and the demand continues to grow.
• One local workshop produced 3,000 dodos for this Christmas season to meet both domestic and international orders.

Artistic Details:

• Floral and forest prints have become an important part of the dodo designs, with artisans adding these patterns to the papier mâché figures.
• These prints symbolize the deforestation and environmental destruction that played a role in the bird’s extinction.
• The dodo’s plumage, typically gray or brown in historical records, is often rendered in more vibrant, imaginative colors in the Kashmir pieces.
• The dodo was a flightless bird, approximately three feet tall, known for its fearlessness and its inability to escape predators.
• The revival of the bird in this medium reflects a deeper connection to nature and its conservation.

 Historical Significance of Papier Mâché in Kashmir:

• Kashmir has a long-standing tradition of papier mâché craftsmanship, dating back over 600 years.
• The craft was heavily influenced by Persian art, and over time, it evolved into a distinctive style of its own, producing various decorative items such as boxes, plates, wall hangings, and figurines.
• The introduction of the dodo into Kashmir’s craft scene is relatively recent.
• It is believed that tourists from Mauritius introduced the idea around two decades ago.
• There is no written record of who exactly brought the concept to Kashmir, but it is thought that these tourists saw potential in the local craft to create figures of the extinct bird.
• In addition to Mauritius and Europe, these dodo figures have also found buyers in the United States and other parts of the world.

UN General Assembly adopts milestone cybercrime treaty

• The agreement on the legally binding treaty marked the culmination of a five-year effort by UN Member States, with inputs from civil society, information security experts, academia and the private sector.
• UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the adoption of the Convention – the first international criminal justice treaty to have been negotiated in over 20 years.
• This treaty is a demonstration of multilateralism succeeding during difficult times and reflects the collective will of Member States to promote international cooperation to prevent and combat cybercrime.
• The Convention “creates an unprecedented platform for collaboration” in the exchange of evidence, protection for victims and prevention, while safeguarding human rights online.
• “The Secretary-General trusts that the new treaty will promote a safe cyberspace and calls on all States to join the Convention and to implement it in cooperation with relevant stakeholders.”
• The resolution containing the Convention was adopted without a vote by the 193-member General Assembly.
• • The agreement on the legally binding treaty marked the culmination of a five-year effort by UN Member States, with inputs from civil society, information security experts, academia and the private sector.
• • With the adoption of this Convention, Member States have at hand the tools and means to strengthen international cooperation in preventing and combating cybercrime, protecting people and their rights online.
• • It is the first international criminal justice treaty to have been negotiated in over 20 years.
• • The UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) served as secretariat to the negotiations. 

The Convention

• The Convention against Cybercrime acknowledges the significant risks posed by the misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT), which enable criminal activities on an unprecedented scale, speed, and scope.
• It highlights the adverse impacts such crimes can have on States, enterprises, and the well-being of individuals and society, and focuses on protecting them from offenses such as terrorism, human trafficking, drug smuggling and online financial crimes.
• It also recognises the growing impact of cybercrime on victims and prioritises justice, especially for vulnerable groups.
•  It further underscores the need for technical assistance, capacity-building and collaboration among States and other stakeholders.

Key benefits:

