Gaza War Stalls IMEC: Challenges and Future Prospects

India’s National Security Council Secretariat recently convened senior representatives from the United States, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Germany, Israel, Jordan, and the European Union to assess progress on the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC). This corridor, while ambitious in scope and geopolitical significance, is currently beset by mounting challenges. This article explores the IMEC’s objectives, the strategic opening that initially enabled its launch, the severe impact of the ongoing Gaza conflict, and the uncertain future that now awaits the project.

India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC): Ambitions and Structure

Unveiled at the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, the IMEC is a transcontinental initiative designed to enhance connectivity and economic integration across Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. The corridor is divided into two primary segments: the India-Gulf corridor and the Gulf-Europe corridor. The first segment links India’s western ports to the UAE, from where high-speed freight rail is proposed to run through Saudi Arabia and Jordan to Haifa, Israel. The second segment extends from Haifa across the Mediterranean to Greece and Italy by sea, with further transport facilitated by Europe’s extensive rail networks. The project is projected to reduce shipping time between India and Europe by nearly 40% compared to traditional Red Sea maritime routes. Despite its potential, tangible progress on the corridor has been minimal since its high-profile announcement.

IMEC’s Promise and the Strategic Opening That Enabled It

The IMEC emerged during a rare moment of relative calm in the Middle East, coinciding with India’s presidency of the G20 in September 2023. The regional environment was marked by growing Arab-Israeli normalization, with Saudi Arabia on the verge of formalizing ties with Israel. This created a unique geopolitical window for India, Middle Eastern nations, the United States, and Europe to jointly conceptualize a corridor spanning from South Asia to Europe. The economic incentives were compelling: the European Union is India’s largest trading partner, with bilateral trade reaching $137.41 billion in FY 2023–24, while India’s non-oil trade with both the UAE and Saudi Arabia showed significant growth.

Beyond serving as a trade conduit, the IMEC was envisioned as a multidimensional infrastructure network incorporating electricity and digital connectivity cables, clean hydrogen pipelines, and frameworks to enhance efficiency, lower logistical costs, generate employment, and cut emissions. It also sought to resolve long-standing obstacles to transcontinental trade, including tariff inconsistencies, limited financial integration, insufficient corridor-wide insurance mechanisms, and disparate port capacities. A cross-Saudi/UAE railway was central to physically connecting the corridor’s sea legs. While these challenges were deemed surmountable through strategic investment and multilateral cooperation, progress was abruptly derailed when the region plunged into violent conflict mere weeks after the project’s announcement, stalling the inaugural stakeholder meeting.

Gaza War Transforms Manageable Challenges into Structural Barriers

Although the IMEC’s economic rationale remains intact, its practical obstacles have shifted dramatically in scale and complexity due to the ongoing Gaza war. What were once seen as logistical and regulatory hurdles have now become entrenched geopolitical and security obstacles. The corridor’s central Middle East-Europe segment hinges on cooperation between Jordan and Israel — cooperation that has significantly deteriorated amidst growing tensions over the humanitarian fallout in Gaza and the displacement of Palestinians. At the same time, Saudi-Israel normalization, once considered imminent, has been effectively shelved. Riyadh now insists on tangible concessions for Palestinians, demands that Israel currently refuses to meet.

The conflict’s spillover into Lebanon, Yemen, Syria, Iraq, and heightened regional frictions with Iran have escalated political instability and driven up insurance premiums for trade across the region. These developments have compounded the risks and complexities of IMEC implementation. Paradoxically, even as the war impedes the project’s progress, Israel views the corridor as a crucial step in strengthening its economic ties with the Arab world—though notably excluding Palestine from this framework. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has characterized the IMEC as a “geopolitical blessing” for its participants, underlining Israel’s strategic stake in the corridor’s eventual realization.

Prospects for IMEC: Contingent on Stability and Conflict Resolution

Despite the uncertainty shrouding the corridor’s western leg, the eastern segment retains some momentum due to India’s robust strategic and economic partnerships with the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Initiatives such as the integration of India’s Unified Payments Interface (UPI) with Gulf economies illustrate ongoing efforts to deepen digital and financial connectivity. However, intra-Gulf rivalries — exemplified by Saudi Arabia’s attempts to offset the UAE’s regional dominance — complicate unified planning and pose additional hurdles to the corridor’s execution.

For the IMEC to live up to its 2023 vision, the return of regional stability is essential — a condition inseparable from progress on the Palestinian statehood question. The growing international consensus on the need to halt the Gaza war reinforces this reality. For instance, Germany’s recent decision to suspend certain arms shipments to Israel reflects the shifting global stance toward the conflict. Until a sustainable resolution is achieved, the IMEC remains a conceptual “day-after” project. For now, efforts are limited to planning, dialogue, and incremental trade facilitation, with full-scale implementation deferred until peace can once again underpin regional cooperation.

India’s Agricultural Exports Surge Amid Global Trade Challenges

Despite stagnant overall merchandise exports, India’s agricultural sector has emerged as a key growth driver in the current trade landscape. As global economic uncertainties and protectionist policies — including newly imposed U.S. tariffs — threaten external trade, agriculture continues to demonstrate resilience and expansion potential.

India’s Export Performance in 2024–25

India’s merchandise exports reached $437.4 billion in 2024–25, reflecting marginal growth of 0.1% over the $437.1 billion achieved in 2023–24. During the April–June 2025 quarter, exports totaled $112 billion, marking a 1.7% year-on-year increase from $110.1 billion in the same period the previous year. The central government has expressed optimism that, despite external headwinds — particularly U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionist stance, including a 50% tariff on Indian goods — India’s exports will surpass last year’s levels by the end of the fiscal year.

Agricultural Exports: Sustained Growth and Record Potential

India’s agricultural exports have seen sustained and meaningful growth, with 2024–25 figures rising 6.4% to $51.9 billion from $48.8 billion in 2023–24. The upward trajectory continued into the first quarter of 2025–26, which saw a 5.8% increase year-on-year. If current trends hold, agricultural exports are projected to hit $55 billion in 2025–26, exceeding the record $53.2 billion set in 2022–23. Notably, exports to the U.S. surged 24.1% during January–June 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, positioning the U.S. as a major growth market for Indian agricultural products.

