India Loses ₹1,000 Crore Monthly to Southeast Asia-Based Cyber Frauds

According to estimates from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), over ₹7,000 crore has been lost to cybercrime in India between January and May 2025, with more than half of this amount traced back to fraud rings based in Southeast Asian countries.

Nations such as Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand have emerged as major sources of these fraudulent activities. These operations are believed to be run from heavily secured compounds reportedly under the control of Chinese crime syndicates. The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) reports that these centers exploit trafficked workers, including Indian nationals, forcing them to participate in these illegal activities.

Stock Market and Investment Fraud

These scams revolve around deceptive promises of high returns through investments in stocks, cryptocurrencies, or other financial instruments. Victims are typically approached via platforms like social media, WhatsApp, or through fraudulent investment applications.

Scammers pose as legitimate financial advisors or representatives of investment firms. They convince individuals to deposit funds into bogus accounts or apps that simulate profits using fake dashboards. Once the victim has invested a substantial amount, the scammer vanishes.

Fake Arrest and Government Impersonation Scams

This type of scam involves convincing victims that they are the subject of a government investigation by agencies such as the CBI, Police, or Income Tax Department. The scammers initiate contact through fake phone or video calls, often dressed in official uniforms, and claim that the victim’s name or bank account has been linked to serious crimes like drug trafficking or money laundering.

The victim is then threatened with imminent arrest unless they pay a “fine” or “security amount” immediately. The pressure tactics used often lead to panic and compliance.

Task-Based and Investment-Driven Employment Scams

These scams typically begin with fake offers of freelance work or part-time jobs. Victims are first assigned simple tasks—like liking YouTube videos or rating apps—and are initially paid small sums, building credibility and trust.

As the scam progresses, victims are asked to invest money in order to receive larger commissions. After a significant amount is invested, the scammers cut off all contact and disappear with the funds.

Southeast Asia as the Operational Hub

The MHA’s data shows that over half of the ₹7,000 crore lost to cyber scams during the first five months of 2025 originated from organized criminal networks operating out of Myanmar, Cambodia, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. According to the I4C, this equates to a staggering ₹1,000 crore in losses each month for India.

Chinese-Controlled Scam Compounds and Forced Labour

These scams are believed to be coordinated from secure facilities managed by Chinese operators. The compounds reportedly hold thousands of trafficked individuals—including over 5,000 Indians—who are coerced into working under harsh conditions to run online fraud schemes.

The trafficked population also includes people from other regions, such as Africa, East and Southeast Asia, Central Asia, West Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Identified Scam Locations

Based on intelligence gathered from rescued individuals and other sources, Indian authorities have pinpointed several active scam locations:

• 45 centers in Cambodia
• 5 centers in Laos
• 1 center in Myanmar

Primary Categories of Scams

Investigative findings have identified three major categories of fraud being perpetrated:

1. Stock trading and investment fraud
2. Impersonation and digital arrest scams
3. Task-based and investment job scams

Recruitment of Indians into Cyber Fraud Networks

Indian agencies have identified multiple individuals acting as recruiters for these scam operations. These agents have been traced to various Indian states, including:

• Maharashtra
• Tamil Nadu
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Uttar Pradesh
• Delhi

Trafficking Routes Used to Smuggle Victims

Interviews with rescued victims have helped trace the international routes used to transport Indians to these scam centers. Routes include:

• Dubai → China → Cambodia
• Tamil Nadu → Cambodia
• Maharashtra → Thailand → Cambodia
• Delhi → Bangkok → Cambodia
• Kerala → Singapore/Vietnam → Cambodia
• Kolkata → Vietnam → Cambodia (via road)

Government Measures and Legal Action

To address this growing issue, the Indian government has formed an inter-ministerial committee that is working to identify and address vulnerabilities across banking, immigration, and telecom systems.

Additionally, the CBI has filed FIRs against point-of-sale (PoS) agents who have issued fraudulent SIM cards that were later used in executing these scams.

India Reaches 50% Installed Power Capacity from Non-Fossil Sources

Milestone Achievement

As per the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, India has reached 484.82 GW of total installed electricity capacity, with 50.08% now sourced from non-fossil fuel technologies—five years ahead of its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement.