• Billions of people worldwide are set to benefit from enhanced safety online and in the physical world following the adoption of a legally binding treaty on cybercrime by the UN General Assembly.
•  The Convention against Cybercrime acknowledges the significant risks posed by the misuse of information and communications technologies (ICT), which enable criminal
• It highlights the adverse impacts such crimes can have on States, enterprises, and the well-being of individuals and society, and focuses on protecting them from offences such as terrorism, human trafficking, drug smuggling and online financial crimes.
•  It also recognises the growing impact of cybercrime on victims and prioritises justice,
• It aims to prevent and combat cybercrime more efficiently and effectively, including by strengthening international cooperation and by providing technical assistance and capacity-building support, particularly for developing countries.
• The Convention creates an unprecedented platform for collaboration in the exchange of, protection for victims and prevention, while safeguarding human rights online.
• In 2023, about 67.4 per cent of the world’s population accessed the Internet, according toreports. People rely on connectivity for tasks ranging from communication and shopping to advanced research and innovation.
• However, this connectivity also exposes more than two-thirds of the global population to the dangers of cybercrime. For those on the wrong side of the digital divide, the lack of resilience further increases vulnerability once they get online.
• Cybercriminals exploit digital systems using malware, ransomware, and hacking to steal money, data, and other valuable information. Information and communications technology are also used to facilitate crimes such as drug trafficking, arms smuggling, human trafficking, money laundering and fraud.
• Regions like Southeast Asia have been described as “ground zero” for organised cybercrime operations, which are often highly sophisticated and coordinated. The threat is escalating, undermining economies, disrupting critical infrastructure, and eroding trust in digital systems.
• Until now, there has been no globally negotiated convention on cybercrime. 
• The new Convention against Cybercrime will enable faster, better-coordinated, and more effective responses, making both digital and physical worlds safer.
• Investigating transnational crimes, whether online or offline, depends heavily on electronic evidence, which poses unique challenges for law enforcement. The Convention focuses on frameworks for accessing and exchanging electronic evidence, facilitating investigations and prosecutions. 
•  States Parties will benefit from a 24x7 network to boost international cooperation, enabling assistance with investigations, prosecutions, crime proceeds recovery, mutual legal assistance, and extradition.
• Online platforms such as social media, chat apps and games offer anonymity that predators can exploit to groom, manipulate, or harm children. The Convention is the first global treaty to specifically address sexual violence against children committed with information and communication technologies (ICT). By criminalising these offences, the Convention equips governments with stronger tools to protect children and bring perpetrators to justice.
• The Convention encourages States to provide victims with access to recovery services, compensation, restitution, and the removal of illicit content. This support will be delivered according to each country’s domestic laws.
• Preventing cybercrime requires robust investments in proactive measures, which the Convention strongly emphasizes. It urges States to develop comprehensive prevention strategies, including training for public and private sectors, offender rehabilitation and reintegration programmes, and support for victims. 
•  With these measures, the Convention aims to reduce risks and manage threats effectively, fostering a safer digital environment for all.
• The Convention against Cybercrime will open for signature at a formal ceremony to be hosted in Hanoi, Vietnam, in 2025. It will enter into force 90 days after being ratified by the 40th signatory.

Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ Initiative

• The Government of India is taking steps towards enhancing grassroots governance. On 25 December 2024, Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh launched the ‘Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi’ initiative. This initiative coincided with Good Governance Day, honouring the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
• The focus is on empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to improve governance and promote participatory planning.
• The Viksit Panchayat Karmayogi initiative aims to strengthen PRIs by providing elected representatives and officials with necessary tools and knowledge.
•  This initiative is part of the larger ‘Prashasan Gaon Ki Aur’ campaign. It is currently being piloted in states like Odisha, Assam, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. The initiative employs e-learning platforms, AI chatbots, and mobile applications to enhance service delivery and address knowledge gaps.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh brought into light the importance of capacity building in governance. The launch included an upgraded dashboard on the iGOT Karmayogi platform. This dashboard is designed to assist ministries and state administrators in monitoring progress in training initiatives. Additionally, the introduction of the 1600th e-learning course reflects the commitment to creating a comprehensive learning ecosystem for officials.
• The CPGRAMS Annual Report 2024 showcases the achievements of the Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System. This platform has redefined grievance redressal by incorporating advanced technologies and multilingual support. It has successfully resolved over 25 lakh grievances annually, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving public service delivery.
• A reform introduced is the Single Simplified Pension Application Form. This initiative merges nine separate forms into one digital format. It ensures real-time tracking of applications and enhances user experience.
• The integration with e-HRMS and Bhavishya streamlines the pension processing system, making it more efficient.
• Dr. Jitendra Singh reflected on the progress made since 2014 in promoting inclusive governance.
• He noted the government’s efforts to address societal issues, such as the liberalisation of childcare leave and maternity benefits. The introduction of face recognition technology for pensioners exemplifies the shift towards simplifying processes for citizens.
• Looking towards the future, Dr. Jitendra Singh emphasised the need for citizens to manage governance processes with minimal bureaucratic interference. His experiences with AI-driven mobile health clinics demonstrate how technology can engage communities and facilitate governance.
• The initiatives launched on Good Governance Day reflect the government’s commitment to inclusivity, transparency, and technological innovation. By empowering panchayats and promoting participatory governance, the government aims to create a future-ready India where citizens actively shape their destinies.