Drivers and Risks Behind the Growth in Farm Exports

India’s farm exports have grown significantly over the past two decades — from $7.5 billion in 2003–04 to $43.3 billion in 2013–14 — and peaked at $53.2 billion in 2022–23, buoyed by a global agri-commodity price boom. The FAO food price index rose from 96.4 in 2019–20 to 140.6 in 2022–23, reflecting that global trend.

The subsequent dip in 2023–24 was due to domestic drought conditions and government-imposed restrictions on the export of wheat, rice, sugar, and onions aimed at curbing domestic food inflation. These restrictions were relaxed in 2024–25 following a stronger agricultural output, aided by a favorable monsoon. With a second consecutive above-average monsoon forecasted, sugar exports may resume — a significant reversal, given that sugar net exports plummeted from $5.5 billion in 2022–23 to just $771.3 million in 2024–25.

In the first quarter of 2025–26, several agricultural commodities — including marine products, non-basmati rice, buffalo meat, coffee, tobacco, and fruits and vegetables — showed strong performance. Coffee exports benefitted from low global stocks caused by poor harvests in Brazil and Vietnam, two of the world’s leading producers of arabica and robusta beans, respectively. India primarily exports robusta beans and processed coffee powder used in instant blends and espresso.

Tariff Threats and Competitive Pressures

From August 27, 2025, the U.S. is set to impose a 50% tariff on Indian imports — a move that could significantly impact marine exports. The United States currently accounts for 35% of India’s marine product exports, including $1.9 billion worth of frozen shrimp and prawns from a total marine export value of $4.5 billion.

Simultaneously, if the U.S. imposes similar tariffs on Brazilian goods, Brazil’s surplus coffee may flood alternative markets, potentially depressing prices and undermining India’s export competitiveness in the sector. These shifts may amplify volatility and price pressure in India’s agricultural export markets.

Agricultural Imports and Rising Dependency

India sustained a $13.4 billion agricultural trade surplus in 2024–25, with exports totaling $51.9 billion against imports of $38.5 billion. However, this surplus has declined significantly from the $27.7 billion surplus recorded in 2013–14, primarily due to more rapid import growth.

India’s agricultural imports are largely concentrated in a few commodities:

·       Over two-thirds of import value derives from vegetable oils, pulses, and fresh fruits.

·       Fresh fruit imports, worth $1.7 billion in 2024–25 — mostly sourced from the U.S. — include items such as almonds, pistachios, walnuts, apples, grapes, kiwis, figs, pears, and dates.

·       Pulses imports hit an all-time high of 7.3 million tonnes, valued at $5.5 billion, after tariff reductions necessitated by the 2023–24 El Niño-induced drought. While this eased in 2025 due to a strong harvest, dependency remains a concern.

·       Imports of vegetable oils — including palm, soybean, and sunflower oils — continue to rise as domestic production fails to meet consumption needs.

·       Imports of cotton and natural rubber have also grown in recent years, reflecting declining domestic production since their peak years of 2013–14 (cotton) and 2012–13 (rubber).

Agriculture as a Stumbling Block in India–U.S. Trade Talks

Agriculture has become a central point of friction in India–U.S. trade negotiations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent assertion that India “will never compromise” the interests of its farmers, livestock keepers, and fishers reflects New Delhi’s toughened position on agricultural liberalization.

Talks have stalled over U.S. demands to open Indian markets to American agricultural exports, including genetically modified (GM) maize and soybeans, fuel ethanol, and dairy products. India is now firmly opposed to including these items in any trade agreement, a position influenced both by domestic political sensitivities and recent U.S. tariff measures. These include a 50% import duty that also targets India’s purchases of Russian oil, adding a geopolitical dimension to the trade impasse.

Defence Production in India FY 2024–25: Record Growth and Strategic Expansion

India’s domestic defence manufacturing sector achieved a significant milestone in FY 2024–25, with total production reaching a record ₹1.51 lakh crore. This represents an 18% increase over the previous fiscal year and an impressive 90% growth since FY 2019–20. The surge in output underscores the strengthening of India’s indigenous defence industrial base, driven by policy reforms and a strategic push for self-reliance.

Defence Production in FY 2024–25: Overview

Definition and Scope

Defence production in India encompasses the manufacturing of weapons, military systems, and equipment for the country’s armed forces as well as for export. It includes contributions from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), Ordnance factories, other public sector units (PSUs), and a growing number of private sector firms. The sector serves both domestic security needs and international defence partnerships.

Key Trends in Defence Manufacturing

India’s defence production has recorded robust growth over the past several years, with FY 2024–25 standing out for its record output and expanded private sector role:

·       Record Output: Total defence manufacturing stood at ₹1,50,590 crore in FY 2024–25 — the highest ever recorded.

·       Year-on-Year Growth: This represents an 18% rise compared to FY 2023–24.

·       Five-Year Growth Trajectory: Compared to FY 2019–20, production has jumped by 90%, reflecting rapid scale-up and policy-driven momentum.

·       Sectoral Distribution: Public sector undertakings — including DPSUs and other PSUs — accounted for 77% of total output. The private sector contributed the remaining 23%, up from 21% in the previous fiscal, indicating a steady increase in non-governmental participation.

·       Policy Catalysts: Several government initiatives have fueled this growth, including the Aatmanirbhar Bharat campaign, reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business in defence manufacturing, and concerted efforts to indigenise key military technologies.

·       Defence Exports: India’s defence exports also showed strong performance, reaching ₹23,622 crore in FY 2024–25 — a 12% increase over the previous year. This growth reflects both product competitiveness and improved international defence partnerships.

Economic Sanctions as a Tool of U.S. Hegemony

In a related context of international economic policy and strategic autonomy, a working paper by former RBI Governor Dr. Urjit Patel explores how the United States uses economic sanctions as an instrument of geopolitical influence. The paper highlights the rise of economic coercion as a preferred tool over direct military engagement, particularly under the Trump administration.