Key Initiatives Behind the Success

• PM Surya Ghar Yojana: Enabled nearly 7 lakh rooftop solar installations.
• PM-KUSUM: Distributed solar pumps for energy-secure agriculture.
• Manufacturing Boost: Expanded domestic production of solar PV and wind turbines via PLI schemes.
• Transmission Expansion: Investment in inter-state grids to move renewable power across the country.
• Green Energy Access Rules (2022): Gave consumers open access to renewable sources.
• 100% FDI Allowed: Liberalized foreign investment in the renewable sector.
• Viability Gap Funding: Financial support for offshore wind energy projects.

Significance of the Achievement

• Climate Leadership: Demonstrates that developing countries can lead in clean energy transitions.
• Energy Security: Reduces reliance on volatile fossil fuel imports.
• Resilient Energy Mix: Diversifies sources across solar, wind, hydro, and bioenergy.

Job Creation: Stimulates large-scale employment across the renewable energy value chain.

Abuse of Free Speech Online: Challenges, Legal Boundaries, and the Road Ahead

• Context

The Supreme Court, during hearings in 2025, expressed alarm over the growing misuse of free speech on digital platforms, cautioning that unchecked expression could force the State to impose stricter regulations.

What is Free Speech?

• Definition: The right to express opinions through speech, writing, art, or digital media without unwarranted censorship.
• Constitutional Basis: Protected under Article 19(1)(a) of the Indian Constitution.
• Restrictions under Article 19(2):
• Sovereignty and integrity of India
• Public order, decency, and morality
• Defamation, contempt of court, etc.
• Judicial Safeguards: In Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015), Section 66A of the IT Act was struck down for being vague and arbitrary.

Digital Age Challenges

• Social Media Boom: Over 800 million internet users in India engage on platforms like X, Instagram, and Facebook—often sharing political, religious, or satirical content.
• Forms of Abuse:
• Hate Speech: Insulting religious sentiments leading to FIRs and communal tensions.
• Defamatory Content: Political satire often crosses into defamation (e.g., controversial cartoons).
• Anonymity & Virality: Fake profiles spread divisive content rapidly, without accountability.

Impacts on Society and Governance

• Communal Polarisation: Online hate has triggered real-world violence and vigilantism.
• Judicial Overload: A flood of FIRs and bail pleas clogs the justice system (e.g., Wazahat Khan FIR clubbing).
• Erosion of National Unity: Violates Fundamental Duties under Article 51A (fraternity and integrity).
• International Reputation: India''s digital rights record is under scrutiny globally.

Key Legal Cases

1. Wazahat Khan Case (2025):
• Offensive religious posts sparked multiple FIRs.
• SC urged citizens to avoid content that provokes division.
2. Hemant Malviya Case (2025):
• A cartoon targeting the PM and RSS stirred controversy.
• SC emphasized the need for self-restraint under Article 19.
3. Shreya Singhal v. Union of India (2015):
• Landmark verdict defending digital speech, while noting risks from vague or sweeping restrictions.

Proposed Solutions

• Digital Civility Code: Voluntary guidelines for responsible online conduct.
• Algorithmic Accountability: Platforms must audit how algorithms amplify hate or misinformation.
• Horizontal Rights Jurisprudence: Clarify how fundamental rights apply between private users online.
• Stronger Legal Tools: Revise the IT Act and CrPC to address online abuse swiftly and fairly.
• Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate users about ethical online behavior via schools and civic bodies.

Conclusion

While freedom of speech is foundational, its abuse threatens democracy, social harmony, and national unity. A balance between liberty and responsibility is essential. Citizens must exercise digital self-regulation—or risk increased State intervention, which could undermine open discourse in a democratic society.

NITI Aayog Report: Impact of U.S. Tariffs on India’s Trade and Growth Strategy

Opportunities in a Shifting Global Trade Landscape

NITI Aayog’s recent report analyzes how U.S. tariff structures impact India’s trade performance and outlines strategies to boost export competitiveness.