Envisioning India as a global skill supplier

• The Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said that he was hopeful that India’s skilled workforce will play a prominent role in the global job market.
• Global mega trends, such as demographic transitions, globalisation, technological advancements, and climate change, are significantly altering the demand for, and the supply of, international migrant workers.
• Among the various facets of such changes, the skills of these workers are assuming centrality in public policy discourse.

What factors contribute to India’s potential as a leading global supplier of skilled workers?

• India has 554 million people between the ages of 15 and 64, making it a large and youthful workforce that can meet the demand for skilled labour around the world.
• The government has launched several programs, including the Skill India Programme, which provides resources for skill training and internship opportunities in collaboration with leading companies.
•  Due to demographic shifts and technological advancements, there is an increasing need for skilled workers in industries like information technology, healthcare, construction, and logistics in places like the Gulf Cooperation Council, Europe, and North America.
• India has signed bilateral agreements with countries such as Japan and France to promote skilled worker mobility and strengthen its position in the global labour market.

 India’s workforce to meet global skill demands

• The Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship provides skills training to meet global standards through a network of over 15,000 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs).
• India is integrating globally applicable skills into educational curricula, with a special emphasis on introducing programs at International Skill Centres to meet the precise needs of destination countries.
• The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 was introduced to promote critical thinking, and digital literacy to ensure a comprehensive approach to education and skill development.
• Using data analytics, India assesses job openings and skill requirements in real-time, supporting in aligning training programs with international market demands.
• Short-term training programs customised to specific countries assist workers in preparing for international job markets and effectively addressing skill gaps.
• What are the initiatives taken by the Government for skill development in India?
• Skill India International Centres (SIIC) provide training that meets international standards, promotes global partnerships and improves employability abroad.
• The Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) provides industry-relevant training, focussing on new-age skill courses, and certifies over 1.42 crore people.
• The National Skill Development Mission (NSDM) is a unified framework for quality skill development that ensures alignment with global standards for international job opportunities.
• The National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) promotes on-the-job training to ensure that workers develop practical skills that meet global industry standards.
• Skill India Digital Hub was launched in 2023 as a digital platform that provides online vocational training resources and also promotes global skill recognition and accessibilit

Challenges India face?

• India lacks a comprehensive policy on international labour mobility. Current policy interventions are fragmented and frequently lack evidence-based support. The only information available on migrant labour outflows is based on emigration clearances for low-skilled workers moving to 18 specific countries.
• The dependence on limited data for tracking migrant labour outflows hampers the development of evidence-based policies to address the needs of Indian workers and foreign employers.
• Return migrants'' skills acquired abroad are frequently not recognised or certified in India, leading to missed opportunities for both individuals and the economy.
• While several initiatives have been launched, the quality of skill development programs must be improved to meet international standards in order for Indian workers to remain competitive in the global market.

Future Prospects:

• India must identify and anticipate the skills in demand in specific destination countries, as well as emerging skill gaps across key sectors. This can be achieved through careful skill forecasting, data analysis, and real-time job vacancy insights from destination countries.
• India must map its current skill development efforts and follow-up actions in a systematic manner. This includes integrating global skills into curricula, reorienting skill programs at India''s International Skill Centres, and developing short-term training programmes aimed at specific destination countries. 
• The quality of skill development must meet international standards, which means aligning with destination countries'' skill qualification systems.
• There is a need for a skill-centred international labour migration information system that collects, analyses, and reports on key skills and migration indicators to promote evidence-based interventions, encourage skill partnerships with destination countries, and improve migration and development outcomes.

