Digital Platforms and Terrorist Financing: Insights from the FATF Report on Pulwama and Gorakhnath Attacks

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF), in its recent publication titled "Comprehensive Update on Terrorist Financing Risks," draws attention to the escalating misuse of digital platforms in facilitating terrorist activities. The report specifically cites the Pulwama (2019) and Gorakhnath Temple (2022) attacks as cases where technologies such as online payment systems, VPNs, social media, and e-commerce platforms were instrumental in the execution of these acts.

Overview of the FATF

Established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in Paris, the FATF is an intergovernmental policy-making body committed to formulating strategies aimed at combating money laundering (ML), terrorist financing (TF), and related threats to the global financial system. The organization operates from its headquarters within the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) premises in Paris, France.

The FATF currently comprises 39 members, including 37 jurisdictions and 2 regional organizations (the European Commission and the Gulf Cooperation Council). India became a full member in 2010, enhancing its stature in global financial governance.

Core Functions and Responsibilities

The FATF performs several critical roles:

• Establishing international standards, most notably its 40 Recommendations, to combat ML and TF.
• Monitoring compliance by both member and non-member states with these standards.
• Conducting mutual evaluations to assess national frameworks and enforcement mechanisms.
• Issuing public statements identifying jurisdictions with significant deficiencies (commonly known as the Grey List and Black List).
• Promoting legal, regulatory, and operational reforms in national and international financial systems.

Misuse of Digital Platforms in Terrorist Financing

The report emphasizes a worrying trend: increased exploitation of digital infrastructure by terrorist entities. In both the Pulwama and Gorakhnath incidents, perpetrators utilized tools such as VPNs, online payments, social media, and e-commerce to procure materials, transfer funds, and conceal identities.

• Pulwama Attack (2019): The attackers sourced aluminum powder, an explosive component, through Amazon, demonstrating the vulnerability of e-commerce platforms to misuse for acquiring weaponizable materials. The attack was attributed to Jaish-e-Mohammed, with supporting evidence pointing to cross-border involvement in explosives procurement.
• Gorakhnath Attack (2022): The perpetrator, radicalized by ISIL propaganda, employed VPNs to obfuscate digital footprints and used PayPal to transfer approximately ₹6.69 lakh (USD $7,736) internationally. He received and sent funds linked to ISIL affiliates. The account was eventually flagged and suspended due to suspicious activity.

Broader Threats and Trends in Terrorist Financing

The FATF report identifies several broader and evolving methodologies in the financing of terrorism:

• State-Sponsored Terrorism: Without naming specific countries, the report points to instances of state actors providing direct or indirect support—including funding, training, and logistical aid—to terrorist groups. This support often involves circumventing international sanctions through trade, smuggling, and other covert means.
• Commodity-Based Financing: Complex schemes involving oil-to-gold-to-cash transactions across multiple jurisdictions have emerged as a mechanism to obscure financial trails.
• Decentralized Terror Networks: Terrorist organizations are increasingly adopting regional and self-financed structures, which rely on local criminal proceeds, business investments, and informal economies. Groups like Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) now operate with considerable autonomy, adapting their strategies to local contexts.
• Storage of Terror Funds: Entities inspired by ISIL and Al-Qaeda in India reportedly use gold and jewelry to discreetly store small funds, reflecting an effort to bypass formal banking channels.

Alternative Financing Channels Identified

The FATF outlines a diverse range of funding mechanisms employed by terrorist actors:

• Illicit trades such as human trafficking, wildlife smuggling, drug trade, and virtual assets.
• Donations through non-profit organizations, shell companies, shell accounts, and mobile applications.
• Use of hawala networks, crowdfunding platforms, extortion, and ransom collection.

Implications and Regulatory Imperatives

The report underscores the pressing need for enhanced regulatory oversight and digital monitoring mechanisms. As terrorist groups continue to innovate and adapt to technological advancements, national and international frameworks must evolve to prevent the exploitation of e-commerce, VPNs, and digital financial platforms.

The April 22 Pahalgam attack, which the FATF condemned, further exemplifies the role of financial support in sustaining terrorist operations. In response, the FATF has initiated a detailed analytical study to assess global vulnerabilities in terrorist financing.

Emerging Issues in Digital Terror Financing

The proliferation of digital financial tools and online platforms has created complex new avenues for terror financing. The following key trends highlight the expanding threat landscape:

1. Crypto and Anonymity Tools

• The growth of unregulated cryptocurrency markets, especially through mixing services and privacy coins, poses serious challenges for tracking financial flows.
• These tools allow terrorists and radicalised actors to obfuscate the origin and destination of funds.

2. Third-Party Payment Gateways

• Online intermediaries, including digital wallets and fintech gateways, are increasingly used to route international funds to terrorist groups, undermining traceability.

3. Rise of Lone-Actor Threats

• Radicalised individuals, often influenced by extremist content online, are executing independent attacks.
• These actors frequently receive funding via crowdfunding platforms, gaming ecosystems, and social media donations.

4. Trade-Based Terror Financing

• E-commerce storefronts and digital marketplaces are exploited for under- or over-invoicing schemes, facilitating covert value transfer and laundering.

5. Geographic Vulnerabilities

• South Asia, West Africa, the Sahel, and the Middle East remain high-risk zones.
• India is flagged as a critical case study due to documented misuse of digital tools in past attacks.

6. Global Oversight Gaps

• Many countries lack robust Know Your Customer (KYC), Anti-Money Laundering (AML), and Counter-Terrorism Financing (CTF) frameworks, especially for digital platforms.

7. Misuse of Crowdfunding

• Terrorist entities disguise campaigns under social or humanitarian causes to raise funds globally.
• The diverted proceeds are used for radicalisation, logistics, and weapon procurement.

Key Challenges in Combating Digital Terrorism

1. Jurisdictional Fragmentation

• Cross-border financial transactions and platform operations create legal and investigative challenges, especially in the absence of synchronized regulations.

2. Dark Web Activity

• The dark web facilitates arms procurement, encrypted communication, and anonymous crypto transactions—evading traditional surveillance mechanisms.

3. Weak KYC Enforcement

• Lax identity verification on fintech platforms allows the creation of fake or layered accounts, enabling anonymous fund transfers.

4. Rapid Evolution of Terror Tactics

• Terror networks adapt faster than regulatory bodies, quickly exploiting emerging tools and apps for illicit purposes.

5. Data Localisation and Sovereignty Issues

• Service providers storing data overseas create barriers for real-time access to user information, obstructing investigation and prosecution efforts.

Policy Recommendations

1. Enhanced Digital KYC Protocols

• Enforce rigorous, biometric-linked KYC norms for all online financial services, marketplaces, and wallets.
• Include periodic re-verification and AI-enabled fraud detection systems.