Key Findings: Tariff Implications

• Market Expansion Potential: India can gain market share in 61% of its U.S.-bound export trade.
• Competitive Edge: India benefits from lower tariffs compared to China, Mexico, and Canada in sectors such as:
• Nuclear reactors
• Electrical machinery
• Iron and steel
• Vehicles
• Textiles
• Minimal Disadvantage: Only a 1% average tariff disadvantage in certain goods.

Opportunities Identified

• High-Value Sectors: Electronics, machinery, nuclear tech
• Labor-Intensive Sectors: Apparel, home textiles, footwear

Policy Recommendations

For Merchandise Exports

• Boost Competitiveness: Expand PLI schemes to more labor-intensive sectors; reduce cross-subsidies in electricity pricing.
• Improve Trade Facilitation: Upgrade AEO Program, launch targeted initiatives under the Export Promotion Mission.
• Diversify Markets: Push for strategic FTAs, including the India-EU FTA; strengthen Jan Vishwas 2.0 for regulatory clarity.

For Services Exports

• Services-Focused FTAs: Model deals like the India–UK agreement.
• Widen MRAs: Increase global mobility for Indian professionals.
• Simplify Regulations: Address licensing, data, and IP compliance hurdles.
• Skill & Innovation Push: Invest in sectors like digital health, fintech, ed-tech, and cloud services.

Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK): Inclusive Support for Divyangjan and Senior Citizens

Overview

The 75th Pradhan Mantri Divyasha Kendra (PMDK) is set to be inaugurated at the Government Medical College, Badaun, Uttar Pradesh, by the Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment.

About PMDK

PMDKs are integrated service centres that provide:

• Assessment & evaluation
• Counselling
• Distribution of assistive devices
• Post-distribution support

These services are targeted at Divyangjan (persons with disabilities) and elderly citizens, ensuring accessibility under one roof.

Implementation Agency

The centres are developed through ALIMCO (Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation of India), a CPSE under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).

Schemes Covered

• ADIP Scheme – for providing aids and appliances to Divyangjan
• Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) – for senior citizens

Types of Devices Provided (Free of Cost)

• Tricycles
• Wheelchairs
• Hearing aids
• Walkers
• Artificial limbs
• Mobility aids and accessories

Impact

• Over 1.40 lakh beneficiaries served so far
• Assistive devices worth ₹179.15 lakh distributed
• Reduces logistical barriers for rural and semi-urban residents by providing local, dignified, and timely support

Sigandur Bridge: Karnataka’s New Connectivity Lifeline

Introduction

The Sigandur Bridge (also known as the Ambaragodlu–Kalasavalli Bridge) was recently inaugurated in Shivamogga district, Karnataka. It spans the Sharavati River backwaters.

Key Features

• Type: Cable-stayed bridge (India’s second-longest)
• Length: 2.44 km | Width: 16 m
• Cost: ₹473 crore
• Location: Connects Sagar town to Sigandur, home to the famous Chowdeshwari temple

Significance

• Reconnects communities separated by the Linganamakki Dam, built in the 1970s, which submerged key land routes
• Reduces dependence on boats or long detours for accessing taluk headquarters

About Sharavati River

• Origin: Western Ghats
• Flow: Northwest into the Arabian Sea at Honavar, Uttara Kannada district
• Length: 128 km | Basin area: 2,985 sq km
• Notable Feature: Jog Falls—India’s one of the highest waterfalls (253 m drop)
• Tributaries: Nandihole, Haridravathi, Mavinahole, Hilkunji, Yennehole, Hurlihole, Nagodihole

Wular Lake

Overview:
After nearly 25 years since the devastating floods of 1992, vibrant pink and green lotus beds have reemerged in Wular Lake, Jammu & Kashmir.

About Wular Lake:

• Size & Rank: Largest freshwater lake in India; second largest in Asia.
• Location: Situated in Bandipore district, Jammu and Kashmir.
• Source: Fed by the Jhelum River.
• Geography: Located at 1,580 meters altitude at the foothills of Haramuk Mountain.
• Dimensions: Spans approximately 200 sq. km, about 24 km long and 10 km wide.
• Formation: Originated from tectonic activity; believed to be a remnant of the ancient Satisar Lake.
• Island: Contains ‘Zaina Lank,’ a small island built by King Zainul-Abi-Din.
• Conservation Status: Declared a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention in 1990.