Key Insights from Dr. Urjit Patel’s Paper

Economic Sanctions as Economic Warfare

Sanctions — including restrictions on trade, shipping, financial transactions, and banking infrastructure — are increasingly deployed in place of traditional warfare. These measures aim to align other nations with the strategic and diplomatic agendas of sanctioning countries, most notably the United States.

Proliferation but Limited Impact

Despite the sharp rise in sanctions over the past two decades, their actual effectiveness remains limited. Since 2000, there have been 687 instances of sanctions globally, but fewer than 20% have fully achieved the intended diplomatic outcomes for the sanctioning parties.

Emergence of Secondary Sanctions

One of the most significant trends in modern economic coercion is the use of secondary sanctions — penalties imposed on third-party countries that engage with primary sanctioned states. These extraterritorial sanctions are designed to deter indirect economic support and are widely used by the U.S. and its allies (G7 nations and the EU). Notable examples include:

• Chabahar Port, Iran: Indian investments in this strategic infrastructure project were adversely impacted by U.S. sanctions, despite it being critical for regional connectivity and trade.
• Oil Sector Investments in Russia: Indian public sector undertakings (PSUs) have been unable to access an estimated $900 million in dividends from oil investments due to payment restrictions imposed by U.S. and EU sanctions on Russia.

Tamil Nadu’s State Education Policy 2025: A Distinct Alternative to the NEP

Tamil Nadu has formally unveiled its State Education Policy (SEP) 2025, presenting a state-specific vision that diverges from the Union Government’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Anchored in Tamil Nadu’s longstanding emphasis on social equity, linguistic diversity, and inclusive education, the SEP 2025 articulates a roadmap for future-ready reforms in school and higher education while reaffirming the state’s commitment to federal autonomy in educational governance.

Introduction

The SEP 2025 marks Tamil Nadu’s official response to the NEP 2020 and underscores the state’s differing priorities, particularly regarding language policy, centralised examinations, and educational federalism. The new policy aligns with Tamil Nadu’s socio-political ethos by focusing on equitable access, regional language promotion, and employment-oriented learning. It seeks to modernise the education system while preserving its distinct cultural and social fabric.

Historical Context: Tamil Nadu’s Progressive Educational Legacy

Tamil Nadu has a rich legacy of progressive educational policies aimed at enhancing accessibility and bridging socio-economic disparities. Initiatives such as the mid-20th century free noon-meal scheme and state-funded school and college expansion have contributed significantly to educational inclusion. In the last few decades, the state has consistently maintained:

• A two-language policy prioritising Tamil and English, in contrast to the NEP’s three-language formula.
• Opposition to NEET (National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test), citing its negative impact on rural and disadvantaged students.
• Higher-than-average Gross Enrolment Ratios (GER) in both school and higher education compared to national figures.

This context has shaped Tamil Nadu’s rejection of a centralised, one-size-fits-all education model in favour of a decentralised, context-sensitive approach.

Core Tenets of the State Education Policy 2025

Formulated by a high-level expert committee led by retired Delhi High Court Chief Justice D. Murugesan, the SEP 2025 emerged from wide-ranging consultations with stakeholders, including educators, students, subject experts, and civil society groups. The policy is structured around the following foundational principles:

·       Equity and Inclusivity: Prioritising quality education for all, regardless of caste, gender, socio-economic background, or language.

·       State Autonomy: Developing educational strategies that are contextually aligned with Tamil Nadu’s unique socio-cultural and economic realities.

·       Employment-Readiness: Embedding vocational education and skill development across school and college curricula to meet contemporary labour market demands.

Reforms in School Education

The SEP 2025 proposes significant reforms in school education, building on Tamil Nadu’s existing frameworks while addressing future needs:

·       Two-Language Policy: Tamil and English will remain the sole mediums of instruction, explicitly rejecting the NEP''s three-language formula.

·       Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: Enhanced focus on early childhood learning (Classes 1–3), using continuous and formative assessments in place of high-stakes exams.

·       Digital Infrastructure Expansion: Rollout of smart classrooms, ICT integration, and digital pedagogy training for teachers to improve tech-enabled learning.

·       Strengthened Welfare Schemes: Continued support for social justice initiatives such as free textbooks, uniforms, and the noon-meal programme to reduce educational dropouts.

Higher Education Framework

The policy offers a future-oriented framework for higher education that aligns with both regional needs and global trends:

·       Autonomous Curriculum Design: Tamil Nadu’s universities will have greater flexibility to create locally relevant syllabi tied to employment opportunities in regional industries.

·       Multiple Entry-Exit Options: Inspired by NEP''s flexibility but adapted to Tamil Nadu’s academic calendar, students can pause and resume courses without losing credits.

·       Research and Innovation Hubs: Targeted investment in domain-specific research centres, particularly in agriculture, renewable energy, and healthcare sectors.

·       Opposition to Centralised Entrance Tests: Admissions to professional courses will continue to follow the state’s reservation norms and existing exemptions from NEET and similar exams.

Vocational Education and Skill Development

The SEP 2025 places a strong emphasis on preparing students for a dynamic job market by integrating practical and technical education from the school level onward:

·       Industry collaboration will inform regular updates to vocational curricula in polytechnic and ITI institutions.

·       Skill-based courses covering emerging areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, agritech, and entrepreneurship will be introduced at the secondary level.

·       Final-year students will have access to internships and apprenticeships through partnerships with Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), strengthening the link between education and employment.

Teacher Training and Capacity Building

Recognising the centrality of educators in implementing reforms, the SEP 2025 includes:

·       Revamped teacher education modules that incorporate digital learning and inclusive pedagogical practices.

·       Ongoing professional development through Continuous Professional Development (CPD) initiatives for teachers at all levels.

·       Launch of an online portal offering pedagogical resources in both Tamil and English to aid instructional quality and knowledge sharing.

Key Differences with NEP 2020

While both policies acknowledge the need for flexibility, innovation, and skill-building, SEP 2025 diverges sharply from NEP 2020 on several fronts, including:

·       Language policy: Tamil Nadu retains its two-language approach.

·       Federal autonomy: SEP rejects centralised decision-making in curriculum and examinations.

·       Entrance exams: State continues to oppose centralised tests like NEET in favour of state-controlled admission systems.