2. AI/ML-Based Real-Time Monitoring

• Deploy machine learning algorithms to detect anomalous transactions, keyword-linked purchases (e.g., dual-use items), and network-based suspicious activity.

3. Cross-Border Data Cooperation

• Establish Mutual Legal Assistance Treaties (MLATs) and real-time information exchange protocols with countries hosting major digital infrastructure.
• Create fast-track frameworks for responding to terrorism-related data requests.

4. Crypto Market Regulation

• Mandate reporting of suspicious transactions, maintaining audit trails, and licensing requirements for crypto exchanges.
• Require exchanges to share wallet metadata and conduct transaction risk assessments.

5. Accountability of Online Platforms

• E-commerce and crowdfunding platforms must:
• Monitor transactions involving dual-use goods.
• Vet sellers and buyers rigorously.
• Establish content moderation mechanisms to detect radical content or deceptive campaigns.

Conclusion

The FATF’s findings offer a critical global alert on the increasingly complex and digitalized nature of terrorist financing. The exploitation of online payment systems, VPNs, and social media by terror groups presents significant regulatory challenges, demanding coordinated international action and proactive policy reforms.

Kerala High Court Arrests Ship Under Admiralty Law Over ₹9,531 Crore Oil Spill Claim

The Kerala High Court has conditionally arrested the MSC Akiteta II, a Liberian-flagged container vessel, currently docked at Vizhinjam port, in response to an admiralty suit filed by the Kerala State Government. This legal action seeks ₹9,531 crore in compensation for extensive environmental and economic damage resulting from the sinking of MSC Elsa III on May 25, 2025, off the coast of Alappuzha.

Background: Environmental Harm from MSC Elsa III

The MSC Elsa III, a vessel reportedly associated with the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), was carrying over 600 containers, including cargo classified as hazardous materials—notably plastic pellets and diesel. The incident has allegedly led to significant pollution of Kerala’s marine ecosystems, affecting biodiversity and local livelihoods, particularly those of fisherfolk.

Legal Framework: Admiralty Law in India

The proceedings are grounded in the Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Act, 2017, which governs maritime legal disputes in India. This legislation replaced outdated colonial-era statutes—namely, the Admiralty Court Act, 1861 and the Colonial Courts of Admiralty Act, 1890.

Key features of the Admiralty Act, 2017 include:

• Jurisdiction: It expands admiralty jurisdiction to High Courts in Kerala, Karnataka, Odisha, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh, in addition to the pre-existing jurisdictions of Bombay, Calcutta, and Madras. This jurisdiction extends up to 12 nautical miles from the coastline, encompassing the seabed, subsoil, and airspace.
• Scope of Claims: Section 4 of the Act permits maritime claims involving ship damage, ownership disputes, unpaid wages, environmental harm, and loss of life.

Legal Grounds for Environmental Claims

In this case, the Kerala government invoked Section 4 and Section 5 of the Admiralty Act:

• Section 4: Allows courts to adjudicate claims related to environmental pollution caused by ships.
• Section 5: Empowers the High Court to arrest a vessel even if the defendant is a demise charterer—a party that leases the vessel and operates it independently, effectively becoming the “owner for the time being.”

Additional legal backing comes from:

• The Merchant Shipping Act, 1958 – holds shipowners liable for oil spills.
• The Environment Protection Act, 1986 – enables enforcement actions for environmental violations.
• The National Green Tribunal (NGT) – adjudicates claims related to environmental degradation. Notably, in 2016, the NGT ordered a Panama-based firm to pay ₹100 crore for a similar oil spill incident (M V Rak).

Arrest of MSC Akiteta II: Rationale and Legal Strategy

The Kerala government argued that MSC Elsa III and MSC Akiteta II are “sister vessels”, despite being registered under different shell companies. Both entities, however, reportedly operate from the same Geneva-based corporate address, linking them to the Mediterranean Shipping Company. The government alleged that this corporate structure is a deliberate and fraudulent device designed to frustrate legitimate maritime claims.

The court accepted the prima facie merit of Kerala’s argument and ordered the arrest of MSC Akiteta II unless the shipowners deposit the compensation amount or provide adequate security.

Compensation Breakdown and Methodology

The total compensation of ₹9,531 crore is categorized as follows:

• ₹8,626.12 crore: Environmental damage arising from the sinking.
• ₹378.48 crore: Expenses for remediation and pollution control.
• ₹526.51 crore: Economic losses suffered by the state’s fishing community.

These figures were calculated in accordance with Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) guidelines, as stated in the plaint.

Broader Implications

This case sets a significant precedent in the enforcement of environmental accountability within maritime law in India. The arrest of MSC Akiteta II under the Admiralty Act, 2017 highlights the expanding role of Indian High Courts in addressing transboundary corporate liability, especially in cases involving marine pollution and hazardous shipping practices.

The case may also influence how courts treat corporate veil-piercing arguments in future admiralty litigation, particularly where international shipping conglomerates use layered ownership structures to avoid liability.

PARAKH RS Survey 2025: Revealing Persistent Learning Gaps in Indian School Education

Introduction

The 2025 edition of the PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan (RS) has unveiled critical deficiencies in student learning outcomes across India’s school education system. Covering over 21 lakh students across 781 districts, the nationwide assessment evaluated academic competencies in core subjects at Grades 3, 6, and 9. The findings raise pressing concerns about foundational learning and indicate a marked decline in subject mastery—particularly in mathematics and science—as students move to higher grades.

About PARAKH RS

The PARAKH Rashtriya Sarvekshan (RS), formerly known as the National Achievement Survey (NAS), is conducted by PARAKH (Performance Assessment, Review, and Analysis of Knowledge for Holistic Development)—an autonomous institution functioning under the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT). The survey is a central mechanism for monitoring the efficacy of school education and learning achievement across Indian states and union territories.

Key Scope of the 2025 Survey:

• Participants:
• Students: 21,15,022
• Schools: 74,229
• Districts: 781
• Teachers/School Leaders (for contextual data): 2.7 lakh
• Subjects Assessed:
• Grades 3, 6, and 9: Language and Mathematics
• Grades 3 and 6: Environmental Studies
• Grade 9: Science and Social Science

Key Findings

State-wise Performance

• Top Performing States/Districts:
• Grade 3: Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Kerala
• Grade 6: Kerala, Punjab, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu
• Grade 9: Punjab, Kerala, Chandigarh
• Low Performing Regions:
• Grade 3: Sahebganj (Jharkhand), Reasi and Rajouri (Jammu & Kashmir)
• Grades 6 & 9: Several districts in Meghalaya, especially North and South Garo Hills

A notable finding was the intra-institutional disparity observed in Kendriya Vidyalayas. These schools exhibited low proficiency in Grade 3 Mathematics, yet performed strongly in Grade 9 Language, indicating inconsistencies within institutional learning trajectories.