Ecological Importance:

• Vital habitat for wintering, staging, and breeding birds.
• Home to various terrestrial birds such as black-eared kite, Eurasian sparrow hawk, Himalayan golden eagle, Himalayan monal, and more.
• Significant fish habitat, responsible for 60% of Jammu & Kashmir’s fish production.

Cysteine: A Vital but Underappreciated Amino Acid

Recent Discovery

Scientists have discovered that removing just one amino acid—cysteine—from the diet of mice caused an extraordinary 30% body weight loss within a week, highlighting its critical biological role.

About Cysteine

• Type: Non-essential, sulfur-containing amino acid
• Function:
• Found in protein active sites (regulatory, catalytic, or binding)
• Important for collagen formation, influencing skin elasticity and texture
• A building block for glutathione, a key antioxidant
• Helps produce taurine, which supports digestion and heart health
• Assists in detoxification processes within the body
• Structural Importance: Found in beta-keratin, a structural protein in hair, skin, and nails

Sources & Deficiency

• Found in meat, eggs, and dairy
• Low levels may lead to fatigue, weak immunity, stunted growth in children, and muscle weakness

What Are Amino Acids?

• Basic units of proteins
• There are 20 amino acids, forming polypeptide chains encoded by genes

• Types
• Essential Amino Acids (9): Must be obtained from food (e.g., valine, lysine, leucine)
• Non-Essential Amino Acids (11): Synthesized by the body (e.g., cysteine, serine, glycine)

Pheromone

Scientists have recently demonstrated that it is possible to influence the behavior of locusts by altering the pheromones they emit, effectively preventing them from forming swarms or engaging in the collective behaviors that typically result in destructive feeding frenzies.

What Are Pheromones?

Pheromones are chemical compounds secreted externally by one individual and detected by another member of the same species.

These substances are present in all bodily secretions, particularly in axillary sweat, and are detected by the sense of smell.

Unlike hormones, which function inside the body, pheromones are categorized as ecto-hormones, meaning they act outside the body.

Categories of Pheromones

• Releaser Pheromones: These cause immediate behavioral changes in the recipient organism.
• Signaler Pheromones: These convey specific identity-related information, such as enabling a mother to distinguish her baby from others.
• Modulator Pheromones: These influence mood or emotional state.
• Primer Pheromones: These have longer-term effects, such as regulating hormonal activity, including processes related to pregnancy or menstrual cycles.

Animals, equipped with heightened sensory perception and a vomeronasal organ, release pheromones that prompt a wide range of behaviors—such as alerting others to danger, marking food trails, establishing territorial boundaries, or strengthening bonds with offspring.

Pheromones are not limited to animals; various fungi, algae, and slime molds also produce pheromones to attract mating partners. In such cases, reproductive cells of opposite types move or grow toward one another in response to the chemical cues.

Quantum Noise

Context:
Scientists at India’s Raman Research Institute have found that quantum noise — previously considered harmful — can actually create and revive entanglement in certain quantum systems.

What is Quantum Noise?

• Random disturbances affecting quantum systems due to unavoidable environmental interactions.
• Causes decoherence, making entangled quantum states unstable and challenging quantum computing.

Origin & Characteristics:

• Arises from Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle and interaction with thermal/electromagnetic surroundings.
• Occurs because perfect isolation of quantum systems is impossible, leading to errors or collapse of states.
• Present even in highly controlled labs.

Features:

• Causes loss of coherence between entangled particles.
• Often modeled as amplitude damping, phase damping, or depolarizing noise channels.
• Effects differ depending on the type of entanglement (intraparticle vs interparticle).
• Can unpredictably reduce, change, or even generate entanglement.

Significance of Discovery:

• Changes perspective on noise from a purely destructive to a potentially constructive influence.
• Intraparticle entanglement shows better resistance to decoherence, important for practical quantum devices.
• Opens new pathways in quantum communication, cryptography, and error correction.
• Applicable across different quantum platforms like photons, neutrons, and trapped ions.