·       Reservation and social justice: SEP reinforces caste-based reservations and state-specific welfare schemes, absent from the NEP.

Significance of the SEP 2025

SEP 2025 is more than a policy document; it is a political and philosophical assertion of Tamil Nadu’s federal rights and its capacity to govern education in alignment with local values. The policy reinforces the view that education, being a Concurrent List subject, must allow states sufficient latitude to tailor reforms to their unique cultural and economic contexts. Simultaneously, the SEP reflects global trends in education — including modular learning, skill development, and digital innovation — while remaining rooted in social justice.

Future Outlook

The successful realisation of SEP 2025 depends on multiple factors, including effective implementation, adequate budgetary support, and collaboration among stakeholders such as the state education department, universities, and private institutions. As Tamil Nadu aims to strengthen its position as an education hub, the SEP could serve as a blueprint for other Indian states seeking to assert autonomy and craft context-specific alternatives to centralised policies.

National Medical Register (NMR)

The National Medical Register (NMR) was introduced as part of a larger initiative to streamline medical practitioner records in India. However, the Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare recently informed the Lok Sabha that applying for an NMR Identification (ID) is currently voluntary.

Overview and Purpose

The NMR is a centralized, digital database maintained by the National Medical Commission (NMC) and launched in August 2024 under Section 31 of the NMC Act, 2019. Originally intended as a mandatory registry, its key objective is to eliminate duplication in registration and improve transparency in the health system.

The database contains detailed information about each medical practitioner qualified in modern medicine — including their academic credentials, specialisations (currently being integrated), registration status, and registration date. Every practitioner is assigned a unique NMR ID.

This ID is digitally linked to the doctor’s Aadhaar for identity verification. While some information is made available for public access, sensitive personal details remain restricted to authorized institutions or personnel.

Operational Framework

State Medical Councils (SMCs) are responsible for verifying the authenticity of degrees and registration details. Once verified at the state level, the information is forwarded to the NMC, which issues the NMR ID upon final clearance. The NMR portal is designed to be dynamic, ensuring regular updates and promoting transparency in governance.

Blue Pinkgill Mushroom: A Rare Fungal Sight in Telangana

A rare species of brightly coloured fungi known as the Blue Pinkgill Mushroom has recently been observed in the Kagaznagar forest division, located in the Komaram Bheem Asifabad district of Telangana.

Scientific Identity and Origin

Known scientifically as Entoloma hochstetteri, this vibrant species is also popularly referred to as the “sky-blue mushroom.” It is primarily native to New Zealand and is so iconic that it is featured on the country’s $50 currency note.

Physical Features and Identification

The mushroom is renowned for its vivid blue colour, which results from the presence of azulene pigments — a rarity in fungi. The gills tend to display pink or purplish tones due to spore coloration. Blue Pinkgill mushrooms vary in size and typically have either flat or funnel-shaped caps. Stems can be attached centrally or from the side, and the spore print is generally pink to salmon-coloured, an identifying trait.

Habitat and Seasonality

Although common in New Zealand’s broadleaf forests, the species'' appearance in India is extremely rare. The mushroom thrives during the monsoon season when the forest soil becomes saturated from persistent rainfall, offering the moist conditions necessary for its growth.

Colorado River: A Shrinking Lifeline

The Colorado River, one of North America''s most important water sources, is facing a severe crisis due to diminishing flow levels. This decline has intensified competition among U.S. states over water allocation and rights.

Geography and Reach

The river originates in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado and flows 1,450 miles (2,330 km) southwest into the Gulf of California in northwestern Mexico. It traverses seven U.S. states and two Mexican states, supplying water to over 40 million people.

Strategic and Environmental Significance

Often called the “Lifeline of the Southwest,” the river supports a large arid and semi-arid region. It forms several crucial reservoirs, including Lake Mead and Lake Powell, and serves as the international boundary between Arizona (U.S.) and Mexico over a stretch of 29 kilometers.

Tributaries and Landscapes

Major tributaries of the Colorado River include the Green, Gunnison, San Juan, Dolores, Little Colorado, Gila, and Virgin Rivers. Among its most iconic features is the Grand Canyon, carved over millions of years and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The river also runs through Canyonlands National Park and Horseshoe Bend, adding to its environmental and touristic value.

New Freshwater Crab Species: Kasargodia Sheebae and Pilarta Vaman

Researchers have recently identified a new genus and two species of freshwater crabs in the Western Ghats region of Kerala, adding to the region’s ecological richness.

Taxonomic Classification and Discovery

Both species belong to the Gecarcinucidae family of freshwater crabs. The newly established genus, Kasargodia, is named after Kasargod, the northernmost district of Kerala where one of the crabs was discovered.

• Kasargodia sheebae: Noted for its distinctive brownish-orange carapace with numerous black spots. The claws and limbs exhibit an orange hue with similar black spotting.
• Pilarta vaman: Named after Vaman, one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology. The name alludes to the crab’s small size. It has a quadrate carapace, distinguishing it from related species.

These discoveries highlight the biodiversity significance of the Western Ghats and underscore the need for continued ecological documentation and conservation efforts in the region.

National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)

The National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) recently issued guidelines aimed at controlling diseases stemming from contaminated water sources. Operating under the Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, NCDC serves as a national institute of excellence in the prevention and control of communicable diseases.

Established with the objective of strengthening India’s disease surveillance and response systems, the institute is led by a Director from the Public Health sub-cadre of the Central Health Service. Its headquarters are located in New Delhi, with eight regional branches in Alwar (Rajasthan), Bengaluru (Karnataka), Kozhikode (Kerala), Coonoor (Tamil Nadu), Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh), Patna (Bihar), Rajahmundry (Andhra Pradesh), and Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh).

Historical Background

The NCDC traces its origins to the Central Malaria Bureau established in Kasauli (Himachal Pradesh) in 1909. In 1927, it was renamed the Malaria Survey of India. It moved to Delhi in 1938 and became the Malaria Institute of India (MII). Following a significant decline in malaria cases due to the National Malaria Eradication Programme (NMEP), the institute’s mandate expanded to other communicable diseases, resulting in its rebranding as the National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD) in 1963.

In 2009, NICD was further restructured and renamed as the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), thereby formalizing its responsibility for handling both emerging and re-emerging diseases.

