AI Warfare and Multi-Domain Operations: Challenges and Opportunities for India

As the nature of warfare transforms through the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), global military dynamics are shifting rapidly. Nations like China are pioneering AI-enabled multi-domain operations, creating strategic challenges for countries like India. This article examines how AI is revolutionizing modern combat—from autonomous systems and data-driven decision-making to cyber and electromagnetic warfare—and explores the critical role of energy, particularly nuclear power, in sustaining this AI-driven defence paradigm. It also emphasizes the urgency for India to bridge its technological and energy deficits to remain competitive in this emerging landscape.

1. China''s Lead in Military AI Integration

China has taken a clear lead in operationalizing AI within its military, well before the public launch of models like DeepSeek. Under its concept of "intelligentised warfare," the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has integrated AI into several core functions:

• Artillery modernization using AI to increase firing accuracy and reduce reload times.
• Generative AI in drones, enabling autonomous targeting and destruction of enemy radar systems.
• DeepSeek’s capabilities are expected to further accelerate China’s AI deployment across domains.

This early and rapid development places China at a significant strategic advantage.

2. The China-Pakistan AI Axis: Strategic Implications for India

China’s collaboration with Pakistan in military AI is raising alarm in Indian strategic circles. Since the establishment of Pakistan’s Centre of Artificial Intelligence and Computing in 2020, Chinese assistance has focused on:

• Cognitive electronic warfare and AI-assisted decision-making systems.
• During Operation Sindoor, it is suspected that Pakistan leveraged Chinese satellite data and AI analytics for real-time targeting and movement tracking.

This growing axis underscores the need for India to take urgent countermeasures in defence AI.

3. C4ISR and the Case for Civil-Military Fusion

A cornerstone of AI-driven warfare is effective C4ISR (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance). Mastery in virtual domains such as:

• Cyberspace
• Space operations
• Electromagnetic spectrum control

...demands seamless civil-military integration. China’s fusion of its civilian tech industry with military objectives exemplifies this model, while India still lags in implementing such synergy.

To bridge this gap, India must:

• Promote private-sector collaboration in defence technology.
• Accelerate investments in indigenous C4ISR platforms.

4. Energy Infrastructure: The Hidden Pillar of AI Warfare

AI-enabled warfare operates on vast amounts of data requiring constant and massive energy inputs. From machine learning and NLP to big data analytics, the energy demand is unprecedented.

• Nuclear energy is increasingly seen as the only viable long-term solution to power AI infrastructure, especially data centers.
• Without a reliable and high-capacity energy grid, AI systems—no matter how advanced—cannot function optimally in real-time military scenarios.

5. India’s Nuclear Energy Gap: A Strategic Vulnerability

India’s current nuclear power capacity is only 7.5 GW, about one-third of South Korea’s. This poses a serious hurdle in supporting AI-intensive military systems.

Key concerns include:

• Inadequate nuclear infrastructure to support defence AI growth.
• Grid instability due to over-reliance on renewables and underinvestment in thermal backup.
• Need for Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) co-located with AI data centers to provide decentralized, consistent energy supply.

Strategic planners are now revisiting nuclear and private thermal options to ensure energy resilience.

6. India’s Legacy in Military AI Development

India was an early entrant in military AI, having established the Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR) under DRDO in 1986. CAIR has worked on:

• Autonomous surveillance and reconnaissance systems.
• AI in logistics and combat support operations.

However, despite this head start, India’s advancements have been incremental compared to China''s aggressive AI expansion and its active support to Pakistan’s military tech sector.

7. Global Case Studies: Ukraine and Israel

Recent conflicts have highlighted how AI is already shaping warfare:

• Ukraine has effectively used AI-enabled drones for battlefield awareness and targeting.
• Israel’s “Lavender” system reportedly identified over 37,000 Hamas targets, making the Gaza conflict a precedent-setting "AI war."

These examples offer valuable lessons for India in operationalizing AI for real-world combat scenarios.

Conclusion: Technology + Energy = Strategic Superiority

AI is redefining the nature of modern warfare, offering unprecedented speed, precision, and autonomy. However, its success is fundamentally tied to stable and scalable energy infrastructure. For India to emerge as a serious player in AI-driven, multi-domain operations, it must invest not only in cutting-edge defence technologies but also in the energy ecosystems—particularly nuclear power—that will fuel them.

India’s window for strategic catch-up is narrowing. Bridging its AI, energy, and civil-military integration gaps is no longer optional—it''s essential.

India’s Invisible Trade: Why Services and Remittances Now Drive the Economy

When we think of international trade, images of ships laden with containers and cargo aircrafts often come to mind. Yet, in today''s global economy, intangible flows—such as services, remittances, capital, and data—are playing an increasingly central role. For India, this shift has been especially transformative. In fact, these “invisible” components of trade now outpace the country''s physical exports in shaping its external economic position.

This article explores how India’s trade narrative needs to evolve in step with this quiet but powerful transformation.