High-Speed Maglev Train

Context:
China has launched a new high-speed Maglev train capable of traveling 1,200 km between Beijing and Shanghai in just 2.5 hours, faster than airplanes on the same route.

What is a Maglev Train?

• A magnetic levitation train that moves without wheels, lifted by magnetic forces to eliminate friction and allow very high speeds.

History & Development:

• Concept developed by Robert Goddard and Emile Bachelet in early 1900s.
• First commercial Maglev service started in 1984 in the UK; now also used in China, Japan, and South Korea.

Working Principle:

• Magnetic suspension lifts the train off tracks.
• Propulsion is achieved by magnetic coils in the guideway, changing polarity to push/pull the train forward.
• Two main suspension systems:
• EMS (Electromagnetic Suspension) using magnetic attraction.
• EDS (Electrodynamic Suspension) using magnetic repulsion with superconductors.

Key Features:

• Speeds up to 600 km/h, accelerating in 7 seconds.
• Aerodynamic design inspired by kingfisher birds for minimal air resistance.
• Frictionless, silent, smooth ride with low derailment risk.
• More energy-efficient than conventional trains.

Importance:

• Provides a faster, eco-friendly alternative to air travel on medium-distance routes.
• Advances integration of superconductors and vacuum tubes for future hyperloop systems.
• Enhances China’s leadership in advanced transportation tech.

Challenges:

• Requires new, expensive guideways incompatible with existing rail networks.
• Relies on rare-earth metals (e.g., neodymium, dysprosium) which are costly.
• Currently limited to short- and medium-distance routes, not yet widespread.

AH-64E Apache Helicopters

Context:
India is poised to receive the first batch of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from the United States after a 15-month delay. These helicopters will be stationed at Jodhpur to enhance border security operations.

About AH-64E Apache Helicopters:

• What is it?
  The AH-64E Apache is a versatile combat helicopter developed by Boeing, designed for high-intensity warfare in networked, multi-domain battlefields. It ranks among the world’s most advanced and lethal attack helicopters.
• Development:
• Manufacturer: Boeing, USA
• First inducted into the US Army in 1984 (initial model: AH-64A)
• Key Features:
• Advanced Targeting: Equipped with Longbow radar, thermal imaging, and night vision systems capable of detecting 256 targets and prioritizing 16 threats rapidly.
• Powerful Armament: Armed with a 30mm chain gun, 70mm rockets, and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles for precise anti-armor strikes.
• All-Weather Capability: Operates effectively in day/night, poor visibility, high-altitude, and harsh weather conditions.
• Enhanced Survivability: Features crash-resistant frame, Defensive Aids Suite, redundant systems, and infrared suppression to survive battlefield threats.
• Extended Range: Wing-mounted fuel tanks allow longer flight endurance for sustained operations.
• Strategic Importance for India:
• Strengthens border security, especially along the western frontier with Pakistan.
• Modernizes Army Aviation, complementing the existing Indian Air Force Apache fleet.
• Improves interoperability with US and QUAD allies for joint missions.
• Supports precision strike missions with minimal collateral damage in anti-armor and counter-terrorism roles.
• Symbolizes growing India-US defense partnership under key agreements.

Ram Air Turbine (RAT)

Context:
The preliminary report by the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau on the Air India plane crash in Ahmedabad references the use of the Ram Air Turbine.

About Ram Air Turbine:

• Description: A small turbine housed in a compartment within the aircraft’s fuselage or wing.
• Function: Provides emergency power if the main aircraft power systems fail.
• Operation: Harnesses energy from the airflow created by the aircraft’s speed, powering either an electrical generator or hydraulic pump.
• Deployment: Can be activated manually or automatically upon total loss of power.

Shinkansen Technology

Current Update: The next-generation E10 Shinkansen bullet trains will be introduced concurrently in India (on the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train corridor covering 508 km) and in Japan.

About Shinkansen Technology:

• Overview: The Shinkansen is Japan’s high-speed bullet train system, known globally for its safety, reliability, and efficiency in transporting large volumes of passengers frequently and at high speeds.
• Key Features:
• Crash Avoidance Systems:
• Dedicated high-speed rail tracks without any level crossings.
• Automatic Train Control (ATC) system that manages train speed to prevent collisions.
• Design and Efficiency:
• Aerodynamically optimized front shape for reduced air resistance.
• Noise reduction technologies.
• Energy-efficient traction systems and smooth ride comfort.