Mandate and Key Functions

NCDC acts as India’s central authority for disease surveillance, assisting in the prevention and control of outbreaks through cooperation with state governments. The institute has developed capabilities in rapid outbreak investigation and crisis response. It also works extensively on Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR), which poses a serious long-term threat to public health.

Its functions extend to providing diagnostic support, capacity building, and offering technical guidance to states and Union Territories. NCDC’s role broadly spans three domains — health services, training of health personnel, and research — thereby anchoring India’s preparedness against public health threats.

Barda Wildlife Sanctuary and Asiatic Lion Conservation

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Gujarat Forest Department, recently celebrated World Lion Day 2025 at the Barda Wildlife Sanctuary located in Devbhumi Dwarka district, Gujarat.

Overview of Barda Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated in the state of Gujarat, Barda Wildlife Sanctuary features two rivers — Bileshvary and Joghri — and two reservoirs, Khambala and Fodara. The area is inhabited by traditional communities such as the Maldharis, Bharvads, Rabaris, and Gadhvis.

To provide a secondary habitat for Asiatic lions, the state initiated the Gir-Barda Project in 1979. Today, Barda stands as an important biodiversity hotspot and a strategic site in Gujarat’s lion conservation efforts.

The sanctuary is rich in floral biodiversity, with about 650 plant species, including Rayan, Babul, Ber, Jamun, Amli, Gorad, Bamboo, Dhav, and Dhudhlo, many of which possess medicinal value. Its fauna includes key species like leopards, hyenas, jackals, wild boars, blue bulls, and rare raptors such as the spotted eagle and crested hawk eagle.

16th Asiatic Lion Population Estimation Report (2025)

The 16th Lion Population Estimation, conducted by the Gujarat Forest Department with support from the MoEFCC under Project Lion, has presented encouraging trends.

As of 2025, the total lion population is recorded at 891, indicating a 32.2% increase from 2020. The number of adult females has risen from 260 to 330, marking a 26.9% improvement, enhancing the species’ reproductive capacity.

For the first time, 22 lions were spotted in wildlife corridors, showing signs of range expansion. There are now 497 lions across nine satellite regions, including Barda Wildlife Sanctuary, Jetpur, and Babra-Jasdan.

Regional population trends reveal the highest concentration in Amreli district, which has 82 adult males, 117 adult females, and 79 cubs. Meanwhile, Mitiyala Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhavnagar Mainland witnessed the highest growth rates of 100% and 84% respectively, followed by a 40% rise in the South Eastern Coast. However, Girnar Wildlife Sanctuary and Bhavnagar Coast recorded a decline in population by 4% and 12% respectively.

Significance

The lion population has grown by 70.36% over the past decade, with their geographical range expanding nearly 60%. This conservation success underlines the ecological role of Asiatic lions as keystone species that help maintain the balance of grassland and scrubland ecosystems. Culturally, these lions represent a global heritage, as the only wild population of their kind survives solely in Gujarat’s Saurashtra region.

About the Asiatic Lion

Known also as the Persian Lion or Indian Lion, the Asiatic lion belongs to the subspecies Panthera leo persica. It is found exclusively in India, mainly within the Gir National Park and Wildlife Sanctuary in Gujarat.

Conservation Status:

• IUCN Red List: Vulnerable
• CITES: Appendix I
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Schedule I

This status emphasizes the critical importance of continued conservation efforts, both within protected areas and across newly identified corridors like those in Barda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Biligiri Rangaswamy Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve

The Biligiri Ranganatha Temple (BRT) Tiger Reserve in Karnataka recently served eviction notices to two religious institutions and two businessmen for unauthorized occupation within the reserve area. The reserve is situated in the Biligirirangana Hills (BR Hills) in Chamarajanagar District of Karnataka. Geographically, it lies at a crucial junction between the Western and Eastern Ghats, making it an ecologically vital habitat.

Declared a tiger reserve in 2011, BRT covers an area of 574.82 square kilometres and is situated at an elevation of approximately 5,091 feet above sea level. The name "Biligiri" translates to “white rocky cliff,” referencing the mist-covered hills that dominate the landscape. At its peak sits the ancient Rangaswamy Temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, from which the reserve also derives its name.

The reserve is also home to the Soliga tribe, one of the earliest tribal communities to be granted legal forest rights within a tiger reserve following a landmark 2011 court judgment. The vegetation in the region is diverse, encompassing scrub forests, dry and moist deciduous forests, shola patches, and montane grasslands.

Floral species include Anogeissus latifolia, Dalbergia paniculata, Grewia teliaefolia, and various species of Terminalia, including T. alata, T. bellirica, and T. paniculata. The fauna is equally diverse, with the reserve hosting tigers, elephants, leopards, wild dogs, gaurs (Indian bison), sambar deer, spotted and barking deer, four-horned antelope, sloth bears, wild boars, langurs, bonnet macaques, and a wide variety of birds and reptiles.

Tritium and Fukushima Wastewater Release

A recent global ocean modelling study conducted by the University of Tokyo and Fukushima University has concluded that the tritium wastewater released from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant presents negligible environmental risk.

Tritium (³H or T) is a radioactive isotope of hydrogen, consisting of one proton and two neutrons, making it the heaviest stable hydrogen isotope. It has a half-life of about 32 years and emits low-energy beta radiation, which cannot penetrate human skin. Tritium becomes harmful only if inhaled or ingested in large amounts and commonly exists in the environment as tritiated water (HTO).

It occurs naturally in the atmosphere through cosmic ray interactions but is also produced artificially in nuclear reactors, either through lithium irradiation or as a byproduct of nuclear fission.

The Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant, located in Ōkuma, Japan, and operated by TEPCO, experienced a catastrophic failure during the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, resulting in reactor meltdowns, hydrogen explosions, and significant radioactive leaks—one of the worst nuclear disasters since Chernobyl (1986).

The plant contains six boiling water reactors (BWRs) and utilizes containment tanks to store treated wastewater, which includes trace levels of radionuclides. Tritium, which cannot be removed via conventional filtration, remains in the treated water. This water is now being gradually released into the Pacific Ocean over a 30-year plan, with low concentrations meeting international safety standards after being treated using the ALPS (Advanced Liquid Processing System).