1. India’s Changing Trade Profile: From Tangibles to Intangibles

Stagnation in Goods, Surge in Invisibles

India’s merchandise exports expanded rapidly from $66.3 billion in 2003–04 to $318.6 billion by 2013–14, but growth has since plateaued. After reaching a high of $456.1 billion in 2022–23, exports declined to $441.8 billion in 2024–25.

In contrast, invisible receipts—primarily services exports and remittances—have demonstrated consistent, long-term growth, rising from $53.5 billion in 2003–04 to $576.5 billion in 2024–25.

In 2013–14, goods exports exceeded invisibles by $85 billion. By 2024–25, invisibles surpassed merchandise trade by $135 billion—a historic reversal.

2. Time to Rethink Trade Narratives

Despite this shift, trade policy and diplomacy continue to focus disproportionately on physical goods. Even in key negotiations—such as those with the United States—issues like textile tariffs and agricultural access dominate, while services trade and worker mobility remain sidelined.

India’s external engagement is increasingly intangible. A policy framework fixated on cargo and customs risks overlooking the actual drivers of India’s global economic integration.

3. Breaking Down India’s Invisible Trade

Services Exports: The Backbone

In 2024–25, services accounted for $387.5 billion of India''s invisible receipts—up from just $26.9 billion in 2003–04 and $151.8 billion in 2013–14. These include:

• Software services: $180.6 billion
• Business, financial, and communication services: $118 billion
• Professional services: auditors, analysts, consultants, engineers, and architects serving global clients

Remittances: The Global Indian Dividend

Remittances contributed $135.4 billion in 2024–25, up from $22.2 billion in 2003–04. This is fueled by India''s expansive diaspora—from skilled professionals in the U.S. and Europe to migrant workers across the Gulf.

Together, services and remittances make up a resilient and growing component of India''s foreign earnings.

4. Resilience Without Incentives

Unlike physical exports, invisibles have grown steadily without reliance on trade agreements, export incentives, or production-linked schemes. They’ve proven resilient to:

• Global financial crises
• Supply chain disruptions
• Geopolitical tensions

This durability highlights their strategic importance. Yet, they remain underrepresented in formal trade discussions and economic policymaking.

5. India vs. China: Contrasting Global Trade Models

India’s Invisible Surplus vs. Merchandise Deficit

• Goods trade deficit: Doubled from $147.6 billion in 2013–14 to $287.2 billion in 2024–25, with imports at $729 billion and exports at $441.8 billion
• Net invisible receipts: Jumped from $115.3 billion to $263.8 billion over the same period
• Current account deficit: Contained at $23.4 billion, thanks to surplus in services and remittances

China’s Opposite Pattern

• Goods trade surplus: A massive $768 billion in 2024, with exports at $3.4 trillion
• Services trade deficit: $344.1 billion, as China imported $613 billion in services but exported only $384 billion

Where China dominates as the “factory of the world,” India is emerging as the “office of the world,” offering skilled services, digital infrastructure, and human capital on a global scale.

6. Conclusion: Invisible Trade, Visible Impact

India’s global economic engagement is no longer defined by goods shipped across borders. Services and remittances have become the real drivers of trade performance, resilience, and foreign exchange stability.

Recognizing this shift requires more than statistical acknowledgement—it demands a recalibration of trade strategy. From diplomatic negotiations to investment priorities, India must place invisibles at the heart of its external economic agenda.

In the 21st century, India''s greatest exports may not be things—but skills, services, and ideas.

India Opposes Amendments to Plant Treaty over Sovereignty and Farmers’ Rights

India has strongly opposed proposed amendments to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), raising alarm over potential threats to national sovereignty, farmers'' rights, and federal autonomy. As negotiations unfold in Peru, Indian officials, agricultural experts, and farmers'' groups are united in rejecting proposals that could obligate the country to relinquish control over its plant genetic resources.

1. The Plant Treaty: An Overview

The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, adopted in 2001 under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, is a legally binding agreement aimed at:

• Conserving plant genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA),
• Promoting their sustainable use, and
• Ensuring equitable sharing of benefits from their use, particularly in research and development.

India ratified the treaty in 2002.

2. What’s Changing? The Peru Negotiations and Annex I Amendments

The 10th Governing Body session of the Plant Treaty, taking place in Peru from July 7 to 11, 2025, is reviewing a proposal to amend Annex I of the treaty. The key change under consideration is:

Expanding the Multilateral System (MLS) to cover all PGRFA—effectively requiring countries to place all plant germplasm into a shared international system.

This would replace the treaty’s current scope, which only mandates access to a list of select food crops vital to global food security.

3. India’s Core Objections: Sovereignty and Farmers’ Rights at Stake

India''s concerns are focused on how these changes would affect its seed sovereignty and farmers’ autonomy. Major farmers’ groups, including the Bharath Beej Swaraj Manch and Rashtriya Kisan Mahasangh, have expressed opposition, arguing that:

• The expansion of Annex I would strip India of its right to control access to its plant genetic resources.
• It risks overriding national laws and benefit-sharing frameworks in favor of a global, one-size-fits-all system.
• Farmers’ traditional rights—to save, use, exchange, and sell seeds—would be diluted under a globally standardized Material Transfer Agreement (SMTA).
• It contradicts the treaty’s original mandate of restricted access for only key staple crops.