Lok Sabha Digital Attendance

Context:
Starting from the Monsoon Session on July 21, Lok Sabha MPs will use a new digital system to mark attendance directly from their seats through Multimedia Devices (MMD).

About Lok Sabha Digital Attendance:

• What is the system?
• A seat-based digital attendance system that allows MPs to register presence using biometric or PIN verification on an MMD installed at each seat.
• Development:
  Designed and implemented by the Lok Sabha Secretariat.
• How it works:
• MMD terminals are installed at each MP’s seat.
• MPs can mark attendance using:
• Biometric thumb scan
• PIN login
• Smart card tap (I-card)
• The system integrates with Parliament’s internal digital portal for session agenda, documents, and voting lists.
• Key Features:
• Paperless attendance, eliminating manual registers.
• Real-time attendance logging.
• Reduces lobby crowding and saves time.
• MMD also provides access to agenda papers and session details.
• Manual attendance register retained temporarily during transition.
• Significance:
• Increases parliamentary efficiency by freeing up time for legislative work.
• Enhances transparency and accountability by accurately tracking MP attendance.
• Supports India’s vision for a Digital Parliament and improved governance.

Machilipatnam

Context:
Nearly 48% of the Machilipatnam Greenfield Port in Andhra Pradesh is completed, with operations expected by late 2026. This development revives Machilipatnam’s historic role as a prominent port city.

About Machilipatnam:

• Location:
  Coastal city in Krishna district, Andhra Pradesh, located at the mouth of the Krishna River on the Bay of Bengal.
• Historical Significance:
• Satavahana Era: Functioned as a major port since at least the 1st century AD.
• Medieval Period: Flourished under the Golconda Sultanate, famous for muslin and textile exports to Persia, Europe, and Southeast Asia.
• European Trade: Hosted Dutch, British, and French trading posts in the 17th century.
• Decline:
• Lost importance in the 18th century as British colonial focus shifted to Madras (now Chennai).
• Further impacted by coastal siltation and lack of modernization post-independence.
• Modern Strategic Importance:
• The new Greenfield port is under construction at Manginapudi with modern engineering features like tetrapods and breakwaters.
• Phase-I includes 4 berths, expandable to 16, with a capacity of 36 million tonnes per annum (MTPA), accommodating ships up to 80,000 tonnes.
• Telangana plans to develop a dry port and freight corridor connecting to Machilipatnam.
• The port will handle coal, cement, pharmaceuticals, fertilizers, and container cargo.
• Expected to boost employment, land values, and logistics infrastructure along Andhra Pradesh’s coast.

Sierra Leone World Heritage Site

Context:
Tiwai Island and Gola Rainforest in Sierra Leone have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, marking the first such designation for the country.

Details about the Sierra Leone World Heritage Site:

• Components:
• Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary
• Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP)
• Location:
  Positioned in the southern part of Sierra Leone, along the Moa River close to the border with Liberia.
• Distinctive Characteristics:
• Tiwai Island:
• Although only 12 square kilometers in size, it supports 11 primate species, including the endangered western chimpanzee, Diana monkey, and king colobus monkey.
• Functions as a major center for biodiversity research and a model for ecotourism in West Africa.
• Gola Rainforest:
• The largest tropical rainforest found in Sierra Leone.
• Home to species such as pygmy hippopotamuses, African forest elephants, and a diverse array of bird and insect species.
• Plays a vital role in carbon capture, climate regulation, and the preservation of genetic biodiversity.