Nearly 20% of species residing in UNESCO’s world heritage marine sites live in unsuitably warm waters

• Nearly 20 per cent of species found in 21 of 51 UNESCO World Heritage marine sites have reached or exceeded their living thermal limits.
• The UN body’s new report, Engaging Communities to Safeguard Ocean Life, indicated that warming oceans may make many species vulnerable and force them to live outside their known thermal ranges, raising concerns on their protection.
• The analysis found 881 of the 4,406 species mapped by the report have reached or breached their thermal limits. The list includes 342 species of fish, 135 species of algae and 76 species of molluscs that reside in different parts of the world’s oceans.
• The list also includes five species of mammals and seven species of sharks such as lesser sandshark, Whitespotted eagle ray, Caribbean reef shark, Southern stingray, Krefft’s ray, Lemon shark and yellow stingray.
• Among mammals, Atlantic bottlenose dolphin, West Indian manatee, southern elephant seal, True’s beaked whale and Crabeater seal are residing in areas located in an unsuitable temperature range.
• UNESCO developed a standardised eDNA non-invasive sampling method to map ocean life and create an inventory of marine biodiversity in 21 of its 51 World Heritage marine sites.
• About 53 per cent of species (consisting of 474 species) living in thermal limit range are from the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve systems, as per UNESCO data.
• The Coiba National Park and its Special Zone of Marine Protection in Panama ranked second, with 26.6 per cent of its species living in thermal limits. It was followed by Everglades National Park in the US, with 24.4 per cent of its species exposed to unsuitable water temperatures.
• The Banc d''Arguin National Park in Mauritania saw 23.9 per cent of species living in thermal limits that they have reached or breached.

What are Thermal Limits ?

• Thermal limits refer to the maximum temperature range within which a species can thrive. The recent report identified 881 species out of 4,406 that have reached these limits.
• This includes fish, algae, molluscs, and some marine mammals. Notably, 342 fish species are affected. The report raises concerns about their long-term survival and reproductive capabilities.

Implications of Warm Waters:

• The biodiversity in marine sites is under threat. The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve has the highest percentage of species living at thermal limits. Other sites like Coiba National Park and Everglades National Park show percentages as well.
• These areas are crucial for marine life and their health is vital for ecological balance
• As temperatures rise, species are migrating to cooler waters. However, not all species can adapt quickly. Some may face local extinction if suitable habitats are not available. The ability to migrate depends on various factors including food availability and environmental conditions.
• Warming oceans disrupt marine ecosystems. Changes in temperature affect nutrient circulation.
• This impacts oxygen levels in deeper waters and alters species behaviour. For instance, some bacteria switch to using nitrate as fuel, affecting water quality and atmospheric conditions.
• Current climate models predict increase in global sea surface temperatures. The SSP 8.5 scenario estimates a rise of 4.4°C by the end of the century.
• This scenario assumes continued high greenhouse gas emissions. Without action, marine species will face severe challenges
• Marine mammals are particularly vulnerable to temperature changes. High temperatures affect their reproduction and survival rates. For example, female sperm whales struggle to conceive in warmer waters.
•  As species migrate, they also encounter new pathogens, increasing their vulnerability
• The urgency of reducing greenhouse gas emissions is clear. Effective climate action is necessary to mitigate these impacts.
• Meeting emission targets could help protect marine biodiversity and ensure the survival of vulnerable species.
• Ongoing research is essential to monitor marine biodiversity. Standardised methods like eDNA sampling help assess species distribution. This information is critical for conservation efforts and understanding the impacts of climate change on marine life.