4. Institutional and Diplomatic Position

India’s delegation to the Peru meeting is led by Dr. Sunil Archak, Principal Scientist at the National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). He also co-chairs the Ad Hoc Working Group negotiating the proposed changes.

ICAR has assured that India’s national interests and farmers’ rights will be protected, stating that Dr. Archak is well-qualified to represent the country’s position.

5. Federal Concerns: States Demand Consultation

The Kerala Government has raised constitutional concerns, pointing out that:

• Agriculture is a State subject under Schedule VII of the Indian Constitution.
• Any treaty commitment that affects seed and biodiversity regulation must involve State Governments and local biodiversity boards.
• The current process lacks adequate domestic consultation and risks centralizing control over plant genetic resources, marginalizing State authority.

6. Broader Implications for India’s Agricultural Policy

If the proposed amendments are adopted:

• India would lose flexibility in managing access to its indigenous plant varieties.
• There may be reduced incentives for local seed development, conservation, and community innovation.
• Foreign entities could gain easier access to India’s genetic wealth without proportional obligations for benefit-sharing.
• The mandatory use of SMTA could hinder India’s ability to set differential access rules based on germplasm type or origin—weakening protection under bioprospecting and IP regimes.

Conclusion: A Critical Moment for India’s Seed Sovereignty

India''s resistance to the proposed changes in the Plant Treaty reflects a larger battle for control over biological heritage and traditional agricultural practices. As the negotiations continue in Peru, India’s stance sends a clear message: international frameworks must not come at the cost of national sovereignty, farmers’ rights, and constitutional federalism.

Embracing Genetic Innovation for India’s Agricultural Future

Context

India is under growing international pressure to liberalize its agricultural biotechnology regime, especially regarding genetically modified (GM) crops. Yet, domestic progress in agricultural biotech remains stalled due to regulatory and political constraints. Currently, only Bt cotton is approved for commercial cultivation, while key innovations like GM mustard and Bt brinjal remain stuck in bureaucratic limbo.

The State of Indian Agriculture

1. Declining Productivity and Global Lag

• Cotton productivity has dropped from 566 kg/ha in 2013–14 to 436 kg/ha in 2023–24, falling far behind China and Brazil, which achieve yields above 1,800–1,900 kg/ha.
• Once a net exporter, India now imports cotton, with imports touching $0.4 billion in 2024–25.

2. Limited Biotech Penetration

• Bt cotton remains the only GM crop approved for cultivation.
• GM mustard, brinjal, soy, and corn remain pending regulatory clearance despite years of trials.

3. Technological Disparities

• Globally, GM crop coverage exceeds 200 million hectares across 76 countries, while India lags behind due to prolonged regulatory delays and political resistance.

Government Interventions and Policy Evolution

• Bt Cotton Approval (2002): Led to a 193% rise in cotton production over the following decade.
• Cotton Seed Price Control Order (SPCO) 2015: Capped trait fees, discouraging biotech investment.
• GM Mustard Clearance (2022): GEAC approved environmental release, but commercial rollout remains stalled.
• Jai Anusandhan Scheme: Launched with a ₹1 lakh crore RDI fund to boost innovation in sectors including agriculture.
• Technology Licensing Rules (2016): Introduced compulsory tech sharing and fee controls, deterring private sector engagement.

Major Challenges

• Regulatory Delays: Bt brinjal has faced a moratorium since 2009; GM mustard is caught in legal and political deadlock.
• Illegal Cultivation: Herbicide-tolerant Bt cotton is widely cultivated across five states, covering up to 25% of total cotton area, despite being unapproved.
• Pest Resistance: Pink bollworm and whitefly infestations are worsening, affecting yields and farmer incomes.
• Policy Inconsistency: Trait fee caps, rigid license terms, and lack of clear timelines deter innovation.
• Farmer Risks: Farmers using unapproved seeds face crop failures without legal protections or compensation.

Key Concerns Over GM Crops

• Biodiversity Loss: GM crops may threaten native genetic diversity, especially if gene flow occurs to traditional varieties.
• Health Concerns: Public mistrust persists due to inconclusive long-term safety data on GM food consumption.
• Seed Sovereignty: IP-protected GM seeds often require annual purchase, limiting farmer autonomy (e.g., Monsanto–Mahyco disputes).
• Regulatory Transparency: Lack of openness in GEAC decisions and field trial processes erodes public trust.
• Market Monopolies: High seed costs could marginalize smallholders, widening the technology access gap.

Why Genetic Innovation Still Matters

• Bt Cotton’s Track Record: Increased productivity by 87% and significantly improved rural incomes, especially in Gujarat.
• Global Evidence: Countries adopting GM crops have seen higher yields, reduced pesticide use, and lower input costs.
• GM Mustard and Brinjal: These crops could substantially reduce pesticide dependency and increase yield stability.
• Policy Backing for Innovation: Programs like Jai Anusandhan can drive breakthroughs, but need alignment with market realities.
• “Biotech for Bharat” Vision: Former PM Vajpayee once envisioned that “what IT is for India, biotech should be for Bharat”—highlighting its role in rural transformation.

