PM SVANidhi Scheme

The Prime Minister recently praised the success of the PM SVANidhi Yojana, emphasizing its significant role in empowering street vendors across the country. The scheme has emerged as a crucial support system, especially during the post-pandemic recovery period, helping street vendors re-establish their livelihoods and enhance their self-reliance.

Overview of PM SVANidhi Yojana

The PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) Yojana is a central-sector micro-credit scheme launched by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) on June 1, 2020. The primary objective of this scheme is to provide affordable working capital loans to street vendors whose businesses were adversely impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Through this initiative, the government aims to facilitate the economic revival of street vendors and enable them to resume their day-to-day business operations.

The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has been designated as the implementing agency for the PM SVANidhi scheme.

Benefits of PM SVANidhi Yojana

Under the scheme, street vendors can access a working capital loan of up to ₹10,000, which is to be repaid in monthly installments over a period of one year. Timely or early repayment of the loan qualifies beneficiaries for an interest subsidy of 7% per annum. This subsidy is credited directly to the vendor’s bank account through a Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) mechanism on a quarterly basis.

There is no penalty for early repayment of the loan. Additionally, the scheme encourages the adoption of digital transactions by offering cashback incentives of up to ₹100 per month. Vendors demonstrating consistent and timely loan repayments are eligible for an enhanced credit limit in subsequent loan cycles.

The loan proceeds can be utilized for a variety of street vending-related purposes, such as purchasing raw materials, paying shop or cart rent, acquiring vending equipment, or covering other operational expenses. The loan tenure remains fixed at one year, allowing vendors ample time to manage repayment within a structured timeline.

Eligibility Criteria for PM SVANidhi Yojana

The scheme covers a broad category of street vendors:

·       Street vendors who possess a Certificate of Vending or an Identity Card issued by their respective Urban Local Bodies (ULBs).

·       Vendors identified during official ULB-led surveys but who have not yet received a Certificate of Vending or Identity Card.

·       Street vendors who were excluded from the original survey or began vending activities after its conclusion, provided they have been issued a Letter of Recommendation (LoR) by the ULB or the Town Vending Committee (TVC).

·       Vendors operating in peri-urban, surrounding development, or rural areas within the geographical jurisdiction of ULBs, and who have received a Letter of Recommendation from the ULB or TVC.

Through its inclusive design and financial incentives, the PM SVANidhi Yojana continues to play a transformative role in enhancing the livelihoods of street vendors and fostering greater financial inclusion in the informal sector.

Kishtwar Flash Floods: Climate Change and Extreme Weather in Jammu & Kashmir

A devastating flash flood struck Chasoti village in the Kishtwar district of Jammu & Kashmir, claiming the lives of at least 65 individuals, with over 50 still reported missing. The flood, triggered by torrential rainfall, occurred near the route leading to the sacred Machail Mata temple. This incident is the latest in a growing series of extreme weather events increasingly linked to broader climatic shifts. While scientists are cautious about attributing a single event directly to climate change, there is growing consensus that the rise in global temperatures and changing atmospheric patterns have led to a noticeable increase in both the frequency and intensity of such disasters — including flash floods, wildfires, and landslides.

The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir, much like other regions across India, has been grappling with the consequences of this emerging climate reality. Over the past several years, extreme weather events fueled by climate change have already resulted in the deaths of thousands. The recent Kishtwar tragedy underscores the escalating vulnerability of the region in the face of a rapidly warming planet.

Extreme Weather Trends in Jammu & Kashmir (2010–2022)

According to a comprehensive 2024 study published in Mausam by scientists from the India Meteorological Department (IMD), Jammu & Kashmir experienced a staggering 2,863 extreme weather events between 2010 and 2022. These events collectively resulted in 552 fatalities. Thunderstorms were the most frequent, accounting for 1,942 incidents, followed by 409 episodes of heavy rain. Flash floods and landslides, though less frequent, were particularly dangerous, with 168 and 186 occurrences respectively.

Heavy snowfall, while relatively rare with only 42 incidents recorded during this period, proved to be the deadliest, leading to 182 deaths — the highest among all weather phenomena studied. The districts of Kishtwar, Anantnag, Ganderbal, and Doda were identified as the most severely affected by flash floods.

The study concluded that although heavy rain and heavy snow remain the primary weather-related causes of fatalities, other extreme events — including flash floods, thunderstorms, and windstorms — are increasingly becoming major threats in the region. The data points to a concerning trend in which climate-induced hazards are not only becoming more common but also more deadly.

Primary Drivers of Extreme Weather in Jammu & Kashmir

Several interrelated factors contribute to the rising frequency and severity of extreme weather events in Jammu & Kashmir. The three most critical drivers are rising regional temperatures, the evolving behavior of Western Disturbances, and the complex topography of the Himalayan region.

Impact of Rising Temperatures on Weather and Glacial Systems

The western Himalayan region, where Jammu & Kashmir is situated, has experienced a rate of warming that is nearly double that of the broader Indian subcontinent since the year 2000. This accelerated temperature increase has had far-reaching consequences, intensifying both average and extreme precipitation events. A warmer atmosphere holds more moisture — approximately 7% more water vapor for every 1°C increase in temperature — which results in heavier and more frequent rainfall. This excess rainfall, in turn, often leads to catastrophic flooding events.

Moreover, rising temperatures have significantly hastened the melting and shrinkage of glaciers, leading to the formation of numerous unstable glacial lakes. These young lakes have fragile boundaries that are particularly vulnerable to erosion and collapse during heavy rainfall. When such lakes overflow or breach suddenly, they release vast amounts of water, slush, and debris downstream, causing flash floods that can devastate entire communities. Climate experts have consistently warned that the proliferation of these glacial lakes — combined with intense precipitation — has made the region increasingly prone to high-impact flooding disasters.

Changing Behavior of Western Disturbances and Its Role in Extreme Rainfall

Western Disturbances (WDs) are crucial rain-bearing systems that originate in regions beyond Afghanistan and Iran and accumulate moisture from the Mediterranean, Black, Caspian, and Arabian Seas. Historically, these systems were most active during the winter months (December to March). However, recent observations indicate that WDs are now influencing weather patterns outside the traditional winter period, thereby raising the probability of off-season heavy rainfall and flooding across India’s Himalayan states, including Jammu & Kashmir.

Climate change is believed to be driving this altered behavior. The rapid warming of the Arabian Sea has led to the release of more moisture into the atmosphere. When WDs enter the North Arabian Sea, they absorb this surplus moisture, which in turn intensifies precipitation levels when they reach the Himalayan belt. This shift has resulted in more frequent and intense rainfall events, with flash floods becoming a recurring hazard. The extended presence and increased moisture content of Western Disturbances — both influenced by global warming — have thus emerged as key contributors to the region’s changing weather dynamics.

Topography and the Amplification of Climate Impacts in the Himalayan Region

The topographical features of Jammu & Kashmir play a pivotal role in shaping local weather events. The region’s rugged terrain and mountainous landscape inherently amplify the impacts of climate-induced changes. One particularly important process is orographic rainfall. As moist air masses are forced to ascend over the mountain slopes, they cool and condense, leading to concentrated and heavy rainfall in a short span of time. This makes the area highly susceptible to cloudbursts, flash floods, and landslides.