 High arsenic levels in staple foods in 11 Bihar districts, links it to groundwater contamination

• The urgency Arsenic contamination, long a concern in Bihar’s water supply, has now been detected at alarming levels in staple foods such as rice, wheat and potatoes, posing significant health risks to thousands, particularly in rural areas.
• A study conducted by researchers from Patna-based Mahavir Cancer Sansthan and Research Centre has revealed high arsenic concentrations in these staple foods in 11 arsenic hotspot districts of Bihar. The findings underscored an urgent public health challenge as the food chain becomes increasingly contaminated.
• “This is a matter of serious concern. After water, arsenic content in the food chain is rising,”
• The study analysed arsenic levels in rice samples collected from 369 households in arsenic-exposed areas. Of these, 319 households had arsenic levels below the permissible limit, while 50 households exceeded the limit.
• The highest arsenic content in rice was recorded at 821 microgrammes per kilogramme (µg/kg). The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations sets the permissible arsenic levels for rice, wheat and potatoes at 200 µg/kg, 100 µg/kg and 500 µg/kg, respectively.
• Similarly, wheat samples were analysed from 279 households, with 105 households showing arsenic levels below permissible limits and 174 exceeding them. The highest arsenic content in wheat was 775 µg/kg

Groundwater contamination and biomagnification

• The study also highlighted significant arsenic contamination in groundwater, which is a key source of irrigation in these regions. Out of 513 groundwater samples taken from hand pumps, 450 were within the permissible limit of 10 µg/L, while the highest recorded arsenic level was 550.7 µg/L.
• The study identified a direct link between arsenic-contaminated staple foods, such as rice, wheat and potato and elevated arsenic levels in human blood.
• The researchers noted that the arsenic biomagnification through the food chain was the first such finding reported in these 11 districts of Bihar.
• “The excessive arsenic content in the blood of the population studied is due to the consumption of contaminated rice, wheat and potatoes,”. “This contamination is even reaching infants through breast milk, putting them at a very high risk.”

Infants at risk 

• The study revealed that 55 per cent of exposed lactating mothers had arsenic concentrations in their breast milk exceeding WHO’s permissible limit. Furthermore, 65 per cent of infants tested had elevated arsenic levels in their urine, with only 50 per cent of the arsenic being expelled from their bodies.
• The remaining arsenic was found to accumulate in vital organs such as the brain, liver and kidneys, potentially leading to severe health issues.
• The findings challenge earlier studies suggesting that arsenic methylation during pregnancy and breastfeeding protects infants.
• The study warned that children consuming arsenic-laden breast milk are at risk of long-term health complications and urgently require medical intervention.
•  The study attributed the arsenic contamination to the sediment deposits in the Gangetic plains.
• The oscillation zone of the River Ganga, characterised by crests and troughs, has become a hotspot for arsenic deposits due to changes in the river’s morphology over the past 50 years.
• This sedimentation process has resulted in higher contamination levels along the riverbanks compared to northern districts like Darbhanga and Champaran.
• The affected districts — Buxar, Bhojpur, Saran, Patna, Vaishali, Samastipur, Begusarai, Khagaria, Nalanda, Darbhanga and Munger — are at significant risk of a burgeoning disease burden. Infants and children are particularly vulnerable to arsenic poisoning, which can impair vital organs and cognitive development, the scientists warned
• The research also highlighted the role of irrigation with arsenic-contaminated water in exacerbating soil contamination, as shown by previous studies.
• Over time, this has led to increased arsenic retention in the soil, further magnifying the risk of biomagnification through the food chain.
• Researchers called for immediate medical and policy interventions to address this crisis. Regular testing of groundwater and food products, along with awareness campaigns about arsenic exposure, are critical.
• Additionally, safer agricultural practices and alternative water sources for irrigation are essential to reduce arsenic levels in the food chain.