Learning Gaps by Subject and Grade

The survey results reveal an alarming trend of declining competency in higher grades, with students increasingly struggling in conceptual subjects like mathematics and science. This pattern points to weak foundational skills and limited progression in cognitive application as students advance through the education system.

Policy Implications and Recommendations

The PARAKH RS 2025 findings carry substantial implications for India’s educational policy and classroom practices. The data suggest that systemic reforms are urgently required to address learning inequalities and to enhance overall educational quality. Key recommendations include:

1. Strengthening Foundational Literacy and Numeracy (FLN):
• Focus on early-grade interventions to build core skills that are essential for future learning.
2. Enhancing Teacher Training and Pedagogical Support:
• Prioritize continuous professional development in underperforming regions.
• Promote context-sensitive teaching methodologies, especially for STEM subjects.
3. Implementing Formative Assessment Tools:
• Develop and integrate low-stakes, diagnostic assessments for early identification of learning gaps.
4. Curriculum and Assessment Reforms:
• Shift curricular focus from rote learning to conceptual understanding, critical thinking, and contextual learning.
• Encourage cross-disciplinary and real-world learning integration.

Conclusion

The 2025 PARAKH RS serves as a wake-up call for India''s education stakeholders. The deepening learning deficits, particularly in higher grades and in key academic subjects, demand immediate policy attention. Unless foundational education is strengthened and systemic disparities addressed, the nation''s vision for equitable and quality education for all will remain unfulfilled.

Judicial Divergence on Phone Tapping: Madras and Delhi High Court Rulings

Context

Recent decisions by the Delhi High Court and the Madras High Court have addressed the legality of phone tapping, both dealing with the justification of “preventing incitement to commit a crime”—a recognised ground for lawful interception under Indian law. While the Delhi High Court upheld the validity of the interception order, the Madras High Court set it aside, raising important constitutional questions regarding privacy and procedural safeguards.

Judicial Positions

Delhi High Court

• The Court upheld the government’s order of interception, citing the legal ground of preventing criminal incitement.
• It recognised the legitimacy of interception when it complies with procedural norms and is anchored in statutory authority.

Madras High Court

• The Court quashed the interception order, asserting that telephone tapping amounts to a violation of the fundamental right to privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution unless it strictly follows due process established by law.
• The ruling reflects the evolving constitutional jurisprudence on privacy post–Puttaswamy judgment (2017), which reaffirmed the right to privacy as a fundamental right.

Legal Framework Governing Phone Tapping in India

1. Telecommunications Act, 2023 and 2024 Rules

• The Telecommunications (Procedures and Safeguards for Lawful Interception of Messages) Rules, 2024, issued under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, provide the latest procedural framework for lawful interception.
• These rules outline who may authorise interception, conditions under which it can be ordered, and the oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse.

2. Information Technology Act, 2000

• Governs the interception of electronic communications such as emails, social media messages, and encrypted apps like WhatsApp.
• Interception is permitted under specific circumstances involving national security or prevention of crime, subject to procedural safeguards.

Judicial Precedent: PUCL v. Union of India (1997)

The landmark Supreme Court ruling in People’s Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL) v. Union of India (1997) established key principles:

• Upheld the constitutionality of Section 5(2) of the Indian Telegraph Act, which permits interception under specific grounds such as public emergency and public safety.
• Introduced procedural safeguards to prevent arbitrary tapping:
• Interception orders must be issued only by the Union or State Home Secretary.
• Orders are valid for a maximum of two months, subject to renewal.
• A review committee must examine the necessity and legality of the interception.

Constitutional Dimensions

• The right to privacy, affirmed in K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India (2017), is a core component of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty).
• Any state action that infringes on privacy must be:
• Sanctioned by law,
• Necessary in a democratic society, and
• Proportionate to the aim pursued.

The Madras High Court’s decision aligns with these principles, underscoring the need for strict adherence to procedure and minimal intrusion.

Conclusion

The contrasting rulings by the Delhi and Madras High Courts underscore the tension between state security interests and individual privacy rights in an era of expanding surveillance capacities. As legal standards evolve under the Telecommunications Act, 2023, and in light of the constitutional emphasis on procedural fairness, judicial scrutiny of interception orders remains a vital check on executive overreach.

Peering into India’s Digital Divide: Insights from NSS 2025

Introduction

The Comprehensive Modular Survey: Telecom 2025 (CMS) conducted by the National Sample Survey (NSS) presents a nuanced picture of India''s evolving digital landscape. Moving beyond the question of basic connectivity, the survey highlights persistent inequalities in digital access, usage, and empowerment, calling for a transition from first-generation access-based reforms to second-generation empowerment-driven strategies.

Understanding the Digital Divide

The digital divide refers to disparities in access to and effective use of digital technologies such as mobile phones, internet services, and information and communication technology (ICT) skills. This divide manifests in multiple dimensions:

• Access Gap: Differences in ownership of digital devices and availability of internet.
• Usage Gap: Variation in the nature of digital activity—e.g., entertainment versus educational or financial use.
• Skill Gap: Inadequate ability to engage in productive digital practices (e.g., document creation, cyber hygiene).
• Gender Gap: Disproportionate digital access and literacy among women and girls.

Key Trends from NSS 2025 CMS

1. Access Patterns

• Mobile Phone Use: 97.1% of youth use mobile phones; however, only 73.4% own them.
• Ownership Disparity:
• Urban youth: 82%
• Rural youth: 69.3%
• Males: 83.3%
• Females: 63%

2. Usage Patterns

• Internet Usage Among Women: Increased from 77.1% (2022) to 91.3% (2025).
• Purpose of Use:
• 30.4% of users engage with the internet solely for entertainment.
• Entertainment usage is higher among young women (36%).

3. Digital Skills

• Basic ICT skills are widespread (85.1% can send attachments), but productive skills remain low:
• Only 32.2% created digital presentations.
• 22.9% drafted text documents.
• Online Banking:
• 68.7% of youth use it, but stark divides persist:
• Urban: 79.7% | Rural: 63.4%
• Male: 79.3% | Female: 57.5%

4. Connectivity Infrastructure

• Internet availability:
• Urban households: 91.6%
• Rural households: 83.3%
• Fibre-optic Connectivity:
• Only 7.2% of households have it.
• Rural fibre coverage: merely 3.2%

First-Generation Digital Inclusion Initiatives

India’s digital inclusion efforts were spearheaded by foundational programs that emphasized access:

• BharatNet: Connected over 1.7 lakh Gram Panchayats with optical fibre, enabling rural access to e-governance and online services.
• Digital India Mission: Established infrastructure such as Common Service Centres (CSCs) and Digital Lockers.
• PMGDISHA: Trained millions in basic digital literacy in rural India.
• UPI & JAM Trinity: The integration of Jan Dhan-Aadhaar-Mobile enabled a robust and inclusive fintech ecosystem.