Conclusion

India’s agricultural growth cannot rely solely on traditional methods or trade protectionism. Science-led innovation—anchored in transparent regulation and farmer-centric policy—is essential to improve yields, ensure food security, and maintain global competitiveness. Commercializing rigorously tested GM crops like Bt brinjal and GM mustard is no longer just a technological choice, but a strategic imperative for India’s rural prosperity and future resilience.

Indian Army Unveils Comprehensive Defence Modernisation Roadmap

The Indian Army has introduced a forward-looking modernisation roadmap aimed at transforming its warfighting capabilities to meet the complex demands of future multi-domain warfare. The plan focuses on technological integration, operational synergy, and indigenous innovation.

Key Pillars of the Modernisation Strategy

1. Advanced Weapon Systems

• Focus on the development of next-generation weapons, including:
• Hypersonic glide vehicles and hypersonic air-breathing engines (HEBs)
• Fourth to sixth-generation missiles
• Shift from conventional munitions to smart and precision-guided systems, such as loitering munitions.
• Emphasis on directed energy weapons (high-energy lasers, microwaves) for:
• Counter-drone operations
• Missile defence
• Anti-satellite warfare

2. Cyber and Electronic Warfare (EW)

• Drive towards spectrum dominance through:
• Autonomous EW platforms
• Advanced cyber defence tools
• Resilient satellite-based communication and surveillance systems

3. Soldier-Centric Technological Enhancements

• Equip soldiers with next-gen battlefield technology, including:
• Exoskeletons and human augmentation devices
• Smart body armour
• Augmented Reality (AR)-based command and control systems
• AI-powered helmets, wearable electronics, and real-time health monitoring systems

4. Logistics and Infrastructure Modernisation

• Transition to intelligent and sustainable logistics by leveraging:
• Artificial Intelligence (AI)
• Blockchain
• Internet of Things (IoT)
• Develop green, cyber-resilient logistics infrastructure capable of supporting modern warfare requirements.

5. Tri-Sectoral Synergy

• Emphasis on coordinated efforts between:
• Armed forces to define precise operational requirements
• Policymakers to formulate enabling frameworks
• Industry players to deliver innovative, scalable, and customised solutions

National Initiatives Supporting Defence Modernisation

• Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP): A 10-year roadmap for long-term defence planning.
• Specialised Military Agencies:
• Defence Space Agency
• Defence Cyber Agency
• Armed Forces Special Operations Division
• iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence):
• Promotes startups and innovators
• Offers financial support up to ₹1.5 crore per project
• Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defence:
• Positive indigenisation lists banning import of selected items
• SRIJAN portal for industry collaboration
• Liberalised FDI norms in defence R&D to boost private sector participation

Conclusion

The Indian Army’s modernisation roadmap reflects a decisive shift toward tech-driven, network-centric warfare. By investing in cutting-edge systems, soldier welfare, and seamless logistics—supported by institutional reform and public-private collaboration—India aims to build a future-ready force that is agile, autonomous, and resilient.

National Biobank: Advancing India’s Genomic and Health Research

Overview

The National Biobank, recently inaugurated at the CSIR-Institute of Genomics and Integrative Biology (IGIB), is a major initiative under the Phenome India Project. It aims to create a comprehensive, long-term database of health, genomic, and lifestyle data from 10,000 individuals across India.

This biobank is poised to become a cornerstone of biomedical research in India by capturing the country''s vast genetic, geographic, ethnic, and socio-economic diversity.

Key Features of the National Biobank

• Pan-India Representation: Collects data from diverse populations across 17 states and 24 cities, ensuring representation of India’s demographic heterogeneity.
• Longitudinal Study Design: Tracks the health trajectories of individuals over several years, enabling detailed analysis of disease progression and risk factors.
• Rich, Multi-Layered Dataset:
• Genomic data
• Clinical information
• Lifestyle and dietary habits
• Anthropometric measurements
• Biochemical and molecular profiles
• Imaging and scanning data
• Applications:
• Early diagnosis of complex diseases
• Personalized treatment strategies
• Better understanding of gene-environment interactions
• Improved therapeutic targeting for conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and rare genetic disorders

About the Phenome India Project

Official Name:

Phenome India–CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase (PI-CheCK)

Launched by:

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on December 7, 2023

Primary Objective:

To develop India-specific risk prediction models for cardio-metabolic disorders such as:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Cardiac diseases
• Liver disorders

Participants:

Approximately 10,000 individuals, primarily consisting of:

• CSIR employees
• Pensioners
• Their spouses

Significance

• India’s first nationwide longitudinal health monitoring study focused on cardio-metabolic health.
• Enables context-specific public health interventions by factoring in India''s unique population genetics and lifestyle variables.
• Expected to enhance disease prevention strategies, public health planning, and precision medicine tailored to Indian populations.

Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB): India’s Nuclear Watchdog

Recent Development

The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has recently granted operational licenses for two indigenously developed 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) in Gujarat. This marks a significant step forward in India''s nuclear energy self-reliance.

What is a PHWR?

• A nuclear reactor that uses natural uranium as fuel.
• Utilizes heavy water (D₂O) both as a coolant and as a neutron moderator to sustain the nuclear chain reaction.
• Designed for online refueling, allowing continuous power generation without shutdowns.

Development History

• Initially developed with Canadian assistance for Rajasthan Atomic Power Station-1 (RAPS-1) in 1973.
• After Canada’s AECL withdrew support, Indian scientists at BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Centre) and NPCIL took over and fully indigenized the technology.
• Indian PHWR capacities progressed from 220 MWe → 540 MWe → 700 MWe, with complete domestic research, development, and manufacturing.

How Does a PHWR Work?

• Heavy water slows down neutrons, enabling sustained fission with natural uranium.
• Fuel rods of natural uranium are placed inside pressure tubes within a calandria vessel.
• Hot, pressurized heavy water transports heat to steam generators.
• Steam drives turbines, producing electricity.
• Control rods and Emergency Core Cooling Systems (ECCS) regulate the reaction and ensure safety.

Key Features of the 700 MWe PHWRs

• Fully indigenous design including construction, fuel fabrication, and control systems.
• Online refueling capability increases efficiency by reducing downtime.
• Equipped with twin fast-acting shutdown systems, double containment structures, and passive heat removal systems for enhanced safety.
• Incorporates advanced digital Instrumentation and Control Systems for real-time monitoring and automation.
• On-site heavy water production optimizes neutron economy and reduces external dependency.

Significance of the Recent License

• Advances India’s goal of expanding its PHWR fleet to 10 reactors, aiming to add 7,000 MWe of indigenous nuclear capacity.
• Demonstrates India’s mastery over the entire nuclear technology lifecycle—from design and construction to operation and decommissioning.

About AERB

Establishment and Legal Authority

• Constituted on: November 15, 1983
• Constituted by: President of India under the Atomic Energy Act, 1962
• Legal backing: Powers derived from:
• Atomic Energy Act, 1962
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986
• Factories Act, 1948 (for DAE units, under Section 23 of the Atomic Energy Act)

Mission

To ensure that the use of ionizing radiation and nuclear energy in India does not pose undue risk to human health or the environment.

Functions and Regulatory Role

• Licensing Authority: Grants mandatory certifications to all entities involved in nuclear energy and radiation applications.
• Oversight Areas:
• Nuclear power plants
• Radiation therapy and diagnostic centres
• Industrial and research facilities using radioactive materials
• Standards Enforcement: Ensures strict adherence to national and international safety protocols.

Organizational Structure

• Headquarters: Mumbai
• Regional Regulatory Centres (RRCs):
• Kolkata (Eastern India)
• Chennai (Southern India)
• New Delhi (Northern India)
• These centres conduct routine inspections and surveillance of radiation facilities in their respective zones.
• Safety Research Institute (SRI):
• Located at Kalpakkam, Tamil Nadu
• Focuses on research in nuclear and radiation safety, including risk assessment and safety modeling.

Importance of AERB Licensing

• Mandatory for Operation: No nuclear facility or radiation-based operation can legally function in India without an AERB license.
• Public Safety and Environmental Protection: The licensing ensures compliance with safety norms that minimize exposure risks and prevent accidents.
• Global Standards: AERB’s regulatory practices are aligned with IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) guidelines.

National Commission for Minorities (NCM)

Overview:
The National Commission for Minorities (NCM) was established with the primary aim of safeguarding and promoting the interests of minority communities in India. Since the retirement of its previous Chairperson and members in April 2025, the Commission has been awaiting new appointments.

About NCM:

• The NCM is a statutory body functioning under the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
• Originally created in January 1978 as the Minorities Commission, it was tasked with protecting minority interests.
• With the enactment of the National Commission for Minorities Act in 1992, the commission gained statutory status and was renamed the National Commission for Minorities.
• The Commission’s mandate includes protecting minority rights and implementing confidence-building measures in response to emerging challenges.
• It advises the central and state governments on policies related to the welfare and development of minority communities.

Minority Communities Recognized:

• Initially, five religious groups were notified as minorities: Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Zoroastrians (Parsis).
• In 2014, Jains were also recognized as a minority community.
• According to the 2011 Census, these six religious minority groups together represent approximately 20% of India’s population.

Composition and Tenure:

• The Commission comprises a Chairperson, a Vice Chairperson, and five members, all nominated by the central government.
• All members must belong to minority communities and be persons of eminence, ability, and integrity.
• As per Section 4(1) of the NCM Act, 1992, members hold office for a term of three years from the date they assume charge.

Aadhaar-based Face Authentication (FaceAuth)

Context:
Himachal Pradesh has become the first Indian state to implement Aadhaar-based face authentication (FaceAuth) for ration distribution under the Public Distribution System (PDS).