Bhagirathi River

The Bhagirathi River, a prominent Himalayan river and one of the two headstreams of the Ganga, recently underwent a significant morphological shift. Following a flash flood in Dharali, Uttarakhand, its course was altered, and its tributary Kheer Gad was redirected back to an earlier channel. This transformation in the river’s flow pattern has been confirmed by satellite imagery from ISRO, highlighting the dynamic nature of Himalayan rivers in tectonically sensitive zones.

The Bhagirathi originates from the Gaumukh Glacier, situated at an altitude of 3,892 metres in Uttarakhand’s Gangotri region. Known for its mythological and cultural significance, the river is associated with the Hindu legend of King Bhagiratha, who is believed to have brought the celestial Ganga to earth through deep penance. As such, the river is revered in Hinduism and features prominently in ancient scriptures like the Ramayana and Puranas.

The river flows exclusively through the state of Uttarakhand, passing through key towns such as Gangotri, Harsil, Uttarkashi, Tehri, and Devprayag. Along its journey, it is fed by multiple tributaries including Kedar Ganga at Gangotri, Jadh Ganga at Bhaironghati, and smaller streams like Kakora Gad, Jalandhari Gad, and Siyan Gad near Harsil and Jhala. Near Uttarkashi, it is joined by the Asi Ganga, and at Old Tehri, it receives the Bhilangna River, which originates from the Khatling Glacier.

At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi merges with the Alaknanda River, after which the combined flow is officially named the Ganga. While traditionally considered the source of the Ganga due to its mythological relevance, hydrologically, the Alaknanda surpasses Bhagirathi in terms of length and water discharge.

The river is characterised by a highly dynamic and sensitive morphology, particularly vulnerable to natural forces such as landslides, glacial surges, sediment deposition, and flooding—common in the seismically active Himalayan region. Events like the recent flash flood serve as stark reminders of how climatic and geological factors can significantly alter river behaviour.

On the infrastructure front, the Bhagirathi plays a critical role in hydropower generation. The Tehri Dam, one of India’s tallest dams, has been constructed at the confluence of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangna rivers, serving as a major source of water storage and electricity generation for the region.

Despite its utility, the river flows through an ecologically fragile environment, which is increasingly threatened by glacial melt, changing rainfall patterns, and unregulated development. These factors underscore the need for sustainable water resource management and resilient infrastructure planning in the Himalayan region.

In essence, the Bhagirathi River stands as a symbol of spiritual heritage, environmental complexity, and hydrological importance, representing both the blessings and the challenges of India’s mountain river systems.

India’s First Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory

India has inaugurated its first state-of-the-art Animal Stem Cell Biobank and Laboratory at the National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) in Hyderabad, Telangana. This facility is a pioneering step in biotechnology, aimed at research, preservation, and utilisation of animal stem cells for multiple applications including regenerative medicine, disease modelling, and reproductive biotechnology in livestock.

This biobank is established by NIAB, which operates under the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), and is supported by the National Biopharma Mission (NBM) through DBT–BIRAC.

Its primary goals include enhancing veterinary health innovation through stem cell-based therapies, promoting the One Health approach (linking human, animal, and environmental health), and strengthening India''s capabilities in biotechnology-driven agricultural development.

The lab is equipped with advanced infrastructure, including a stem cell culture unit, 3D bioprinter, cryostorage units, bacterial culture labs, autoclave rooms, and modern air handling units. It also has uninterrupted power backup to maintain research continuity. Core research areas include tissue engineering, treatment models for diseases such as brucellosis and mastitis, and reproductive biotechnology.

Future plans aim to expand the biobank’s role in long-term storage and clinical application of stem cells. The initiative is expected to enhance livestock productivity, support the Evergreen Revolution in animal husbandry, and bolster India’s early leadership in agri-biotech innovation.

IIT-Roorkee’s Novel Drug Candidate Against Antibiotic Resistance

Researchers at IIT Roorkee have developed a promising new drug candidate named Compound 3b, which has shown strong therapeutic potential in preclinical models against antibiotic-resistant infections. Specifically, this molecule neutralizes resistance mechanisms in KPC-2-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae—a dangerous superbug recognized by the WHO as a top-priority threat.

Compound 3b works in synergy with the widely used antibiotic Meropenem, acting as a β-lactamase inhibitor. These inhibitors, while having minimal antibiotic action themselves, block the enzymes (β-lactamases) that bacteria use to break down β-lactam antibiotics, preserving their effectiveness.

Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) occurs when bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites become unresponsive to treatments such as antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics. This leads to longer illnesses, higher transmission rates, and increased fatalities, especially when standard drugs become ineffective.

The economic impact of AMR is severe. According to the World Bank, AMR could add nearly $1 trillion in healthcare costs by 2050. Key contributors to AMR include the discharge of pharmaceutical waste, landfill leachates, untreated industrial and domestic wastewater, and sewage effluents.

Global and national efforts to tackle AMR include the One Health approach and the Global Action Plan (GAP) on AMR, adopted at the 2015 World Health Assembly of the World Health Organization (WHO). These initiatives aim to create sustainable strategies to curb the rise of resistant pathogens by integrating human, animal, and environmental health policies

Biosafety Levels (BSL)

The Nehru Zoological Park in Hyderabad is on track to host the first Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory in southern India. This advanced lab will play a vital role in rapid disease diagnosis, post-mortem investigations, and research on zoonotic infections—diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

Biosafety levels—also referred to as biological safety levels or biohazard levels—establish the containment protocols required when handling infectious agents in laboratory settings. These levels are mandatory across biological research facilities and are fundamental to ensuring both research safety and public health security. They function to prevent the escape or accidental exposure of dangerous or potentially lethal organisms.

There are four biosafety levels, starting from BSL-1, the lowest level, to BSL-4, which represents the highest degree of biological containment. Each level is designed to build on the preceding one, thereby incorporating incremental barriers and safety measures depending on the risk profile of the microorganisms involved.