Outcomes of First-Generation Reforms

• Near-Universal Mobile Use: 97% of youth now use mobile phones; rural usage stands at 92.7%.
• UPI Adoption: 80.7% of youth use UPI; traditional banking tools like net banking remain underused (0.7%).
• Mobile-First Internet: Low-cost smartphones and data plans have made mobile internet the dominant access point, especially in rural areas.
• Gender Progress: Rural female internet usage rose dramatically to 91.3%, signaling quiet but significant digital empowerment.

Persistent Challenges

Despite improvements, several barriers remain:

• Ownership Gender Gap: Only 56.9% of rural young women own mobile phones, compared to 81.2% of men, limiting autonomous use.
• Limited Productive Engagement: Most digital activity remains consumption-oriented; creation, problem-solving, and civic use are minimal.
• Dependence on Family Devices: Many women rely on male relatives’ phones, restricting privacy and personal agency.
• Low Civic Awareness: Only 26.9% of youth know how to report cybercrime; this figure drops below 22% for rural and female users.
• Digital Financial Literacy: Only 18.8% of youth use both UPI and net banking, indicating poor multimodal financial fluency.

Towards Second-Generation Digital Inclusion

To move from access to empowerment, India’s digital policy must undergo a strategic shift:

1. Empowerment Through Skills

• Invest in digital content creation, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
• Introduce practical ICT modules in school curricula, including cyber hygiene and digital tools.

2. Women-Centric Interventions

• Target rural Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and women with mobile-based solutions for health, education, entrepreneurship, and civic participation.

3. Infrastructure Strengthening

• Accelerate fibre-to-village connectivity.
• Develop community-based digital hubs at panchayat and school levels with public Wi-Fi access.

4. Digital Financial Inclusion

• Expand training in digital banking tools, secure wallet use, and financial planning, particularly for rural and female populations.

5. Localized Awareness Campaigns

• Promote digital literacy and online services using local languages and culturally relevant content, focused on employment, healthcare, governance, and education.

Conclusion

India has achieved a milestone in near-universal mobile and internet access, but the digital divide has evolved into a digital empowerment gap. Addressing this new phase requires second-generation reforms that focus on ownership, agency, digital skills, and meaningful usage—especially for rural youth and women. A mobile phone in every hand must translate to equal power in every mind, ensuring that digital inclusion fosters both access and autonomy.

Kerala''s Semicircular Classroom Model: A Shift Toward Inclusive Pedagogy

Context and Background

In a departure from the conventional row-based classroom arrangement, several schools in Kerala have begun implementing semicircular classroom seating, inspired by the 2018 Malayalam film Sthanarthi Sreekuttan. This innovative pedagogical approach reflects a broader effort to foster inclusive, engaging, and student-centered learning environments.

While the concept was initially proposed under the District Primary Education Programme (DPEP) in 1994, its recent resurgence highlights the power of public discourse and cultural influence in shaping educational practices.

Structural Characteristics of the Semicircular Model

• Layout Design: Students are seated in a semicircular arc, facing the teacher positioned at the center.
• Purpose: The design dissolves hierarchical divisions such as the ''front-bencher vs back-bencher'' dynamic, promoting equal visibility and participation.
• Spatial Dynamics: The physical layout encourages open dialogue and more interactive teacher-student relationships, avoiding traditional power imbalances embedded in seating structures.

Educational and Psychological Impacts

1. Promoting Inclusive Classrooms

• The semicircular format fosters equal opportunity for attention and participation, regardless of students’ academic standing or social background.
• It mitigates feelings of marginalization, particularly among shy or underperforming students.

2. Enhanced Teacher-Student Interaction

• The teacher’s central position facilitates better eye contact, non-verbal communication, and responsiveness.
• It supports dynamic teaching methods such as questioning, discussion, and interactive instruction.

3. Improved Classroom Behaviour

• By removing physical barriers and social stratification, the arrangement contributes to reduced disruptive behaviour.
• It promotes a collaborative atmosphere, where peer engagement is naturally facilitated.

4. Boost to Confidence and Peer Learning

• Students become more comfortable asking questions, expressing opinions, and collaborating with peers.
• Peer-to-peer assistance and shared learning increase, strengthening classroom cohesion.

5. Positive Psychological Outcomes

• The design contributes to a supportive and non-intimidating environment, which can be particularly beneficial for students experiencing anxiety, low self-esteem, or learning difficulties.

Conclusion

The semicircular classroom model, now gaining traction in Kerala’s schools, exemplifies a low-cost, high-impact intervention that aligns with contemporary educational goals—equity, engagement, and holistic development. Its revival, driven by community influence and pedagogical insight, demonstrates how spatial reconfiguration can transform classroom dynamics and advance inclusive education.

Panna Tiger Reserve, Madhya Pradesh

Recent Development:

The Panna Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh recently made headlines following the death of ''Vatsala'', reputedly the oldest elephant in Asia, who lived to be over 100 years old. Her longevity highlights the conservation standards maintained within the reserve.

Geographical Location and Significance:

Panna Tiger Reserve is situated in the northern region of Madhya Pradesh, specifically within the Vindhyan mountain range. Spanning an area of 542 square kilometers, it stands as the sole tiger reserve within the Bundelkhand region. Biogeographically, it belongs to the Deccan Peninsula Zone and the Central Highlands Biotic Province.

Historical Status:

The reserve was officially designated as a Project Tiger Reserve by the Government of India in 1994, under the broader initiative aimed at tiger conservation.

Topography and Landscape:

Panna is defined by its distinctive “table-top” landform, composed of expansive plateaus interspersed with deep gorges. The terrain features two parallel plateaus that extend in a southwest to northeast direction. The Ken River, a significant tributary, traverses the reserve from south to north, contributing to its ecological richness.

Archaeological and Cultural Significance:

Scattered across the reserve are prehistoric rock paintings, some dating back two millennia. The area is also culturally rich, being inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Baiga and Gond communities, who maintain vibrant traditions and sustainable living practices.

Floral Diversity:

The reserve hosts predominantly dry deciduous forests, intermingled with patches of grassland. The northern boundary is bordered by teak-dominated forests, while the eastern part contains a mixed forest of teak and Kardhai. This area marks the northernmost natural limit of Tectona grandis (teak). The species Acacia catechu is notably prevalent on the arid and rugged slopes of the plateau.

Faunal Diversity:

Panna is home to a thriving population of apex predators such as the Bengal tiger (Panthera tigris), sloth bear (Melursus ursinus), leopard (Panthera pardus), and striped hyena (Hyaena hyaena). Other carnivores include the jackal, Indian wolf, wild dog, jungle cat, and the elusive rusty-spotted cat. This rich faunal presence underscores the reserve’s ecological importance in central India.