The geological structure of the Himalayas — with their steep gradients, narrow valleys, and active tectonics — increases the likelihood of extreme hydrometeorological events. This means that even modest shifts in temperature or rainfall, when filtered through the region’s complex topography, can have disproportionately severe consequences. In essence, the natural features of Jammu & Kashmir act as a multiplier, intensifying the adverse effects of global climate trends.

Conclusion

The tragic flash flood in Kishtwar is not an isolated event but rather part of a disturbing pattern of climate-driven extreme weather that is becoming increasingly common in Jammu & Kashmir. With mounting scientific evidence linking rising temperatures, changing Western Disturbances, and the region’s inherent topographic vulnerability, it is clear that the challenges posed by climate change in this Himalayan territory are both urgent and complex. Effective adaptation strategies, improved early warning systems, and sustainable development planning are essential to safeguard lives and livelihoods in one of India’s most ecologically sensitive and climate-vulnerable regions.

PM Modi on Energy Independence: Nuclear Expansion, Critical Minerals, and Defence Self-Reliance

In his Independence Day address from the Red Fort, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the critical importance of India achieving self-reliance in energy and critical minerals. He drew attention to the country’s significant petroleum import bill, arguing that this dependence on foreign energy sources depletes national resources that could instead be directed toward infrastructure development, agricultural support, and poverty alleviation. Emphasizing the broader strategic implications, he linked energy self-sufficiency to national strength and economic sovereignty.

In a major policy announcement, the Prime Minister declared that the government has officially “opened the doors” of India’s nuclear energy sector to private participation. This move aims to catalyze a tenfold expansion of nuclear power generation capacity by the year 2047, positioning nuclear energy as a foundational element in India’s long-term clean energy strategy.

India’s Heavy Dependence on Imported Energy

India remains one of the world’s largest energy importers. During the fiscal year 2024–25, the country imported crude oil worth $137 billion, petroleum products amounting to $24 billion, and liquefied natural gas (LNG) valued at $15 billion. Collectively, these energy imports accounted for 22.3% of India’s total imports in 2024–25, only slightly lower than the 23% recorded in 2023–24, as reported by the Petroleum Planning and Analysis Cell (PPAC).

The Prime Minister lamented the economic toll of this energy import bill, noting that the vast sums spent—amounting to lakhs of crores—could have instead been invested in India’s long-term development. Reducing reliance on imported fossil fuels, he argued, would not only enhance national energy security but also free up resources to improve infrastructure, assist farmers, and address poverty. He framed energy self-sufficiency as not merely an economic imperative but a moral and developmental necessity.

India’s Drive Toward Critical Mineral Self-Reliance

PM Modi also stressed the indispensable role of critical minerals in powering essential technologies across the energy, industrial, and defence sectors. These minerals form the backbone of clean energy technologies, advanced manufacturing, and national security capabilities. Under the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM), exploration activities have been initiated at over 1,200 sites throughout the country.

So far, the Ministry of Mines has successfully auctioned 24 critical mineral blocks and aims to auction 100 additional blocks by the year 2030. However, experts caution that the path from exploration to extraction is complex, with significant time delays anticipated due to regulatory hurdles and logistical constraints. To accelerate progress, the government has established a dedicated Project Monitoring Unit (PMU) to facilitate clearances and ensure swift mine development.

India is also extending its strategy beyond domestic exploration. In a bid to secure overseas supplies of critical minerals, the government has amended the Mines and Minerals (Development & Regulation) Act, allowing the National Mineral Exploration Trust (NMET) to fund international mineral projects. This dual approach—domestic exploration combined with global acquisitions—is designed to safeguard India’s long-term access to essential raw materials.

Nuclear Energy Expansion and Private Sector Entry

Reinforcing India’s commitment to clean energy, Prime Minister Modi announced an ambitious plan to expand the country’s nuclear energy capacity tenfold by 2047. At present, India’s installed nuclear capacity stands at 8.8 gigawatts (GW), accounting for just under 2% of total electricity generation. With ten nuclear reactors currently operational and additional projects underway, the government is positioning nuclear energy as a key contributor to the country’s non-fossil fuel energy mix.

A landmark development in this context is the government’s decision to allow private sector involvement in the nuclear energy space. The Union Budget for 2024–25 made provisions for private companies to collaborate in financing and building Bharat Small Reactors (BSRs) for captive use. However, operation and oversight of these reactors will remain under the control of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL). For full-scale private participation to materialize, amendments to the Atomic Energy Act and the Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage Act will be required. A specialized task force has been set up to examine critical issues such as fuel sourcing, waste management, liability, and safety safeguards.

The Prime Minister also celebrated India’s recent climate milestones, highlighting that the country has already achieved its target of reaching 50% electricity capacity from non-fossil fuel sources — five years ahead of its 2030 deadline. This progress marks a significant leap from 30% in 2015 and 38% in 2020. The growth has been driven not only by solar and wind power but also by the steady expansion of nuclear and large hydropower projects.

Defence Self-Reliance: Operation Sindoor and Mission Sudarshan Chakra

In a shift toward strategic assertiveness and technological independence, PM Modi lauded the success of Operation Sindoor, an operation that showcased India’s growing defence self-sufficiency. Using entirely indigenous weaponry, Indian forces dismantled terror networks and infrastructure based in Pakistan. The Prime Minister described this operation as a decisive break from the past, signaling that India will no longer bow to nuclear blackmail or succumb to external pressure, thereby asserting its full strategic autonomy.

Building on the momentum from Operation Sindoor, PM Modi announced Mission Sudarshan Chakra, an initiative inspired by the mythical weapon of Lord Krishna. The mission is designed to elevate India’s military capabilities by enhancing its ability to deliver rapid, precise, and powerful responses to enemy threats. It is aimed at countering infiltration and boosting offensive and deterrent capacities in a manner that reflects India’s growing technological sophistication and resolve.

The government emphasized that future security will depend on innovation within India, calling upon the country’s youth to develop advanced indigenous technologies such as jet engines. In line with this vision, India also plans to establish a comprehensive nationwide security shield across all public spaces by 2035. This initiative will rely on domestically developed defence systems and marks a long-term commitment to building an entirely self-reliant security infrastructure.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s Independence Day address laid out a broad and interconnected vision for India’s future — one rooted in energy independence, critical mineral security, nuclear self-sufficiency, and defence innovation. Through bold policy shifts and structural reforms, the government aims to reduce external dependencies and channel national resources toward sustainable growth and strategic resilience. These initiatives, spanning energy, industry, and national defence, reflect an ambitious but focused push to build a self-reliant India by mid-century.