About Sierra Leone:

• Capital City: Freetown, situated on the Sierra Leone Peninsula, which boasts one of the world’s largest natural harbors.
• Neighboring Regions: Borders Guinea, Liberia, and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Geographical Features:
• Rivers: Major rivers such as the Moa, Sewa, Mano, and Rokel flow southwest from the Fouta Djallon highlands in Guinea.
• Mountains: The highest elevation is Mount Bintimani (also called Loma Mansa), standing at 6,391 feet (1,948 meters). Other notable highlands include the Tingi Hills, Sula Plateau, and Kambui Schists.
• Plains and Coastal Areas: Characterized by mangrove swamps, lateritic soils, and seasonally flooded Bolilands. The climate is tropical with significant rainfall and dry season Harmattan winds.
• Natural Wealth: Rich deposits of diamonds, gold, bauxite, and rutile are found here, with agriculture and mining as primary economic activities.

Behdeinkhlam Festival

Occasion:
The Behdeinkhlam festival, a significant cultural event, was celebrated in Meghalaya.

About Behdeinkhlam Festival:

• Meaning: The name translates to “driving away the plague,” symbolizing spiritual purification and community strength.
• Importance: It is the most important dance and cultural festival of the Pnar (Jaintia) community, observed annually in July following the sowing season.
• Rituals: Young men perform a symbolic ritual by striking the roofs of houses with bamboo poles to drive away evil spirits, disease, and plague.
• Traditional Games: Include Dat-lawakor (a football-like game using a wooden ball) and Iatan-Bhang (a tug-of-war competition).

Need to Increase Setup Rate of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India: Finance Minister

Context:
The Finance Minister has called on both industry and government sectors to collaborate more closely to accelerate the establishment of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) in India and to attract additional Fortune 500 companies that have yet to establish operations in the country. In 2024, approximately one new GCC has been established per week on average.

Current Status of GCCs in India:

• India is home to over 1,800 GCCs, which account for around half of all GCCs globally.
• These centres contribute approximately $68 billion in gross value addition, with projections estimating this could rise to between $150 billion and $200 billion by 2030.
• GCCs currently employ roughly 2.16 million people, a figure expected to grow to between 2.5 million and 2.8 million by 2030.
• Over the past five years, GCCs have grown at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11%, contributing 1.6% to the national GDP.

Understanding GCCs:

• Also referred to as Global In-house Centres (GICs) or captives.
• GCCs are offshore facilities set up by multinational corporations to provide a variety of services such as IT support, research and development (R&D), and customer service to their parent companies.
• They operate as integrated parts of the parent company’s internal organizational structure.
• Key reasons for India’s attractiveness as a GCC destination include cost-effectiveness, readiness in digital infrastructure and policies (e.g., Smart Cities, Digital India), availability of highly skilled and affordable English-speaking talent, and a vast consumer market.

Challenges in Expanding GCCs in India:

• Limited availability of suitably skilled workers outside major metropolitan areas, especially in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
• Infrastructure gaps in both physical and digital connectivity.
• Complex and sometimes cumbersome regulatory environments.
• Risks related to cybersecurity threats.

Strategic Measures Recommended:

• Adoption and integration of next-generation technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, and cloud computing.
• Development of agile governance frameworks to swiftly respond to geopolitical complexities and regulatory uncertainties.
• Revamping workforce strategies by focusing on upskilling, adopting new-age skill sets, and embracing hybrid work models.
• Aligning GCCs with sustainability objectives in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) areas.

Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Retail Inflation Update: Retail inflation recorded its lowest level in six years, dropping to 2.10% in June 2025, according to data released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

About Consumer Price Index (CPI):

• Definition: CPI tracks the change over time in the average prices of goods and services purchased by households for consumption.
• Purpose and Uses:
• Serves as a key macroeconomic indicator reflecting inflation trends.
• Utilized by governments and central banks for inflation targeting and monitoring price stability.
• Acts as a deflator in national accounts to adjust for inflation.
• Used to calculate dearness allowance for employees.
• Base Year: The CPI’s base year was updated to 2012 to reflect current consumption patterns.

National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA)

Recent Development: The government has fixed prices for 71 essential drug formulations through the National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority.

About NPPA:

• Establishment: Formed in 1997 by a Government of India Resolution, NPPA operates as an attached office under the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
• Primary Objective: To act as an autonomous regulator for drug pricing, ensuring medicines remain affordable and accessible to the public.
• Key Responsibilities:
• Setting and revising drug prices in accordance with the Drugs Prices Control Order (DPCO) issued by the DoP.