Nyangai Island

Nyangai Island, a small landmass off the coast of Sierra Leone, has experienced significant erosion, resulting in the loss of approximately two-thirds of its surface area within the last decade. Presently, the island measures roughly 200 metres in length and 100 metres in width (approximately 650 by 330 feet).

Geographic and Historical Context

Nyangai Island is part of the Turtle Islands archipelago and is characterized by its low-lying topography. Positioned along a coastline exposed to strong ocean currents, the island has historically been vulnerable to erosion. Traditionally, it has served as a vital hub for trade, agriculture, fishing, and maritime transportation. Additionally, Nyangai Island is known for its historical significance, particularly its ruins associated with the transatlantic slave trade, which have also made it a notable tourist destination.

Key Facts about Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone is a tropical country located in West Africa along the Atlantic Ocean. It shares borders with Guinea to the north and east, Liberia to the south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The country''s landscape primarily consists of lightly wooded hills, with extensive mangrove swamps concentrated along its coastal regions. Major rivers flowing through the nation include the Rokel, Taia, Moa, and Sewa Rivers.

Great Hornbill (Buceros bicornis)

A rare sighting of the Great Hornbill, Kerala’s state bird, was recently reported in the coastal region of Kakkampara near Ezhimala in Kannur—a notable occurrence given the species’ typical forested habitat.

Taxonomy and Distribution

The Great Hornbill, also referred to as the concave-casqued hornbill or great Indian hornbill, is a large avian species belonging to the hornbill family. It is distributed across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Within the subcontinent, populations are primarily confined to forested areas of the Western Ghats and the Himalayan foothills.

Habitat and Physical Characteristics

• These birds inhabit wet evergreen and deciduous old-growth forests at elevations ranging from 600 to 2,000 meters. For nesting, they select tall trees that extend above the forest canopy. Adults range from 95 to 120 centimeters in length, with a wingspan between 151 and 178 centimeters, and weigh approximately 3 kilograms on average. Their plumage is predominantly black with white markings on the neck, abdomen, and tail, which is distinguished by a black subterminal band.
• One distinctive feature of the species is the casque, a hollow structure atop the bill, which males may use in combat and courtship. Both sexes have prominent eyelashes; however, males display red irises, whereas females have white irises, and males typically possess larger bills and casques.

Diet and Conservation Status

The Great Hornbill is primarily frugivorous but opportunistically preys on small mammals, reptiles, and birds. According to the IUCN Red List, the species is classified as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and other threats.

Kharai Camels

A recent incident reported a herd of 33 rare Kharai camels from Singach village in Gujarat being caught in the Arabian Sea tide near Jamnagar while grazing on mangrove islands.

Overview of Kharai Camels

The Kharai camel is a unique and rare breed native to Gujarat, distinguished by its exceptional ability to swim and forage in saline coastal and marshy environments. It is recognized as India’s ninth official camel breed and is especially adapted to survive and thrive in the saline habitats along the Kutch coastline.

Habitat and Distribution

These camels are predominantly found in the Kutch region of Gujarat, including areas such as Bhachau, Abdasa, Lakhpat, and parts of Devbhoomi Dwarka and Jamnagar. The total population is approximately 4,000 animals in Gujarat, with around 2,000 residing in the coastal Kutch area. They habitually inhabit mangrove islands and demonstrate remarkable swimming skills by crossing shallow sea waters to access grazing grounds.

Cultural and Ethnographic Significance

The Kharai camel holds significant cultural importance, particularly among the Rabari and Fakirani Jat communities, who have traditionally managed these animals through indigenous pastoral systems. The Maldhari community, a pastoralist group in Gujarat, is known for rearing Kharai camels alongside cattle and goats in Kutch and Gir forest regions. The term “Kharai” is derived from the Gujarati word “khara,” meaning salty, reflecting the camel’s adaptation to its saline environment.

Key Biological and Ecological Characteristics

• Swimming Ability: Capable of swimming up to 3 kilometers in the Arabian Sea to reach mangrove grazing zones.
• Physiological Adaptation: Unique among camel breeds for its ability to subsist on saline vegetation.
• Physical Traits: A dromedary (single-humped) breed, muscular and weighing up to 500 kilograms.
• Seasonal Behavior: Undertakes monsoon migrations to mangrove islands, often spending weeks grazing.
• Diet: Primarily feeds on mangrove species, an uncommon dietary specialization among camelids.

Conservation and Ecological Importance

The Kharai camel plays a critical ecological role by maintaining the balance of fragile coastal ecosystems through sustainable grazing practices. It is a living symbol of indigenous pastoral livelihoods and cultural heritage, embodying the resilience of nomadic pastoral communities. Additionally, this breed is increasingly recognized as a climate-resilient livestock species, significant for advancing climate-smart agricultural practices in vulnerable coastal regions.

India’s Rare Earth Element (REE) Reserves: Status and Challenges

Key Findings from the CareEdge Report

• India possesses 8% of the world’s total REE reserves, making it the third-largest holder globally.
• Despite this, India contributes less than 1% to global REE mining, highlighting a significant gap between potential and output.
• In contrast, China dominates the REE sector with:
• 49% of global reserves
• 69% of global mining
• 90% of REE refining capacity

Distribution of REE in India

• Primary Source: Monazite sands, which also contain thorium.
• Major Deposits: Found predominantly in coastal states:
• Tamil Nadu
• Kerala
• Andhra Pradesh
• Odisha
  (As per the 2023 Indian Minerals Yearbook)

Why India Lags in REE Mining and Processing

1. Technical and Environmental Challenges

• Radioactivity: REEs are often bound with radioactive elements, making extraction complex, time-consuming, and costly.
• Regulations: Coastal mining is restricted by Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms, limiting access to rich deposits.

2. Incomplete Industrial Value Chain

• India has capabilities to mine, separate, and refine REEs into oxides, and to some extent, extract metals.
• However, it lacks infrastructure for producing intermediate and end products like alloys and permanent magnets — essential for high-tech applications.

3. Limited REE Type Availability

• India primarily holds Light Rare Earth Elements (LREEs).
• Heavy Rare Earth Elements (HREEs), which are more valuable, are not present in extractable quantities.

4. Institutional Limitation

• Indian Rare Earths Limited (IREL) is the sole entity authorized to process monazite and produce RE compounds in the country.

Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Amendment Rules, 2025

Overview

• Issued by: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
• Effective Date: From April 1, 2026
• Introduces a detailed Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework for scrap of non-ferrous metals such as aluminium, copper, zinc, and their alloys.