PM Modi’s Independence Day 2025 Speech Highlights

On August 15, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his twelfth Independence Day address, marking his longest speech to date at 103 minutes. The address laid out an ambitious roadmap for India''s future, focusing on economic reforms, technological self-reliance, national security, and employment generation. It blended policy announcements with political messaging, appealing directly to key constituencies such as youth, farmers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners. With a strong emphasis on self-reliance, Modi’s speech framed these reforms as critical steps toward the goal of making India a developed nation by 2047.

A Vision of Economic Transformation

The Prime Minister unveiled a series of transformative initiatives aimed at modernising India’s economy and governance structures. A key component of this vision is the establishment of a high-powered task force to drive next-generation reforms. This task force will review outdated laws, policies, and compliance frameworks with the aim of reducing red tape, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and cottage industries. By easing regulatory burdens and modernising logistics and export systems, the government seeks to improve India’s global competitiveness and support domestic enterprise growth.

Second-Generation GST Reforms

Marking eight years since the introduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), PM Modi announced a major overhaul of the tax regime through what he termed “second-generation GST reforms.” These reforms are intended to simplify the tax structure, lower compliance costs, and reduce the burden on essential goods. By framing the reforms as a “Diwali gift” to citizens, Modi signaled that the changes would deliver direct benefits to ordinary consumers and small businesses, reinforcing his government’s pro-middle-class and pro-business credentials.

Employment and Job Creation: A Rs. 1 Lakh Crore Initiative

Addressing concerns about youth unemployment and economic inclusion, the Prime Minister launched the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, a Rs. 1 lakh crore initiative aimed at boosting employment. Under this scheme, first-time private sector employees will receive a one-time grant of Rs. 15,000, while private employers will be encouraged to create new job opportunities through financial incentives. This dual-approach policy seeks to stimulate hiring while reducing the cost burden on employers, thereby fostering a more dynamic job market and encouraging entrepreneurship across sectors.

Protecting Domestic Agriculture and Allied Sectors

Amid ongoing trade negotiations with the United States, PM Modi made it clear that India would not compromise the interests of its farmers, fishermen, and dairy sector. Stressing that he would act as a “wall” protecting these communities, he reassured the nation that no international agreement would jeopardize the livelihoods of those engaged in agriculture and allied industries. By drawing a line against pressure to open up India’s agricultural markets, the Prime Minister reinforced his commitment to safeguarding the rural economy and maintaining food security.

Demography and National Security

In one of the most politically charged segments of his speech, Modi launched a High-Powered Demography Mission. This mission, aimed at addressing demographic changes and population shifts, particularly in border regions, was framed as a national security imperative. The Prime Minister alleged the existence of a “deliberate conspiracy” to alter India’s demographic composition through infiltration. He claimed such activity posed risks to livelihoods, women''s safety, and tribal communities. Through this mission, the government plans to introduce time-bound measures to manage demographic challenges while aligning them with broader national security objectives.

Internal Security and Counter-Terrorism Efforts

The Prime Minister also highlighted the government’s successes in internal security, particularly in counter-Naxal operations. He pointed to Chhattisgarh as an example, where formerly violent areas have reportedly been transformed into productive “green corridors.” By linking the containment of extremism to stronger governance and development, Modi presented these operations as part of a broader internal security framework. He further warned that unchecked demographic shifts could spark new threats to national unity, underscoring the link between internal security and population management.

Technological Self-Reliance and Semiconductor Innovation

Emphasising the role of innovation and advanced technology in India’s development, PM Modi announced that India’s first batch of domestically manufactured semiconductor chips would hit the market by the end of 2025. With six semiconductor fabrication plants already operational and four more underway, the country is taking definitive steps toward reducing reliance on global chip supply chains. Modi identified this milestone as a cornerstone of India’s ambition to become a global leader in high-tech manufacturing.

He also urged Indian youth to lead the charge in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, deep-tech innovation, and the development of indigenous operating systems. The call for innovation was positioned not only as an economic imperative but also as a matter of strategic autonomy. By nurturing a robust domestic technology ecosystem, India aims to insulate itself from global supply disruptions and geopolitical dependencies.

Conclusion

PM Modi’s 2025 Independence Day speech outlined a far-reaching agenda anchored in self-reliance, national security, economic reform, and technological advancement. From GST rationalisation and massive employment initiatives to the launch of the High-Powered Demography Mission and domestic chip production, the address painted a picture of a nation preparing for its centenary of independence in 2047. With strong appeals to national pride and grassroots development, the speech set the tone for a transformative phase in India’s political and economic journey.

AI in Education: From Answer Engines to Thinking Partners

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is undergoing a major transformation in the field of education worldwide. Where it was once viewed primarily as a tool for quick solutions and task automation, it is now being reimagined as a partner in the learning process—one that fosters deeper inquiry, critical thinking, and independent reasoning. This shift marks the evolution from conventional, answer-based AI systems to more thoughtful, dialogue-driven models often referred to as “Socratic AI.”

The Shift in AI’s Role in Education

Initially, AI in education served functional roles—automating tasks, generating answers, and assisting in content creation. However, this approach led to several unintended consequences that weakened the educational process.

Problems with Traditional AI in Learning Contexts:

• It enabled academic shortcuts by allowing students to copy and paste answers without understanding the material, leading to superficial learning.
• The availability of immediate solutions discouraged critical thinking and problem-solving, resulting in intellectual passivity.
• It normalized plagiarism and reduced the emphasis on originality and independent work.
• Traditional AI often operated in a generic, one-size-fits-all mode, failing to accommodate learners’ diverse backgrounds, levels, or contexts.
• The approach conflicted with core educational principles, which value sustained inquiry, exploration, and effort over quick fixes.

What Is Socratic AI?

Socratic AI represents a paradigm shift in how AI interacts with learners. Rather than supplying direct answers, it functions more like a thoughtful mentor—guiding students through questions, encouraging them to think through problems, and helping them construct their own understanding.

Key Characteristics of Socratic AI:

• It engages in inquiry-driven dialogue by asking thought-provoking questions that stimulate reflection and analysis.
• It adapts its line of questioning based on the learner’s prior knowledge and responses, fostering a personalized learning experience.
• It is interdisciplinary in application, proving effective in fields such as law, economics, medicine, and the sciences.
• It is ethically designed to refuse requests that could compromise academic integrity or encourage dishonest learning practices.
• It complements, rather than replaces, classroom teaching—supporting teachers in cultivating deeper student engagement.

Educational Benefits of Socratic AI

Socratic AI enhances the learning process by reinforcing core intellectual and practical skills:

• It strengthens reasoning and analytical abilities by requiring students to think through problems instead of relying on passive reception.
• It improves argumentative skills by guiding students in building logical, evidence-based reasoning.
• It cultivates intellectual humility by prompting students to question assumptions and revise their understanding when challenged.
• It enables applied, interdisciplinary learning by encouraging connections between academic concepts and real-world problems.
• It helps students develop critical life skills necessary for professional environments and civic engagement, such as problem-solving, decision-making, and ethical reasoning.