About Aadhaar-based Face Authentication:

• Developed by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) as an additional authentication method.
• Other existing Aadhaar authentication methods include OTP-based, fingerprint, and iris-based verification.
• FaceAuth works on a 1:1 matching process, where the live facial image captured during authentication is matched against the facial image stored in the Aadhaar database linked to the individual’s Aadhaar number.

National Medical Commission (NMC)

Recent Development: The NMC has issued the Medical Institutions (Qualifications of Faculty) Regulations, 2025 through the Post Graduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB), its autonomous body.

About NMC:

• India’s leading regulatory authority governing medical education and practice.
• Established under the National Medical Commission Act, 2019, replacing the Medical Council of India (MCI).
• Responsible for formulating policies regulating medical institutions, research, and professionals.

National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT)

Recent Judgment: NCLAT ruled that the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 does not have the power to override the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.

About NCLAT:

• Constituted under the Companies Act, 2013.
• Serves as the appellate authority for orders passed by the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT).
• Also hears appeals against decisions by the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India, Competition Commission of India (CCI), and National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA).
• Principal bench is located in New Delhi.

Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018

Context:
A Delhi court recently declared a UK-based arms consultant as a fugitive economic offender under this Act.

About the Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018:

• Definition of Fugitive Economic Offender (FEO): An individual who has an arrest warrant issued for a scheduled offence and who either leaves India to avoid prosecution or refuses to return to face prosecution.
• Scheduled Offences: Offences listed in the Act’s Schedule involving financial crimes with a value of ₹100 crore or more.
• Procedure:
  The authority concerned must file an application before a Special Court to get a person declared as an FEO.
• Special Court: A Court of Session designated under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002.

Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV): A Rare but Fatal Zoonotic Threat

Recent Context

An Australian man has recently died after contracting the Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), highlighting the persistent but low-frequency threat posed by this deadly virus.

About ABLV

• Classification: ABLV belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family, the same group of viruses that includes the rabies virus.
• Discovery: First detected in 1996 in a fruit bat in northern New South Wales, Australia.
• Reservoirs: Found in multiple bat species across Australia, including:
• Flying foxes
• Fruit bats
• Insectivorous microbats

Transmission

• Primary mode: Through bites or scratches from infected bats, or direct contact with bat saliva on broken skin or mucous membranes (eyes, nose, mouth).
• Non-transmissible via: Bat urine, faeces, blood, or casual contact near bat roosts.

Symptoms in Humans

• Resembles rabies and includes:
• Initial flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, fatigue
• Rapid neurological decline: paralysis, delirium, seizures, and coma
• Fatality: Nearly always fatal once symptoms appear; no effective treatment post-onset.

Public Health Implication

Emphasizes the importance of bat handling precautions, immediate wound cleaning, and post-exposure vaccination if contact with a bat occurs.

Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR)

Recent Update: The leopard population in Dudhwa Tiger Reserve has increased by nearly 199% since 2022.

About Dudhwa Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Situated in the Terai region of Uttar Pradesh along the India-Nepal border.
• Components: Comprises Dudhwa National Park and two wildlife sanctuaries — Katerniaghat and Kishanpur.
• Habitat: Typical Tarai-Bhabar ecosystem of the upper Gangetic plains with vast alluvial plains.
• Rivers: Includes Mohana, Suheli, Joraha, and Nagro rivers.
• Fauna: Hosts species such as tigers, leopards, rhinoceros, swamp deer, elephants, sambar, hog deer, and sloth bears.

Wildlife Institute of India (WII): Strengthening Wildlife Research and Conservation

Recent Update

A review by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) has called for integrated scientific, infrastructural, and community-based efforts to enhance the ecological management of wildlife sanctuaries in Andhra Pradesh.

Overview of WII

• Established: In 1982
• Governing Body: Autonomous institution under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Government of India.
• Location: Dehradun, Uttarakhand

Mandate and Role

• Recognised as a centre of excellence in wildlife science, conservation, and training.
• Provides expert input on wildlife policy, conservation planning, and field research.

Research and Training Areas

• Key Domains:
• Biodiversity and endangered species
• Wildlife forensics and management
• Eco-development and community engagement
• Climate change impact studies
• Spatial and ecological modelling
• Activities:
• Offers academic programs and capacity-building training for conservation professionals.
• Engages in collaborative projects with international conservation bodies.

Objectives of WII

• Build a robust scientific foundation for wildlife resource management.
• Train professionals at various levels in wildlife conservation techniques.
• Develop India-specific management tools and strategies.
• Provide technical support and advice on wildlife-related challenges.
• Establish itself as a regional hub for wildlife science and natural resource conservation in South Asia.

Satkosia Tiger Reserve

Recent Development: The Odisha government recently issued a tender for the construction of a high-level bridge over the Mahanadi River, near the ecologically sensitive Satkosia Tiger Reserve, sparking fresh controversy.