Key Features of EPR for Non-Ferrous Metal Scrap

• Recycling Targets:
• Starts at 10% in 2026–27
• Gradually increases to 75% by 2032–33
• EPR Certificate:
• Issued by: Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) via a digital portal
• Validity: Two years from the end of the financial year in which it is generated

Significance of the EPR Framework

• Promotes Circular Economy: Encourages resource efficiency and waste minimization.
• Facilitates Industry Transition: Gradual increase in targets allows adaptation time.
• Expands Scope: Applies to a broad range of products and materials.
• Builds on Existing Policy: The EPR approach was first introduced in India under the E-Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011.

Carrying Capacity

Recent Initiative

• The Uttarakhand government has initiated studies to assess the carrying capacity of urban areas in the state.
• Objective: To address ecological imbalances and ensure sustainable urban planning in the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.

What is Carrying Capacity?

• Definition: Carrying capacity refers to the maximum population size or community an ecosystem can sustain indefinitely using the available natural resources and ecosystem services.

Key Determinants

1. Availability of Resources: Water, food, energy, and land within the ecosystem.
2. Population Size: The total number of individuals or communities residing in the ecosystem.
3. Resource Consumption per Individual: The rate at which each person or group utilizes resources.

Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)

Recent Development

• The BRICS nations have formally criticized and opposed the European Union’s CBAM, labeling it a unilateral and discriminatory trade barrier.

What is CBAM?

• Definition: CBAM is a proposed carbon border tax by the European Union (EU) designed to penalize imports of carbon-intensive goods.

Purpose

• To assign a carbon price to emissions associated with the production of goods outside the EU.
• Aims to:
• Prevent carbon leakage (companies relocating to countries with looser climate regulations).
• Promote cleaner industrial practices globally.

Implementation Timeline

• Transitional Phase: 2023–2025
• Full Enforcement: Begins from 2026Bottom of Form

National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project

The Indian Navy has recently formalized an agreement with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, for the implementation of the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project.

Project Objective

The NMDA Project aims to enhance maritime and coastal security through a comprehensive and integrated approach. It focuses on the collection, analysis, and dissemination of maritime data among various stakeholders to improve situational awareness and coordinated responses.

Key Features and Upgrades

The project involves the modernization of the existing National Command, Control, Communication, and Intelligence (NC3I) Network into an advanced NMDA Network. This upgrade includes the integration of artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled software designed to facilitate intelligent surveillance and support decision-making processes.

The Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) located in Gurugram, currently serving as the central node of the NC3I Network, will be transformed into a Multi-Agency NMDA Centre. This enhanced facility will host personnel from 15 different agencies representing seven critical ministries such as Defence, Shipping, Petroleum, and Fisheries, promoting seamless inter-agency coordination and information sharing.

Operational Integration

NMDA will create a unified operational picture of India’s extensive coastline and adjoining maritime zones by linking maritime agencies, coastal states, and union territories. The project will also integrate data streams from commercial shipping, fisheries, and other maritime sectors, thereby enhancing India’s capabilities in maritime threat response, search-and-rescue operations, and environmental incident management.

Implementation

The project will be executed on a turnkey basis under the administration of the Indian Navy. Bharat Electronics Limited will act as the lead systems integrator, providing cutting-edge hardware solutions and AI-powered software platforms to ensure the project''s technological sophistication.

Indian Telecom Services – 2024–25 Performance Indicators

Released By: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)

Key Statistics

• Internet Subscribers: Increased from 954.40 million (2024) to 969.10 million (2025).
• Telephone Subscribers: Slight rise from 1,199.28 million to 1,200.80 million.
• Overall Tele-Density: Declined from 85.69% to 85.04%.
• Urban Tele-Density: 131.45%
• Rural Tele-Density: 59.06%

BIND Scheme (Broadcasting Infrastructure and Network Development)

Latest Update

• A new Akashvani Kendra (All India Radio station) is being established in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, with funding under the BIND Scheme.

Overview of BIND Scheme

• Type: Central Sector Scheme
• Ministry: Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
• Launched: 2023

Purpose

• To strengthen and modernize Prasar Bharati’s infrastructure (All India Radio & Doordarshan).
• Supports:
• Expansion of broadcasting networks
• Upgradation of content and equipment
• Improved coverage in remote areas

Implementing Agency

• Prasar Bharati, India’s autonomous public broadcaster.

Erasmus+ Programme

Recently, 101 Indian students, including 50 women, were awarded Erasmus+ scholarships to pursue master’s degree programs in Europe.

Programme Overview

Launched in 1987, the Erasmus+ programme is the European Union’s flagship initiative aimed at fostering international academic mobility. The scholarship facilitates students’ study at two or more European universities, enabling them to obtain joint, double, or multiple degrees. It comprehensively covers tuition fees, travel expenses, and living costs.

Opportunities for Students

Participants in the Erasmus+ programme may:

• Study abroad for periods ranging from two to twelve months.
• Engage in internships abroad lasting between two to twelve months.
• Enroll in Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programmes lasting one to two academic years.

The programme is administered by the European Commission, the Education, Audiovisual, and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA), along with several National Agencies within participating countries, and National Offices in select partner nations.

Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross

Context:
During his official visit, the Prime Minister of India was awarded Brazil’s highest civilian honour — the Grand Collar of the National Order of the Southern Cross.

What is the Grand Collar?

• The Grand Collar is Brazil’s most prestigious civilian award, exclusively conferred upon foreign dignitaries for exceptional services to Brazil.
• It is awarded by the President of Brazil, who is the Grand Master of the Order.

History and Significance:

• Established on 1 December 1822 by Emperor Pedro I to commemorate Brazil’s independence and his coronation.
• Reinstated in 1932 as a republican order by President Getúlio Vargas to honor foreign heads of state and global leaders.
• The award symbolizes Brazil’s diplomatic goodwill, particularly toward countries in the Global South.

India–Brazil Agreements Signed During the Visit:

• Defence & Security Cooperation: A pact for joint efforts against terrorism, transnational crime, and enhanced strategic coordination.
• Digital Public Infrastructure: Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on exchanging digital solutions, including Brazil’s adoption of a UPI-like payment system.
• Renewable Energy & Sustainability: Collaboration in renewable energy, green technologies, and energy transition.
• Agriculture & Food Security: Agreement between India’s ICAR and Brazil’s EMBRAPA on agricultural technology, seed research, and climate-resilient farming.
• Intellectual Property Rights (IPR): MoU to strengthen policy exchange and innovation in IPR between DPIIT (India) and Brazil’s Ministry of Trade.
• Classified Information Exchange: Framework for mutual protection of sensitive information across defence, science, and technology.
• Bilateral Trade Monitoring Mechanism: Institutionalized ministerial-level framework to enhance trade, commerce, and investment flows.

Bulgaria’s Eurozone Entry

Context:

• EU finance ministers have approved Bulgaria’s entry into the Eurozone effective January 1, 2026.
• Bulgaria will become the 21st member of the Eurozone single currency area.