Challenges in Implementing Socratic AI

Despite its promise, Socratic AI faces significant obstacles that must be addressed for it to be effective and equitable:

• A persistent digital divide limits access for many students who lack stable internet or appropriate devices, especially in underserved areas.
• Some educators resist AI integration, fearing that it might replace their role rather than support it.
• Students accustomed to instant answers may resist a system that demands deeper effort and sustained inquiry.
• Socratic AI still falls short of replicating the nuance, empathy, and context-sensitivity of human mentors, especially in complex discussions.
• Ethical concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and accountability remain unresolved and need urgent attention.

The Way Forward

To fully realize the potential of Socratic AI, a multipronged and inclusive strategy is essential:

• Infrastructure investment is needed to bridge digital access gaps, ensuring AI tools are available to students across socioeconomic and geographic divides.
• Teachers should receive targeted training to understand, adopt, and integrate Socratic AI effectively as a pedagogical ally.
• AI systems should be developed with regional languages and culturally specific content to enhance relevance and accessibility.
• Strong ethical frameworks must be established to govern AI use in education, particularly regarding privacy, transparency, and equitable access.
• Assessment methods must evolve, placing greater emphasis on evaluating students’ reasoning processes and inquiry-driven learning rather than rote memorization or test-taking speed.

Conclusion

Socratic AI marks a fundamental rethinking of the role of artificial intelligence in education—from being a passive provider of answers to an active facilitator of thought. By promoting curiosity, reflection, and intellectual independence, this new model has the potential to produce not just better test-takers, but better thinkers. With ethical guidance, contextual relevance, and inclusive infrastructure, Socratic AI can help shape an education system that truly prepares students for the complex demands of the real world. The future of education may well depend on AI that encourages students to think more deeply—not less.

Geneva Deadlock: Global Plastic Treaty Talks Fail Again

The latest round of negotiations for the proposed Global Plastic Treaty, held in Geneva under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), concluded in a deadlock—marking the second failed attempt in just eight months. The breakdown in talks highlights persistent and deep-rooted disagreements among nations over the treaty''s scope, ambition, and the legal enforceability of measures designed to combat plastic pollution.

The treaty in question is envisioned as a legally binding international framework that addresses plastic pollution throughout its entire life cycle—from production and consumption to waste disposal—with special emphasis on marine ecosystems. The negotiations are being led by the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) with the goal of formulating a global strategy that encompasses production reduction, regulation of toxic chemicals in plastics, efficient waste management systems, and financial and technological support for developing nations.

Why a Plastic Treaty is Urgently Needed

Plastic pollution has emerged as a multi-dimensional global crisis with wide-ranging environmental, health, and economic consequences. Plastics are virtually non-biodegradable and persist in ecosystems for centuries. Marine life is particularly vulnerable, with plastic debris frequently ingested by fish, birds, and mammals, often resulting in injury or death. Soils are contaminated by microplastics and toxic residues, disrupting terrestrial ecosystems.

On the human health front, microplastics are entering the food chain and water systems. Chemical additives used in plastics have been linked to hormonal disruption, organ damage, and other health risks. From a climate perspective, the production of plastics is highly energy-intensive and heavily reliant on fossil fuels, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. Economically, the cost of managing plastic waste is a burden on public budgets, while the resultant environmental degradation causes revenue losses in fisheries, tourism, and agriculture.

Given the transboundary nature of plastic pollution—where waste travels through oceans and international trade—global coordination and legally binding commitments are essential. However, such coordination has proven elusive.

Core Reasons Behind the Deadlock

The failure of the Geneva negotiations can be attributed to a series of unresolved and highly polarising issues among participating nations. Foremost is the disagreement on the treaty’s scope: while some countries demand comprehensive life-cycle coverage including production caps, others oppose any restrictions on production.

The negotiations have revealed the emergence of two sharply divided blocs. The High-Ambition Coalition, comprising nations like Norway, the European Union, and the United Kingdom, is advocating for strict binding commitments on production reduction, chemical restrictions, and health safeguards. In contrast, a group of oil-producing countries—including Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Russia—supported by major economies like China and India, oppose production caps and argue that such restrictions would hinder economic development and energy security.

Additional points of contention include proposals for a global phase-out list of single-use plastics and mandatory restrictions on polymer production. These provisions have met strong resistance from nations prioritising industrial growth and resource sovereignty.

Another area of impasse is the proposed financial mechanism to support developing countries. There is no consensus on how financial resources should be allocated, nor agreement on principles such as equity, historical responsibility, and fair distribution of technology. Countries are also divided on whether wealthier nations should bear a greater burden for the crisis.

The reliance on full consensus for decision-making has further exacerbated the problem, allowing a small group of dissenting nations to block any forward movement. Meanwhile, the current draft of the treaty has been criticised as weak, focusing largely on voluntary guidelines rather than enforceable global standards—undermining the ambition of a truly transformative pact.

Way Forward: Breaking the Impasse

To salvage the treaty and ensure meaningful progress, reforms in the negotiation process and treaty design are essential. One proposed solution is to move away from a strict consensus-based model and adopt a hybrid system where consensus remains the default, but qualified majority voting can be used to resolve persistent deadlocks.

The treaty must strike a balance between environmental protection and development needs. This could be achieved by incorporating flexible timelines, differentiated responsibilities for developed and developing nations, and provisions for a just transition in affected industries.

Science-based targets are critical. These should include globally agreed caps on harmful plastic products and chemical additives, along with binding standards for product design and recyclability. Implementation must be supported through accessible finance, robust technology transfer, and capacity building in the Global South.

Furthermore, health considerations should be explicitly integrated into the treaty, addressing the toxicological and biomedical impacts of plastic use and exposure. Aligning the treaty with other global environmental agreements would also improve coherence and prevent regulatory overlap or contradiction.

Conclusion

The collapse of talks in Geneva underscores the limitations of consensus-driven negotiations in the face of urgent environmental threats. Without significant changes to both process and content, the Global Plastic Treaty risks becoming another diluted international commitment lacking teeth. The stakes are high: plastic pollution is growing exponentially, and the cost of continued inaction—both ecological and economic—will soon outpace the difficulties of achieving a binding global accord. To succeed, the treaty must be bold in ambition, fair in design, and equipped with mechanisms that can deliver real, enforceable change.

Prime Minister Highlights Next-Generation GST Reforms

Prime Minister Modi has underlined the importance of ushering in the next generation of Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, aiming to enhance efficiency, reduce complexities, and strengthen industry confidence. The proposed reforms—built on the foundational pillars of structural improvements, rate rationalisation, and ease of living—have been forwarded to the Group of Ministers (GoM), which was constituted by the GST Council to examine and recommend the way forward.

At the heart of these reforms lies a clear objective: to simplify the tax regime while making it more equitable and growth-oriented. The Prime Minister emphasised that GST has played a crucial role in integrating India’s fragmented tax system, and it now requires upgrades that match the country’s evolving economic ambitions.

One of the key components of the reform framework is structural reform. This includes correcting the inverted duty structure, which has long been a pain point for industries. In cases where the tax rate on inputs is higher than that on the final output, businesses face an accumulation of input tax credit without a clear mechanism for its recovery. This inversion discourages domestic value addition and distorts production incentives. Similarly, a mismatch also arises when inputs are taxed but the final product is exempt. Addressing this will not only ease the compliance burden but also support the Make in India initiative.