Several factors are taken into account while determining the biosafety level of a lab. These include the pathogen''s route of exposure, transmissibility, severity of infection, origin, type of work involved, and the containment risks associated with the organism.

·       BSL-1 applies to labs handling low-risk microbes that pose minimal threats to healthy individuals. Such labs are generally not isolated and involve only basic hygiene practices like regular handwashing and standard personal protective equipment.

·       BSL-2 includes labs that work with pathogens known to cause human diseases with a moderate risk level. These microbes can spread via inhalation, ingestion, or direct contact with skin.

·       BSL-3 labs deal with indigenous or exotic microbes capable of causing severe or potentially fatal illnesses through airborne transmission. Enhanced safety protocols are essential here, including controlled airflow systems, specialized protective clothing, and restricted access.

·       BSL-4 represents the highest level of biosafety, required when working with exotic microbes that cause life-threatening diseases for which no treatments or vaccines are available. These labs are rare and include maximum containment protocols, such as positive pressure suits, airtight environments, and multiple decontamination zones.

At the most basic level, biosafety protocols involve hand hygiene and simple gear, but at advanced levels, labs must deploy airtight rooms, sealed equipment, rigorous training regimens, and extensive security controls to ensure safe operations.

Armenia–Azerbaijan Peace Agreement (Brokered by the US)

In a significant diplomatic milestone, Armenia and Azerbaijan have signed a peace agreement brokered by the United States, seeking to bring a conclusive end to their long-standing conflict.

As part of the agreement, both nations committed to a cessation of hostilities and the establishment of formal diplomatic relations. A major feature of the deal is the creation of a new transit corridor—named the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP)—which connects Azerbaijan to its exclave Nakhchivan by crossing Armenian territory. The development rights for this corridor have been exclusively granted to the United States.

Additionally, both Armenia and Azerbaijan signed bilateral cooperation agreements with the United States, targeting key sectors such as energy, technology, and economic development.

The conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan revolves around Nagorno-Karabakh, a mountainous region inside Azerbaijan that has a predominantly ethnic Armenian population. In the 1980s, the region declared independence from Azerbaijan with support from Armenia. Following their independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, tensions continued. The situation escalated in 2023, when Azerbaijan regained full territorial control of Nagorno-Karabakh, displacing almost 100,000 ethnic Armenians to Armenia.

India has welcomed the peace agreement, describing it as a valuable achievement for regional diplomacy and stability. India’s support stems from its long-standing Friendship and Cooperation Treaty with Armenia, signed in 1995. Additionally, Azerbaijan holds strategic relevance for India as it lies along the International North-South Transport Corridor, which connects India to Russia via Central Asia.

UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3)

The third United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDC3) has recently commenced in Awaza, Turkmenistan, shining global attention on the 32 landlocked developing nations that together are home to over 600 million people.

This once-in-a-decade conference is aimed at addressing the systemic development challenges faced by landlocked countries that lack direct access to seaports. Such nations encounter substantial barriers to trade, economic diversification, and infrastructure development.

The 2025 edition of the LLDC conference operates under the theme “Driving Progress through Partnerships.” It seeks to mobilize effective collaboration, foster smart investment strategies, and design flexible and efficient transport corridors to ease the flow of goods and services across borders.

A central component of LLDC3 is the implementation of the Awaza Programme of Action (2024–2034). This programme, formally adopted by the United Nations General Assembly on 24 December 2024, outlines a comprehensive development framework tailored to the unique needs of landlocked countries.

The Awaza Programme of Action (APoA) focuses on five interconnected strategic priorities:

1.     Structural Transformation, along with the promotion of science, technology, and innovation.

2.     Trade facilitation and regional integration to improve economic resilience.

3.     Development of transit, transport, and connectivity infrastructure.

4.     Climate resilience and vulnerability reduction, enabling these nations to better cope with environmental risks.

5.     Implementation mechanisms, including monitoring, evaluation, and institutional support structures to ensure long-term success.

By tackling both logistical and economic obstacles, the conference aspires to create a roadmap for inclusive growth, reduce dependency, and ensure sustainable development across landlocked regions.

Muthuvan Tribe

In a rare and culturally significant event, the Muthuvan community convened for a three-day special conference to coincide with the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples. The gathering marked a dedicated effort to preserve their language and traditional heritage, reflecting a growing awareness of the need to safeguard indigenous identity.

The Muthuvans, also known as Mudugars, inhabit the hill forest regions along the border of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Within the community, there are two distinct groups—each speaking slightly different dialects. They refer to one another as the Malayalam Muthuvan and the Pandi Muthuvan, based on their linguistic and regional distinctions.

This tribal group is renowned for its harmonious coexistence with wildlife, guided by deep-rooted ecological knowledge and understanding of the hills. One of their most valued traditions is their expertise in indigenous medicine, which is passed down secretly through generations. The efficacy of their herbal remedies and the confidentiality surrounding their practitioners form a key part of their cultural legacy.

Socially, the Muthuvans follow a structured organization based on six major clans, known as Koottams. Each Koottam is subdivided into smaller units. These divisions serve several purposes: maintaining marriage alliances, preserving social hierarchy, and documenting lineage and descent. They practice community endogamy (marriage within the tribe) and clan exogamy (marriage outside one’s clan).

Governance within the tribe follows a traditional model known as the ‘Kani System’, under which each village is administered by a leader called the Kani. The Kani acts as the head of the village and oversees local administration, social order, and enforcement of traditions. The tribe also enforces punitive measures for violations of customs and moral conduct, preserving social integrity.

In terms of religious practices, the Muthuvans are animists and spirit worshippers, revering forest deities and the spirits of their ancestors, who they believe were the original settlers of the hills. Their spiritual connection to the forest reflects their ecological dependence and respect for nature.

Economically, their primary occupation is Virippukrishi, a form of shifting cultivation. This method supports a subsistence lifestyle, as the community grows a wide variety of crops primarily for personal consumption. Major food grains cultivated include Ragi (Little Millet), Maize (Sorghum), Thina (Italian Millet), Varagu, Chama Rice, along with vegetables such as Tomato, Carrot, Sweet Potato, Potato, and others like Cheeni Vala, Toppi, and Mocha. These practices not only sustain their communities but also reflect their deep agricultural knowledge rooted in environmental adaptation.