About Bulgaria

• Location: Southeastern Europe, eastern Balkan Peninsula.
• Capital: Sofia.
• Neighbours: Romania (north), Black Sea (east), Turkey and Greece (southeast), Serbia and North Macedonia (west and southwest).

Geographical Features:

• Danube River: Northern border with Romania; key for transport, agriculture, trade, tourism.
• Mountains:
• Balkan Mountains (Stara Planina): runs east-west, divides northern and southern Bulgaria.
• Rila and Rhodope Ranges in the south; home to Musala Peak, the highest in the Balkans.
• Black Sea Coast: Popular tourist resorts like Sunny Beach, and cities Varna and Burgas.
• Sofia Basin: Fertile lowland where Sofia lies, surrounded by mountains.

Cultural Significance:

• A crossroad blending Slavic, Ottoman, Greek, and Thracian influences.
• Rich heritage of Orthodox churches, Ottoman mosques, Roman ruins.
• Known for distinctive cuisine such as yogurt, banitsa, kebapche.

About the Eurozone (Single Currency Area)

• Definition: A monetary union of EU countries that use the euro (€) as official currency.
• Established: 1999 (virtual), 2002 (physical euro notes and coins).
• Governance: European Central Bank (ECB), Eurogroup, and national central banks coordinate monetary policy.

Key Features:

• Single currency: Simplifies trade, travel, and financial integration within the EU.
• Monetary integration: Coordinated interest rates and inflation targets.
• Stability mechanisms: Bailout frameworks like the European Stability Mechanism (ESM) and fiscal oversight to ensure financial health.
• Eligibility (Maastricht criteria): Low inflation, stable exchange rates, sound public finances.
• Members: 20 before Bulgaria’s upcoming entry, with Croatia being the latest entrant in 2023.

Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS)

Recent Achievement:

In a recent performance review conducted by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, it was reported that nearly 600 students from Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) across 12 Indian states successfully qualified for premier undergraduate entrance exams in engineering and medicine, underscoring the program’s growing efficacy.

Introduction and Policy Framework:

EMRS is a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India. It aims to provide comprehensive residential education to students belonging to Scheduled Tribes (ST) from Class VI to XII. The primary goal is to bridge the educational gap between tribal and non-tribal populations and facilitate access to quality academic opportunities in remote and underdeveloped areas.

Historical Context and Expansion Plan:

Launched in 1998, the EMRS scheme underwent significant restructuring in 2018–19 to improve infrastructural quality and expand coverage. According to the revised policy, EMRS will be established in every administrative block where the tribal population constitutes over 50% and the total tribal population exceeds 20,000 individuals. The government has set an ambitious target of setting up 728 EMRS institutions nationwide by 2026.

Governance and Implementation Mechanism:

The programme is implemented through the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS)—an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. NESTS is responsible for the planning, coordination, and oversight of EMRS institutions across India.

Institutional Features and Facilities

• Academic Structure: EMRS institutions follow the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) curriculum and provide free education to students.
• Infrastructure: Schools are equipped with academic and administrative blocks, separate hostels for boys and girls, science laboratories, staff accommodation, playgrounds, and sports facilities to promote holistic development.
• Cultural and Skill Training: In addition to mainstream education, these schools also emphasize the preservation of tribal art and culture, and offer training in sports and vocational skills.
• Enrollment Capacity: Each school can accommodate up to 480 students, with gender parity in admissions.
• Inclusivity Measures: Non-ST students may be admitted up to 10% of the total strength, and 20% of seats are reserved under a sports quota for ST students with demonstrated athletic talent.

Simonyi Survey Telescope and Vera C. Rubin Observatory

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory, situated at an elevation of 8,684 feet on Cerro Pachón in the Chilean Andes, has recently unveiled its first images captured by its groundbreaking 3,200-megapixel digital camera—the largest ever constructed.

Overview

The observatory operates through a collaboration between the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the National Science Foundation (NSF). At its core is the Simonyi Survey Telescope, distinguished by three primary features:

• Wide Field of View: Compared to typical astronomical telescopes, which observe small portions of the sky, the Simonyi Survey Telescope offers an expansive field of view. For context, the Hubble Space Telescope captures roughly 1% of the visible surface of the full Moon, and the James Webb Space Telescope approximately 75%. This telescope enables astronomers to observe space more broadly, analogous to looking through a wide window rather than a narrow straw.
• Largest Digital Camera: The telescope is equipped with the world’s largest digital camera, roughly the size of a compact car and weighing about 2,800 kilograms. It boasts an extraordinary resolution of 3,200 megapixels, allowing for highly detailed observations.
• Rapid Movement: The Simonyi Survey Telescope is the fastest-slewing telescope globally, capable of moving and stabilizing on a new target within five seconds. This speed results from its compact three-mirror optical design and a mount that glides on a thin film of oil, enabling swift and precise repositioning.

Scientific Significance

The observatory is poised to significantly advance scientific understanding of dark matter and dark energy, which together constitute approximately 95% of the universe''s total mass-energy composition—dark energy accounting for about 68% and dark matter for about 27%. It is notable that dark matter was first identified by the astronomer Fritz Zwicky.

Miniature Plasma Loops

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), along with their collaborators, have utilized high-resolution imaging and spectroscopy to observe miniature plasma loops—previously elusive solar structures—actively occurring on the Sun.

Description and Significance

These miniature plasma loops measure approximately 3,000 to 4,000 kilometers in length but have widths of less than 100 kilometers. Due to their small size and transient nature, they remained undetected until recent advancements in observational technology. These structures provide crucial insights into one of the Sun’s fundamental mysteries: the storage and release of magnetic energy within its atmosphere. By studying these small-scale loops, scientists gain a new perspective on the mechanisms governing magnetic energy dynamics in the solar atmosphere.

Context within Solar Physics

The Sun’s outer atmosphere, or corona, is known for its coronal loops—large, arc-shaped structures of hot plasma glowing at temperatures exceeding one million degrees Celsius. While these prominent coronal loops have been extensively studied, attention is increasingly turning to their miniature counterparts. These smaller loops are embedded in the lower layers of the solar atmosphere, making them difficult to observe and previously unresolved by earlier telescopes.

Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR)

The Indian Navy recently conducted successful user trials of the Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR) from the INS Kavaratti.

Overview and Development

The ERASR is an indigenous anti-submarine rocket designed specifically for the Indian Navy’s Indigenous Rocket Launcher (IRL) system. Developed entirely within India, the project was led by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune, in collaboration with the High Energy Materials Research Laboratory and the Naval Science & Technological Laboratory.

Features and Performance

The rocket is equipped with an indigenously developed Electronic Time Fuze. During the trials, all critical performance parameters—including range, fuze operation, and warhead functionality—were successfully demonstrated. Production of the ERASR is managed by Bharat Dynamics Limited (Hyderabad) and Solar Defence & Aerospace Limited (Nagpur).