Another structural issue the reforms seek to resolve is the ongoing challenge of classification-related disputes. Often, the classification of goods and services into different tax brackets leads to ambiguity and litigation. A more streamlined classification mechanism is being proposed to minimise such disputes, simplify the compliance process, and ensure fair treatment across sectors. Moreover, long-term stability and predictability in tax policy will be prioritised to help businesses plan better and invest with confidence.

Rate rationalisation is another critical focus area. The reform blueprint envisions reducing tax rates on essential items and aspirational goods, thereby offering relief to the common citizen. Simultaneously, the government plans to move towards a simplified structure with just two main tax slabs—Standard and Merit—with special rates retained only for a limited number of items. This transition will replace the current multi-slab system, which is often criticised for its complexity. The fiscal space created by the end of the Compensation Cess regime is also expected to be leveraged to ensure the long-term sustainability of these changes.

The reforms also aim to significantly improve the ease of living by leveraging technology. Key enhancements include a seamless, tech-driven registration process, pre-filled tax returns to reduce manual intervention, and minimise input-output mismatches. Exporters are set to benefit from faster, automated refund mechanisms, which would enhance their liquidity and global competitiveness.

These proposed reforms mark a significant leap forward in the evolution of GST, which was first introduced in 2017 through the 101st Constitutional Amendment Act. The Goods and Services Tax replaced a host of indirect taxes at both the central and state levels, including excise duty and service tax, establishing the principle of “One Nation, One Tax.”

Operating through a dual structure, GST consists of Central GST (CGST) and State GST (SGST), allowing both the Centre and the states to levy and collect taxes. The GST Council remains the apex body for policy formulation and decision-making, ensuring cooperative federalism in tax administration.

In essence, the next generation of GST reforms promises to deliver a tax system that is simpler, fairer, and more aligned with India’s developmental needs. By focusing on structural corrections, rationalisation of rates, and technology-driven ease of compliance, the government aims to make GST a truly robust and future-ready fiscal framework.

Discovery of Konkan Shadowdamsel and Crimson Shadowdamsel

Researchers from Maharashtra and Kerala have recently discovered two new species of damselflies in the Western Ghats: the Konkan Shadowdamsel and the Crimson Shadowdamsel.

These newly identified damselflies are part of a group commonly referred to as ‘Shadowdamsels’, named for their preference for densely shaded forest habitats. The Konkan Shadowdamsel was discovered in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, while the Crimson Shadowdamsel was found in Thiruvananthapuram district of Kerala. The Crimson Shadowdamsel features a distinct reddish body, whereas the Konkan Shadowdamsel displays a coffee-brown ground colouration.

Shadowdamsels generally inhabit pristine environments, particularly thriving near small streams, which makes them excellent bioindicators for forest health and water quality. Many species within this group are microendemics, restricted to specific hill ranges within the Western Ghats, underlining their ecological sensitivity and limited distribution.

Damselflies: An Overview

Damselflies are aerial, predatory insects that fall under the order Odonata. They are typically found in proximity to shallow freshwater bodies, exhibiting graceful flight, slender bodies, and transparent, net-veined wings. Compared to dragonflies, damselflies are smaller, more delicate, and fly less powerfully. Their ecological role and sensitivity to environmental changes make them valuable indicators of habitat quality.

Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS), Karnataka

Context: Two tiger cubs were recently found dead in the Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary (CWS), Karnataka, while their mother has gone missing, raising concerns about the wellbeing of the local tiger population.

About the Sanctuary:

CWS is a protected area in Karnataka, established in 1987 under the Wildlife Protection Act, and later expanded in 2013 to cover over 1,027 km². It serves as a significant habitat for tigers and elephants.

Geographic Location:

The sanctuary spans the Mandya, Chamarajanagar, and Ramanagara districts. It is situated along the Cauvery River, bordering the Dharmapuri forests of Tamil Nadu. It also acts as a crucial wildlife corridor connecting the Bannerghatta National Park, BRT Tiger Reserve, and MM Hills Wildlife Sanctuary.

Key Features:

• Climate: Semi-arid, receiving rainfall from both the southwest and northeast monsoons.
• Landscape: Comprises dry deciduous and thorn forests, riverine patches, and evergreen sholas.
• Popular Tourist Spots: Includes Hogenakkal Falls, Mekedatu, and Sangam.

Flora:

• Dominated by species such as Terminalia arjuna, Syzygium cumini, Hardwickia binata, Albizia amara, and Tamarindus indica.
• The diversity of deciduous and evergreen vegetation contributes to the sanctuary’s ecological resilience.

Fauna:

• Home to flagship species like the tiger, Asian elephant, leopard, dhole, and sloth bear.
• Also supports sambar, spotted deer, barking deer, wild boar, chevrotain, and various macaques.
• Hosts endangered species such as the grizzled giant squirrel, smooth-coated otter, and hump-backed mahseer fish.
• Over 280 bird species have been recorded, including the white-rumped vulture, Nilgiri wood-pigeon, and yellow-throated bulbul.

Significance:
CWS plays an essential ecological role in maintaining genetic connectivity for large carnivores across the Western and Eastern Ghats. Additionally, it safeguards the Cauvery River catchment, which is vital for drinking water and irrigation in southern India.

Satpura Tiger Reserve (STR), Madhya Pradesh

Context: A tiger was recently found dead in the Satpura Tiger Reserve (STR), located in Madhya Pradesh’s Narmadapuram district. Authorities suspect the cause of death to be a territorial fight.

Overview of Satpura Tiger Reserve:

STR is situated in the Hoshangabad district of Madhya Pradesh and lies in the Satpura range, a central part of the Indian landscape, south of the Narmada River. The name "Satpura" means ‘Seven Folds’, representing the range that acts as a watershed between the Narmada and Tapti Rivers.

Size and Composition:

The reserve extends across an area of 2,133 sq. km and includes Satpura National Park, Bori Wildlife Sanctuary, and Pachmarhi Sanctuary. Its rugged terrain features sandstone peaks, deep gorges, ravines, and dense forests.

Cultural and Geological Significance:

STR is not only a natural habitat but also a site of historical importance. It contains over 50 prehistoric rock shelters, dating back between 1,500 to 10,000 years. Geologically, it comprises formations from the Deccan trap series, Gondwanas, and metamorphic rocks.

Flora:

The forest is mainly mixed deciduous, featuring species like teak, bamboo, Indian ebony, acacias, wild mango, Indian gooseberry, and satinwood. Remarkably, the reserve also supports 26 Himalayan species and 42 species typically found in the Nilgiri region, earning it the distinction of being the northern limit of the Western Ghats.

Fauna:
STR is rich in biodiversity, housing major wildlife such as tigers, leopards, sloth bears, Indian gaurs (bison), and sambar deer. It also harbours a diverse range of bird species, including the Indian peafowl, crested serpent eagle, and various vultures.