About Satkosia Tiger Reserve:

• Location: Situated centrally in Odisha, the reserve spans four districts: Angul, Cuttack, Boudh, and Nayagarh.
• It comprises two adjoining sanctuaries: Baisipalli Sanctuary and Satkosia Gorge Sanctuary.
• The reserve is part of the Mahanadi Elephant Reserve.

Geographical and Ecological Significance:

• Satkosia is unique as the convergence point of two biogeographic regions in India: the Deccan Peninsula and the Eastern Ghats.
• The terrain is hilly with moderate to steep slopes and narrow valleys.
• The Mahanadi River runs through the valley in the reserve''s center.
• Elevation ranges from 37 meters at Katrang to 932 meters at Sunakhania.

Vegetation and Flora:

• The forest predominantly consists of North Indian tropical moist deciduous forests and moist peninsular low-level sal forests.
• The main tree species is sal, often found in dense clusters.
• Other notable species include Asan (Terminalia alata), Dhaura (Anogeissus latifolia), Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), and Simal (Bombax ceiba).

Fauna:

• The reserve is home to flagship species such as tigers, leopards, elephants, spotted deer, sambar, chowsingha, barking deer, bison, wild dogs, sloth bears, jackals, giant squirrels, and porcupines.
• It also serves as the natural habitat for two endangered reptiles: the freshwater crocodile and the gharial.

Seine River

Recent Update: For the first time since 1923, swimmers officially returned to the River Seine on Saturday, marking the reopening of this iconic French waterway for public bathing after more than a century.

About the Seine River:

• The Seine is France’s second-longest river, stretching 775 kilometers, after the Loire.
• It drains northern France through the Paris Basin, which covers about 79,000 square kilometers.

Course and Geography:

• The river originates at an elevation of 446 meters in Burgundy, near Dijon, a famous wine-producing region.
• Near Paris, the Seine is joined by one of its largest tributaries, the Marne River, on its right bank.
• The river flows through Paris for roughly 13 kilometers from west to east.
• It empties into the English Channel, the arm of the Atlantic Ocean separating northern France and southern England.

River Sections: The Seine’s course is divided into five distinct sections:

1. Small Seine (Petite Seine): From the source to Montereau-Fault-Yonne.
2. Upper Seine (Haute Seine): From Montereau-Fault-Yonne to Paris.
3. Paris Waterway (Traversée de Paris): Passing through Paris.
4. Lower Seine (Basse Seine): From Paris to Rouen.
5. Maritime Seine (Seine-Maritime): From Rouen to the river’s estuary at Honfleur and Le Havre, entering the English Channel.

Additional Details:

• The basin mostly consists of permeable rocks, which help reduce flood risks by absorbing water.
• Annual rainfall is moderate, ranging between 650 to 750 millimeters.
• Approximately 62% of the basin is used for agriculture, hosting 25% of France’s agricultural output and about 25–30% of the country’s industrial activities.
• The Seine is historically significant in Europe and supports the majority of France’s inland waterway traffic.

Pethia dibrugarhensis

Discovery:
Scientists have identified a new species of cyprinid fish in the Brahmaputra River near Maijan, Dibrugarh, naming it Pethia dibrugarhensis.

About Pethia dibrugarhensis:

• It belongs to the Cyprinidae family and is classified as a barb fish.
• Habitat: Found in moderately fast-flowing parts of the river with substrates of mud, sand, and stones. It coexists with other indigenous small fish species.

Distinctive Features:

• Characterized by an incomplete lateral line.
• Displays a prominent black blotch extending on both the dorsal and ventral sides of the caudal peduncle (the narrow part of the fish near the tail).
• Lacks humeral marks (shoulder spots) and barbels (whisker-like sensory organs).

What Are Barb Fishes?

• Barbs are a diverse group of freshwater fishes within the carp family (Cyprinidae).
• They are native across Europe, Africa, and Asia.
• Typical features include one or more pairs of barbels near the mouth and large, shiny scales.

AIR LORA

Context:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly evaluating the acquisition of AIR LORA, an advanced air-launched ballistic missile, to enhance its long-range strike capabilities.

About AIR LORA:

• Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), AIR LORA is a sophisticated air-launched ballistic missile designed for precision strikes against critical and heavily defended targets such as command centers, airbases, infrastructure, and naval vessels in coastal regions.

Key Features:

• It is a fire-and-forget system, requiring no guidance from the launch aircraft once deployed.
• The missile can update its target coordinates mid-flight to adapt to dynamic combat conditions.
• It offers high survivability through advanced inertial navigation system (INS) and GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) with strong anti-jamming protection.
• Designed to operate in extreme weather and heavily contested battlefields around the clock.
• The missile’s high success rate is attributed to its supersonic speed, anti-jamming GNSS, terminal trajectory shaping, and a steep 90° attack angle.

Penico: Peru’s Newly Unearthed Ancient City

Context:
Archaeologists have uncovered a 3,500-year-old ancient city named Penico in northern Peru. It likely functioned as a key trade hub connecting the Pacific coast, Andean highlands, and Amazonian cultures following the decline of the Caral civilization.