Kakori Conspiracy Case

On the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the Kakori incident, the Prime Minister of India paid homage to the revolutionaries who played a pivotal role in India’s freedom struggle, acknowledging their bravery and sacrifice.

The Kakori Train Robbery, also known as the Kakori Conspiracy Case, was a historic revolutionary act executed on 9 August 1925 by members of the Hindustan Republican Association (HRA). Their aim was to loot British government treasury funds being transported by train to finance the freedom movement and to send a powerful political message against colonial economic exploitation.

Key figures involved in the operation included Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Chandrashekhar Azad, Rajendra Lahiri, Roshan Singh, and Manmathnath Gupta. The revolutionaries targeted the 8-Down train running between Saharanpur and Lucknow, and the act was carried out near Kakori railway station in Uttar Pradesh.

The motivation behind the attack stemmed from the belief within HRA that mere petitions and peaceful protests were insufficient to counter British rule. They required funds to support their revolutionary activities, and robbing the treasury was seen as both a symbolic and strategic act.

Following the incident, the British administration initiated a massive crackdown, leading to the arrest of most participants within months. In 1927, Ram Prasad Bismil, Ashfaqulla Khan, Rajendra Lahiri, and Roshan Singh were executed, while others faced long prison terms. Chandrashekhar Azad managed to evade arrest and continued his revolutionary activities until his death in 1931.

The Kakori incident marked a turning point. Although the HRA was severely weakened, it reorganised in 1927–1928, with newer leadership under Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Shiv Verma. These leaders brought a socialist perspective to the movement, and in 1928, the organisation was rebranded as the Hindustan Socialist Republican Association (HSRA). This shift represented a move toward a revolutionary socialist agenda in the fight against colonialism.

PM E-Drive Subsidy Scheme

The Central Government of India has extended the ₹10,900 crore PM E-Drive subsidy scheme by an additional two years, pushing its duration until 2027–28, as nearly half of the allocated funds remain unused. However, subsidies for electric two- and three-wheelers will conclude on March 31, 2026.

Launched on 1 October 2024, the PM E-Drive scheme replaced the earlier Electric Mobility Promotion Scheme (EMPS-2024). It is administered by the Ministry of Heavy Industries and is part of India’s strategy to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), especially for public transport and heavy logistics.

The total outlay of ₹10,900 crore is distributed as follows:

• ₹3,679 crore is allocated for demand incentives across various EV categories.
• ₹7,171 crore is directed towards the procurement of electric buses, charging infrastructure, and testing facilities.

The core objectives of the scheme include:

• Encouraging deeper penetration of EVs in transport and logistics.
• Reducing the upfront cost of EVs for consumers to increase adoption.
• Building a robust charging infrastructure to alleviate concerns around range.
• Supporting domestic EV manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Key provisions under the scheme are:

• For electric two-wheelers, a demand incentive of ₹5,000 per kWh is offered in FY25 (capped at ₹10,000 per vehicle), which will be halved in FY26.
• E-rickshaws and e-autos (both passenger and cargo variants) are eligible for incentives up to ₹50,000, depending on the battery capacity.
• Electric trucks (3.5 to 55 tonnes) qualify for subsidies of ₹5,000 per kWh or up to 10% of the ex-factory price.
• A dedicated fund of ₹500 crore is earmarked for electric ambulances, with operational guidelines to be released by 2026.

The scheme places particular emphasis on electric buses, aiming to deploy them in nine major cities with populations exceeding 40 lakh.

To support EV usage, significant investment is being made in charging infrastructure, including:

• 22,100 fast chargers for four-wheelers.
• 1,800 chargers for buses.
• 48,400 chargers for two- and three-wheelers.
• This component alone is backed by ₹2,000 crore in funding.

Further, the scheme envisions strengthening EV testing and certification facilities to ensure product safety and quality. It is designed to integrate seamlessly with broader EV-related initiatives such as GST cuts, income tax benefits under Section 80EEB, and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes for battery and EV manufacturing.

The scope of coverage includes electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, electric trucks, buses, and ambulances, alongside urban and highway charging infrastructure, thereby positioning India on a path toward sustainable mobility.

Khelo India ASMITA

The launch of the Khelo India ASMITA Football League 2025–26 in Jalgaon, Maharashtra, marks a significant development in India’s efforts to promote gender-inclusive sports. This initiative represents a focused attempt at affirmative action to elevate women’s participation in athletics, particularly from underrepresented and marginalised communities.

Khelo India ASMITA is a specialised offshoot of the larger Khelo India programme, developed with the aim of nurturing grassroots-level sports talent among girls, especially those belonging to tribal, rural, and minority backgrounds. The term "ASMITA" symbolises the emphasis on dignity, identity, and empowerment of young female athletes.

Launched in the 2025–26 cycle, the programme began with a dedicated football league hosted in Jalgaon, establishing a replicable model for other sports across the country. The scheme is spearheaded by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in collaboration with the Sports Authority of India (SAI), the All India Football Federation (AIFF), and the Western India Football Association (WIFA). These bodies provide technical guidance, institutional support, and infrastructure for the programme’s execution.

The core vision behind Khelo India ASMITA is to create a structured platform for young girls aged 13 and under, allowing them to display and refine their sporting talents, including those participating in organised sports for the first time. The league also serves as a platform for talent discovery, providing opportunities for skill development, competition exposure, and future scouting.

One of the central objectives of this initiative is to address systemic gender imbalance in sports participation by designing an inclusive model that prioritises affirmative action. By focusing on girls from socially and economically disadvantaged groups, the initiative tackles historical barriers and opens up avenues for broader social inclusion through sport.

The programme also integrates into the larger vision of Khelo Bharat Niti, which forms part of India’s long-term national sports development policy. Through ASMITA, the government aims not only to encourage sporting excellence but also to use sports as a tool for social transformation, breaking stereotypes, and promoting women as role models in their communities.

Ultimately, Khelo India ASMITA is a multi-dimensional initiative designed to promote gender equity, build grassroots capacity, and strengthen the national sports ecosystem, especially by supporting young girls who have traditionally remained on the margins of mainstream sports.