Antitrisuloides Catocalina: A Rare Moth Species Recorded in Kerala

Scientists have recently documented the rare nocturnal moth species Antitrisuloides catocalina within the Choolannur Peafowl Sanctuary, located in the Palakkad district of Kerala.

This species belongs to the genus Antitrisuloides and is a member of the Noctuidae family, which globally includes only two known species under this genus. Remarkably, this is the first time the species has been recorded in the Western Ghats, as previously it was known only from North-East India. Further detailed analysis identified the specimen in Kerala as the subspecies Antitrisuloides catocalina cyclica, adding a new geographic record for this moth.

About Choolannur Peafowl Sanctuary

Commonly referred to as Mayiladumpara, the sanctuary is dedicated to the breeding and conservation of peacocks and is located amid the verdant landscapes of Palakkad district, Kerala. Established in 1996, it holds the distinction of being the only peacock sanctuary in Kerala and the first of its kind in India. The sanctuary was founded in honor of Induchoodan, a renowned Indian ornithologist and writer, who originated from the nearby village of Kavassery.

Tonga: Recent Earthquake and General Overview

A powerful earthquake measuring 6.2 magnitude recently struck Tonga, a nation situated in the Southwestern Pacific Ocean. Tonga lies just south of the equator and slightly above the Tropic of Capricorn. It consists of three main island groups: Tongatapu, Ha‘apai, and Vava‘u. Tonga is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations and the United Nations.

The highest peak in Tonga is located on Kao Island, part of the Ha‘apai group. The climate is tropical, influenced primarily by trade winds, the movement of the South Pacific Convergence Zone (SPCZ), and the El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Notably, Tonga does not have any rivers.

Australopithecus: Early Hominins Living Alongside Homo Species

A newly discovered early hominin fossil, possibly representing an entirely new species, confirms that Australopithecus and Homo species coexisted in the same region of Africa during overlapping time periods.

The genus Australopithecus includes a group of extinct primates whose fossils have been unearthed across eastern, north-central, and southern Africa. They are considered the closest known relatives to the genus Homo (which includes modern humans). Species within Australopithecus lived approximately between 4.4 million and 1.4 million years ago, spanning the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs (which lasted from about 5.3 million to 11,700 years ago). The name Australopithecus means “southern ape,” reflecting the location of the first fossils discovered in South Africa.

Among these fossils, perhaps the most famous is Lucy, a remarkably complete skeleton found in Ethiopia and dated to about 3.2 million years ago.

Characteristics of Australopithecus

Australopithecus species exhibited a blend of humanlike and apelike physical traits. Their facial structure was apelike, characterized by a flat nose and a strongly projecting lower jaw, while their braincase was relatively small, housing a brain volume typically less than 500 cubic centimeters—roughly one-third the size of a modern human brain. Their upper limbs were long and robust, with curved fingers adapted for climbing trees.

Despite these apelike features, they also displayed some distinctly human traits. Their canine teeth were small, consistent with other early humans, and their bodies were capable of upright bipedal walking. Individuals stood between approximately 1.2 to 1.5 meters tall and likely weighed between 30 and 50 kilograms. Sexual dimorphism—the size difference between males and females—was pronounced, with males nearly twice as large as females. This degree of dimorphism exceeded that of modern humans and chimpanzees but was less extreme than in gorillas or orangutans.

In terms of diet, Australopithecus mainly consumed plants, including leaves, fruits, seeds, roots, nuts, and insects.

Lewy Body Dementia (LBD)

Jackie Bezos, the mother of Jeff Bezos and an early investor in Amazon, recently passed away in Miami due to complications related to Lewy body dementia (LBD).

Lewy body dementia is a complex and challenging neurological disorder. It ranks as the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease. The condition arises due to abnormal accumulations of a protein called alpha-synuclein in the brain. These deposits, known as Lewy bodies, interfere with brain chemicals, leading to a wide range of symptoms affecting thinking, movement, behavior, mood, and other bodily functions.

There are two primary forms of LBD that cause cognitive decline: dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. The disease leads to a progressive deterioration in mental abilities, worsening gradually over time. While it most commonly begins in individuals aged 50 or older, cases in younger patients have also been reported. Statistically, LBD affects slightly more men than women.

The progression of the disease averages between five to seven years from diagnosis to death, although this duration can vary widely from as short as two years to as long as twenty. People with LBD often experience visual hallucinations, seeing things that are not actually present, as well as fluctuations in alertness and attention.

Many symptoms of LBD overlap with those of Parkinson’s disease, including muscle rigidity, slowed movements, difficulty walking, and tremors. As the disease advances, individuals typically require increasing assistance with daily activities due to both cognitive and motor decline. In the late stages, complete dependence on caregivers is common.

Currently, there is no cure or method to prevent Lewy body dementia. However, a combination of medications and therapeutic approaches can help manage symptoms for a period of time, improving quality of life.

New Type of Supernova Detected

Astronomers have identified a new kind of supernova caused by the interaction of a massive star with a black hole in a binary star system. This event resulted in a rare and extremely powerful stellar explosion approximately 700 million light-years from Earth.

This previously unobserved supernova occurred when a black hole companion siphoned material from a massive star, eventually causing the star to collapse. The binary system consisted of both objects having similar masses, roughly ten times that of the Sun.

The discovery was made possible through Artificial Intelligence (AI) algorithms that scanned the skies in real time for unusual cosmic explosions. Following the initial detection, multiple ground-based and space-based telescopes conducted prompt follow-up observations.

Several key features distinguish this event: the intense gravitational interaction in the binary system led to the star being distorted and stripped over several years before the explosion. The supernova released an enormous amount of energy, emitting more in just one second than the Sun will over its entire lifespan. Prior to exploding, the star lost its hydrogen layer, exposing the helium core underneath. After the supernova, the black hole consumed the remaining stellar debris, increasing its mass and power. Thanks to AI-enabled early detection, astronomers were able to observe the entire timeline before and after the explosion, a rare scientific opportunity.

This discovery reveals a new stellar death mechanism, showing that black hole companions can directly trigger supernovae. It also advances astrophysics by improving our understanding of massive star evolution within binary systems.

e-Sushrut@Clinic: Digital Health Management for Outpatient Clinics

The National Health Authority (NHA) and the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC) recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch e-Sushrut@Clinic, a cloud-based hospital management system designed specifically for outpatient clinics.

This government-backed Health Management Information System (HMIS) is lightweight and tailored for small and medium healthcare providers. It represents an important step in expanding the digital health ecosystem under the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM).

Developed by C-DAC, e-Sushrut@Clinic is a streamlined version of their flagship e-Sushrut HMIS software. The system primarily supports outpatient management, pharmacy, and nursing modules, providing essential functions at a low cost per user. Healthcare providers can easily onboard the system via a web portal using their existing registrations in the Health Facility Registry (HFR) and Health Professionals Registry (HPR). Those not yet registered can complete the registration process directly through e-Sushrut@Clinic.