About Penico:

• Location: Barranca Province, northern Peru, approximately 200 km north of Lima.
• Altitude: Situated on a hillside terrace around 600 meters above sea level.
• Time Period: Established between 1800 and 1500 BCE, contemporary with early civilizations in Egypt, Sumeria, and India.

Key Features:

• Urban Layout: Central circular structure surrounded by 18 stone and mud buildings.
• Structures: Ceremonial temples, residential complexes, and a central plaza decorated with sculpted reliefs.
• Artifacts: Clay figurines (humans and animals), conch shell trumpets (pututus), beaded necklaces, and various ceremonial objects.

Significance:

• Served as a strategic trade center linking coastal, highland, and Amazonian societies.
• Represents a cultural continuation of the Caral civilization, which declined due to climatic changes.
• Provides valuable insights into urban planning, trade, and ritual life in pre-Inca Peru.
• Developed independently during the same epoch as Bronze Age civilizations but in geographic isolation.

Relation to Caral Civilization:

• Caral (circa 3000 BCE) is the oldest known civilization in the Americas, noted for monumental pyramids, advanced irrigation, and urban design.
• Penico sheds light on the resilience and cultural shifts following Caral’s decline.

Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee (1901–1953)

Tribute:
The Prime Minister paid homage to Dr. Mookerjee on his 125th birth anniversary.

About Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee:

• Born in Calcutta.
• Youngest Vice-Chancellor of the University of Calcutta.

Key Contributions:

• Acting President of the All-India Hindu Mahasabha (1940).
• Member of the Constituent Assembly.
• Minister for Industry and Supply in the interim government under Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Instrumental in establishing industrial institutions like the Chittaranjan Locomotive Factory.
• Known as "The Lion of Parliament."
• Founder of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh (1951).

Literary Works:

• Leaves from a Diary (Autobiography), A Phase of the Indian Struggle, among others.

Values:

• Leadership, empathy, social harmony, nationalism, and cultural distinctiveness.

17th BRICS Summit

Context:
India’s Prime Minister participated in the 17th BRICS Summit held in Brazil, where Indonesia was welcomed as a full BRICS member. The summit adopted the Rio de Janeiro Declaration, emphasizing global governance reforms and sustainable development.

About BRICS:

• What is BRICS?
• An intergovernmental group of emerging economies initially comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
• The acronym originated in 2001 by economist Jim O’Neill; South Africa joined in 2010.
• Formation and Growth:
• Established in 2009 with the first summit in Yekaterinburg, Russia.
• Transitioned from informal dialogue to a structured cooperation platform.
• Expanded in 2024–25, forming BRICS+ or Expanded BRICS.
• Objectives:
• Promote multipolarity and cooperation among Global South nations.
• Advocate reforms in international bodies like the UNSC, IMF, and World Bank.
• Enhance economic, technological, and developmental collaboration.
• Provide a counterbalance to Western-led groups such as the G7.
• Membership:
• Original members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa.
• New members (2025): Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE, and Indonesia.
• Leaders reaffirmed full support for India’s BRICS Chairmanship in 2026 and the hosting of the 18th Summit in India.

Rio de Janeiro Declaration Highlights

• Global Governance Reform:
• Calls for urgent reforms in UNSC, IMF, WTO to better represent 21st-century realities and the Global South’s voice.
• Peace and Security:
• Condemns terrorism, specifically referencing the Pahalgam attack in India.
• Demands global action against terror sponsors and zero tolerance for terrorism.
• Technology & AI:
• Advocates responsible AI governance balancing regulation and innovation.
• Proposes creating a BRICS Science & Research Repository accessible to the Global South.
• Economic & Financial Affairs:
• Emphasizes sustainable, demand-driven funding through the New Development Bank (NDB).
• Stresses building resilient supply chains, especially for critical minerals.
• Indonesia’s Inclusion:
• Indonesia is the first Southeast Asian country to join BRICS, strengthening ties across Asia, Africa, and Latin America.

Prime Minister’s Visit to Brazil

Context:
The visit follows stops in Argentina and Trinidad and Tobago as part of a diplomatic tour focusing on strengthening relations with Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) region.

About the LAC Region:

• Comprises South America, Central America, and the Caribbean with 45 countries.

India-LAC Economic Relations:

• Total trade in 2023-24: USD 35.73 billion (exports: USD 14.50 billion).
• India aims to increase bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2027-28.
• LAC ranks 8th among India’s import sources; India is 9th among LAC’s export partners.

Trade Details:

• Major Imports from LAC: Crude and petroleum products, pearls, precious stones, vegetable oils.
• Major Exports to LAC: Manufactured goods such as motor vehicles, chemicals, and mineral fuels.

Trade Agreements:

• Preferential Trade Agreement with MERCOSUR.
• Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement with Chile.
• Ongoing Free Trade Agreement negotiations with Peru.

Strategic Cooperation:

• LAC supplies critical minerals like gold, copper, and lithium.
• India maintains strong ties with regional blocs: CELAC, SICA, and CARICOM.