Magnetometer and Raman-Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy

Researchers at the Raman Research Institute (RRI), an autonomous entity under India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST), have developed an innovative technique termed Raman-Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS) to enhance magnetometry through an all-optical quantum magnetometer.

Overview of Magnetometers

• A magnetometer is a passive device designed to measure variations in the Earth’s magnetic field. Among the most effective approaches for magnetic field detection are those that monitor the rotation of polarized light as it passes through alkali atoms subjected to weak magnetic fields.
• Devices employing this principle include Optically Pumped Atomic Magnetometers (OPAMs) and Spin Exchange Relaxation Free (SERF) magnetometers. While these instruments offer high sensitivity, they typically require elaborate magnetic shielding and suffer from limited dynamic ranges.
• Magnetometers find applications across diverse domains, including fundamental physics research, medical imaging, and navigation technologies.

Raman-Driven Spin Noise Spectroscopy (RDSNS)

• The newly developed RDSNS technique leverages laser light to detect quantum fluctuations—referred to as spin noise—in the spins of Rubidium atoms. Spin noise represents random variations in the atomic spins, which behave as tiny quantum magnets.
• When subjected to an external magnetic field, the characteristics of this spin noise change in a measurable manner. By illuminating the atoms with laser light and analyzing these fluctuations, researchers can non-invasively and precisely determine the magnetic field strength. Importantly, RDSNS significantly extends the dynamic range of magnetometers without sacrificing sensitivity.
• This advancement has the potential to revolutionize magnetic field measurements by enabling rapid, portable, and accurate detection even amidst noisy, real-world conditions. Furthermore, it opens new possibilities for field-deployable magnetic sensing with broadband capabilities and rapid response times, applicable across scientific research, industrial applications, and exploratory missions.

Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) Dating

Context:
The Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA) has sent 23 charcoal samples from seven excavation sites to the Beta Analytic Laboratory in the United States for Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) dating.

What is AMS Dating?

Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) dating is an advanced radiocarbon dating technique that measures the ratio of Carbon-14 isotopes in archaeological and geological samples. Unlike traditional radiometric methods that detect radioactive decay, AMS counts individual Carbon-14 atoms directly, providing much greater sensitivity and precision.

Objectives:

• To precisely determine the age of ancient materials.
• To enable dating with very small sample sizes (as little as 20 milligrams).
• To allow minimally destructive or non-destructive analysis of rare or precious artifacts.

How AMS Works:

• Sample Preparation: The sample undergoes chemical pretreatment and is converted into graphite.
• Ionization: The graphite is bombarded with a cesium beam to produce negatively charged carbon ions.
• Acceleration: These ions are accelerated in a tandem electrostatic accelerator.
• Stripping & Detection: Ions pass through a stripper that makes them positively charged; magnetic fields then separate isotopes (C-12, C-13, C-14) by mass. The number of C-14 atoms is counted to determine the sample''s age.

Key Features:

• High precision with low background noise.
• Requires about 1,000 times less sample material compared to conventional radiometric dating.
• Faster results—within hours compared to days for traditional methods.
• Less destructive, making it suitable for delicate archaeological specimens.
• Extremely sensitive, capable of detecting trace levels of C-14 even in materials like blood or seeds.

Applications:

• Archaeology: Dating charcoal, wood, bones, and potsherds.
• Geology and Oceanography: Sediment dating, mapping oceanic carbon cycles.
• Biomedical Research: Tracing drugs, studying microdosing.
• Climate Science: Mapping carbon isotopes in marine environments to study climate change.

Coartem Baby – First Malaria Drug for Infants

Context:
Switzerland has approved Coartem Baby, the first-ever malaria treatment specifically formulated for newborns and infants. Eight African countries are expected to follow with expedited approvals.

What is Coartem Baby?

• A pediatric formulation of artemether-lumefantrine, tailored for infants weighing 2–5 kg (newborns to under 6 months old).
• Developed by Novartis in partnership with Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) and global health collaborators.

Key Features:

• Easily dissolves, even in breast milk.
• Cherry-flavored to improve compliance among infants.
• Clinically tested dosing suitable for infants’ immature liver function.
• Approved under Swiss Medic’s Marketing Authorisation for Global Health Products.
• Will be distributed largely on a not-for-profit basis in malaria-endemic countries.

Significance:

• Fills a crucial treatment gap: previously, no malaria drugs were approved for babies under 4.5 kg.
• Enhances safety by removing risks of off-label dosing with adult/older children’s formulations.
• Expected approvals soon in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, Malawi, Mozambique, Burkina Faso, and Ivory Coast.
• Targets malaria risk in approximately 30 million newborns annually in African endemic regions.

Indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS)

Context:
The Indian Army is set to induct its first regiment of the indigenous Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) following successful trials, marking a milestone in artillery modernization.

What is ATAGS?

• A 155mm/52 calibre long-range towed artillery gun system designed for precision firepower and battlefield agility.
• Developed by DRDO with industry partners Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Bharat Forge Ltd under the Make in India initiative.

Key Features:

• Firing range: Up to 48 km.
• Deployment time: Operational within 90 seconds.
• Multiple firing modes: burst, intense, and sustained fire.
• Fully electric drive system replacing hydraulics for enhanced reliability.
• Automatic ammunition loading and onboard crane for ease of handling.
• Wider firing arc enabling superior precision and destructive capability.
• Over 80% indigenous content in components.

Significance:

• Major step towards self-reliant defence manufacturing in India.
• Boosts India’s artillery capability with long-range and precision firepower.
• Reduces dependency on foreign imports for critical defence equipment.
• Supports modern “shoot and scoot” tactics with the upcoming Mounted Gun System (MGS) variant.

Bitchat – Bluetooth-Based Messaging App

Context

• Jack Dorsey, co-founder of Twitter, introduced Bitchat, a novel messaging app designed to function without a centralized server or phone network.

About Bitchat

• A peer-to-peer communication app that operates via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) Mesh Networking.
• Designed to ensure privacy, decentralization, and resilience in communication.

What is Bluetooth Mesh Networking?

• A multi-hop network topology where devices (nodes) communicate directly and relay messages across a mesh of Bluetooth-enabled devices.
• Ensures many-to-many connectivity — messages travel through multiple nodes until they reach the intended recipient.
• Self-healing network: Communication continues even if some devices drop out.

Key Features & Advantages

• No Central Server: Messages exist only on users’ devices and are automatically deleted after a short period.
• End-to-End Encryption: Ensures complete privacy.
• No Registration Required: Users can remain anonymous—no need to share phone numbers or emails.
• Low Power Consumption: Efficient for mobile use.

Limitations

• High Latency: Messages may take time to reach.
• Complex Management: More challenging to set up and maintain.
• Lower Data Speeds: Not suitable for high-bandwidth communication.