This platform simplifies the digital transformation for doctors in both public and private clinics, facilitating easy access to and updates of patient health records. It also supports telemedicine services and streamlines the management of diagnostics and prescriptions. The system enables small clinics, sub-centers, and medium-sized hospitals to digitize patient data, prescriptions, and billing without significant technical complexity.

Several features of the broader ABDM ecosystem are integrated into e-Sushrut@Clinic. For instance, healthcare providers can utilize the AIIMS Clinical Decision Support Systems (CDSS), offered free of cost for all ABDM-integrated software, for managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes. This decision support tool helps doctors improve patient care by assisting in more accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

National Gopal Ratna Award

The Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying (DAHD), functioning under the Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, has officially opened nominations for the prestigious National Gopal Ratna Awards 2025.

The National Gopal Ratna Award is recognized as one of the highest national honors within the livestock and dairy sector. Established under the Rashtriya Gokul Mission in 2021, the award aims to promote excellence among milk-producing farmers, dairy cooperatives, Milk Producer Companies (MPCs), Dairy Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and Artificial Insemination Technicians (AITs). A key focus of the award is to encourage the use and preservation of indigenous cattle and buffalo breeds.

India’s indigenous bovine breeds are well-known for their robustness and genetic potential, making them vital contributors to the country’s economy. The National Gopal Ratna Awards recognize outstanding contributors in the following categories: the best dairy farmer rearing indigenous cattle or buffalo breeds, the best dairy cooperative society or milk producer company or dairy farmer producer organization, and the best artificial insemination technician. Additionally, there is a special provision to honor achievements in the North Eastern Region and Himalayan States, aiming to stimulate dairy development activities in these areas.

For the 2025 edition, winners in the first two categories—the best dairy farmer and best dairy cooperative or organization—will receive a certificate of merit, a memento, and a monetary prize.

Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana

The Prime Minister recently unveiled the Pradhan Mantri Viksit Bharat Rozgar Yojana, a scheme designed to incentivize formal job creation through direct cash benefits for both employees and employers.

The primary objective of this initiative is to facilitate the creation of over 3.5 crore jobs within a span of two years. The scheme has two main components:

Part A targets first-time employees registered with the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). Under this part, eligible employees earning salaries up to Rs 1 lakh will receive cash incentives equivalent to one month’s EPF wage, disbursed in two installments. The first installment is payable after six months of employment, and the second after twelve months, contingent on the completion of a financial literacy program by the employee. To encourage saving habits, part of the incentive will be held in a locked savings instrument or deposit account, accessible to the employee only after a fixed period.

Part B focuses on employers, providing incentives to encourage the hiring of additional employees across all sectors, with particular emphasis on the manufacturing industry. Employers will receive up to Rs 3000 per month for two years for each new employee with a salary up to Rs 1 lakh, provided the employee remains employed for at least six months. For the manufacturing sector, incentives will be extended through the third and fourth years.

Payments to first-time employees under Part A will be processed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) through the Aadhaar Bridge Payment System (ABPS). Employer incentives under Part B will be directly credited to their PAN-linked bank accounts.

Prime Minister Announces High-Powered Demography Mission to Address Illegal Migration

The Prime Minister announced a High-Powered Demography Mission aimed at strengthening national security and preserving the unity, integrity, and rights of Indian citizens, particularly in border regions.

The mission’s key steps include modernizing border management by enhancing fencing and implementing advanced surveillance technologies such as drones, sensors, and AI. A national refugee law is to be enacted to clearly distinguish between refugees and illegal immigrants legally. The government will maintain biometric records of all illegal immigrants and asylum seekers to prevent identity fraud.

Further, the mission plans to expedite the issuance of National Identity Cards (NID) and complete the implementation of the National Register of Indian Citizens (NRC). Legal and diplomatic efforts will focus on negotiating bilateral repatriation agreements with neighboring countries such as Bangladesh and Myanmar, leveraging regional forums like SAARC and BIMSTEC. International cooperation with organizations like the UNHCR and IOM will also be sought for managing illegal immigration and repatriation processes.

Exercise SLINEX

The Indian Navy ships INS Rana and INS Jyoti participated in the 12th edition of the Sri Lanka India Naval Exercise (SLINEX-25).

SLINEX is a bilateral naval exercise established in 2005 that has strengthened maritime collaboration between India and Sri Lanka over the past two decades. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, improve maritime cooperation, and facilitate the exchange of best practices while conducting diverse maritime operations together.

The previous edition of SLINEX was held in Visakhapatnam, India, in 2024. SLINEX 2025 will unfold in two phases: the Harbour phase and the Sea phase. The Harbour phase involves professional exchanges, Subject Matter Expert Exchanges (SMEE), sharing of best practices, cultural and social events, yoga sessions, and sporting activities. The Sea phase will include naval drills such as gunnery firing, communication protocols, navigation, seamanship maneuvers, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) exercises, and refueling at sea.

SLINEX exemplifies the strong maritime partnership between India and Sri Lanka and aligns with India’s policy of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR).

Golden Dome Missile Defense System

The U.S. President has unveiled the design for the Golden Dome Missile Defense System, a $175 billion project aimed at protecting the United States from foreign missile threats by leveraging advanced space-based and land-based defense technologies. A leader for this next-generation missile defense program has also been appointed.

This system represents a significant technological advancement beyond existing defense mechanisms such as Israel’s Iron Dome and the Reagan-era Strategic Defense Initiative (SDI). The primary objective is to intercept and neutralize enemy ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles before they can reach U.S. soil, thereby bolstering national security through integration of space, land, and advanced sensor networks.

The system’s operations will include a space-based intercept layer, with hundreds of satellites designed to detect and destroy missiles during their boost phase using interceptors or lasers. Ground-based midcourse defense capabilities will be enhanced with upgraded interceptors stationed in California and Alaska. Additionally, five new launch sites will be established across the mainland U.S., Hawaii, and Alaska to intercept missile threats in space. A limited area defense layer will protect critical population centers with radars, common launchers, and systems such as Patriot missiles.

Key features of the Golden Dome include its multi-layered defense architecture, capable of engaging intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), hypersonic weapons, and cruise missiles. It will employ global detection through advanced hypersonic and ballistic tracking space sensor satellites. The program will involve collaboration with private sector firms like SpaceX, Palantir, Anduril, L3Harris, Lockheed Martin, and RTX.

This comprehensive missile defense system promises to significantly enhance national security by providing a global shield against emerging missile threats, marking a major technological leap beyond existing systems like the Iron Dome.

Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals (SYSM)

In the lead-up to the 79th Independence Day in 2025, President Droupadi Murmu conferred seven Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medals (SYSM), marking the first such occasion since the Kargil War. These medals were awarded to honour the top military leaders of Operation Sindoor, recognizing their exceptional wartime leadership.

The Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal is India’s highest wartime distinguished service decoration. It is bestowed for “distinguished service of the most exceptional order during war, conflict, or hostilities.” This prestigious award was instituted in 1980 but has been granted very sparingly. Prior to 2025, only three officers had been honoured with this medal, recognizing their leadership in significant military operations such as Operation Pawan and the Kargil War.