2 Indigenously-Built Warships ''Nilgiri'' And ''Surat'' Delivered To Navy

• The Mazagon Docks Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) created history by delivering two indigenously built, modern Capital Warships ''Nilgiri'' and ''Surat'' to the Indian Navy.
• The acceptance documents for the first Stealth Frigate of P17A Class, ''Nilgiri'' and the fourth Guided Missile Destroy of P15B Class, ''Surat'' were signed by MDL Chairman, and handed over to senior officials of Indian Navy.
• Both the warships have been designed by Warship Design Bureau, constructed by MDL and overseen by the Warship Overseeing Team, Mumbai
• In December 2024, the Indian Navy has received two indigenously built warships, a destroyer (Surat) and a frigate (Nilgiri).
• Nilgiri'' is the First of Class (FoC) ship of Project 17A featuring cutting-edge advanced technology that is comparable to the finest ships of similar class anywhere in the world.
• It incorporates the design concepts for improved survivability, seakeeping, stealth and ship manoeuvrability with state of the art having stealth features through the shaping of the hull and use of radar transparent deck fittings, which make ships difficult to detect.
• It is packed with an array of sophisticated weapons and sensors and has all-around capability against enemy submarines, surface warships, anti-ship missiles, and fighter aircraft, mounted with guns for close-in-defence capability and effective naval gunfire.
• With significant indigenous content, ''Nilgiri'' is enabled to operate independently without supporting vessels, and also to function as the flagship of the Naval task force.
• ''Surat'' is the fourth ship of Project 15B and is a potent platform capable of undertaking a variety of tasks and missions, spanning the full spectrum of maritime warfare.
• It is armed with supersonic Surface-to-Surface ''Brahmos'' missiles and ''Barak-8'' Medium Range Surface to Air Missiles.
• Towards undersea warfare capability, the destroyer ''Surat'' is fitted with indigenously developed anti-submarine weapons and sensors, prominently the Hull mounted Sonar Humsa NG, Heavyweight Torpedo Tube Launchers and ASW Rocket Launchers.
• Considerably more versatile than the previous classes of Destroyers and Frigates in Naval inventory, ''Surat'' all-round capability against enemy submarines, surface warships, anti-ship missiles and fighter aircraft will enable it to operate independently without supporting vessels and also to function as the flagship of a Naval task force.
• Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) delivered the two advanced warships, Nilgiri and Surat, to the Indian Navy.
• The Warship Design Bureau of the Indian Navy developed the designs for both vessels.
• Construction was carried out by MDL under the supervision of the Warship Inspection Team based in Mumbai.

What is the Difference Between Frigates and Destroyers?

Warship Surat (Destroyer)

• Surat is the 4th ship (after Visakhapatnam, Mormugao and Imphal) and the last ship under Project 15B.
• It is a highly capable stealth guided missile destroyer designed for various maritime warfare missions.
• It is a potent and versatile platform equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors, including surface-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles and torpedoes.
• Features: It has displacement of 7,400 tons and an overall length of 164 meters.
• Armed with: BrahMos supersonic surface-to-surface missiles and Barak-8 medium-range surface-to-air missiles.
• Powered by a Combined Gas and Gas (COGAG) propulsion set, comprising four gas turbines, and achieve speeds in excess of 30 knots (56 km/h).
• It is Indian Navy’s 1st Al enabled warship utilizing indigenously developed Al solutions which would enhance its operational efficiency manifolds.

What is Project 15?

Warship Nilgiri

• Nilgiri is the first-of-class (FOC) ship under Project 17A. It is a follow-on of the Shivalik class (Project 17) frigates active in service. Nilgiri is 1st among the seven P17A frigates under construction.
• It incorporates cutting-edge technology, making it one of the most advanced ships in its class globally.
• Capable of dealing with both conventional and non-conventional threats in the area of India’s Maritime Interests.
• Designed for improved survivability, seaworthiness, stealth, and mobility. Its stealth technology includes a uniquely shaped hull and radar-transparent deck fittings, reducing detectability.
• Built using ‘Integrated Construction’ philosophy, which involves extensive pre-outfitting at the Block stages to reduce the overall build periods.
• Powered by two Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) main propulsion plants, each comprising a Diesel Engine and Gas Turbine, driving a Controllable Pitch Propeller (CPP).
• It has state- of-the-art Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).
• IPMS technology provides an advanced automation solution and integrates platform, propulsion, electrical, auxiliary and damage control systems into one integrated solution.
• The ship is fitted with supersonic surface-to-surface missile system, Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missiles system, 76 mm Upgraded Gun, and a combination of rapid-fire close-in weapon systems.

What is Project 17A?