The SYSM is conferred by the President of India and is open to personnel across all ranks of the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Eligibility also extends to members of the Territorial Army, Auxiliary and Reserve Forces, as well as Nursing Services. The award may be granted posthumously to acknowledge extraordinary service.

In terms of design, the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal is circular, made of gold gilt, and measures 35 mm in diameter. The front side (obverse) displays the State Emblem along with the inscription “SARVOTTAM YUDH SEVA MEDAL,” while the reverse side features a five-pointed star. The ribbon attached to the medal is golden with a central red stripe. If a recipient is honoured with the medal more than once, repeat awards are denoted by a bar and a miniature insignia.

This medal carries immense national significance, recognizing extraordinary wartime leadership and service. It is considered equivalent to the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM), which is awarded for distinguished service during peacetime. The Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal serves as a powerful morale booster within the armed forces by encouraging the highest standards of operational planning, joint service coordination, and leadership in conflict situations. Its rarity and prestige are underscored by the fact that, until 2025, only ten recipients have been honoured with this medal, making it one of India’s most distinguished military awards.

Before 2025, the only three officers to receive the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal were Lt Gen Amarjit Singh Kalkat for Operation Pawan in 1989, Air Marshal Vinod Patney for his role in the Kargil War in 1999, and Lt Gen Hari Mohan Khanna, also recognized for the Kargil War in 2000.

The 2025 recipients, awarded for their exemplary leadership during Operation Sindoor, include several high-ranking officers across the Indian Air Force, Army, and Navy.

The Indian Air Force awardees are:

1.     Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari

2.     Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor

3.     Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, and

4.     Air Marshal A.K. Bharti.

From the Indian Army,

1.     Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai

2.     Lt Gen Pratik Sharma

The Indian Navy’s:

1.     Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh (Retd.).

National Deep Water Exploration Mission

On the occasion of India’s 79th Independence Day, the Prime Minister unveiled the National Deep Water Exploration Mission, a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing offshore oil and gas discoveries. The mission focuses on underexplored regions such as the Andaman Sea and the deep waters off the coast of Andhra Pradesh, with the overarching goal of achieving energy self-reliance for the country.

This mission is a flagship program designed to bolster India’s energy security by tapping into untapped oil and gas reserves beneath the seabed. Operating in a mission mode, it seeks to accelerate offshore hydrocarbon exploration. The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is the nodal agency responsible for the mission, supported by the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH) and other affiliated research bodies.

The primary objective of the National Deep Water Exploration Mission is to reduce India’s dependence on imported crude oil and natural gas by enhancing domestic production capacity. This initiative aligns with the broader vision of strengthening the nation’s long-term energy security and promoting the concept of Aatmanirbhar Bharat within the energy sector.

Key features of the mission include a focused emphasis on deep-water zones such as the Andaman-Nicobar basin and the Andhra coast, which have remained largely unexplored. The mission benefits from recent policy reforms, including the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) and other exploration-friendly legislative changes. One of the notable aspects of this mission is the large-scale bidding process, which will open over one million square kilometers of previously restricted or ‘No-Go’ areas for exploration.

To maximize success, the mission will utilize cutting-edge technology such as advanced seismic surveys, modern drilling techniques, and artificial intelligence-enabled exploration tools. It also promotes collaboration between the public and private sectors, encouraging investments from both domestic and international players.

The significance of this mission cannot be overstated. It is expected to reduce India’s heavy reliance on imports—currently about 88% for crude oil and 50% for natural gas—thereby bolstering energy independence. Economically, the mission could save billions of dollars in import bills, allowing those funds to be redirected towards social welfare and infrastructure development. Strategically, the mission enhances India’s control over its energy resources, a critical factor given the volatility in global energy markets.

Mahatma Jyotiba Phule

In a move to commemorate the 200th birth anniversary of Mahatma Jyotiba Phule, the Prime Minister of India announced a year-long series of events celebrating his enduring legacy in social reform, women’s empowerment, and caste equality.

Born as Jyotirao Govindrao Phule on April 11, 1827, in Satara, Maharashtra, he passed away on November 28, 1890, in Pune. Phule was a pioneering social reformer, thinker, writer, and activist who dedicated his life to combating caste discrimination and gender inequality. Originating from the Mali caste, traditionally involved in farming and classified as Shudra, he overcame significant social barriers to receive education. Influenced by revolutionary and reformist ideas of the time, he emerged as a key figure in India’s social reform movement.

Phule’s contributions to social reform and the freedom movement were groundbreaking. He was a pioneer of women’s education, establishing India’s first school for girls in Pune in 1848. He personally educated his wife, Savitribai Phule, who became the country’s first female teacher. Phule was a passionate advocate for caste equality, founding the Satyashodhak Samaj in 1873 to promote social justice, challenge Brahmanical dominance, and unite oppressed communities. A symbolic act of inclusivity was opening his well to people of all castes, defying social norms.

He also worked tirelessly to abolish social evils, opposing child marriage and supporting widow remarriage. To provide support to vulnerable groups, he established shelters for widows and orphaned children. Phule was an advocate for rights and social change through literature, authoring Gulamgiri (Slavery) in 1873, which drew parallels between caste oppression in India and racial slavery in America. His legacy profoundly influenced later social justice leaders, including Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, and continues to inspire anti-caste and equality movements in India.

Phule’s significance lies in his foundational role in the social justice movement, advocating for caste and gender equality. His emphasis on universal education remains a critical tool for empowerment and societal progress

Sri Aurobindo

On his birth anniversary, August 15, the Prime Minister paid homage to Sri Aurobindo, recognizing his multifaceted contributions as a philosopher, spiritual leader, and freedom fighter who intertwined nation-building with spiritual evolution.

Sri Aurobindo was a yogi, philosopher, poet, and nationalist leader born on August 15, 1872, in Calcutta (now Kolkata). Educated in England at St. Paul’s School in London and King’s College, Cambridge, he mastered several European languages while nurturing a deep interest in Indian culture and philosophy.

Aurobindo’s role in India’s freedom movement was marked by radical nationalism. Through his publication Bande Mataram, he became the first Indian leader to demand complete independence from British rule. He was involved in revolutionary activities as a member of the Anushilan Samiti and actively participated in armed resistance. His arrest in the Alipore Bomb Case of 1908, from which he was acquitted, marked a turning point that led to his spiritual transformation during imprisonment. He consistently advocated direct action over moderate political approaches to achieve independence.

Beyond politics, Sri Aurobindo made significant literary contributions, including philosophical works such as The Life Divine, The Synthesis of Yoga, and Essays on the Gita. His poetic masterpiece Savitri: A Legend and a Symbol stands as a landmark epic. He also wrote extensively on political and cultural themes in works like The Human Cycle and The Ideal of Human Unity.

In 1926, he founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram in Pondicherry alongside Mirra Alfassa, known as “The Mother.” There, he developed the philosophy of Integral Yoga, which integrates material progress with spiritual growth. His vision of spiritual nationalism linked India’s quest for freedom with a cultural and spiritual renaissance, emphasizing that true nation-building must encompass the transformation of the human spirit.